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Kaňková Š, Dlouhá D, Ullmann J, Velíková M, Včelák J, Hill M. Association between Disgust Sensitivity during Pregnancy and Endogenous Steroids: A Longitudinal Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6857. [PMID: 38999978 PMCID: PMC11241696 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The emotion of disgust protects individuals against pathogens, and it has been found to be elevated during pregnancy. Physiological mechanisms discussed in relation to these changes include immune markers and progesterone levels. This study aimed to assess the association between steroids and disgust sensitivity in pregnancy. Using a prospective longitudinal design, we analyzed blood serum steroid concentrations and measured disgust sensitivity via text-based questionnaires in a sample of 179 pregnant women during their first and third trimesters. We found positive correlations between disgust sensitivity and the levels of C19 steroids (including testosterone) and its precursors in the Δ5 pathway (androstenediol, DHEA, and their sulfates) and the Δ4 pathway (androstenedione). Additionally, positive correlations were observed with 5α/β-reduced C19 steroid metabolites in both trimesters. In the first trimester, disgust sensitivity was positively associated with 17-hydroxypregnanolone and with some estrogens. In the third trimester, positive associations were observed with cortisol and immunoprotective Δ5 C19 7α/β-hydroxy-steroids. Our findings show that disgust sensitivity is positively correlated with immunomodulatory steroids, and in the third trimester, with steroids which may be related to potential maternal-anxiety-related symptoms. This study highlights the complex relationship between hormonal changes and disgust sensitivity during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Šárka Kaňková
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic; (Š.K.); (D.D.); (J.U.)
| | - Daniela Dlouhá
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic; (Š.K.); (D.D.); (J.U.)
| | - Jana Ullmann
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic; (Š.K.); (D.D.); (J.U.)
| | - Marta Velíková
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Josef Včelák
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 116 94 Prague, Czech Republic;
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2
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Tateiwa H, Evers AS. Neurosteroids and their potential as a safer class of general anesthetics. J Anesth 2024; 38:261-274. [PMID: 38252143 PMCID: PMC10954990 DOI: 10.1007/s00540-023-03291-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Neurosteroids (NS) are a class of steroids that are synthesized within the central nervous system (CNS). Various NS can either enhance or inhibit CNS excitability and they play important biological roles in brain development, brain function and as mediators of mood. One class of NS, 3α-hydroxy-pregnane steroids such as allopregnanolone (AlloP) or pregnanolone (Preg), inhibits neuronal excitability; these endogenous NS and their analogues have been therapeutically applied as anti-depressants, anti-epileptics and general anesthetics. While NS have many favorable properties as anesthetics (e.g. rapid onset, rapid recovery, minimal cardiorespiratory depression, neuroprotection), they are not currently in clinical use, largely due to problems with formulation. Recent advances in understanding NS mechanisms of action and improved formulations have rekindled interest in development of NS as sedatives and anesthetics. In this review, the synthesis of NS, and their mechanism of action will be reviewed with specific emphasis on their binding sites and actions on γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors. The potential advantages of NS analogues as sedative and anesthetic agents will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Tateiwa
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi, Japan
| | - Alex S Evers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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3
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Angeloni E, Germelli L, Marchetti L, Da Pozzo E, Tremolanti C, Wetzel CH, Baglini E, Taliani S, Da Settimo F, Martini C, Costa B. The human microglial surveillant phenotype is preserved by de novo neurosteroidogenesis through the control of cholesterol homeostasis: Crucial role of 18 kDa Translocator Protein. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166751. [PMID: 37169037 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166751] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disease-associated microglia commonly exhibit harmful cholesterol accumulation that impairs their ability to resolve the neuroinflammatory response, contributing to disease onset and progression. Neurosteroids, whose levels have been often found significantly altered in brain diseases, are the most potent endogenous anti-inflammatory molecules exerting beneficial effects on activities of brain cells, including microglia. For the first time, the impact of neurosteroidogenesis on cholesterol homeostasis for the immune surveillance phenotype maintenance was investigated in a human microglia in vitro model. To enhance and inhibit neurosteroidogenesis, pharmacological stimulation and knock-down of 18 kDa Translocator Protein (TSPO), which is involved in the neurosteroidogenesis rate-limiting step, were used as experimental approaches, respectively. The obtained results point to an essential autocrine control of neurosteroidogenesis in orchestrating cholesterol trafficking in human microglia. TSPO pharmacological stimulation ensured cholesterol turnover by strengthening cholesterol efflux systems and preserving healthy immune surveillant phenotype. Conversely, TSPO knock-down induced an impairment of the controlled interplay among cholesterol synthesis, efflux, and metabolism mechanisms, leading to an excessive cholesterol accumulation and acquisition of a chronically activated dysfunctional phenotype. In this model, the exogenous neurosteroid administration restored proper the cholesterol clearance. The TSPO ability in promoting native neurosteroidogenesis opens the way to restore cholesterol homeostasis, and thus to maintain microglia proper functionality for the treatment of neuroinflammation-related brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Angeloni
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Germelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Laura Marchetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Da Pozzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Chiara Tremolanti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Christian H Wetzel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Molecular Neurosciences, University of Regensburg, 93059 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Emma Baglini
- 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.
| | - Claudia Martini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Barbara Costa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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4
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Edes AN, Zimmerman D, Jourdan B, Brown JL, Edwards KL. Value Ranges and Clinical Comparisons of Serum DHEA-S, IL-6, and TNF-α in Western Lowland Gorillas. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192705. [PMID: 36230446 PMCID: PMC9559573 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192705] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Biomarkers are molecules found in the body that can indicate current physiological functioning and are frequently used to monitor health and diagnose disease. These biomarkers, such as hormones and immune markers, can provide valuable information on the health and welfare of animals. Knowledge on the normal levels of these biomarkers in various species is a crucial step for monitoring health and understanding disease. In this paper, we report assays and value ranges of biomarkers rarely measured in western lowland gorillas in human care. We also compare concentrations of each biomarker between clinical and non-clinical samples. The levels of the two immune biomarkers were higher in clinical samples, but the levels of the neuroendocrine biomarker were not significantly different between clinical and non-clinical samples. These data contribute toward eventually establishing reference ranges for these biomarkers and help improve our understanding of health and welfare in zoo-housed animals. Abstract Physiological data can provide valuable information about the health and welfare of animals. Unfortunately, few validated assays and a lack of information on species-typical levels of circulating biomarkers for wildlife make the measurement, interpretation, and practical application of such data difficult. We validated commercially available kits and calculated reference intervals (herein called “value ranges”) for dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in a sample of zoo-housed western lowland gorillas due to the roles these biomarkers play in stress and immune responses. For each biomarker, we present species-specific value ranges for a sample of gorillas in human care (n = 57). DHEA-S did not vary significantly by sex or age, while IL-6 was higher in males and older gorillas and TNF-α was higher in females but not associated with age. We also compared non-clinical with clinical samples (n = 21) to explore whether these biomarkers reflect changes in health status. There was no significant difference between clinical and non-clinical samples for DHEA-S, but both IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly higher in gorillas showing clinical symptoms or prior to death. Additional work is needed to improve our understanding of normal versus clinical variation in these biomarkers, and we encourage continued efforts to identify and validate additional biomarkers that can be used to inform assessments of health and welfare in wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N. Edes
- Department of Reproductive and Behavioral Sciences, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Dawn Zimmerman
- Veterinary Initiative for Endangered Wildlife, Bozeman, MT 59715, USA
- Smithsonian Global Health Program, National Zoological Park, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Balbine Jourdan
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Janine L. Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Katie L. Edwards
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Caughall Road, Upton-by-Chester CH2 1LH, UK
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ENT-A010, a Novel Steroid Derivative, Displays Neuroprotective Functions and Modulates Microglial Responses. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030424. [PMID: 35327616 PMCID: PMC8946810 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tackling neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation is particularly challenging due to the complexity of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, as well as the limited drug accessibility to the brain. The activation of tropomyosin-related kinase A (TRKA) receptor signaling by the nerve growth factor (NGF) or the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) may combat neurodegeneration and regulate microglial function. In the present study, we synthesized a C-17-spiro-cyclopropyl DHEA derivative (ENT-A010), which was capable of activating TRKA. ENT-A010 protected PC12 cells against serum starvation-induced cell death, dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons against NGF deprivation-induced apoptosis and hippocampal neurons against Aβ-induced apoptosis. In addition, ENT-A010 pretreatment partially restored homeostatic features of microglia in the hippocampus of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated mice, enhanced Aβ phagocytosis, and increased Ngf expression in microglia in vitro. In conclusion, the small molecule ENT-A010 elicited neuroprotective effects and modulated microglial function, thereby emerging as an interesting compound, which merits further study in the treatment of CNS disorders.
