Autoimmune targeted disruption of the pituitary-ovarian axis causes premature ovarian failure

Sleep Deprivation Triggers the Excessive Activation of Ovarian Primordial Follicles via β2 Adrenergic Receptor Signaling

Sleep deprivation (SD) is observed to adversely affect the reproductive health of women. However, its precise physiological mechanisms remain largely elusive. In this study, using a mouse model of SD, it is demonstrated that SD induces the depletion of ovarian primordial follicles, a phenomenon not attributed to immune-mediated attacks or sympathetic nervous system activation. Rather, the excessive secretion of stress hormones, namely norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E), by overactive adrenal glands, has emerged as a key mediator. The communication pathway mediated by the KIT ligand (KITL)-KIT between granulosa cells and oocytes plays a pivotal role in primordial follicle activation. SD heightened the levels of NE/E that stimulates the activation of the KITL-KIT/PI3K and mTOR signaling cascade in an β2 adrenergic receptor (ADRB2)-dependent manner, thereby promoting primordial follicle activation and consequent primordial follicle loss in vivo. In vitro experiments further corroborate these observations, revealing that ADRB2 upregulates KITL expression in granulosa cells via the activation of the downstream cAMP/PKA pathway. Together, these results reveal the significant involvement of ADRB2 signaling in the depletion of ovarian primordial follicles under sleep-deprived conditions. Additionally, ADRB2 antagonists are proposed for the treatment or prevention of excessive activation of primordial follicles induced by SD.

Human Amniotic Epithelial Stem Cells Alleviate Autoimmune Premature Ovarian Insufficiency in Mice by Targeting Granulosa Cells via AKT/ERK Pathways

Autoimmune factors play an important role in premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Human amniotic epithelial stem cells (hAESCs) have recently shown promising treatment effects on chemotherapy-induced POI. However, the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms of hAESCs in autoimmune POI remain to be investigated. In this study, we showed for the first time that intravenous transplantation of hAESCs could reside in the ovary of zona pellucida 3 peptide (pZP3) induced autoimmune POI mice model for at least 4 weeks. hAESCs could improve ovarian function and fertility, alleviate inflammation and reduce apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) in autoimmune POI mice. The transcriptome analysis of mice ovaries and in vitro co-cultivation experiments suggest that activation of the AKT and ERK pathways may be the key mechanism in the therapeutic effect of hAESCs. Our work provides the theoretical and experimental foundation for optimizing the administration of hAESCs, as well as the clinical application of hAESCs in autoimmune POI patients.

Human Bone Marrow Derived-Mesenchymal Stem Cells Treatment for Autoimmune Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

BACKGROUND

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a relatively common gynecologic endocrine disorder, which is hypogonadism associated with amenorrhea, increased levels of gonadotropins, and hypoestrogenism. POI resulting from ovarian autoimmunity is a poorly understood clinical condition lacking effective treatments. This study is aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on autoimmune premature ovarian insufficiency.

METHODS

In this study, in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to clarify the therapeutic effects and possible mechanisms of human bone marrow-derived MSCs (hBMSCs) on autoimmune POI, and to provide an experimental evidence for the treatment of autoimmune POI by hBMSCs. Noteworthy, in this study, we used interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) to induce autoimmune inflammation in human granulosa cell line KGN, simulating the pathophysiological changes of granulosa cells in autoimmune POI, and therefore sought to establish an in vitro cell model of autoimmune POI, which is still lacking in experimental methodology.

RESULTS

And we found that, in vitro, co-culture of hBMSCs could promote granulosa cell proliferation, inhibit apoptosis, improve hormone synthesis capacity, and reduce the occurrence of pyroptosis; and in vivo, hBMSCs resulted in improved estrous cycle disorders in autoimmune POI mice, increased serum estradiol, decreased follicle-stimulating hormone, improved ovarian morphology, increased number of primordial and primary follicles, decreased number of atretic follicles, and decreased ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

hBMSCs have therapeutic effects on autoimmune POI both in vitro and in vivo.

The stromal microenvironment and ovarian aging: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities

For decades, most studies of ovarian aging have focused on its functional units, known as follicles, which include oocytes and granulosa cells. However, in the ovarian stroma, there are a variety of somatic components that bridge the gap between general aging and ovarian senescence. Physiologically, general cell types, microvascular structures, extracellular matrix, and intercellular molecules affect folliculogenesis and corpus luteum physiology alongside the ovarian cycle. As a result of damage caused by age-related metabolite accumulation and external insults, the microenvironment of stromal cells is progressively remodeled, thus inevitably perturbing ovarian physiology. With the established platforms for follicle cryopreservation and in vitro maturation and the development of organoid research, it is desirable to develop strategies to improve the microenvironment of the follicle by targeting the perifollicular environment. In this review, we summarize the role of stromal components in ovarian aging, describing their age-related alterations and associated effects. Moreover, we list some potential techniques that may mitigate ovarian aging based on their effect on the stromal microenvironment.

Stem Cell-Based Therapeutic Strategies for Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and Infertility: A Focus on Aging

Reproductive aging is on the rise globally and inseparable from the entire aging process. An extreme form of reproductive aging is premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), which to date has mostly been of idiopathic etiology, thus hampering further clinical applications and associated with enormous socioeconomic and personal costs. In the field of reproduction, the important functional role of inflammation-induced ovarian deterioration and therapeutic strategies to prevent ovarian aging and increase its function are current research hotspots. This review discusses the general pathophysiology and relative causes of POI and comprehensively describes the association between the aging features of POI and infertility. Next, various preclinical studies of stem cell therapies with potential for POI treatment and their molecular mechanisms are described, with particular emphasis on the use of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology in the current scenario. Finally, the progress made in the development of hiPSC technology as a POI research tool for engineering more mature and functional organoids suitable as an alternative therapy to restore infertility provides new insights into therapeutic vulnerability, and perspectives on this exciting research on stem cells and the derived exosomes towards more effective POI diagnosis and treatment are also discussed.

