1
|
Melcangi RC, Giatti S, Gotti S. Editorial- State of the art on steroids and the nervous system: In memory of Giancarlo. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 73:101135. [PMID: 38608878 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2024.101135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| | - Stefano Gotti
- "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cioffi L, Grassi D, Diviccaro S, Caruso D, Pinto-Benito D, Arevalo MA, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC, Giatti S. Sex chromosome complement interacts with gonadal hormones in determining regional-specific neuroactive steroid levels in plasma, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. A study using the four core genotype mouse model. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 241:106514. [PMID: 38554982 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
An important aspect of the neuromodulatory and neuroprotective actions exerted by neuroactive steroids is that they are sex-specific, as determined by the sexually dimorphic levels of these molecules in plasma and the nervous tissue. Thus, the identification of the factors that generate the sex-dimorphic levels of neuroactive steroids may be crucial from a neuroprotectant perspective. The main driver for sex determination in mammals is the SRY gene and the subsequent presence of a specific gonad: testes for males and ovaries for females, thus producing hormonal compounds, primarily androgens and estrogens, respectively. Nowadays, it is well established that despite the relevance of gonads, other factors control sexual features, and, among them, sex chromosome complement is highly relevant. In this study, neuroactive steroids were evaluated by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in the hypothalamus, the hippocampus, and plasma of the four core genotype mouse model, to determine the relative contribution of sex chromosome complement and gonads in determining their sex dimorphic levels. The data obtained reveal that although gonads are the main contributing factor for sex differences in neuroactive steroid levels, the levels of some neuroactive steroids, including testosterone, are also influenced in brain and plasma by tissue-specific actions of sex chromosomes. The data presented here adds a new piece to the puzzle of steroid level regulation, which may be useful in designing sex-specific neuroprotective approaches to pathological conditions affecting the nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Cioffi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20133, Itlay
| | - Daniela Grassi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Autonoma University of Madrid, Calle Arzobispo Morcillo 4, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20133, Itlay
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20133, Itlay
| | - Daniel Pinto-Benito
- Cajal Institute, CSIC, Avenida Doctor Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Maria-Angeles Arevalo
- Cajal Institute, CSIC, Avenida Doctor Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Cajal Institute, CSIC, Avenida Doctor Arce 37, 28002 Madrid, Spain and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20133, Itlay
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano 20133, Itlay
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Giatti S, Cioffi L, Diviccaro S, Piazza R, Melcangi RC. Analysis of the finasteride treatment and its withdrawal in the rat hypothalamus and hippocampus at whole-transcriptome level. J Endocrinol Invest 2024:10.1007/s40618-024-02345-y. [PMID: 38493246 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02345-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE As reported in patients treated for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride (i.e., a blocker of the enzyme 5 alpha-reductase) and in an animal model, side effects affecting sexual, psychiatric, neurological, and physical domains, may occur during the treatment and persist with drug suspension. The etiopathogenesis of these side effects has been poorly explored. Therefore, we performed a genome-wide analysis of finasteride effects in the brain of adult male rat. METHODS Animals were treated (i.e., for 20 days) with finasteride (1mg/rat/day). 24 h after the last treatment and 1 month after drug suspension, RNA sequencing analysis was performed in hypothalamus and hippocampus. Data were analyzed by differential expression analysis and Gene-Set Enrichment Analyses (GSEA). RESULTS Data obtained after finasteride treatment showed that 186 genes (i.e., 171 up- and 15 downregulated) and 19 (i.e., 17 up- and 2 downregulated) were differentially expressed in the hypothalamus and hippocampus, respectively. Differential expression analysis at the drug withdrawal failed to identify dysregulated genes. Several gene-sets were enriched in these brain areas at both time points. CONCLUSION Some of the genes reported to be differentially expressed (i.e., TTR, DIO2, CLDN1, CLDN2, SLC4A5, KCNE2, CROT, HCRT, MARCKSL1, VGF, IRF2BPL) and GSEA, suggest a potential link with specific side effects previously observed in patients and in the animal model, such as depression, anxiety, disturbance in memory and attention, and sleep disturbance. These data may provide an important background for future experiments aimed at confirming the pathological role of these genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - L Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - S Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - R Piazza