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Vitku J, Hill M, Kolatorova L, Kubala Havrdova E, Kancheva R. Steroid Sulfation in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:839887. [PMID: 35281259 PMCID: PMC8904904 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.839887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid sulfation and desulfation participates in the regulation of steroid bioactivity, metabolism and transport. The authors focused on sulfation and desulfation balance in three neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer´s disease (AD), Parkinson´s disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Circulating steroid conjugates dominate their unconjugated counterparts, but unconjugated steroids outweigh their conjugated counterparts in the brain. Apart from the neurosteroid synthesis in the central nervous system (CNS), most brain steroids cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) from the periphery and then may be further metabolized. Therefore, steroid levels in the periphery partly reflect the situation in the brain. The CNS steroids subsequently influence the neuronal excitability and have neuroprotective, neuroexcitatory, antidepressant and memory enhancing effects. They also exert anti-inflammatory and immunoprotective actions. Like the unconjugated steroids, the sulfated ones modulate various ligand-gated ion channels. Conjugation by sulfotransferases increases steroid water solubility and facilitates steroid transport. Steroid sulfates, having greater half-lives than their unconjugated counterparts, also serve as a steroid stock pool. Sulfotransferases are ubiquitous enzymes providing massive steroid sulfation in adrenal zona reticularis and zona fasciculata.. Steroid sulfatase hydrolyzing the steroid conjugates is exceedingly expressed in placenta but is ubiquitous in low amounts including brain capillaries of BBB which can rapidly hydrolyze the steroid sulfates coming across the BBB from the periphery. Lower dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) plasma levels and reduced sulfotransferase activity are considered as risk factors in AD patients. The shifted balance towards unconjugated steroids can participate in the pathophysiology of PD and anti-inflammatory effects of DHEAS may counteract the MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Vitku
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Jana Vitku,
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
| | - Lucie Kolatorova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
| | - Eva Kubala Havrdova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Radmila Kancheva
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czechia
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7
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Yang F, Wu SC, Ling ZX, Chao S, Zhang LJ, Yan XM, He L, Yu LM, Zhao LY. Altered Plasma Metabolic Profiles in Chinese Patients With Multiple Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:792711. [PMID: 34975894 PMCID: PMC8715987 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.792711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that leads to the demyelination of nerve axons. An increasing number of studies suggest that patients with MS exhibit altered metabolic profiles, which might contribute to the course of MS. However, the alteration of metabolic profiles in Chinese patients with MS and their potential roles in regulating the immune system remain elusive. In this study, we performed a global untargeted metabolomics approach in plasma samples from 22 MS-affected Chinese patients and 21 healthy subjects. A total of 42 differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs) belonging to amino acids, lipids, and carbohydrates were identified in the plasma of MS patients and compared with those in healthy controls. We observed an evident reduction in the levels of amino acids, such as L-tyrosine, L-isoleucine, and L-tryptophan, whereas there was a great increase in the levels of L-glutamic acid and L-valine in MS-affected patients. The levels of lipid and carbohydrate metabolites, such as sphingosine 1-phosphate and myo-inositol, were also reduced in patients with MS. In addition, the concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-17 and TNF-α, were significantly increased, whereas those of several anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, such as IL-1ra, IL-7, and MIP-1α, were distinctly reduced in the plasma of MS patients compared with those in healthy subjects. Interestingly, some DAMs, such as L-tryptophan and sphingosine 1-phosphate, showed an evident negative correlation with changes in the level of TNF-α and IL-17, while tightly positively correlating with altered concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, such as MIP-1α and RANTES. Our results revealed that altered metabolomic profiles might contribute to the pathogenesis and course of MS disease by modulating immuno-inflammatory responses in the peripheral system, which is essential for eliciting autoimmune responses in the central nervous system, thus resulting in the progression of MS. This study provides potential clues for developing therapeutic strategies for MS in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Engineering in Guizhou Province, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Institutes for Shanghai Pudong Decoding Life, Research Center for Lin He Academician New Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao-chang Wu
- Department of Geriatrics and Clinical Laboratory, Lishui Second People’s Hospital, Lishui, China
| | - Zong-xin Ling
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Microbe & Host Health, Linyi University, Linyi, China
| | - Shan Chao
- Institutes for Shanghai Pudong Decoding Life, Research Center for Lin He Academician New Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-juan Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics and Clinical Laboratory, Lishui Second People’s Hospital, Lishui, China
| | - Xiu-mei Yan
- Department of Geriatrics and Clinical Laboratory, Lishui Second People’s Hospital, Lishui, China
| | - Lin He
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-mei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Cell Engineering in Guizhou Province, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- *Correspondence: Long-you Zhao, ; Li-mei Yu,
| | - Long-you Zhao
- Department of Geriatrics and Clinical Laboratory, Lishui Second People’s Hospital, Lishui, China
- *Correspondence: Long-you Zhao, ; Li-mei Yu,
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Horii N, Hasegawa N, Fujie S, Iemitsu K, Uchida M, Hamaoka T, Iemitsu M. Effects of Dioscorea esculenta intake with resistance training on muscle hypertrophy and strength in sprint athletes. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2020; 67:338-343. [PMID: 33293777 PMCID: PMC7705086 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.19-124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen hormones are important compounds related to body composition and exercise performance in athletes. The intake of Dioscorea esculenta, known as lesser yam, contains diosgenin and resistance training have been shown to normalize the secretion of androgen hormones. This study aimed to clarify the level of androgen hormone secretion and the effects of Dioscorea esculenta intake with resistance training on muscle hypertrophy and strength in athletes. First, in a cross-sectional study, we compared the serum androgen hormone [dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone, and 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT)] levels between sprint athletes (n = 15) and non-athletes (n = 15). Second, in an 8-week intervention study, sprint athletes were randomly divided into 2 groups: resistance training with placebo (n = 8) or with Dioscorea esculenta (2,000 mg/day) intake (n = 7). The serum DHEA, free testosterone, and DHT levels were lower in athletes than in non-athletes. Dioscorea esculenta intake combined with resistance training increased the arm fat-free mass, the 1 repetition maximum of deadlift and snatch, and the serum DHEA, free testosterone, and DHT levels, compared with resistance training and placebo intake. The results suggested that Dioscorea esculenta intake combined with resistance training has further effects on muscle hypertrophy and strength in athletes by restoring secretion of androgen hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Horii
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577, Japan.,Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Kojimachi, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan
| | - Natsuki Hasegawa
- Research Organization of Science and Technology, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577, Japan
| | - Shumpei Fujie
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577, Japan.,Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Kojimachi, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan.,Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Keiko Iemitsu
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577, Japan
| | - Masataka Uchida
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577, Japan
| | - Takafumi Hamaoka
- Department of Sports Medicine for Health Promotion, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Iemitsu
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577, Japan
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9
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Strac DS, Konjevod M, Perkovic MN, Tudor L, Erjavec GN, Pivac N. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its Sulphate (DHEAS) in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2020; 17:141-157. [PMID: 32183671 DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666200317092310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurosteroids Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate (DHEAS) are involved in many important brain functions, including neuronal plasticity and survival, cognition and behavior, demonstrating preventive and therapeutic potential in different neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. OBJECTIVE The aim of the article was to provide a comprehensive overview of the literature on the involvement of DHEA and DHEAS in Alzheimer's disease. METHODS PubMed and MEDLINE databases were searched for relevant literature. The articles were selected considering their titles and abstracts. In the selected full texts, lists of references were searched manually for additional articles. RESULTS We performed a systematic review of the studies investigating the role of DHEA and DHEAS in various in vitro and animal models, as well as in patients with Alzheimer's disease, and provided a comprehensive discussion on their potential preventive and therapeutic applications. CONCLUSION Despite mixed results, the findings of various preclinical studies are generally supportive of the involvement of DHEA and DHEAS in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease, showing some promise for potential benefits of these neurosteroids in the prevention and treatment. However, so far small clinical trials brought little evidence to support their therapy in AD. Therefore, large-scale human studies are needed to elucidate the specific effects of DHEA and DHEAS and their mechanisms of action, prior to their applications in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dubravka S Strac
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marcela Konjevod
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Matea N Perkovic
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lucija Tudor
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Gordana N Erjavec
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nela Pivac
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
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10
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Ziogas A, Maekawa T, Wiessner JR, Le TT, Sprott D, Troullinaki M, Neuwirth A, Anastasopoulou V, Grossklaus S, Chung KJ, Sperandio M, Chavakis T, Hajishengallis G, Alexaki VI. DHEA Inhibits Leukocyte Recruitment through Regulation of the Integrin Antagonist DEL-1. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 204:1214-1224. [PMID: 31980574 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1900746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Leukocytes are rapidly recruited to sites of inflammation via interactions with the vascular endothelium. The steroid hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) exerts anti-inflammatory properties; however, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we show that an anti-inflammatory mechanism of DHEA involves the regulation of developmental endothelial locus 1 (DEL-1) expression. DEL-1 is a secreted homeostatic factor that inhibits β2-integrin-dependent leukocyte adhesion, and the subsequent leukocyte recruitment and its expression is downregulated upon inflammation. Similarly, DHEA inhibited leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium in venules of the inflamed mouse cremaster muscle. Importantly, in a model of lung inflammation, DHEA limited neutrophil recruitment in a DEL-1-dependent manner. Mechanistically, DHEA counteracted the inhibitory effect of inflammation on DEL-1 expression. Indeed, whereas TNF reduced DEL-1 expression and secretion in endothelial cells by diminishing C/EBPβ binding to the DEL-1 gene promoter, DHEA counteracted the inhibitory effect of TNF via activation of tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TRKA) and downstream PI3K/AKT signaling that restored C/EBPβ binding to the DEL-1 promoter. In conclusion, DHEA restrains neutrophil recruitment by reversing inflammation-induced downregulation of DEL-1 expression. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory DHEA/DEL-1 axis could be harnessed therapeutically in the context of inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Ziogas
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Tomoki Maekawa
- Department of Microbiology, Penn Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104.,Research Center for Advanced Oral Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, 951-8514 Niigata, Japan
| | - Johannes R Wiessner
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine and Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, BioMedical Centre, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, 81377 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and
| | - Thi Trang Le
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - David Sprott
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Maria Troullinaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Ales Neuwirth
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Vasiliki Anastasopoulou
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sylvia Grossklaus
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kyoung-Jin Chung
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Markus Sperandio
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine and Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, BioMedical Centre, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, 81377 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; and
| | - Triantafyllos Chavakis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.,Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - George Hajishengallis
- Department of Microbiology, Penn Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
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11
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TGFB1-Mediated Gliosis in Multiple Sclerosis Spinal Cords Is Favored by the Regionalized Expression of HOXA5 and the Age-Dependent Decline in Androgen Receptor Ligands. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20235934. [PMID: 31779094 PMCID: PMC6928867 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with a progressive form of the disease, spinal cord (SC) functions slowly deteriorate beyond age 40. We previously showed that in the SC of these patients, large areas of incomplete demyelination extend distance away from plaque borders and are characterized by a unique progliotic TGFB1 (Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1) genomic signature. Here, we attempted to determine whether region- and age-specific physiological parameters could promote the progression of SC periplaques in MS patients beyond age 40. An analysis of transcriptomics databases showed that, under physiological conditions, a set of 10 homeobox (HOX) genes are highly significantly overexpressed in the human SC as compared to distinct brain regions. Among these HOX genes, a survey of the human proteome showed that only HOXA5 encodes a protein which interacts with a member of the TGF-beta signaling pathway, namely SMAD1 (SMAD family member 1). Moreover, HOXA5 was previously found to promote the TGF-beta pathway. Interestingly, SMAD1 is also a protein partner of the androgen receptor (AR) and an unsupervised analysis of gene ontology terms indicates that the AR pathway antagonizes the TGF-beta/SMAD pathway. Retrieval of promoter analysis data further confirmed that AR negatively regulates the transcription of several members of the TGF-beta/SMAD pathway. On this basis, we propose that in progressive MS patients, the physiological SC overexpression of HOXA5 combined with the age-dependent decline in AR ligands may favor the slow progression of TGFB1-mediated gliosis. Potential therapeutic implications are discussed.