Differential Expression of microRNAs Correlates With the Severity of Experimental Autoimmune Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC)/bladder pain syndrome (BPS) primarily affects women. It varies in its severity and currently has no effective treatment. The symptoms of IC include pelvic pain, urgency and frequency of urination, and discomfort or pain in the bladder and lower abdomen. The bladders of IC patients exhibit infiltration by immune cells, which lends credence to the hypothesis that immune mechanisms also play a role in the etiology and pathophysiology of IC. The Differentially expressed microRNAs (miRs) in immune cells may serve as crucial immunoregulators in the IC. Therefore, we sought to determine whether miRs might play a regulatory role in the progression and pathogenesis of IC, using experimental autoimmune cystitis (EAC) model. In the present study, we observed differential expression of a specific subset of miRs in iliac lymph nodes (ILNs) and urinary bladders (UB) of IC mice compared to that in control mice. Microarray analysis of 96 miRs from the bladder and 135 miRs from ILNs allowed us to identify 50 that exhibited at least a 1.5-fold greater difference in expression in EAC mice compared to control mice. Hierarchical cluster analysis of the microarray data was used to search available databases to predict molecular pathways with which the miRs might interact. Four miRs from each organ that exhibited altered expression in EAC mice and that were predicted to have roles in inflammation (miR-146a, -181, -1931, and -5112) were selected for further analysis by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). All were confirmed to be elevated in EAC mice. Histological inflammatory scores, systemic chemokines, and cytokines expressed by T helper type 1 (Th1) lymphocytes were also elevated in EAC mice as compared to control animals. We hypothesize that the mechanism of EAC induction might involve the modulation of specific miRs that increase local and systemic levels of chemokines and cytokines. The present study identifies novel miRs expressed in UB and ILNs that will allow us to highlight mechanisms of EAC pathogenesis and may provide potential biomarkers and/or serve as the basis of new therapies for the treatment of IC.

Pathophysiology and management of classic galactosemic primary ovarian insufficiency

Classic galactosemia is an inborn error of carbohydrate metabolism associated with early-onset primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in young women. Our understanding of the consequences of galactosemia upon fertility and fecundity of affected women is expanding, but there are important remaining gaps in our knowledge and tools for its management, and a need for continued dialog so that the special features of the condition can be better managed. Here, we review galactosemic POI and its reproductive endocrinological clinical sequelae and summarize current best clinical practices for its management. Special consideration is given to the very early-onset nature of the condition in the pediatric/adolescent patient. Afterward, we summarize our current understanding of the reproductive pathophysiology of galactosemia, including the potential action of toxic galactose metabolites upon the ovary. Our work establishing that ovarian cellular stress reminiscent of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is present in a mouse model of galactosemia, as well as work by other groups, are summarized.

LAY SUMMARY

Patients with the condition of classic galactosemia need to maintain a strict lifelong diet that excludes the sugar galactose. This is due to having mutations in enzymes that process galactose, resulting in the buildup of toxic metabolic by-products of the sugar. Young women with classic galactosemia often lose the function of their ovaries very early in life (termed 'primary ovarian insufficiency'), despite adherence to a galactose-restricted diet. This means that in addition to the consequences of the disease, these women also face infertility and the potential need for hormone replacement therapy. This article summarizes current strategies for managing the care of galactosemic girls and women and also what is known of how the condition leads to early primary ovarian insufficiency.

Tributyltin and high-refined carbohydrate diet lead to metabolic and reproductive abnormalities, exacerbating premature ovary failure features in the female rats

Exposure to the obesogen tributyltin (TBT) alone or high carbohydrate diet (HCD) alone leads to obesity and reproductive complications, such as premature ovary failure (POF) features. However, little is known about interactions between TBT and nutrition and their combined impact on reproduction. In this study, we assessed whether acute TBT and HCD exposure results in reproductive and metabolic irregularities. Female rats were treated with TBT (100 ng/kg/day) and fed with HCD for 15 days and metabolic and reproductive outcomes were assessed. TBT and HCD rats displayed metabolic impairments, such as increased adiposity, abnormal lipid profile and triglyceride and glucose (TYG) index, worsening adipocyte hypertrophy in HCD-TBT rats. These metabolic consequences were linked with reproductive disorders. Specifically, HCD-TBT rats displayed irregular estrous cyclicity, high follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, low anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, reduction in ovarian reserve, and corpora lutea (CL) number, with increases in atretic follicles, suggesting that HCD-TBT exposure exacerbated POF features. Further, strong negative correlations were observed between adipocyte hypertrophy and ovarian reserve, CL number and AMH levels. HCD-TBT exposure resulted in reproductive tract inflammation and fibrosis. Collectively, these data suggest that TBT plus HCD exposure leads to metabolic and reproductive abnormalities, exacerbating POF features in female rats.

Subacute cadmium exposure disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to polycystic ovarian syndrome and premature ovarian failure features in female rats

Cadmium (Cd), a toxic heavy metal, is a known endocrine disruptor that is associated with reproductive complications. However, few studies have explored the effects of Cd exposure on features of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovary failure (POF). In this study, we assessed whether doses found in workers occupationally exposed to Cd and subacute exposure result in hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and other irregularities. We administered CdCl₂ to female rats (100 ppm in drinking water for 30 days) and then assessed Cd levels in the blood, HPG axis and uterus. Metabolic features, HPG axis function, reproductive tract (RT) morphophysiology, inflammation, oxidative stress (OS), and fibrosis were evaluated. Cd exposure increased Cd levels in the serum, HPG axis, and uterus. Cd rats displayed metabolic impairments, such as a reduction in adiposity, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance (IR). Cd exposure also caused improper functioning in the HPG. Specifically, Cd exposure caused irregular estrous cyclicity, abnormal hypothalamic gene expression (upregulated - Kiss1, AR and mTOR; downregulated - Kiss1R, LepR and TNF-α), high LH levels, low AMH levels and abnormal ovarian follicular development, coupled with a reduction in ovarian reserve and antral follicle number was observed, suggesting ovarian depletion. Further, Cd exposure caused a reduction in corpora lutea (CL) and granulosa layer thickness together with an increase in cystic/atretic follicles. In addition, Cd exposure caused RT inflammation, OS and fibrosis. Finally, strong positive correlations were observed between serum, RT Cd levels, IR, dyslipidemia and estrous cycle length, cystic, atretic follicles, LH levels, and RT inflammation. Thus, these data suggest that subacute Cd exposure using doses found in workers occupationally exposed to Cd disrupt the HPG axis function, leading to PCOS and POF features and other abnormalities in female rats.