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - R C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Diviccaro S, Herian M, Cioffi L, Audano M, Mitro N, Caruso D, Giatti S, Melcangi RC. Exploring rat corpus cavernosum alterations induced by finasteride treatment and withdrawal. Andrology 2024; 12:674-681. [PMID: 37621185 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite its efficacy for treating androgenetic alopecia, finasteride, an inhibitor of 5α-reductase (i.e., the enzyme converting testosterone, T, into dihydrotestosterone, DHT), is associated with several side effects including sexual dysfunction (e.g., erectile dysfunction). These side effects may persist after drug suspension, inducing the so-called post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). The effects of subchronic treatment with finasteride (i.e., 20 days) and its withdrawal (i.e., 1 month) in rat corpus cavernosum have been explored here. Data obtained show that the treatment was able to decrease the levels of the enzyme 5α-reductase type II in the rat corpus cavernosum with increased T and decreased DHT levels. This local change in T metabolism was linked to mechanisms associated with erectile dysfunction. Indeed, by targeted metabolomics, we reported a decrease in the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, measured by the citrulline/arginine ratio and confirmed by the decrease in NO2 levels, and a decrease in ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) activity, measured by citrulline/ornithine ratio. Interestingly, the T levels are negatively correlated with NOS activity, while those of DHT are positively correlated with OTC activity. Finasteride treatment also induced alterations in the levels of other molecules involved in the control of penile erection, such as norepinephrine and its metabolite, epinephrine. Indeed, plasma levels of norepinephrine and epinephrine were significantly increased and decreased, respectively, suggesting an impairment of these mediators. Interestingly, these modifications were restored by suspension of the drug. Altogether, the results reported here indicate that finasteride treatment, but not its withdrawal, affects T metabolism in the rat corpus cavernosum, and this alteration was linked to mechanisms associated with erectile dysfunction. Data here reported could also suggest that the PFS sexual side effects are more related to dysfunction in a sexual central control rather than peripheral compromised condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Audano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Cosimo Melcangi R. Post-Finasteride Syndrome And Post-Ssri Sexual Dysfunction: Two Clinical Conditions Apparently Distant, But Very Close. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101114. [PMID: 37993021 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Post-finasteride syndrome and post-SSRI sexual dysfunction, are two poorly explored clinical conditions in which men treated for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride or for depression with SSRI antidepressants show persistent side effects despite drug suspension (e.g., sexual dysfunction, psychological complaints, sleep disorders). Because of some similarities in the symptoms, common pathological mechanisms are proposed here. Indeed, as discussed, clinical studies and preclinical data obtained so far suggest an important role for brain modulators (i.e., neuroactive steroids), neurotransmitters (i.e., serotonin, and cathecolamines), and gut microbiota in the context of the gut-brain axis. In particular, the observed interconnections of these signals in these two clinical conditions may suggest similar etiopathogenetic mechanisms, such as the involvement of the enzyme converting norepinephrine into epinephrine (i.e., phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase). However, despite the current efforts, more work is still needed to advance the understanding of these clinical conditions in terms of diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Caruso D, Abbiati F, Giatti S, Romano S, Fusco L, Cavaletti G, Melcangi RC. Corrigendum to "Patients treated for male pattern hair loss with finasteride show, after discontinuation of the drug, altered levels of neuroactive steroids in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma" [J. Steroid Biochem. Mol. Biol. 146 (2015) 74-79]. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 234:106405. [PMID: 37776646 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences - Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Federico Abbiati
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences - Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences - Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Simone Romano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences - Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Letizia Fusco
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; Department of Neurology, S. Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Guido Cavaletti
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Monza, Italy; Department of Neurology, S. Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences - Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Piazza R, Caruso D, Melcangi RC, Giatti S. Neuroactive Steroid-Gut Microbiota Interaction in T2DM Diabetic Encephalopathy. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1325. [PMID: 37759725 PMCID: PMC10527303 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathological consequences of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) also involve the central nervous system; indeed, T2DM patients suffer from learning and memory disabilities with a higher risk of developing dementia. Although several factors have been proposed as possible contributors, how neuroactive steroids and the gut microbiome impact brain pathophysiology in T2DM remain unexplored. On this basis, in male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, we studied whether T2DM alters memory abilities using the novel object recognition test, neuroactive steroid levels by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, hippocampal parameters using molecular assessments, and gut microbiome composition using 16S next-generation sequencing. Results obtained reveal that T2DM worsens memory abilities and that these are correlated with increased levels of corticosterone in plasma and with a decrease in allopregnanolone in the hippocampus, where neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction were reported. Interestingly, our analysis highlighted a small group of taxa strictly related to both memory impairment and neuroactive steroid levels. Overall, the data underline an interesting role for allopregnanolone and microbiota that may represent candidates for the development of therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.M.)
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.M.)
| | - Rocco Piazza
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano—Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy;
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.M.)
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.M.)