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12
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Yilmaz C, Karali K, Fodelianaki G, Gravanis A, Chavakis T, Charalampopoulos I, Alexaki VI. Neurosteroids as regulators of neuroinflammation. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100788. [PMID: 31513776 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a physiological protective response in the context of infection and injury. However, neuroinflammation, especially if chronic, may also drive neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), display inflammatory activation of microglia and astrocytes. Intriguingly, the central nervous system (CNS) is a highly steroidogenic environment synthesizing steroids de novo, as well as metabolizing steroids deriving from the circulation. Neurosteroid synthesis can be substantially affected by neuroinflammation, while, in turn, several steroids, such as 17β-estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and allopregnanolone, can regulate neuroinflammatory responses. Here, we review the role of neurosteroids in neuroinflammation in the context of MS, AD, PD and TBI and describe underlying molecular mechanisms. Moreover, we introduce the concept that synthetic neurosteroid analogues could be potentially utilized for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canelif Yilmaz
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kanelina Karali
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Georgia Fodelianaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Triantafyllos Chavakis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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13
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Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate improves visceral sensation and gut barrier in a rat model of irritable bowel syndrome. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 852:198-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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14
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DHEA inhibits acute microglia-mediated inflammation through activation of the TrkA-Akt1/2-CREB-Jmjd3 pathway. Mol Psychiatry 2018; 23:1410-1420. [PMID: 28894299 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans, produced by the adrenals, the gonads and the brain. DHEA was previously shown to bind to the nerve growth factor receptor, tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA), and to thereby exert neuroprotective effects. Here we show that DHEA reduces microglia-mediated inflammation in an acute lipopolysaccharide-induced neuro-inflammation model in mice and in cultured microglia in vitro. DHEA regulates microglial inflammatory responses through phosphorylation of TrkA and subsequent activation of a pathway involving Akt1/Akt2 and cAMP response element-binding protein. The latter induces the expression of the histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) demethylase Jumonji d3 (Jmjd3), which thereby controls the expression of inflammation-related genes and microglial polarization. Together, our data indicate that DHEA-activated TrkA signaling is a potent regulator of microglia-mediated inflammation in a Jmjd3-dependent manner, thereby providing the platform for potential future therapeutic interventions in neuro-inflammatory pathologies.
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15
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Naylor JC, Kilts JD, Strauss JL, Szabo ST, Dunn CE, Wagner HR, Hamer RM, Shampine LJ, Zanga JR, Marx CE. An exploratory pilot investigation of neurosteroids and self-reported pain in female Iraq/Afghanistan-era Veterans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 53:499-510. [PMID: 27533747 DOI: 10.1682/jrrd.2014.11.0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Female Veterans are the most rapidly growing segment of new users of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and a significant proportion of female Veterans receiving treatment from VHA primary care providers report persistent pain symptoms. Currently, available data characterizing the neurobiological underpinnings of pain disorders are limited. Preclinical data suggest that neurosteroids may be involved in the modulation of pain symptoms, potentially via actions at gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) are neurosteroids that modulate inhibitory GABA receptors and excitatory NMDA receptors, producing complex neuronal effects. Emerging evidence from male Iraq/Afghanistan-era Veterans suggests that reductions in neurosteroid levels are associated with increased pain symptoms and that neurosteroids may be promising biomarker candidates. The current exploratory study thus examined associations between self-reported pain symptoms in 403 female Iraq/Afghanistan-era Veterans and serum DHEAS and DHEA levels. Serum DHEAS levels were inversely correlated with low back pain in female Veterans (Spearman r = -0.103; p = 0.04). Nonparametric analyses indicate that female Veterans reporting moderate/extreme low back pain demonstrated significantly lower DHEAS levels than those reporting no/little low back pain (|Z| = 2.60; p = 0.009). These preliminary findings support a role for DHEAS in pain physiology of low back pain and the rationale for neurosteroid therapeutics in pain analgesia.
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16
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Prall SP, Muehlenbein MP. DHEA Modulates Immune Function: A Review of Evidence. DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE 2018; 108:125-144. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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17
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ŠTERZL I, HILL M, STÁRKA L, VELÍKOVÁ M, KANČEVA R, JEMELKOVÁ J, CZERNEKOVÁ L, KOSZTYU P, ZADRAŽIL J, MATOUŠOVIC K, VONDRÁK K, RAŠKA M. Patients With IgA Nephropathy Have Altered Levels of Immunomodulatory C19 Steroids. Glucocorticoid Therapy With Addition of Adrenal Androgens May Be the Choice. Physiol Res 2017; 66:S433-S442. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid (GC) therapy is one of the methods of choices for treatment of autoimmune diseases (ADs). In addition, adrenal androgens are known as immunoprotective GC-antagonists. Adrenal steroids preferentially influence the Th1-components over the Th2 ones. We investigated steroid metabolome (using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) in healthy controls (H), GC-untreated patients with ADs different from IgA nephropathy (U), GC-treated patients with ADs different from IgA nephropathy (T) and in patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN), which were monitored on the beginning (N0), after one week (N1) and after one month (N2) of prednisolone therapy (60 mg of prednisolone/day/m2 of body surface). Between-group differences were assessed by one-way ANOVA, while the changes during the therapy were evaluated by repeated measures ANOVA. The ANOVA testing was followed by Duncan’s multiple comparisons. IgAN patients and patients with other ADs exhibited lack of adrenal androgens due to attenuated activity of adrenal zona reticularis (ZR). Androgen levels including their 7α-, 7β-, and 16α-hydroxy-metabolites were further restrained by GC-therapy. Based on these results and data from the literature, we addressed the question, whether a combination of GCs with Δ5-steroids or their more stable synthetic derivatives may be optimal for the treatment of antibodies-mediated ADs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M. HILL
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
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18
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Bonetto G, Charalampopoulos I, Gravanis A, Karagogeos D. The novel synthetic microneurotrophin BNN27 protects mature oligodendrocytes against cuprizone-induced death, through the NGF receptor TrkA. Glia 2017; 65:1376-1394. [PMID: 28567989 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BNN27, a member of a chemical library of C17-spiroepoxy derivatives of the neurosteroid DHEA, has been shown to regulate neuronal survival through its selective interaction with NGF receptors (TrkA and p75NTR ), but its role on glial populations has not been studied. Here, we present evidence that BNN27 provides trophic action (rescue from apoptosis), in a TrkA-dependent manner, to mature oligodendrocytes when they are challenged with the cuprizone toxin in culture. BNN27 treatment also increases oligodendrocyte maturation and diminishes microglia activation in vitro. The effect of BNN27 in the cuprizone mouse model of demyelination in vivo has also been investigated. In this model, that does not directly involve the adaptive immune system, BNN27 can protect from demyelination without affecting the remyelinating process. BNN27 preserves mature oligodendrocyte during demyelination, while reducing microgliosis and astrogliosis. Our findings suggest that BNN27 may serve as a lead molecule to develop neurotrophin-like blood-brain barrier (BBB)-permeable protective agents of oligodendrocyte populations and myelin, with potential applications in the treatment of demyelinating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bonetto
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Achille Gravanis
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
| | - Domna Karagogeos
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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19
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Boghozian R, McKenzie BA, Saito LB, Mehta N, Branton WG, Lu J, Baker GB, Noorbakhsh F, Power C. Suppressed oligodendrocyte steroidogenesis in multiple sclerosis: Implications for regulation of neuroinflammation. Glia 2017; 65:1590-1606. [PMID: 28707358 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Neurosteroids are reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects in several neurological disorders. We investigated the expression and actions of the neurosteroid, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and its more stable 3β-sulphated ester, DHEA-S, in MS and associated experimental models. CNS tissues from patients with MS and animals with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) displayed reduced DHEA concentrations, accompanied by diminished expression of the DHEA-synthesizing enzyme CYP17A1 in oligodendrocytes (ODCs), in association with increased expression of inflammatory genes including interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-1β. CYP17A1 was expressed variably in different human neural cell types but IFN-γ exposure selectively reduced CYP17A1 detection in ODCs. DHEA-S treatment reduced IL-1β and -6 release from activated human myeloid cells with minimal effect on lymphocyte viability. Animals with EAE receiving DHEA-S treatment showed reduced Il1b and Ifng transcript levels in spinal cord compared to vehicle-treated animals with EAE. DHEA-S treatment also preserved myelin basic protein immunoreactivity and reduced axonal loss in animals with EAE, relative to vehicle-treated EAE animals. Neurobehavioral deficits were reduced in DHEA-S-treated EAE animals compared with vehicle-treated animals with EAE. Thus, CYP17A1 expression in ODCs and its product DHEA were downregulated in the CNS during inflammatory demyelination while DHEA-S provision suppressed neuroinflammation, demyelination, and axonal injury that was evident as improved neurobehavioral performance. These findings indicate that DHEA production is an immunoregulatory pathway within the CNS and its restoration represents a novel treatment approach for neuroinflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roobina Boghozian