Changes in the vaginal microbiota associated with primary ovarian failure

BACKGROUND

Primary ovarian failure (POF) is defined as follicular failure in women of reproductive age. Although many factors are speculated to contribute to the occurrence of POF, the exact aetiology remains unclear. Moreover, alterations in the microbiome of patients with POF are poorly studied.

RESULTS

This study investigated the vaginal microbiota of 22 patients with POF and 29 healthy individuals. High-throughput Illumina MiSeq sequencing targeting the V3-V4 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene was used to evaluate the relationships between the vaginal flora and clinical characteristics of POF. Different from results of previous studies, we found that the diversity and richness of the vaginal flora of patients with POF was significantly different from those of healthy controls. Comparison of the vaginal flora of patients with POF with that of menopausal women revealed that the relative abundance of Lactobacillus was significantly reduced in the latter. A reduced abundance of Lactobacillus was furthermore associated with a lower pregnancy success rate. Of particular interest is that L. gallinarum especially appeared to be beneficially associated with reproductive-related indicators (FSH, E2, AMH, PRL) whilst L. iners appeared to have a detrimental effect. The result of the present study may enable the identification of microbiota associated with POF, however, further investigations of differences in the microbiota in the context of POF will enable a deeper understanding of the disease pathogenesis that involves modification of the vaginal microbiota.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study identified the microbiota associated with POF. Further investigations on the differences in the microbiota in the context of POF will improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease which involves modification of the vaginal microbiota.

Evaluation inflammatory markers of hemogram parameters in primary ovarian insufficiency

Objective:

In most of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) cases, etiologic factors have not been fully elucidated. Recent studies have revealed that inflammatory agents play an important role in the etiopathogenesis of POI. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of inflammatory markers of hemogram parameters in POI.

Materials and Methods:

The study compared 47 healthy women and 47 women diagnosed as having POI retrospectively by scanning electronic and written recording systems. Complete blood counts, day-3 hormone profiles levels of all subjects were analyzed. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), red cell distribution width (RDW), platelet ratio (RPR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV) mean platelet lymphocyte ratio (MPLR) were calculated from the complete blood count parameters.

Results:

White blood cell and MPV values, platelet, and lymphocyte counts were significantly higher in the POI patients (p<0.001, p=0.042, p=0.038, p=0.049, respectively), RPR was significantly lower than the control group (p=0.011), but there were no significant differences in hemoglobin, RDW, NLR, PLR, and MPLR (p=0.454, p=0.057, p=0.635, p=0.780, p=0.126, respectively). The neutrophil count of the study group was higher than in the control group (p=0.057). Bivariate correlation analyses showed no correlations between blood parameters and hormone levels. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for RPR in POI was 0.652, with a threshold value 0.053, sensitivity=63% and specificity=63.

Conclusion:

Inflammatory markers of hemogram detected higher in patients with POI then control subjects.

Kuntai Capsule plus Hormone Therapy vs. Hormone Therapy Alone in Patients with Premature Ovarian Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Kuntai capsules (KTC) plus hormone therapy (HT) compared to HT alone for the treatment of premature ovarian failure (POF). Databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), the Chinese BioMedical database (CBM), and the Wanfang database were searched up to October 2018 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). After screening the studies, extracting the data, and assessing the study quality, Cochrane RevMan 5.3 software was used to conduct a meta-analysis. Twelve RCTs involving 1178 patients were included. Regarding the therapeutic effects, total effective treatment rate was higher for the KTC+HT groups compared to the HT-only groups. Furthermore, compared with HT, KTC+HR effectively altered endocrine indexes involving serum levels of luteinizing hormone (weighted mean difference [WMD]=-3.47, 95% CI [5.68, -1.26], P=0.002]), follicle-stimulating hormone [WMD=-8.15, 95% CI [-10.44, -5.86], P<0.00001], estrogen [WMD=17.21, 95% CI [10.16, 24.26], P<0.00001], and anti-Müllerian hormone [WMD=1.07, 95% CI [0.78, 1.36], P<0.00001]; blood lipid indexes involving serum levels of triglyceride (WMD=-0.55, 95% CI [-0.76, -0.43], P<0.00001), total cholesterol (WMD=-0.63, 95% CI [-0.74, -0.52], P<0.00001), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (WMD=-0.62, 95% CI [-0.75, -0.49], P<0.00001); and B-ultrasound results involving ovarian resistance index (WMD=-0.20, 95% CI [-0.35, -0.04], P=0.01), perfusion index (WMD=-0.41, 95% CI [-0.57, -0.24], P<0.00001), peak systolic velocity (WMD=2.43, 95% CI [1.52, 3.34], P<0.00001), antral follicle count (WMD=1.20, 95% CI [0.41, 2.00], P=0.003), and mean ovarian diameter in the plane containing the longest axis of the ovary (WMD=4.34, 95% CI [2.94, 5.74], P<0.00001). There were no serious adverse events in either group. There is evidence that KTC+HT is more effective and safer than HT alone for treating POF. However, the trials had low methodological quality and small samples, so further standardized research is required.