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Piazza R, Cioffi L, Herian M, Brivio P, Calabrese F, Giatti S, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Gut microbiota composition is altered in a preclinical model of type 1 diabetes mellitus: Influence on gut steroids, permeability, and cognitive abilities. Neuropharmacology 2023; 226:109405. [PMID: 36572179 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones are not only synthesized from the gonads but also by other tissues, such as the brain (i.e., neurosteroids) and colon (i.e., gut steroids). Gut microbiota can be shaped from sex steroid hormones synthesized from the gonads and locally interacts with gut steroids as in turn modulates neurosteroids. Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is characterized by dysbiosis and also by diabetic encephalopathy. However, the interactions of players of gut-brain axis, such as gut steroids, gut permeability markers and microbiota, have been poorly explored in this pathology and, particularly in females. On this basis, we have explored, in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced adult female rats, whether one month of T1DM may alter (I) gut microbiome composition and diversity by 16S next-generation sequencing, (II) gut steroid levels by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, (III) gut permeability markers by gene expression analysis, (IV) cognitive behavior by the novel object recognition (NOR) test and whether correlations among these aspects may occur. Results obtained reveal that T1DM alters gut β-, but not α-diversity. The pathology is also associated with a decrease and an increase in colonic pregnenolone and allopregnanolone levels, respectively. Additionally, diabetes alters gut permeability and worsens cognitive behavior. Finally, we reported a significant correlation of pregnenolone with Blautia, claudin-1 and the NOR index and of allopregnanolone with Parasutterella, Gammaproteobacteria and claudin-1. Altogether, these results suggest new putative roles of these two gut steroids related to cognitive deficit and dysbiosis in T1DM female experimental model. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Microbiome & the Brain: Mechanisms & Maladies".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Rocco Piazza
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano - Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Monika Herian
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Brivio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Calabrese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Diviccaro S, Giatti S, Cioffi L, Falvo E, Herian M, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Gut Inflammation Induced by Finasteride Withdrawal: Therapeutic Effect of Allopregnanolone in Adult Male Rats. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1567. [PMID: 36358917 PMCID: PMC9687671 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment with finasteride (i.e., an inhibitor of 5α-reductase) may be associated with different side effects (i.e., depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment and sexual dysfunction) inducing the so-called post finasteride syndrome (PFS). Moreover, previous observations in PFS patients and an experimental model showed alterations in gut microbiota populations, suggesting an inflammatory environment. To confirm this hypothesis, we have explored the effect of chronic treatment with finasteride (i.e., for 20 days) and its withdrawal (i.e., for 1 month) on the levels of steroids, neurotransmitters, pro-inflammatory cytokines and gut permeability markers in the colon of adult male rat. The obtained data demonstrate that the levels of allopregnanolone (ALLO) decreased after finasteride treatment and after its withdrawal. Following the drug suspension, the decrease in ALLO levels correlates with an increase in IL-1β and TNF-α, serotonin and a decrease in dopamine. Importantly, ALLO treatment is able to counteract some of these alterations. The relation between ALLO and GABA-A receptors and/or pregnenolone (ALLO precursor) could be crucial in their mode of action. These observations provide an important background to explore further the protective effect of ALLO in the PFS experimental model and the possibility of its translation into clinical therapy.
Collapse
|
10
|
Diviccaro S, FitzGerald JA, Cioffi L, Falvo E, Crispie F, Cotter PD, O’Mahony SM, Giatti S, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Gut Steroids and Microbiota: Effect of Gonadectomy and Sex. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12060767. [PMID: 35740892 PMCID: PMC9220917 DOI: 10.3390/biom12060767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex steroids, derived mainly from gonads, can shape microbiota composition; however, the impact of gonadectomy and sex on steroid production in the gut (i.e., gut steroids), and its interaction with microbiota composition, needs to be clarified. In this study, steroid environment and gut steroidogenesis were analysed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and expression analyses. Gut microbiota composition as branched- and short-chain fatty acids were determined by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and gas chromatography flame ionisation detection, respectively. Here, we first demonstrated that levels of pregnenolone (PREG), progesterone (PROG), and isoallopregnanolone (ISOALLO) were higher in the female rat colon, whereas the level of testosterone (T) was higher in males. Sexual dimorphism on gut steroidogenesis is also reported after gonadectomy. Sex, and more significantly, gonadectomy, affects microbiota composition. We noted that a number of taxa and inferred metabolic pathways were associated with gut steroids, such as positive associations between Blautia with T, dihydroprogesterone (DHP), and allopregnanolone (ALLO), whereas negative associations were noted between Roseburia and T, ALLO, PREG, ISOALLO, DHP, and PROG. In conclusion, this study highlights the novel sex-specific association between microbiota and gut steroids with possible relevance for the gut-brain axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (E.F.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Jamie A. FitzGerald
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, P61 C996 Cork, Ireland; (J.A.F.); (F.C.); (P.D.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, College Road, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland;
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (E.F.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Eva Falvo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (E.F.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Fiona Crispie
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, P61 C996 Cork, Ireland; (J.A.F.); (F.C.); (P.D.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, College Road, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland;
| | - Paul D. Cotter
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, P61 C996 Cork, Ireland; (J.A.F.); (F.C.); (P.D.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, College Road, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland;
| | - Siobhain M. O’Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, College Road, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland;