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Brienne A McKenzie
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Leina B Saito
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ninad Mehta
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - William G Branton
- Department of, Medicine, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - JianQiang Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Glen B Baker
- Depatment of Psychiatry, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Farshid Noorbakhsh
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Christopher Power
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of, Medicine, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Depatment of Psychiatry, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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20
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Aggelakopoulou M, Kourepini E, Paschalidis N, Simoes DCM, Kalavrizioti D, Dimisianos N, Papathanasopoulos P, Mouzaki A, Panoutsakopoulou V. ERβ-Dependent Direct Suppression of Human and Murine Th17 Cells and Treatment of Established Central Nervous System Autoimmunity by a Neurosteroid. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 197:2598-609. [PMID: 27549171 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1601038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease of the CNS, is mediated by autoreactive Th cells. A previous study showed that the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), when administered preclinically, could suppress progression of relapsing-remitting experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, the effects of DHEA on human or murine pathogenic immune cells, such as Th17, were unknown. In addition, effects of this neurosteroid on symptomatic disease, as well as the receptors involved, had not been investigated. In this study, we show that DHEA suppressed peripheral responses from patients with MS and reversed established paralysis and CNS inflammation in four different EAE models, including the 2D2 TCR-transgenic mouse model. DHEA directly inhibited human and murine Th17 cells, inducing IL-10-producing regulatory T cells. Administration of DHEA in symptomatic mice induced regulatory CD4(+) T cells that were suppressive in an IL-10-dependent manner. Expression of the estrogen receptor β by CD4(+) T cells was necessary for DHEA-mediated EAE amelioration, as well as for direct downregulation of Th17 responses. TGF-β1 as well as aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation was necessary for the expansion of IL-10-producing T cells by DHEA. Thus, our studies demonstrate that compounds that inhibit pathogenic Th17 responses and expand functional regulatory cells could serve as therapeutic agents for autoimmune diseases, such as MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Aggelakopoulou
- Cellular Immunology Laboratory, Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Evangelia Kourepini
- Cellular Immunology Laboratory, Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Paschalidis
- Cellular Immunology Laboratory, Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Davina C M Simoes
- Cellular Immunology Laboratory, Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Dimitra Kalavrizioti
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Rion 265 00, Greece; and
| | | | | | - Athanasia Mouzaki
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Rion 265 00, Greece; and
| | - Vily Panoutsakopoulou
- Cellular Immunology Laboratory, Center for Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens 115 27, Greece;
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21
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van den Broek HHLP, Damoiseaux JGMC, De Baets MH, Hupperts RMM. The influence of sex hormones on cytokines in multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: a review. Mult Scler 2016; 11:349-59. [PMID: 15957520 DOI: 10.1191/1352458505ms1174rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The female predominance of multiple sclerosis (MS) has suggested that hormonal differences between the sexes must confer some protective effect on males or enhance the susceptibility of females to this disease. There has been evidence that gonadal hormones can modulate the immune response regulated by antigen presenting cells and T cells. These cells control the immune response by the production of interacting pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The first include the acute phase pro-inflammatory cytokines of the innate immune response as well as the T-helper 1 (Th1) cytokines, while the later contain the Th2 cytokines as well as the suppressor cytokines. There is some evidence that MS and experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE) are Th1 cell-mediated diseases. For this reason many studies have been done to influence the pro-inflammatory cytokine production of these Th1 cells in favour of an anti-inflammatory immune response as mediated by Th2 cells. However the role of the regulatory T cells in this context is not clearly understood. Here we review the studies concerning the role of sex hormones on the cytokine production in relation to the disease course of MS and EAE and in particular in the light of the recent revival of the regulatory T cells and their suppressive cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans H L P van den Broek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Maastricht, P Debyelaan 25, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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22
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Cerebellar Changes in Guinea Pig Offspring Following Suppression of Neurosteroid Synthesis During Late Gestation. THE CEREBELLUM 2016; 16:306-313. [DOI: 10.1007/s12311-016-0802-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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23
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Alves VBF, Basso PJ, Nardini V, Silva A, Chica JEL, Cardoso CRDB. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) restrains intestinal inflammation by rendering leukocytes hyporesponsive and balancing colitogenic inflammatory responses. Immunobiology 2016; 221:934-43. [PMID: 27263829 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2016.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that plays an important role in the modulation of inflammatory responses. However, the precise mechanisms that link the actions of this androgen with protection or susceptibility to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) remain uknown. Here we showed that low dose DHEA inhibited proliferation of spleen cells and IFN-у production. The hormone was not toxic to myeloid lineage cells, although it caused necrosis of spleen cells at the intermediate and highest doses in vitro (50 and 100μM). The treatment of C57BL/6 mice with DHEA during colitis induction by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) led to a reduction in weight loss and clinical signs of disease. There were decreased peripheral blood monocytes on day 6 of DSS exposure and treatment, besides increase in circulating neutrophils in the tissue repair phase. DHEA also led to reduced lamina propria cellularity and restoration of normal colon length. These results were accompanied by decreased expression of IL-6 and TGF-β mRNA, while IL-13 was augmented in the colon on day 6, which was probably related to attenuation of inflammation. There was retention of CD4(+) cells in the spleen after use of DHEA, along with augmented frequency of CD4(+)IL-4(+) cells, decreased CD4(+)IFN-ɣ(+) in spleen and constrained CD4(+)IL-17(+) population in the mesenteric lymph nodes. Moreover, splenocytes of mice treated with DHEA became hyporesponsive, as observed by reduced proliferation after re-stimulation ex-vivo. In conclusion, DHEA modifyies leukocyte activity and balances the exacerbated immune responses which drive local and systemic damages in IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Beatriz Freitas Alves
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo José Basso
- Departamento de Imunologia e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Viviani Nardini
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angélica Silva
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Cristina Ribeiro de Barros Cardoso
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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24
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Jia T, Anandhan A, Massilamany C, Rajasekaran RA, Franco R, Reddy J. Association of Autophagy in the Cell Death Mediated by Dihydrotestosterone in Autoreactive T Cells Independent of Antigenic Stimulation. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:620-34. [PMID: 26416183 PMCID: PMC4662616 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9633-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Gender disparity is well documented in the mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced with proteolipid protein (PLP) 139-151, in which female, but not male, SJL mice show a chronic relapsing-remitting paralysis. Furthermore, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) has been shown to ameliorate the severity of EAE, but the underlying mechanisms of its protective effects are unclear. Using major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II dextramers for PLP 139-151, we tested the hypothesis that DHT selectively modulates the expansion and functionalities of antigen-specific T cells. Unexpectedly, we noted that DHT induced cell death in antigen-specific, autoreactive T cells, but the effects were not selective, because both proliferating and non-proliferating cells were equally affected independent of antigenic stimulation. Furthermore, DHT-exposed PLP 139-151-specific T cells did not show any shift in cytokine production; rather, frequencies of cytokine-producing PLP-specific T cells were significantly reduced, irrespective of T helper (Th) 1, Th2, and Th17 subsets of cytokines. By evaluating cell death and autophagy pathways, we provide evidence for the induction of autophagy to be associated with cell death caused by DHT. Taken together, the data provide new insights into the role of DHT and indicate that cell death and autophagy contribute to the therapeutic effects of androgens in autoreactive T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Jia
- Room 202, Bldg. VBS, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Annandurai Anandhan
- Room 202, Bldg. VBS, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Chandirasegaran Massilamany
- Room 202, Bldg. VBS, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Rajkumar A Rajasekaran
- Room 202, Bldg. VBS, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Rodrigo Franco
- Room 202, Bldg. VBS, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Jay Reddy
- Room 202, Bldg. VBS, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA.