Inflamm-Aging: A New Mechanism Affecting Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

The normal function of ovaries, along with the secretion of sex hormones, is among the most important endocrine factors that maintain the female sexual characteristics and promote follicular development and ovulation. Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a common cause in the etiology of female infertility. It is defined as the loss of ovarian function before the age of 40. The characteristics of POI are menstrual disorders, including amenorrhea and delayed menstruation, accompanied by a raised gonadotrophin level and decreased estradiol level. Inflammatory aging is a new concept in the research field of aging. It refers to a chronic and low-degree proinflammatory state which occurs with increasing age. Inflammatory aging is closely associated with multiple diseases, as excessive inflammation can induce the inflammatory lesions in certain organs of the body. In recent years, studies have shown that inflammatory aging plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of POI. This paper begins with the pathogenesis of inflammatory aging and summarizes the relationship between inflammatory aging and premature ovarian insufficiency in a comprehensive way, as well as discussing the new diagnostic and therapeutic methods of POI.

Preliminary study on the changes of ovarian reserve, menstruation, and lymphocyte subpopulation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients of childbearing age

Objective

The main aim of this study was to investigate the ovarian reserve, menstruation, and lymphocyte subpopulation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients of childbearing age.

Methods

We enrolled 40 SLE patients of childbearing age and 40 age-matched healthy controls. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) was tested by electrochemiluminescence, and lymphocyte subsets were tested by flow cytometry. Menstruation situation was obtained by interview.

Results

The AMH level of the SLE group was significantly lower than that of the control group ( p < 0.001), which was negatively correlated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR ( r = −0.316, p = 0.047)) and disease activity (SLEDAI ( r = −0.338, p = 0.033)). The AMH concentration of SLE patients with normal menstruation was higher than those with abnormal menstruation ( p < 0.001). The percentages of CD4+ T lymphocytes and NK (natural killer) cells in the SLE group were significantly lower than those in the control group ( p < 0.001). However, the percentages of B cells and CD8+ T lymphocytes in the SLE group were higher than those in the control group ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Decreased AMH and high incidence of abnormal menstruation indicated that autoimmunity activities of SLE can impair the ovarian reserve of female patients. Lymphocytes in SLE patients were in a state of disorder.

Vaccination with inhibin-α provides effective immunotherapy against testicular stromal cell tumors

BACKGROUND

Testicular cancer is the most common male neoplasm occurring in men between the ages of 20 and 34. Although germ-line testicular tumors respond favorably to current standard of care, testicular stromal cell (TSC) tumors derived from Sertoli cells or Leydig cells often fail to respond to chemotherapy or radiation therapy and have a 5-year overall survival significantly lower than the more common and more treatable germ line testicular tumors.

METHODS

To improve outcomes for TSC cancer, we have developed a therapeutic vaccine targeting inhibin-α, a protein produced by normal Sertoli and Leydig cells of the testes and expressed in the majority of TSC tumors.

RESULTS

We found that vaccination against recombinant mouse inhibin-α provides protection and therapy against transplantable I-10 mouse TSC tumors in male BALB/c mice. Similarly, we found that vaccination with the immunodominant p215-234 peptide of inhibin-α (Inα 215-234) inhibits the growth of autochthonous TSC tumors occurring in male SJL.AMH-SV40Tag transgenic mice. The tumor immunity and enhanced overall survival induced by inhibin-α vaccination may be passively transferred into naive male BALB/c recipients with either CD4+ T cells, B220+ B cells, or sera from inhibin-α primed mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the lack of any alternative effective treatment for chemo- and radiation-resistant TSC tumors, our results provide for the first time a rational basis for immune-mediated control of these aggressive and lethal variants of testicular cancer.

THE USE OF RHEUM PALMATUM L. IN THE TREATMENT OF ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME: A META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED, CONTROLLED TRIALS

Background:

Chinese medicine theory shows that “lung being connected with large intestine”, and the modern western medicine also shows that the lung and intestinal tract affect each other in physiological and pathological conditions. If the lung ventilation dysfunction is caused by inflammatory exudate or secretions obstruction of the small airway ventilation, blood gas partial pressure is increased and intestinal gas absorption difficulty may lead to intestinal inflation and dysfunction (Wang N et al., 2011). Rheum palmatum L. can play the roles of anti-coagulation and anti-thrombosis, and improve microcirculation through lowering the endotoxin-induced permeability of microvascular tissue, reducing tissue oedema, decreasing inflammatory exudation and necrosis, and enhancing cyto-protection mechanism (Yang TZ et al., 2014). Therefore, systemic evaluation of the evidence pertaining to the usage of Rheum palmatum L. in treating acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has significant clinical significance.

Materials and Methods:

Various Electronic Databases CBM, CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, PubMed and Cochrane Library were searched until December 2015. Numerous randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of Rheum palmatum L. for the treatment of acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome were collected. The quality of the included studies was evaluated and a meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan5.0 software.

Results:

Eight RCTs involving 489 patients were selected for this review. The results of the Meta-analysis revealed that Rheum palmatum L. therapy, combined with routine comprehensive treatment, was significantly superior to that of routine comprehensive treatment alone, in the areas of decreasing mortality, the mechanical ventilation time, the level of interleukin-6,8 and the untoward effect, and also in improving arterial blood gas (PaO₂/FiO₂, PaO₂) (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

Compared with treatment with routine comprehensive alone, Rheum palmatum L. treatment combined with routine comprehensive, has been shown to effectively decrease the mortality, mechanical ventilation time and ameliorate the arterial blood gas, the cytokine levels, and the untoward effect. However, the evidence appears not to be very compelling due to the poor quality of the original studies.