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (E.F.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (E.F.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (E.F.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Falvo E, Giatti S, Melcangi RC. Allopregnanolone: An overview on its synthesis and effects. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e12996. [PMID: 34189791 PMCID: PMC9285581 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone, a 3α,5α-progesterone metabolite, acts as a potent allosteric modulator of the γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor. In the present review, the synthesis of this neuroactive steroid occurring in the nervous system is discussed with respect to physiological and pathological conditions. In addition, its physiological and neuroprotective effects are also reported. Interestingly, the levels of this neuroactive steroid, as well as its effects, are sex-dimorphic, suggesting a possible gender medicine based on this neuroactive steroid for neurological disorders. However, allopregnanolone presents low bioavailability and extensive hepatic metabolism, limiting its use as a drug. Therefore, synthetic analogues or a different therapeutic strategy able to increase allopregnanolone levels have been proposed to overcome any pharmacokinetic issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e BiomolecolariUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Diviccaro S, Caputi V, Cioffi L, Giatti S, Lyte JM, Caruso D, O’Mahony SM, Melcangi RC. Exploring the Impact of the Microbiome on Neuroactive Steroid Levels in Germ-Free Animals. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212551. [PMID: 34830433 PMCID: PMC8622241 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones are essential biomolecules for human physiology as they modulate the endocrine system, nervous function and behaviour. Recent studies have shown that the gut microbiota is directly involved in the production and metabolism of steroid hormones in the periphery. However, the influence of the gut microbiota on levels of steroids acting and present in the brain (i.e., neuroactive steroids) is not fully understood. Therefore, using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, we assessed the levels of several neuroactive steroids in various brain areas and the plasma of germ-free (GF) male mice and conventionally colonized controls. The data obtained indicate an increase in allopregnanolone levels associated with a decrease in those of 5α-androstane-3α, 17β-diol (3α-diol) in the plasma of GF mice. Moreover, an increase of dihydroprogesterone and isoallopregnanolone in the hippocampus, cerebellum, and cerebral cortex was also reported. Changes in dihydrotestosterone and 3α-diol levels were also observed in the hippocampus of GF mice. In addition, an increase in dehydroepiandrosterone was associated with a decrease in testosterone levels in the hypothalamus of GF mice. Our findings suggest that the absence of microbes affects the neuroactive steroids in the periphery and the brain, supporting the evidence of a microbiota-mediated modulation of neuroendocrine pathways involved in preserving host brain functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Valentina Caputi
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland; (V.C.); (J.M.L.); (S.M.O.)
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Joshua M. Lyte
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland; (V.C.); (J.M.L.); (S.M.O.)
- Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Siobhain M. O’Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland; (V.C.); (J.M.L.); (S.M.O.)
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, T12 ND89 Cork, Ireland
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy; (S.D.); (L.C.); (S.G.); (D.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-50318238; Fax: +39-02-50318202
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Healy D, Bahrick A, Bak M, Barbato A, Calabrò RS, Chubak BM, Cosci F, Csoka AB, D'Avanzo B, Diviccaro S, Giatti S, Goldstein I, Graf H, Hellstrom WJG, Irwig MS, Jannini EA, Janssen PKC, Khera M, Kumar MT, Le Noury J, Lew-Starowicz M, Linden DEJ, Lüning C, Mangin D, Melcangi RC, Rodríguez OWMAAS, Panicker JN, Patacchini A, Pearlman AM, Pukall CF, Raj S, Reisman Y, Rubin RS, Schreiber R, Shipko S, Vašečková B, Waraich A. Diagnostic criteria for enduring sexual dysfunction after treatment with antidepressants, finasteride and isotretinoin. Int J Risk Saf Med 2021; 33:65-76. [PMID: 34719438 PMCID: PMC8925105 DOI: 10.3233/jrs-210023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: A set of enduring conditions have been reported in the literature involving persistent sexual dysfunction after discontinuation of serotonin reuptake inhibiting antidepressants, 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors and isotretinoin. OBJECTIVE: To develop diagnostic criteria for post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD), persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD) following serotonin reuptake inhibitors, post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) and post-retinoid sexual dysfunction (PRSD). METHODS: The original draft was designed using data from two published case series (Hogan et al., 2014 and Healy et al., 2018), which represent the largest public collections of data on these enduring conditions. It was further developed with the involvement of a multidisciplinary panel of experts. RESULTS: A set of criteria were agreed upon for each of the above conditions. Features of PSSD, PFS and PRSD commonly include decreased genital and orgasmic sensation, decreased sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. Ancillary non-sexual symptoms vary depending on the specific condition but can include emotional blunting and cognitive impairment. PGAD presents with an almost mirror image of unwanted sensations of genital arousal or irritability in the absence of sexual desire. A new term, post-SSRI asexuality, is introduced to describe a dampening of sexual interest and pleasure resulting from a pre-natal or pre-teen exposure to a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. CONCLUSIONS: These criteria will help in both clinical and research settings. As with all criteria, they will likely need modification in the light of developments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Healy
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Audrey Bahrick
- University Counseling Service, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Maarten Bak
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,FACT, Mondriaan Mental Health, Maastricht/Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Angelo Barbato
- Unit for Quality of Care and Rights Promotion in Mental Health, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Barbara M Chubak
- Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fiammetta Cosci
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Clinical Pharmacopsychology Laboratory, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Antonei B Csoka
- Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Barbara D'Avanzo
- Unit for Quality of Care and Rights Promotion in Mental Health, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Irwin Goldstein