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Kalakh S, Mouihate A. The promyelinating properties of androstenediol in gliotoxin-induced demyelination in rat corpus callosum. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2015; 41:964-82. [DOI: 10.1111/nan.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samah Kalakh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine; Kuwait University; Safat Kuwait
| | - Abdeslam Mouihate
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine; Kuwait University; Safat Kuwait
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Prall SP, Ambu L, Nathan S, Alsisto S, Ramirez D, Muehlenbein MP. Androgens and innate immunity in rehabilitated semi-captive orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus morio) from Malaysian Borneo. Am J Primatol 2015; 77:642-50. [DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean P. Prall
- Department of Anthropology; Indiana University; Bloomington Indiana
| | | | | | - Sylvia Alsisto
- Sabah Wildlife Department; Kota Kinabalu; Sabah Malaysia
| | - Diana Ramirez
- Sabah Wildlife Department; Kota Kinabalu; Sabah Malaysia
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Neuroendocrine immunoregulation in multiple sclerosis. Clin Dev Immunol 2013; 2013:705232. [PMID: 24382974 PMCID: PMC3870621 DOI: 10.1155/2013/705232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Revised: 09/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Currently, it is generally accepted that multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex multifactorial disease involving genetic and environmental factors affecting the autoreactive immune responses that lead to damage of myelin. In this respect, intrinsic or extrinsic factors such as emotional, psychological, traumatic, or inflammatory stress as well as a variety of other lifestyle interventions can influence the neuroendocrine system. On its turn, it has been demonstrated that the neuroendocrine system has immunomodulatory potential. Moreover, the neuroendocrine and immune systems communicate bidirectionally via shared receptors and shared messenger molecules, variously called hormones, neurotransmitters, or cytokines. Discrepancies at any level can therefore lead to changes in susceptibility and to severity of several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Here we provide an overview of the complex system of crosstalk between the neuroendocrine and immune system as well as reported dysfunctions involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmunity, including MS. Finally, possible strategies to intervene with the neuroendocrine-immune system for MS patient management will be discussed. Ultimately, a better understanding of the interactions between the neuroendocrine system and the immune system can open up new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of MS as well as other autoimmune diseases.
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Erlandsson MC, Bian L, Jonsson IM, Andersson KM, Bokarewa MI. Metastasin S100A4 is a mediator of sex hormone-dependent formation of the cortical bone. Mol Endocrinol 2013; 27:1311-21. [PMID: 23798573 DOI: 10.1210/me.2012-1398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
S100A4 is a Ca-binding protein participating in regulation of cell growth, survival, and motility. Here we studied the role of S100A4 protein in sex hormone-regulated bone formation. Bone mineral density in the trabecular and cortical compartments was evaluated in female S100A4 knockout (KO), in matched wild-type (WT) counterparts, and in WT mice treated with lentiviral small hairpin RNA construct inhibiting the S100A4 gene transcription or with a nontargeting construct, by peripheral quantitative computed tomography. The effect of sex hormones on bone was measured 5 weeks after ovariectomy (OVX) and/or dehydroepiadrosterone treatment. S100A4KO had an excessive trabecular and cortical bone formation compared with the age- and sex-matched WT mice. S100A4KO had an increased periosteal circumference (P = .001), cortical thickness (P = .056), and cortical area (P = .003), which predicted 20% higher bone strength in S100A4KO (P = .013). WT mice treated with small hairpin RNA-S100A4 showed an increase of the cortical bone parameters in a fashion identical with S100A4KO mice, indicating the key role of S100A4 in the changed bone formation. S100A4KO mice had higher serum levels of osteocalcin and a higher number of osteocalcin-positive osteoblasts under the periosteum. OVX-S100A4 resulted in the loss of the cortical bone supported by high CTX-I levels, whereas no such changes were observed in OVX-WT mice. S100A4KO mice resisted the dehydroepiadrosterone -induced bone formation observed in the WT counterparts. Our study indicates that S100A4 is a regulator of bone formation, which inhibits bone excess in the estrogen-sufficient mice and prevents the cortical bone loss in the estrogen-deprived mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin C Erlandsson
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Göteborg, S-41346 Göteborg, Sweden.
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29
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Integration of MicroRNA databases to study MicroRNAs associated with multiple sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2012; 45:520-35. [PMID: 22549745 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-012-8270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 04/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs which regulate many genes post-transcriptionally. In various contexts of medical science, miRNAs gained increasing attention over the last few years. Analyzing the functions, interactions and cellular effects of miRNAs is a very complex and challenging task. Many miRNA databases with diverse data contents have been developed. Here, we demonstrate how to integrate their information in a reasonable way on a set of miRNAs that were found to be dysregulated in the blood of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Using the miR2Disease database, we retrieved 16 miRNAs associated with MS according to four different studies. We studied the predicted and experimentally validated target genes of these miRNAs, their expression profiles in different blood cell types and brain tissues, the pathways and biological processes affected by these miRNAs as well as their regulation by transcription factors. Only miRNA-mRNA interactions that were predicted by at least seven different prediction algorithms were considered. This resulted in a network of 1,498 target genes. In this network, the MS-associated miRNAs hsa-miR-20a-5p and hsa-miR-20b-5p occurred as central hubs regulating about 500 genes each. Strikingly, many of the putative target genes play a role in T cell activation and signaling, and many have transcription factor activity. The latter suggests that miRNAs often act as regulators of regulators with many secondary effects on gene expression. Our present work provides a guideline on how information of different databases can be integrated in the analysis of miRNAs. Future investigations of miRNAs shall help to better understand the mechanisms underlying different diseases and their treatments.
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30
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Hirose M, Recke A, Beckmann T, Shimizu A, Ishiko A, Bieber K, Westermann J, Zillikens D, Schmidt E, Ludwig RJ. Repetitive immunization breaks tolerance to type XVII collagen and leads to bullous pemphigoid in mice. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2011; 187:1176-83. [PMID: 21705619 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1100596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is a subepidermal autoimmune blistering disease of the elderly associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. As unspecific immunosuppressants are still the mainstay of BP therapy, several animal models, based on the passive transfer of autoantibodies or immune cells, have been developed to obtain a better understanding of the pathogenesis of BP and evaluate novel therapeutic interventions. We describe in this study an experimental model inducing BP by immunization of immunocompetent mice with a recombinant form of the immunodominant 15th noncollagenous domain of murine BP180 (type XVII collagen). The homologous noncollagenous 16A domain of human BP180 has previously been identified as an immunodominant region in human BP. Immunization of female SJL/J mice with the murine peptide led to clinical disease within 14 wk in 56% of mice. In contrast, none of the other strains developed blisters despite the presence of autoantibodies. The clinical disease manifested for at least 8 wk without further manipulation. This novel immunization-induced model reflects key immunopathological characteristics of human BP, including binding of complement-fixing autoantibodies along the dermal-epidermal junction, elevated total IgE serum levels, and infiltration of skin lesions with eosinophilic granulocytes. The use of immunocompetent mice and the induction of sustained clinical disease not requiring additional interventions make this immunization-induced mouse model most suitable to further explore the pathogenesis of BP and novel therapeutic interventions for this and other autoantibody-mediated diseases.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Autoantigens/administration & dosage
- Autoantigens/genetics
- Autoantigens/immunology
- Binding Sites, Antibody
- Chemotaxis, Leukocyte/genetics
- Chemotaxis, Leukocyte/immunology
- Complement Activation/genetics
- Complement Activation/immunology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Eosinophils/immunology
- Eosinophils/pathology
- Epidermis/immunology
- Epidermis/metabolism
- Epidermis/pathology
- Female
- Immune Tolerance/genetics
- Immunization, Secondary/adverse effects
- Immunoglobulin G/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Inbred DBA
- Neutrophils/immunology
- Neutrophils/pathology
- Non-Fibrillar Collagens/administration & dosage
- Non-Fibrillar Collagens/genetics
- Non-Fibrillar Collagens/immunology
- Pemphigoid, Bullous/genetics
- Pemphigoid, Bullous/immunology
- Pemphigoid, Bullous/pathology
- Vaccines, Subunit/genetics
- Vaccines, Subunit/immunology
- Vaccines, Subunit/toxicity
- Vaccines, Synthetic/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
- Vaccines, Synthetic/toxicity
- Vaccines, Virosome/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Virosome/immunology
- Vaccines, Virosome/toxicity
- Collagen Type XVII
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Affiliation(s)
- Misa Hirose
- Department of Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck D-23538, Germany
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31
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Abstract
Estrogen receptors (ERs) have long been implicated in the etiology of multiple sclerosis, but no clear molecular mechanisms have linked ERs to the disease's pathology. Now Saijo et al. (2011) provide evidence that ERβ activates a transrepression pathway that suppresses inflammation and inhibits progression of pathology in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gosselin
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Genomics, CHUQ Research Center and Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, 2705 Laurier Boulevard, Québec, G1V 4G2, Canada
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Neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone interacts with nerve growth factor (NGF) receptors, preventing neuronal apoptosis. PLoS Biol 2011; 9:e1001051. [PMID: 21541365 PMCID: PMC3082517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1001051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2010] [Accepted: 03/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), produced by neurons and glia, affects multiple processes in the brain, including neuronal survival and neurogenesis during development and in aging. We provide evidence that DHEA interacts with pro-survival TrkA and pro-death p75NTR membrane receptors of neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF), acting as a neurotrophic factor: (1) the anti-apoptotic effects of DHEA were reversed by siRNA against TrkA or by a specific TrkA inhibitor; (2) [3H]-DHEA binding assays showed that it bound to membranes isolated from HEK293 cells transfected with the cDNAs of TrkA and p75NTR receptors (KD: 7.4±1.75 nM and 5.6±0.55 nM, respectively); (3) immobilized DHEA pulled down recombinant and naturally expressed TrkA and p75NTR receptors; (4) DHEA induced TrkA phosphorylation and NGF receptor-mediated signaling; Shc, Akt, and ERK1/2 kinases down-stream to TrkA receptors and TRAF6, RIP2, and RhoGDI interactors of p75NTR receptors; and (5) DHEA rescued from apoptosis TrkA receptor positive sensory neurons of dorsal root ganglia in NGF null embryos and compensated NGF in rescuing from apoptosis NGF receptor positive sympathetic neurons of embryonic superior cervical ganglia. Phylogenetic findings on the evolution of neurotrophins, their receptors, and CYP17, the enzyme responsible for DHEA biosynthesis, combined with our data support the hypothesis that DHEA served as a phylogenetically ancient neurotrophic factor. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulphate ester are the most abundant steroid hormones in humans, and DHEA was described as the first neurosteroid produced in the brain. DHEA is known to participate in multiple events in the brain, including neuronal survival and neurogenesis. However, to date no specific cellular receptor has been described for this important neurosteroid. In this study, we provide evidence that DHEA exerts its neurotrophic effects by directly interacting with the TrkA and p75NTR membrane receptors of nerve growth factor (NGF), and efficiently activates their downstream signaling pathways. This activation prevents the apoptotic loss of NGF receptor positive sensory and sympathetic neurons. The interaction of DHEA with NGF receptors may also offer a mechanistic explanation for the multiple actions of DHEA in other peripheral biological systems expressing NGF receptors, such as the immune, reproductive, and cardiovascular systems.