Non-surgical sterilisation methods may offer a sustainable solution to feral horse (Equus caballus) overpopulation

Feral horses are a significant pest species in many parts of the world, contributing to land erosion, weed dispersal and the loss of native flora and fauna. There is an urgent need to modify feral horse management strategies to achieve public acceptance and long-term population control. One way to achieve this is by using non-surgical methods of sterilisation, which are suitable in the context of this mobile and long-lived species. In this review we consider the benefits of implementing novel mechanisms designed to elicit a state of permanent sterility (including redox cycling to generate oxidative stress in the gonad, random peptide phage display to target non-renewable germ cells and the generation of autoantibodies against proteins essential for conception via covalent modification) compared with that of traditional immunocontraceptive approaches. The need for a better understanding of mare folliculogenesis and conception factors, including maternal recognition of pregnancy, is also reviewed because they hold considerable potential in providing a non-surgical mechanism for sterilisation. In conclusion, the authors contend that non-surgical measures that are single shot and irreversible may provide a sustainable and effective strategy for feral horse control.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE COMBINED WITH HORMONE THERAPY TO TREAT PREMATURE OVARIAN FAILURE: A META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis aimed to provide critically estimated evidence for the advantages and disadvantages of Chinese herbal medicines used for premature ovarian failure (POF), which could provide suggestions for rational treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The databases searched included MEDLINE, EMBASE, CNKI, VIP, China Dissertation Database, China Important Conference Papers Database, and online clinical trial registry websites. Published and unpublished randomized controlled trials of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) combined with hormone therapy (HT) and HT alone for POF were assessed up to December 30, 2015. Two authors extracted data and assessed trial quality independently using Cochrane systematic review methods. Meta-analysis was used to quantitatively describe serum hormone levels and Kupperman scores associated with perimenopause symptoms.

RESULTS

Seventeen randomized controlled trials involving 1352 participants were selected. Compared with HT alone, although no significant effects were observed in the levels of luteinizing hormone, therapy with TCM combined with HT compared to HT alone effectively altered serum hormone levels of follicle stimulating hormone (P<0.01) and estradiol (P < 0.01), and improved Kupperman index scores (P< 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The reported favorable effects of TCM combined with HT for treating POF patients are better than HT alone.However, the beneficial effects derived from this combination therapy cannot be viewed conclusive. In order to better support the clinical use, more rigorously designed trials are required to provide.

Autoantibody response against NALP5/MATER in primary ovarian insufficiency and in autoimmune Addison's disease

CONTEXT

NACHT leucine-rich-repeat protein 5 (NALP5)/maternal antigen that embryo requires (MATER) is an autoantigen in hypoparathyroidism associated with autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 1 (APS1) but is also expressed in the ovary. Mater is an autoantigen in experimental autoimmune oophoritis.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the study were to determine the frequency of NALP5/MATER autoantibodies (NALP5/MATER-Ab) in women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and in patients with autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD) and to evaluate whether inhibin chains are a target for autoantibodies in POI.

METHODS

Autoantibodies against NALP5/MATER and inhibin chains-α and -βA were determined by radiobinding assays in 172 patients with AAD without clinical signs of gonadal insufficiency, 41 women with both AAD and autoimmune POI [steroidogenic cell autoimmune POI (SCA-POI)], 119 women with idiopathic POI, 19 patients with APS1, and 211 healthy control subjects.

RESULTS

NALP5/MATER-Ab were detected in 11 of 19 (58%) sera from APS1 patients, 12 of 172 (7%) AAD sera, 5 of 41 (12%) SCA-POI sera, 0 of 119 idiopathic POI sera and 1 of 211 healthy control sera (P < .001). None of 160 POI sera, including 41 sera from women with SCA-POI and 119 women with idiopathic POI, and none of 211 healthy control sera were positive for inhibin chain-α/βA autoantibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

NALP5/MATER-Ab are associated with hypoparathyroidism in APS1 but are present also in patients with AAD and in women with SCA-POI without hypoparathyroidism. Inhibin chains do not appear to be likely candidate targets of autoantibodies in human POI.

Autoimmune primary ovarian insufficiency

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is defined as sustained amenorrhea, increased follicle-stimulating hormone and low estrogen levels, whereas diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is characterized as regular menses and alterations of ovarian reserve tests. POI of autoimmune origin may be associated with adrenal autoimmunity, non-adrenal autoimmunity or isolated. This autoimmune disease is characterized by serum ovarian, adrenocortical or steroidogenic cell autoantibodies. POI of adrenal autoimmune origin is the most frequent type observed in 60-80% of patients. Clinically, amenorrhea is the hallmark of POI, however before menstruation stops completely, irregular cycles occur. Infertility, hot flushes, vaginal atrophy, and dyspareunia are also common. Autoimmune oophoritis is characterized by mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltrate in the theca cells of growing follicles, with early stage follicles without lymphocytic infiltration. This infiltrate includes plasma, B and T-cells. A novel classification criterion for autoimmune POI/DOR is proposed subdividing in three distinct categories (possible, probable and confirmed) according to autoantibodies, autoimmune disease and ovarian histology. Unfortunately, up to date guidelines for the treatment of autoimmune oophoritis are not available. Strategies to POI treatment include hormone replacement and infertility therapy. Assisted conception with donated oocytes has been proven to achieve pregnancy by intra cytoplasmic sperm injection in POI women.

Endocrine autoimmune diseases and female infertility

An increasing body of evidence suggests that immune-mediated processes affect female reproductive success at multiple levels. Crosstalk between endocrine and immune systems regulates a large number of biological processes that affect target tissues, and this crosstalk involves gene expression, cytokine and/or lymphokine release and hormone action. In addition, endocrine-immune interactions have a major role in the implantation process of the fetal (paternally derived) semi-allograft, which requires a reprogramming process of the maternal immune system from rejection to temporary tolerance for the length of gestation. Usually, the female immune system is supportive of all of these processes and, therefore, facilitates reproductive success. Abnormalities of the female immune system, including autoimmunity, potentially interfere at multiple levels. The relevance of the immune system to female infertility is increasingly recognized by investigators, but clinically is often not adequately considered and is, therefore, underestimated. This Review summarizes the effect of individual autoimmune endocrine diseases on female fertility, and points towards selected developments expected in the near future.