- Alvarado Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA.,San Diego Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Heiko Graf
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Wayne J G Hellstrom
- Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Michael S Irwig
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Paddy K C Janssen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Hospital Pharmacy, VieCuri Medical Center, Venlo, The Netherlands
| | - Mohit Khera
- Department of Urology, Baylor School of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Joanna Le Noury
- North Wales Department of Psychological Medicine, Bangor, Wales, UK
| | - Michał Lew-Starowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - David E J Linden
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Celine Lüning
- Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy, Witten/Herdecke University, Germany
| | - Dee Mangin
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Jalesh N Panicker
- Department of Uro-Neurology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK.,Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Amy M Pearlman
- Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - Sanjana Raj
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rachel S Rubin
- Department of Urology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rudy Schreiber
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Barbora Vašečková
- Psychiatric Clinic, Slovak Medical University and University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Falvo E, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Effects of paroxetine treatment and its withdrawal on neurosteroidogenesis. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 132:105364. [PMID: 34325207 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) show high efficacy in treating depression, however during treatment side effects, like for instance sexual dysfunction, may appear, decreasing compliance. In some cases, this condition will last after drug discontinuation, leading to the so-called post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD). The etiology of PSSD is still unknown, however a role for neuroactive steroids may be hypothesized. Indeed, these molecules are key physiological regulators of the nervous system, and their alteration has been associated with several neuropathological conditions, including depression. Additionally, neuroactive steroids are also involved in the control of sexual function. Interestingly, sexual dysfunction induced by SSRI treatment has been also observed in animal models. On this basis, we have here evaluated whether a subchronic treatment with paroxetine for two weeks and/or its withdrawal (i.e., a month) may affect the levels of neuroactive steroids in brain areas (i.e., hippocampus, hypothalamus, and cerebral cortex) and/or in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid of male rats. Data obtained indicate that the SSRI treatment alters neuroactive steroid levels and the expression of key enzymes of the steroidogenesis in a brain tissue- and time-dependent manner. Indeed, these observations with the finding that plasma levels of neuroactive steroids are not affected suggest that the effect of paroxetine treatment is directly on neurosteroidogenesis. In particular, a negative impact on the expression of steroidogenic enzymes was observed at the withdrawal. Therefore, it is possible to hypothesize that altered neurosteroidogenesis may also occur in PSSD and consequently it may represent a possible pharmacological target for this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Borgo F, Macandog AD, Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Giatti S, Cavaletti G, Melcangi RC. Alterations of gut microbiota composition in post-finasteride patients: a pilot study. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:1263-1273. [PMID: 32951160 PMCID: PMC8124058 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01424-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) has been reported in a subset of patients treated with finasteride (an inhibitor of the enzyme 5alpha-reductase) for androgenetic alopecia. These patients showed, despite the suspension of the treatment, a variety of persistent symptoms, like sexual dysfunction and cognitive and psychological disorders, including depression. A growing body of literature highlights the relevance of the gut microbiota-brain axis in human health and disease. For instance, alterations in gut microbiota composition have been reported in patients with major depressive disorder. Therefore, we have here analyzed the gut microbiota composition in PFS patients in comparison with a healthy cohort. METHODS Fecal microbiota of 23 PFS patients was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and compared with that reported in ten healthy male subjects. RESULTS Sexual dysfunction, psychological and cognitive complaints, muscular problems, and physical alterations symptoms were reported in more than half of the PFS patients at the moment of sample collection. The quality sequence check revealed a low library depth for two fecal samples. Therefore, the gut microbiota analyses were conducted on 21 patients. The α-diversity was significantly lower in PFS group, showing a reduction of richness and diversity of gut microbiota structure. Moreover, when visualizing β-diversity, a clustering effect was found in the gut microbiota of a subset of PFS subjects, which was also characterized by a reduction in Faecalibacterium spp. and Ruminococcaceae UCG-005, while Alloprevotella and Odoribacter spp were increased compared to healthy control. CONCLUSION Gut microbiota population is altered in PFS patients, suggesting that it might represent a diagnostic marker and a possible therapeutic target for this syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Borgo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - A D Macandog
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - S Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - E Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - S Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - G Cavaletti
- Experimental Neurology Unit, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Milan Center for Neuroscience, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - R C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Giatti S, Di Domizio A, Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Caruso D, Contini A, Melcangi RC. Three-Dimensional Proteome-Wide Scale Screening for the 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor Finasteride: Identification of a Novel Off-Target. J Med Chem 2021; 64:4553-4566. [PMID: 33843213 PMCID: PMC8154553 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Finasteride, a 5-alpha
reductase (5α-R) inhibitor, is a widely
used drug for treating androgen-dependent conditions. However, its
use is associated with sexual, psychological, and physical complaints,
suggesting that other mechanisms, in addition to 5α-R inhibition,
may be involved. Here, a multidisciplinary approach has been used
to identify potential finasteride off-target proteins. SPILLO-PBSS
software suggests an additional inhibitory activity of finasteride
on phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT),
the limiting enzyme in formation of the stress hormone epinephrine.