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Sun H, Zang W, Zhou B, Xu L, Wu S. DHEA suppresses longitudinal bone growth by acting directly at growth plate through estrogen receptors. Endocrinology 2011; 152:1423-33. [PMID: 21303941 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is produced by the adrenal cortex and is the most abundant steroid in humans. Although in some physiological and pathological conditions the increased secretion of DHEA and its sulfated form is associated with accelerated growth rate and skeletal maturation, it is unclear whether DHEA can affect longitudinal bone growth and skeletal maturation by acting directly at the growth plate. In our study, DHEA suppressed metatarsal growth, growth plate chondrocyte proliferation, and hypertrophy/differentiation. In addition, DHEA increased the number of apoptotic chondrocytes in the growth plate. In cultured chondrocytes, DHEA reduced chondrocyte proliferation and induced apoptosis. The DHEA-induced inhibition of metatarsal growth and growth plate chondrocyte proliferation and hypertrophy/differentiation was nullified by culturing metatarsals with DHEA in the presence of ICI 182,780, an inhibitor of estrogen receptor, but not in the presence of Casodex, an inhibitor of androgen receptor. Lastly, nuclear factor-κB DNA binding activity was inhibited by the addition of DHEA in the medium of cultured chondrocyte. Our findings indicate that DHEA suppressed bone growth by acting directly at growth plate through estrogen receptor. Such growth inhibition is mediated by decreased chondrocyte proliferation and hypertrophy/differentiation and by increased chondrocyte apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongzhi Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 76 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, People's Republic of China.
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34
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Heidbrink C, Häusler SFM, Buttmann M, Ossadnik M, Strik HM, Keller A, Buck D, Verbraak E, van Meurs M, Krockenberger M, Mehling M, Mittelbronn M, Laman JD, Wiendl H, Wischhusen J. Reduced cortisol levels in cerebrospinal fluid and differential distribution of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in multiple sclerosis: implications for lesion pathogenesis. Brain Behav Immun 2010; 24:975-84. [PMID: 20385225 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2010.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2009] [Revised: 03/25/2010] [Accepted: 04/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Relapses during multiple sclerosis (MS) are treated by administration of exogenous corticosteroids. However, little is known about the bioavailability of endogenous steroids in the central nervous system (CNS) of MS patients. We thus determined cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from 34 MS patients, 28 patients with non-inflammatory neurological diseases (NIND) and 16 patients with other inflammatory neurological diseases (OIND). This revealed that MS patients - in sharp contrast to patients with OIND - show normal cortisol concentrations in serum and lowered cortisol levels in the CSF during acute relapses. This local cortisol deficit may relate to poor local activation of cortisone via 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11bHSD1) or to inactivation via 11bHSD2. Accordingly, 11bHSD2 was found to be expressed within active plaques, whereas 11bHSD1 was predominantly detected in surrounding "foamy" macrophages. Our study thus provides new insights into the impaired endogenous CNS cortisol regulation in MS patients and its possible relation to MS lesion pathogenesis. Moreover, an observed upregulation of 11bHSD1 in myelin-loaded macrophages in vitro suggests an intriguing hypothesis for the self-limiting nature of MS lesion development. Finally, our findings provide an attractive explanation for the effectivity of high- vs. low-dose exogenous corticosteroids in the therapy of acute relapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Heidbrink
- Department for Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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35
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Donia M, Mangano K, Quattrocchi C, Fagone P, Signorelli S, Magro G, Sfacteria A, Bendtzen K, Nicoletti F. Specific and Strain-Independent Effects of Dexamethasone in the Prevention and Treatment of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Rodents. Scand J Immunol 2010; 72:396-407. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3083.2010.02451.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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36
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Hazeldine J, Arlt W, Lord JM. Dehydroepiandrosterone as a regulator of immune cell function. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2010; 120:127-36. [PMID: 20060904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2009.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2009] [Revised: 12/16/2009] [Accepted: 12/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a C19 steroid of adrenal origin. Notably, its secretion declines with age, a phenomenon referred to as the "adrenopause". For many years, the physiological significance of DHEA remained elusive. However, many studies have now shown that DHEA has significant immune modulatory function, exhibiting both immune stimulatory and anti-glucocorticoid effects. Although several of these studies are limited by the fact that they were carried out in rodents, who are incapable of adrenal DHEA production, and therefore have very low circulating levels of this steroid, evidence from the study of immune cells is now accumulating to suggest a role for DHEA in regulating human immunity. This ability to regulate immune function has raised interest in the therapeutic potential of DHEA as a treatment for the immunological abnormalities that arise in subjects with low circulating levels of this hormone. This has included attempts at reversing the impaired immune response of older individuals to vaccination and restoring immune regulation in patients with chronic autoimmune disease. This review summarises the reported effects of DHEA on immune function and discusses the therapeutic potential of this steroid in geriatric medicine and particularly in age-related disease with an immune component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Hazeldine
- MRC Centre for Immune Regulation, Birmingham University Medical School, UK
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37
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Brahmachari S, Pahan K. Gender-specific expression of beta1 integrin of VLA-4 in myelin basic protein-primed T cells: implications for gender bias in multiple sclerosis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2010; 184:6103-13. [PMID: 20483780 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0804356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Susceptibility to multiple sclerosis is higher in females than males. However, the underlying mechanism behind this gender difference is poorly understood. Because the presence of neuroantigen-primed T cells in the CNS is necessary to initiate the neuroinflammatory cascade of multiple sclerosis, we first investigated how these T cells interacted with astroglia, major resident glial cells of the CNS. Interestingly, we found that myelin basic protein (MBP)-primed T cells from female and castrated male mice, but not from male mice, produced proinflammatory molecules, such as NO, IL-1beta, and IL-6 in astroglia, and these responses were purely via contact between T cells and astroglia. Because T cell:glia contact requires several integrin molecules, we examined the involvement of integrins in this process. Both alpha4 and beta1, subunits of VLA-4 integrin, were found to be necessary for T cell contact-induced generation of proinflammatory molecules in astroglia. Interestingly, the expression of beta1, but not alpha4, was absent in male MBP-primed T cells. In contrast, female and castrated male MBP-primed T cells expressed both alpha4 and beta1. Similarly, we also detected beta1 in spleen of normal young female, but not male, mice. Furthermore, we show that male sex hormones (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone), but not female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone), were able to suppress the mRNA expression of beta1 in female MBP-primed T cells. These studies suggest that beta1, but not alpha4, integrin of VLA-4 is the sex-specific molecule on T cell surface, and that the presence or absence of beta1 determines gender-specific T cell contact-mediated glial activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurav Brahmachari
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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38
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Vojdani A, Hebroni F, Raphael Y, Erde J, Raxlen B. Novel Diagnosis of Lyme Disease: Potential for CAM Intervention. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2009; 6:283-95. [PMID: 18955246 PMCID: PMC2722197 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/nem138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2007] [Accepted: 08/15/2007] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Lyme disease (LD) is the most common tick-borne disease in the northern hemisphere, producing a wide range of disabling effects on multiple human targets, including the skin, the nervous system, the joints and the heart. Insufficient clinical diagnostic methods, the necessity for prompt antibiotic treatment along with the pervasive nature of infection impel the development and establishment of new clinical diagnostic tools with increased accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. The goal of this article is 4-fold: (i) to detail LD infection and pathology, (ii) to review prevalent diagnostic methods, emphasizing inherent problems, (iii) to introduce the usage of in vivo induced antigen technology (IVIAT) in clinical diagnostics and (iv) to underscore the relevance of a novel comprehensive LD diagnostic approach to practitioners of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). Utilization of this analytical method will increase the accuracy of the diagnostic process and abridge the time to treatment, with antibiotics, herbal medicines and nutritional supplements, resulting in improved quality of care and disease prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristo Vojdani
- Immunosciences Lab., Inc., 8693 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 200, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA.