The severity of experimental autoimmune cystitis can be ameliorated by anti-CXCL10 Ab treatment

Background

Interstitial cystitis (IC), more recently called painful bladder syndrome (PBS) is a complex disease associated with chronic bladder inflammation that primarily affects women. Its symptoms include frequent urinary urgency accompanied by discomfort or pain in the bladder and lower abdomen. In the United States, eight million people, mostly women, have IC/PBS. New evidence that autoimmune mechanisms are important in the pathogenesis of IC/PBS triggered interest.

Methodology/Principal Findings

SWXJ mice immunized with a homogenate of similar mice’s urinary bladders develop an autoimmune phenotype comparable to clinical IC with functional and histological alterations confined to the urinary bladder. Using the murine model of experimental autoimmune cystitis (EAC), we found that serum levels of CXCR3 ligand and local T helper type 1 (Th1) cytokine are elevated. Also, IFN-γ-inducible protein10 (CXCL10) blockade attenuated overall cystitis severity scores; reversed the development of IC; decreased local production of CXCR3 and its ligands, IFN-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α); and lowered systemic levels of CXCR3 ligands. Urinary bladder CD4⁺ T cells, mast cells, and neutrophils infiltrates were reduced following anti-CXCL10 antibody (Ab) treatment of mice. Anti-CXCL10 Ab treatment also reversed the upregulated level of CXCR3 ligand mRNA at urinary bladder sites. The decreased number and percentage of systemic CD4⁺ T cells in EAC mice returned to normal after anti-CXCL10 Ab treatment.

Conclusion/Significance

Taken together, our findings provide important new information about the mechanisms underlying EAC pathogenesis, which has symptoms similar to those of IC/PBS. CXCL10 has the potential for use in developing new therapy for IC/PBS.

Uroplakin peptide-specific autoimmunity initiates interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome in mice

The pathophysiology of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS) is enigmatic. Autoimmunity and impaired urothelium might lead the underlying pathology. A major shortcoming in IC/PBS research has been the lack of an appropriate animal model. In this study, we show that the bladder specific uroplakin 3A-derived immunogenic peptide UPK3A 65–84, which contains the binding motif for IA^d MHC class II molecules expressed in BALB/c mice, is capable of inducing experimental autoimmune cystitis in female mice of that strain. A highly antigen-specific recall proliferative response of lymph node cells to UPK3A 65–84 was observed, characterized by selectively activated CD4+ T cells with a proinflammatory Th1-like phenotype, including enhanced production of interferon γ and interleukin-2. T cell infiltration of the bladder and bladder-specific increased gene expression of inflammatory cytokines were observed. Either active immunization with UPK3A 65–84 or adoptive transfer of peptide-activated CD4+ T cells induced all of the predominant IC/PBS phenotypic characteristics, including increased micturition frequency, decreased urine output per micturition, and increased pelvic pain responses to stimulation with von Frey filaments. Our study demonstrates the creation of a more specific experimental autoimmune cystitis model that is the first inducible model for IC/PBS that manifests all of the major symptoms of this debilitating condition.

HSP90 antibodies: a detrimental factor responsible for ovarian dysfunction

PROBLEM

Earlier studies from our group have established that about 47% cases of autoimmune ovarian failure are due to presence of autoantibodies to Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90). However, there are no reports correlating pathological effects of HSP90 autoantibodies leading to ovarian failure.

METHOD OF STUDY

Antibodies to HSP90 in female mouse model were generated by active immunization with an immunodominant peptide of HSP90, followed by detailed analysis of several reproductive parameters.

RESULT

Estrous cyclicity remains unchanged; however, there was a significant drop in the fertility index due to an increase in pre- and post-implantation loss, associated with an increased incidence of degenerated eggs and embryos. The ovaries showed an increase in the number of empty and degenerated follicles and extensive granulosa cell deaths, which was reflected by the decrease in the levels of Nobox and Gja1 gene expression.

CONCLUSION

This study underlines a critical role played by HSP90 in ovarian folliculogenesis and highlights the implications of the presence of anti-HSP90 antibodies in infertile women.

A novel murine model of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) induced by immunization with a spermine binding protein (p25) peptide

The pathophysiology of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is poorly understood. Inflammatory and autoimmune mechanisms may play a role. We developed a murine model of experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) that mimics the human phenotype of CP/CPPS. Eight-week-old mice were immunized subcutaneously with prostate-specific peptides in an emulsion of complete Freund's adjuvant. Mice were euthanized 10 days after immunization, and lymph node cells were isolated and assessed for recall proliferation to each peptide. P25 99-118 was the most immunogenic peptide. T-cell and B-cell immunity and serum levels of C-reactive protein and nitrate/nitrite levels were evaluated over a 9-wk period. Morphometric studies of prostate, 24-h micturition frequencies, and urine volume per void were evaluated. Tactile referred hyperalgesia was measured using von Frey filaments to the pelvic region. The unpaired Student's t-test was used to analyze differences between EAP and control groups. Prostates from p25 99-118-immunized mice demonstrated elevated gene expression levels of TNF-α, IL-17A, IFN-γ, and IL-1β, not observed in control mice. Compared with controls, p25 99-118-immunized mice had significantly higher micturition frequency and decreased urine output per void, and they demonstrated elevated pelvic pain response. p25 99-118 immunization of male SWXJ mice induced prostate-specific autoimmunity characterized by prostate-confined inflammation, increased micturition frequency, and pelvic pain. This autoimmune prostatitis model provides a useful tool for exploring the pathophysiology and new treatments.