The interaction of finasteride with PNMT was supported by docking
and molecular dynamics analysis and by in vitro assay,
confirming the inhibitory nature of the binding. Finally, this inhibition
was also confirmed in an in vivo rat model. Literature
data indicate that PNMT activity perturbation may be correlated with
sexual and psychological side effects. Therefore, results here obtained
suggest that the binding of finasteride to PNMT might have a role
in producing the side effects exerted by finasteride treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Di Domizio
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy.,SPILLOproject, via Stradivari 17, Paderno Dugnano, 20037 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Eva Falvo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Contini
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Diviccaro S, Giatti S, Borgo F, Falvo E, Caruso D, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Steroidogenic machinery in the adult rat colon. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 203:105732. [PMID: 32777355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2020.105732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal function is known to be regulated by steroid molecules produced by the gonads, the adrenal glands and the gut microbiota. However, we have a limited knowledge on the functional significance of local steroid production by gastrointestinal tract tissue. On this basis, we have here evaluated, as a first methodological approach, the expression of steroidogenic molecules and the local levels of key steroids in the male rat colon. Our findings indicate that the colon tissue expresses molecules involved in the early steps of steroidogenesis and in the consecutive synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones, such as progesterone, testosterone and 17β-estradiol. In addition, the levels of the steroid hormone precursor pregnenolone and the levels of active metabolites of progesterone and testosterone, such as dihydroprogesterone, tetrahydroprogesterone, dihydrotestosterone and 17β-estradiol, were higher in colon than in plasma. Higher levels of the androgen metabolite 3α-diol were detected in the colon in comparison with another non-classical steroidogenic tissue, such as the cerebral cortex. These findings suggest the existence of local steroid synthesis and metabolism in the colon, with the production of active steroid metabolites that may impact on the activity of the enteric nervous system and on the composition of the gut microbiota.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - S Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - F Borgo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - E Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - D Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - L M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - R C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy,.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Giatti S, Rigolio R, Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Caruso D, Garcia-Segura LM, Cavaletti G, Melcangi RC. Sex dimorphism in an animal model of multiple sclerosis: Focus on pregnenolone synthesis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 199:105596. [PMID: 31958635 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2020.105596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuroactive steroids, molecules produced from cholesterol in steroidogenic cells (i.e., peripheral glands and nervous system) are physiological modulators and protective agents of nervous function. A possible role for neuroactive steroids in the sex-dimorphic clinical manifestation, onset and progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has been recently suggested. To explore this possibility, we assessed the synthesis of the first steroidogenic product (pregnenolone; PREG) in the spinal cord of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis rats, a MS model. Data obtained indicate that the synthesis of PREG in the spinal cord is altered by the pathology in a sex-dimorphic way and depending on the pathological progression. Indeed, in male spinal cord the synthesis was already decreased at the acute phase of the disease (i.e., 14 days post induction - dpi) and maintained low during the chronic phase (i.e., 45 dpi), while in females this effect was observed only at the chronic phase. Substrate availability had also a role in the sex-dimorphic kinetics. Indeed, at the chronic phase, male animals showed a reduction in the levels of free cholesterol coupled to alteration of cholesterol metabolism into oxysterols; these effects were not observed in female animals. These findings suggest that the comprehension of the neurosteroidogenic processes could be relevant to better understand the sexual dimorphism of MS and to possibly design sex-oriented therapeutic strategies based on neuroactive steroids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - R Rigolio
- Experimental Neurology Unit, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy
| | - S Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - D Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - L M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - G Cavaletti
- Experimental Neurology Unit, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy