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Mondal S, Roy A, Pahan K. Functional blocking monoclonal antibodies against IL-12p40 homodimer inhibit adoptive transfer of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 182:5013-23. [PMID: 19342681 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0801734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
IL-12p70 (p40:p35) and IL-23 (p40:p19) are bioactive cytokines and their role in experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for multiple sclerosis, are becoming clear. On the other hand, the IL-12p40 homodimer (p40(2)) was considered as an inactive or inhibitory molecule and its functions are poorly understood. To facilitate the studies on p40(2), we have recently generated neutralizing mAb against mouse p40(2). The present study demonstrates the effectiveness of p40(2) mAb in treating the disease process of relapsing-remitting EAE in female SJL/J mice. The p40(2) mAb ameliorated clinical symptoms and disease progression of EAE in recipient mice and suppressed the generation of encephalitogenic T cells in donor mice. Histological and blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-spinal cord barrier (BSB) permeability studies reveal that p40(2) mAb effectively inhibited the infiltration of mononuclear cells into brain and spinal cord and improved the integrity of BBB and BSB in EAE mice. Consequently, p40(2) mAb also suppressed the expression of proinflammatory molecules, normalized the expression of myelin genes, and blocked demyelination in the CNS of EAE mice. On the other hand, recombinant mouse p40(2) increased the infiltration of mononuclear cells into the CNS, enhanced the permeability through BBB and BSB, stimulated CNS expression of proinflammatory molecules, and aggravated the disease process of EAE. Taken together, our results suggest that p40(2) participates in the pathogenesis of EAE and that neutralization of p40(2) may be beneficial in multiple sclerosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanta Mondal
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Division of Neuroscience, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Tan XD, Dou YC, Shi CW, Duan RS, Sun RP. Administration of dehydroepiandrosterone ameliorates experimental autoimmune neuritis in Lewis rats. J Neuroimmunol 2009; 207:39-44. [PMID: 19174309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2008.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2008] [Revised: 11/20/2008] [Accepted: 11/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an abundant adrenal steroid in serum of humans, and has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and certain immune-regulating properties. Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is a Th1 cell-mediated animal model of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in humans. In the present study, DHEA was administered subcutaneously to Lewis rats immunized with bovine peripheral myelin (BPM) in Freund's complete adjuvant. Rats treated with DHEA displayed significant delay in onset, decreased inflammatory cell infiltration in the PNS. Benefit was associated with significant decreases in numbers of IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha expressing cells in the PNS, BPM-stimulated T cell proliferation and IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha-secretion in the spleen cells. Only 2 mg DHEA-treated EAN rats decreased peak clinical score. No significant difference of supernatant IL-10 was found among the treatment and control groups. These results suggest that DHEA can ameliorate the severity of EAN by suppressing the proliferation of autoreactive T cell and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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41
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Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a weak androgen that exerts pleomorphic effects on the immune system. The hormone has no known receptor, and consequently, its mechanism of action on immunocompetent cells remains poorly understood. Interestingly, serum levels of DHEA are decreased in patients with inflammatory diseases including lupus, and these levels seem to correlate inversely with disease activity. Following encouraging studies demonstrating beneficial effects of DHEA supplementation in murine lupus models, several clinical studies have tested the effect of DHEA in lupus patients. DHEA treatment could improve overall quality-of-life assessment measures and glucocorticoid requirements in some lupus patients with mild to moderate disease; however, DHEA's effect on disease activity in lupus patients remains controversial. Long-term safety studies are required in light of the reported effect of DHEA supplementation in lowering high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in lupus patients.
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Solano ME, Sander V, Wald MR, Motta AB. Dehydroepiandrosterone and metformin regulate proliferation of murine T lymphocytes. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 153:289-96. [PMID: 18549441 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03696.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA: 10 microM) and metformin (10 microM and 100 microM) in regulating proliferation of cultured T lymphocytes. T cells were isolated from lymph nodes of prepuberal BALB/c mice. We found that DHEA, metformin and DHEA + metformin added to the incubation media diminished proliferation of T cells. The inhibition by DHEA was higher than that produced by metformin, while the combined treatment showed a synergistic action that allowed us to speculate distinct regulatory pathways. This was supported later by other findings in which the addition of DHEA to the incubation media did not modify T lymphocyte viability, while treatment with metformin and DHEA + metformin diminished cellular viability and increased both early and late apoptosis. Moreover, DHEA diminished the content of the anti-oxidant molecule glutathione (GSH), whereas M and DHEA + metformin increased GSH levels and diminished lipid peroxidation. We conclude that DHEA and metformin diminish proliferation of T cells through different pathways and that not only the increase, but also the decrease of oxidative stress inhibited proliferation of T cells, i.e. a minimal status of oxidative stress, is necessary to trigger cellular response.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Solano
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraquay, Argentina
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43
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Abstract
The function of hormones has expanded to include immunomodulation and neuroprotection in addition to their classic roles. The story of how hormones influence inflammation and neuron and glial function is being slowly unraveled. There is increasing evidence that estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone contain immune responses and influence damage repair in the nervous system. Hormones such as prolactin and vitamin D are being explored as immunomodulators and may influence diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or may be used therapeutically to modulate the immune response. More recently identified hormones, such as leptin and gherlin, may also influence the course of disease. This chapter reviews some of the evidence that supports a role for hormones in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Shuster
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Kasperska-Zajac A, Brzoza Z, Rogala B. Dehydroepiandrosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate in atopic allergy and chronic urticaria. Inflammation 2008; 31:141-5. [PMID: 18288594 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-008-9059-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2007] [Accepted: 01/24/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The increasing amounts of evidence prove that sex hormones modulate different cells function, including mast cells and lymphocytes. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulphate ester (DHEA-S) are both the secretory products of adrenal glands and the most abundant hormones in the systemic circulation of humans, converted then into androgens and estrogens in the periphery. DHEA may affect production of Th1 and Th2- associated cytokines, suggesting their significance in diseases where imbalanced lymphocyte activity plays the essential role, also in atopic diseases. Reduced circulating concentration of these androgens has been demonstrated in patients with immune-inflammatory diseases, including atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome and asthma. It is unknown however, whether such changes contribute in any way to etiopathogenesis of the disorders, or are merely their consequences. Chronic urticaria, not included in the atopic triad, is a mast cell-dependent disease characterised by activation of autoimmune and inflammatory processes responding to different factors. Alterations in the immune-neuro-endocrine milieu may contribute to the development of the disease. It has been demonstrated that DHEA-S concentration is significantly lower in the peripheral circulation of patients suffering from chronic urticaria, as compared with healthy subjects. On one hand, this reflects some changes in hormonal homeostasis in the course of urticarial processes, yet on the other, suggests some possible role for this hormone in pathophysiology of the disease. In this brief review we present the available data on DHEA-S involvement in events associated with atopic allergy as well as chronic urticaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Kasperska-Zajac
- Clinical Department of Internal Diseases, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
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45
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Almeida PE, Weber PSD, Burton JL, Zanella AJ. Depressed DHEA and increased sickness response behaviors in lame dairy cows with inflammatory foot lesions. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2008; 34:89-99. [PMID: 17229542 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2006.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2006] [Revised: 10/20/2006] [Accepted: 11/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Lameness is a multifactorial condition influenced by the environment, genetics, management and nutrition. Detection of lameness is subjective and currently limited to visual locomotion observations which lack reliability and sensitivity. The objective of this study was to search for potential biomarkers of inflammatory foot lesions that underlie most cases of lameness in dairy cows, with a focus on the sickness response and relevant endocrine, immune and behavioral changes. Serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were collected from eight sound and eight lame high-producing Holstein cows. Immune cell activation was investigated in PBMCs using a candidate gene approach in which the expression of pro-opiomelanocortin, interleukin-1beta, l-selectin, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and glucocorticoid receptor-alpha was measured via quantitative real time-RT-PCR. Endocrine changes were investigated by monitoring serum concentrations of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Additionally, systematic behavioral observations were carried out to characterize a behavioral profile associated with a sickness response typical of this condition. Lame cows showed significantly lower eating (P=0.01) and ruminating (P=0.01) behaviors and higher incidence of self-grooming (P=0.04) compared to sound cows. Lame cows also showed a 23% decrease in serum DHEA (P=0.01) and 65% higher cortisol:DHEA ratio (P=0.06) compared to sound cows. However, no significant differences were found in candidate gene expression between lame and sound cows. In association with sickness behaviors, serum DHEA concentration and cortisol:DHEA ratio are promising objective indicators of inflammatory foot lesions in dairy cattle and may be useful as diagnostic targets for animals in need of treatment.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/physiology
- Cattle
- Cattle Diseases/blood
- Cattle Diseases/genetics
- Cattle Diseases/immunology
- Cattle Diseases/physiopathology
- Dehydroepiandrosterone/blood
- Female
- Foot Diseases/genetics
- Foot Diseases/immunology
- Foot Diseases/physiopathology
- Foot Diseases/veterinary
- Gene Expression
- Hydrocortisone/blood
- Interleukin-1beta/blood
- Interleukin-1beta/genetics
- L-Selectin/biosynthesis
- L-Selectin/blood
- L-Selectin/genetics
- Lameness, Animal/blood
- Lameness, Animal/genetics
- Lameness, Animal/immunology
- Lameness, Animal/physiopathology
- Leukocytes, Mononuclear/immunology
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 9/blood
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 9/genetics
- Pro-Opiomelanocortin/biosynthesis
- Pro-Opiomelanocortin/blood
- Pro-Opiomelanocortin/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/blood
- Receptors, Glucocorticoid/genetics
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary
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Affiliation(s)
- P E Almeida
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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46
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Auci D, Kaler L, Subramanian S, Huang Y, Frincke J, Reading C, Offner H. A New Orally Bioavailable Synthetic Androstene Inhibits Collagen-Induced Arthritis in the Mouse: Androstene Hormones as Regulators of Regulatory T Cells. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2007; 1110:630-40. [PMID: 17911478 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1423.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has attracted much interest because of its many antiaging, metabolic and immune-modulating effects in rodents. Synthetic derivatives, such as 5-androstene-16alpha-fluoro-17-one (HE2500) and certain natural metabolites also provide benefit in various animal models of autoimmune and metabolic diseases. But, like DHEA, low potency and low oral bioavailability suggested limited usefulness of these compounds in humans. We hypothesized that HE3286, a novel 17-ethynyl derivative would be orally bioavailable, more potent, and chemically more useful in man than its parent compound. We found that on a dose/mass basis, HE3286 demonstrated up to 25% oral bioavailability in mice. In the DBA mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), animals receiving oral treatment with HE3286 (50 mg/kg), beginning at onset of disease, significantly decreased CIA peak scores and daily severity of arthritis scores. Benefit was associated with decreases in: (1) production of TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-17; and (2) decreases in joint inflammation, erosion, and synovial proliferation as judged by histological analysis. HE3286 was not found to be immune suppressive in any of the classical models tested, including mitogen-induced proliferation, delayed-type hypersensitivity, or mixed lymphocyte reaction. Instead, benefit was associated with increases in numbers and function of CD4+CD25+FOXp3+CD127- regulatory T cells (T reg). To our knowledge, this is probably the first study to report that an orally bioavailable synthetic analogue of DHEA can ameliorate ongoing disease in a CIA mouse model with relevance to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to correlate that finding with decreases in proinflammatory cytokines and increases in T reg cells. Hormones targeting T reg cells hold the intriguing potential to treat autoimmune, infectious, and neoplastic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Auci
- Hollis-Eden Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, California, USA.