Autoimmune mediated regulation of ovarian tumor growth

OBJECTIVES

An immune response sufficient to induce organ failure may provide protection and therapy against tumors derived from the targeted organ particularly when removal or ablation of the organ is part of the standard therapy and does not threaten survival. We have previously shown that a targeted immune response directed against the ovarian-specific protein, inhibin-α, causes ovarian failure. Here we determined whether inhibin-α autoimmunity is effective in both prevention and treatment of ovarian tumors.

METHODS

A transgene consisting of the SV40 large tumor transformation antigen under the regulation of an anti-Mullerian hormone promoter (AMH-SV40Tag) was transferred by backcrossing for 12 generations to SJL/J mice producing SJL.AMH-SV40Tag (H-2(s)) females that develop a high incidence of autochthonous granulosa cell tumors. We determined whether immunization of SJL.AMH-SV40Tag female mice with the IA(s)-restricted p215-234 peptide of mouse inhibin-α was capable of preventing and treating these ovarian tumors.

RESULTS

The growth of autochthonous ovarian granulosa cell tumors in SJL.AMH-SV40Tag transgenic mice was significantly inhibited in mice immunized with Inα 215-234. In addition, significant inhibition of tumor growth occurred when mice with established ovarian granulosa cell tumors were therapeutically vaccinated with Inα 215-234.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that induction of ovarian-specific autoimmunity may serve as an effective way to prevent the emergence of autochthonous ovarian tumors and control the growth of established ovarian malignancies.

Autoimmunity to uroplakin II causes cystitis in mice: a novel model of interstitial cystitis

BACKGROUND

The pathophysiology of interstitial cystitis (IC) is unknown. Deficits in urothelial cell layers and autoimmune mechanisms may play a role.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether immunization of mice with recombinant mouse uroplakin II (rmUPK2), a bladder-specific protein, would provoke an autoimmune response sufficient to create an IC phenotype.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

RmUPK2 complementary DNA was generated, transferred into a bacterial expression vector, and the generated protein was purified. Eight-week-old SWXJ female mice were immunized with rmUPK2 protein via subcutaneous injection of 200μg of rmUPK2 protein in 200μl of an emulsion.

MEASUREMENTS

Mice were euthanized 5 wk after immunization. Axillary and inguinal lymph node cells were tested for antigen-specific responsiveness and cytokine production, serum isotype antibody titers against rmUPK2 were determined, and gene expression of inflammatory mediators was measured in the bladder and other organs. For functional analysis, mice were placed in urodynamic chambers for 24-h micturition frequency and total voided urine measurements.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Immunization with rmUPK2 resulted in T-cell infiltration of the bladder urothelium and increased rmUPK2-specific serum antibody responses in the experimental autoimmune cystitis (EAC) mice models compared with controls. The ratio of bladder to body weight was increased in EAC mice. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis showed elevated gene expression of tumor necrosis factor α, interferon γ, interleukin (IL)-17A, and IL-1β in bladder urothelium but not in other organs. Evaluation of 24-h micturition habits of EAC mice showed significantly increased urinary frequency (p<0.02) and significantly decreased urine output per void (p<0.021) when compared with control mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that a bladder-specific autoimmune response sufficient to induce inflammation and EAC occurs in mice following immunization with rmUPK2. EAC mice displayed significant evidence of urinary frequency and decreased urine output per void. Further phenotype characterization of EAC mice should include evidence for pain and/or afferent hypersensitivity, and evidence of urothelial cell layer damage.

Menarche delay and menstrual irregularities persist in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Menarche delay has been reported in adolescent females with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), perhaps due to poor glycemic control. We sought to compare age at menarche between adolescent females with T1DM and national data, and to identify factors associated with delayed menarche and menstrual irregularity in T1DM.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study and females ages 12- 24 years (n = 228) with at least one menstrual period were recruited during their outpatient diabetes clinic appointment. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2006 data (n = 3690) for females 12-24 years were used as a control group.

RESULTS

Age at menarche was later in adolescent females with T1DM diagnosed prior to menarche (12.81 +/- 0.09 years) (mean+/- SE) (n = 185) than for adolescent females diagnosed after menarche (12.17 0.19 years, p = 0.0015) (n = 43). Average age of menarche in NHANES was 12.27 +/- 0.038 years, which was significantly earlier than adolescent females with T1DM prior to menarche (p < 0.0001) and similar to adolescent females diagnosed after menarche (p = 0.77). Older age at menarche was negatively correlated with BMI z-score (r = -0.23 p = 0.0029) but not hemoglobin A1c (A1c) at menarche (r = 0.01, p = 0.91). Among 181 adolescent females who were at least 2 years post menarche, 63 (35%) reported usually or always irregular cycles.

CONCLUSION

Adolescent females with T1DM had a later onset of menarche than both adolescent females who developed T1DM after menarche and NHANES data. Menarche age was negatively associated with BMI z-score, but not A1c. Despite improved treatment in recent decades, menarche delay and high prevalence of menstrual irregularity is still observed among adolescent females with T1DM.

Primary ovarian insufficiency: autoimmune causes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the pathogenesis of premature ovarian insufficiency due to steroid cell autoimmunity (SCA-POI).

RECENT FINDINGS

Autoimmune oophoritis is characterized by a selective mononuclear cell infiltration into the theca layer of large, antral follicles, with earlier stage follicles consistently free of lymphocytic infiltration. SCA-POI is caused by the selective autoimmune destruction of theca cells with preservation of granulosa cells that produce low amounts of estradiol because of lack of substrates. Typically, serum concentrations of inhibins are increased in women with SCA-POI, as compared to both healthy fertile women and women with other forms of ovarian insufficiency. Normal serum antimüllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations were detected in two-thirds of women with recently diagnosed SCA-POI, which demonstrates that this form of ovarian insufficiency is associated with a preserved pool of functioning follicles.