| | - R C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Physiopathological role of the enzymatic complex 5α-reductase and 3α/β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase in the generation of progesterone and testosterone neuroactive metabolites. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 57:100836. [PMID: 32217094 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The enzymatic complex 5α-reductase (5α-R) and 3α/3β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase (HSOR) is expressed in the nervous system, where it transforms progesterone (PROG) and testosterone (T) into neuroactive metabolites. These metabolites regulate myelination, brain maturation, neurotransmission, reproductive behavior and the stress response. The expression of 5α-R and 3α-HSOR and the levels of PROG and T reduced metabolites show regional and sex differences in the nervous system and are affected by changing physiological conditions as well as by neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. A decrease in their nervous tissue levels may negatively impact the course and outcome of some pathological events. However, in other pathological conditions their increased levels may have a negative impact. Thus, the use of synthetic analogues of these steroids or 5α-R modulation have been proposed as therapeutic approaches for several nervous system pathologies. However, further research is needed to fully understand the consequences of these manipulations, in particular with 5α-R inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Serafini MM, Caruso D, Garcia-Segura LM, Viviani B, Melcangi RC. Sex differences in steroid levels and steroidogenesis in the nervous system: Physiopathological role. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 56:100804. [PMID: 31689419 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system, in addition to be a target for steroid hormones, is the source of a variety of neuroactive steroids, which are synthesized and metabolized by neurons and glial cells. Recent evidence indicates that the expression of neurosteroidogenic proteins and enzymes and the levels of neuroactive steroids are different in the nervous system of males and females. We here summarized the state of the art of neuroactive steroids, particularly taking in consideration sex differences occurring in the synthesis and levels of these molecules. In addition, we discuss the consequences of sex differences in neurosteroidogenesis for the function of the nervous system under healthy and pathological conditions and the implications of neuroactive steroids and neurosteroidogenesis for the development of sex-specific therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Melania Maria Serafini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Barbara Viviani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Diviccaro S, Melcangi RC, Giatti S. Post-finasteride syndrome: An emerging clinical problem. Neurobiol Stress 2019; 12:100209. [PMID: 32435662 PMCID: PMC7231981 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of side effects during pharmacological treatment is unfortunately a quite common problem. In this review, we focused our attention on adverse events related to 5 alpha-reductase (5α-R) inhibitors (i.e., finasteride and dutasteride), approved for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Although these drugs are generally well tolerated, many reports described adverse effects in men during treatment, such as sexual dysfunction and mood alteration. In addition, it has been also reported that persistent side effects may occur in some AGA patients. This condition, termed post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) is characterized by sexual side effects (i.e., low libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased arousal and difficulty in achieving orgasm), depression, anxiety and cognitive complaints that are still present despite drug withdrawal. Indeed, some national agencies (e.g., Swedish Medical Products Agency, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency of UK and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration) required to include multiple persistent side effects within the finasteride labels. As here reported, these observations are mainly based on self-reporting of the symptomatology by the patients and few clinical studies have been performed so far. In addition, molecular mechanisms and/or genetic determinants behind such adverse effects have been poorly explored both in patients and animal models. Therefore, results here discussed indicate that PFS is an emerging clinical problem that needs to be further elucidated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Aielo A, Santos R, Silva W, Giatti S, Cunha L, Souza S, Parise B, Lotufo P, Bensenor I, Drager L. Obstructive sleep apnea, short sleep duration and drug adherence in patients with hypertension: the ELSA-Brasil study. Sleep Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2019.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
23
|
Giatti S, Batista dos Santos R, Aielo AN, Alves da Silva W, Parise B, Pio-Abreu A, Sousa S, Bortolotto L, Lotufo P, Bensenor I, Drager LF. Association Of salt intake with obstructive sleep apnea: data from the ElSA-Brasil Cohort. Sleep Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2019.11.354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
24
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Baracca E, Picariello C, Lanza D, Maddalozzo A, Giatti S, Carraro M, Roncon L, Barbetta A, Di Gregorio F. P6547The energy cost of His bundle pacing can be curtailed. Eur Heart J 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz746.1137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
His bundle pacing (HBP) allows physiological ventricular activation and prevents the electrical and mechanical desynchronization generally induced by myocardial stimulation, which can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure. On the other hand, reliable HBP capture often requires higher energy than conventional myocardial pacing. This reduces the expected life of the stimulator and might limit the diffusion of HBP in the clinical practice.
Purpose
Decreasing HBP current drain by careful management of stimulation safety margin and pulse duration.
Methods
In 28 patients undergoing DDD pacing with HBP, a third lead was implanted in RV apex to provide back-up pacing on demand. HBP and apical leads were connected, respectively, to the V1 and V2 channels of a 3-chamber stimulator. When HBP was effective, apical sensing occurred within the VV delay and prevented V2 stimulation. In contrast, in case of HBP failure, V2 sensing was missing and apical back-up pacing was promptly delivered at the end of the VV delay. The availability of a back-up pulse on demand allowed reducing the HBP safety margin with no risk. Furthermore, the individual HBP strength-duration curve was derived in the aim of optimizing the Hisian pulse parameters, which are the major determinants of the device current drain.