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47
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Brahmachari S, Pahan K. Sodium benzoate, a food additive and a metabolite of cinnamon, modifies T cells at multiple steps and inhibits adoptive transfer of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2007; 179:275-83. [PMID: 17579047 PMCID: PMC1976122 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.179.1.275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) is the animal model for multiple sclerosis. This study explores a novel use of sodium benzoate (NaB), a commonly used food additive and a Food and Drug Administration-approved nontoxic drug for urea cycle disorders, in treating the disease process of relapsing-remitting EAE in female SJL/J mice. NaB, administered through drinking water at physiologically tolerable doses, ameliorated clinical symptoms and disease progression of EAE in recipient mice and suppressed the generation of encephalitogenic T cells in donor mice. Histological studies reveal that NaB effectively inhibited infiltration of mononuclear cells and demyelination in the spinal cord of EAE mice. Consequently, NaB also suppressed the expression of proinflammatory molecules and normalized myelin gene expression in the CNS of EAE mice. Furthermore, we observed that NaB switched the differentiation of myelin basic protein-primed T cells from Th1 to Th2 mode, enriched regulatory T cell population, and down-regulated the expression of various contact molecules in T cells. Taken together, our results suggest that NaB modifies encephalitogenic T cells at multiple steps and that NaB may have therapeutic importance in multiple sclerosis.
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MESH Headings
- Administration, Oral
- Adoptive Transfer/methods
- Animals
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/metabolism
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/pharmacology
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/therapeutic use
- Cell Movement/immunology
- Cells, Cultured
- Cinnamomum zeylanicum/metabolism
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/immunology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/pathology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/prevention & control
- Female
- Food Preservatives/metabolism
- Food Preservatives/pharmacology
- Food Preservatives/therapeutic use
- Growth Inhibitors/metabolism
- Growth Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Growth Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Injections, Subcutaneous
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred Strains
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis/immunology
- Myelin Basic Protein/administration & dosage
- Myelin Basic Protein/immunology
- Severity of Illness Index
- Sodium Benzoate/metabolism
- Sodium Benzoate/pharmacology
- Sodium Benzoate/therapeutic use
- T-Lymphocytes/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/pathology
- T-Lymphocytes/transplantation
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurav Brahmachari
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Kalipada Pahan
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Department of Oral Biology, Section of Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, Lincoln, NE 68583
- Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr. Kalipada Pahan, Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, 1735 West Harrison Street, Suite 320, Chicago, IL 60612. E-mail address:
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48
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Dasgupta S, Roy A, Jana M, Hartley DM, Pahan K. Gemfibrozil ameliorates relapsing-remitting experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis independent of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha. Mol Pharmacol 2007; 72:934-46. [PMID: 17625103 DOI: 10.1124/mol.106.033787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study underlines the importance of gemfibrozil, a lipid-lowering drug and an activator of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha), in inhibiting the disease process of adoptively transferred experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Clinical symptoms of EAE, infiltration of mononuclear cells, and demyelination were significantly lower in SJL/J female mice receiving gemfibrozil through food chow than those without gemfibrozil. It is noteworthy that the drug was equally effective in treating EAE in PPAR-alpha wild-type as well as knockout mice. Gemfibrozil also inhibited the encephalitogenicity of MBP-primed T cells and switched the immune response from a Th1 to a Th2 profile independent of PPAR-alpha. Gemfibrozil consistently inhibited the expression and DNA-binding activity of T-bet, a key regulator of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) expression and stimulated the expression and DNA-binding activity of GATA3, a key regulator of IL-4. Gemfibrozil treatment decreased the number of T-bet-positive T cells and increased the number of GATA3-positive T cells in spleen of donor mice. The histological and immunohistochemical analyses also demonstrate the inhibitory effect of gemfibrozil on the invasion of T-bet-positive T cells into the spinal cord of EAE mice. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the differential effect of gemfibrozil on the expression of T-bet and GATA3 was due to its inhibitory effect on NO production. Although excess NO favored the expression of T-bet, scavenging of NO stimulated the expression of GATA-3. Taken together, our results suggest gemfibrozil, an approved drug for hyperlipidemia in humans, may find further therapeutic use in multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhajit Dasgupta
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Cohn Research Building, Suite 320, 1735 West Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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49
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Roy A, Hooper DC. Lethal silver-haired bat rabies virus infection can be prevented by opening the blood-brain barrier. J Virol 2007; 81:7993-8. [PMID: 17507463 PMCID: PMC1951307 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00710-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Silver-haired bat rabies virus (SHBRV) infection induces a strong virus-specific immune response in the periphery of the host, but death is common due to the failure to open the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and deliver immune effectors to central nervous system (CNS) tissues. Mice with an SJL background are less susceptible to lethal infection with rabies viruses. In addition, these animals are known to have reduced hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and an elevated capacity to mediate CNS inflammatory responses. We show here that approximately one-half of PLSJL mice survive an SHBRV infection that is invariably lethal for 129/SvEv mice. This difference is associated with the elevated capacity of PLSJL mice to mediate BBB permeability changes in response to the infection. The induction of more extensive BBB permeability and CNS inflammation in these animals results in greater virus clearance and improved survival. On the other hand, treatment of SHBRV-infected PLSJL mice with the steroid hormone dehydroepiandrosterone reduced BBB permeability changes and caused greater mortality. We conclude that the infiltration of immune effectors across the BBB is critical to surviving a rabies virus infection and that HPA axis activity may influence this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Roy
- Center for Neurovirology, Thomas Jefferson University, 1020 Locust St., JAH 454, Philadelphia, PA 19107-6799, USA
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50
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Martín-Saavedra FM, Flores N, Dorado B, Eguiluz C, Bravo B, García-Merino A, Ballester S. Beta-interferon unbalances the peripheral T cell proinflammatory response in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Mol Immunol 2007; 44:3597-607. [PMID: 17420051 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2007.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2007] [Revised: 03/05/2007] [Accepted: 03/06/2007] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Interferon beta (IFNbeta) is a widespread therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS). We have analyzed some critical features of the T cell activation process in lymph nodes after IFNbeta treatment of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in SJL mice. Prevention of clinical signs and drastic reduction of perivascular infiltrates in the central nervous system (CNS) were accompanied by alterations in nuclear DNA binding activity levels of NFkappaB and Stat6 transcription factors in lymph node cells (LNC). A decrease of active NFkappaB subunits in treated animals correlated with lower levels of the cytoplasmic phosphorylated form of IkappaBalpha. Results also showed that nuclear DNA binding activity of Stat6 was increased by IFNbeta treatment, as were the cytoplasmic levels of phosphorilated Stat6 (P-Stat6). These high levels of P-Stat6 in IFNbeta-treated animals were accompanied by an increase of IL-4 expression levels measured by real time PCR. In vitro experiments with the IL-4 producing clone D10.G4.1 indicates that the IFNbeta-mediated IL-4 induction is not an effect exclusive to MBP-reactive cells, and suggest that it could be mediated by mRNA stability enlargement. On the other hand, IFNbeta treatment of EAE produced no significant changes in peripheral IFNgamma expression and a striking decrease of IL-17. These findings suggest that the inhibition of NFkappaB activity, the increase of IL-4 expression and its signaling transduction, and the decrease of IL-17 may cooperate to some of the antiinflammatory effects of IFNbeta on EAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M Martín-Saavedra
- Unidad de Regulación Génica, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Carretera Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, Madrid, Spain
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