SUMMARY

The combined measurement of autoantibodies and markers of ovarian reserve (as inhibin B and AMH) may permit to identify women with POI due to steroid cell autoimmunity with a preserved proportion of primordial and primary follicles. In the future the development of techniques of in-vitro folliculogenesis may permit new treatment strategies for women with SCA-POI-related infertility.

Experimental autoimmune oophoritis and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone

This article focuses on primary ovarian insufficiency and the experimental models used in recent years to explain the probable mechanisms of autoimmune oophoritis and idiopathic primary ovarian insufficiency. The relationship between the immune system and the neuroendocrine system is also an important focus of this article. Activation of the immune system is necessary for maintaining homeostasis and this requires multiple interactions and regulation between the immune system and the neuroendocrine system. Neuropeptides, neuroendocrine mediators, are expressed and released primarily, but not exclusively, by the nervous system and have profound effects on the immune system. As an example of one of these peptides we describe the α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone and its anti-inflammatory properties.

An autoimmune-mediated strategy for prophylactic breast cancer vaccination

Although vaccination is most effective when used to prevent disease, cancer vaccine development has focused predominantly on providing therapy against established growing tumors. The difficulty in developing prophylactic cancer vaccines is primarily due to the fact that tumor antigens are variations of self proteins and would probably mediate profound autoimmune complications if used in a preventive vaccine setting. Here we use several mouse breast cancer models to define a prototypic strategy for prophylactic cancer vaccination. We selected alpha-lactalbumin as our target vaccine autoantigen because it is a breast-specific differentiation protein expressed in high amounts in the majority of human breast carcinomas and in mammary epithelial cells only during lactation. We found that immunoreactivity against alpha-lactalbumin provides substantial protection and therapy against growth of autochthonous tumors in transgenic mouse models of breast cancer and against 4T1 transplantable breast tumors in BALB/c mice. Because alpha-lactalbumin is conditionally expressed only during lactation, vaccination-induced prophylaxis occurs without any detectable inflammation in normal nonlactating breast tissue. Thus, alpha-lactalbumin vaccination may provide safe and effective protection against the development of breast cancer for women in their post-child-bearing, premenopausal years, when lactation is readily avoidable and risk for developing breast cancer is high.

Granulosa cell-specific androgen receptors are critical regulators of ovarian development and function

The physiological significance of androgens in female reproduction was unclear until female mice with global knockout of androgen receptor (AR) expression were found to have reduced fertility with abnormal ovarian function. However, because ARs are expressed in a myriad of reproductive tissues, including the hypothalamus, pituitary, and various ovarian cells, the role of tissue-specific ARs in regulating female fertility remained unknown. To examine the importance of ovarian ARs in female reproduction, we generated granulosa cell (GC)- and oocyte-specific AR-knockout (ARKO) mice by crossing AR-flox mice with MisRIIcre (GC-specific) or growth differentiation factor growth differentiation factor-9cre (oocyte-specific) mice. Relative to heterozygous and wild-type mice, GC-specific ARKO mice had premature ovarian failure and were subfertile, with longer estrous cycles and fewer ovulated oocytes. In addition, ovaries from GC-specific knockout mice contained more preantral and atretic follicles, with fewer antral follicles and corpus lutea. Finally, in vitro growth of follicles from GC-specific AR-null mice was slower than follicles from wild-type animals. In contrast to GC-specific AR-null mice, fertility, estrous cycles, and ovarian morphology of oocyte-specific ARKO mice were normal, although androgens no longer promoted oocyte maturation in these animals. Together, our data indicate that nearly all reproductive phenotypes observed in global ARKO mice can be explained by the lack of AR expression in GCs. These GC-specific ARs appear to promote preantral follicle growth and prevent follicular atresia; thus they are essential for normal follicular development and fertility.

Immunology of Addison's disease and premature ovarian failure

Autoimmune Addison's disease and autoimmune ovarian insufficiency are caused by selective targeting by T and B lymphocytes to the steroidogenic apparatus in these organs. Autoantibodies toward 21-hydroxylase are a clinically useful marker for autoimmune Addison's disease. Autoantibodies to 21-hydroxylase are found in premature ovarian insufficiency, but others also can be present, notably antibodies against side-chain cleavage enzyme. The autoimmune response primarily targets the theca cells, yielding elevated concentrations of inhibin, which is emerging as a useful diagnostic marker for autoimmune etiology of ovarian insufficiency. Little is known about its immunogenetics, but in contrast to Addison's disease, several experimental models of autoimmune premature ovarian insufficiency are available for study.

Autoimmunity and premature ovarian failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The different patterns of autoreactivity that may account for the premature infertility observed in patients with premature ovarian failure are described.

RECENT FINDINGS

Animal model studies have detailed fundamental immune dysregulatory patterns that induce ovarian failure in the context of global polyglandular involvement, as well as autoimmune mechanisms that induce ovarian failure in the context of targeted ovarian pathology. Recent studies on premature ovarian failure patients implicate the ubiquitously expressed glycolytic enzyme, alpha-enolase, as a potential antigenic target, particularly in those patients with polyglandular involvement; and the ovarian-specific maternal-effect protein, Mater, whose expression is essential for fertility.

SUMMARY

Several fundamentally distinct mechanisms may account for premature ovarian failure, including global immune dysregulation, particularly in patients with polyglandular autoimmunity. Premature ovarian failure may also be due to inflammatory autoimmunity targeted to ovarian-specific germline antigens (e.g., zona pellucida proteins or Mater) or differentiation/regulatory factors (e.g., inhibin-alpha). Moreover, the ovarian autoimmunity may be mediated by T cells (e.g., those targeting zona pellucida proteins) or B cells/antibodies (e.g., those targeting inhibin-alpha). Thus premature ovarian failure appears to be a complex disease entity with multiple underlying etiopathogenic contributions including the possibility of several distinctly different autoimmune mechanisms.