Results
Correct back-up inhibition by successful HBP and stimulation in the event of capture loss was achieved in all the patients. The latency from Hisian pacing to apical sensing averaged 96±14 ms. According to the pacemaker counters, no back-up pulse was delivered in daily life in 59% of patients. In the remaining, the prevalence of back-up stimulation never exceeded 15% of paced ventricular cycles. The high HBP threshold was essentially due to an increased rheobase (1.2±0.6 V), while the chronaxie ranged from 0.30 to 0.53 ms in 71% of patients (median 0.44 ms), exceeding 0.6 ms only in 29% of the cases. An average current saving of 5.4±3.0 μA was obtained at the expense of a mild reduction in HBP safety margin (from 1.6±0.2 to 1.4±0.1 times).
HBP and apical back-up
Conclusions
Back-up stimulation on demand is a reliable option to decrease HBP current drain and prolong the stimulator service life with full safety. In most of the cases, significant saving can be achieved by pulse shortening, as the chronaxie time is in the same range as with myocardial stimulation and longer pulses are not required. A pulse duration exceeding 0.6 ms is indicated in less than 1/3 of the implants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - A Barbetta
- Medico SPA, Clinical Research Unit, Rubano, PD, Italy
| | - F Di Gregorio
- Medico SPA, Clinical Research Unit, Rubano, PD, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Melcangi RC, Casarini L, Marino M, Santi D, Sperduti S, Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Grimoldi M, Caruso D, Cavaletti G, Simoni M. Altered methylation pattern of the SRD5A2 gene in the cerebrospinal fluid of post-finasteride patients: a pilot study. Endocr Connect 2019; 8:1118-1125. [PMID: 31272082 PMCID: PMC6652249 DOI: 10.1530/ec-19-0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) occurs in patients with androgenic alopecia after suspension of the finasteride treatment, leading to a large variety of persistent side effects. Despite the severity of the clinical picture, the mechanism underlying the PFS symptoms onset and persistence is still unclear. OBJECTIVE To study whether epigenetic modifications occur in PFS patients. METHODS Retrospective analysis of a multicentric, prospective, longitudinal, case-control clinical trial, enrolling 16 PFS patients, compared to 20 age-matched healthy men. Main outcomes were methylation pattern of SRD5A1 and SRD5A2 promoters and concentration of 11 neuroactive steroids, measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples. RESULTS SRD5A1 and SRD5A2 methylation analysis was performed in all blood samples (n = 16 PFS patients and n = 20 controls), in 16 CSF samples from PFS patients and in 13 CSF samples from controls. The SRD5A2 promoter was more frequently methylated in CSF of PFS patients compared to controls (56.3 vs 7.7%). No promoter methylation was detected in blood samples in both groups. No methylation occurred in the SRD5A1 promoter of both groups. Unmethylated controls compared to unmethylated SRD5A2 patients showed higher pregnenolone, dihydrotestosterone and dihydroprogesterone, together with lower testosterone CSF levels. Andrological and neurological assessments did not differ between methylated and unmethylated subjects. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, we demonstrate a tissue-specific methylation pattern of SRD5A2 promoter in PFS patients. Although we cannot conclude whether this pattern is prenatally established or induced by finasteride treatment, it could represent an important mechanism of neuroactive steroid levels and behavioural disturbances previously described in PFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Marino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Samantha Sperduti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Grimoldi
- Neurology Division, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Cavaletti
- Experimental Neurology Unit and Milan Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
- Correspondence should be addressed to M Simoni:
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Sex differences in the brain expression of steroidogenic molecules under basal conditions and after gonadectomy. J Neuroendocrinol 2019; 31:e12736. [PMID: 31102564 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The brain is a steroidogenic tissue. It expresses key molecules involved in the synthesis and metabolism of neuroactive steroids, such as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO), cytochrome P450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (3β-HSD), 5α-reductases (5α-R) and 3α-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductases (3α-HSOR). Previous studies have shown that the levels of brain steroids are different in male and female rats under basal conditions and after gonadectomy. In the present study, we assessed gene expression of key neurosteroidogenic molecules in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of gonadally intact and gonadectomised adult male and female rats. In the cerebellum, the basal mRNA levels of StAR and 3α-HSOR were significantly higher in females than in males. By contrast, the mRNA levels of TSPO and 5α-R were significantly higher in males. In the cerebral cortex, all neurosteroidogenic molecules analysed showed similar mRNA levels in males and females. Gonadectomy increased the expression of 5α-R in the brain of both sexes, although it affected the brain expression of StAR, TSPO, P450scc and 3α-HSOR in females only and with regional differences. Although protein levels were not investigated in the present study, our findings indicate that mRNA expression of steroidogenic molecules in the adult rat brain is sexually dimorphic and presents regional specificity, both under basal conditions and after gonadectomy. Thus, local steroidogenesis may contribute to the reported sex and regional differences in the levels of brain neuroactive steroids and may be involved in the generation of sex differences in the adult brain function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Diviccaro S, Giatti S, Borgo F, Barcella M, Borghi E, Trejo JL, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Treatment of male rats with finasteride, an inhibitor of 5alpha-reductase enzyme, induces long-lasting effects on depressive-like behavior, hippocampal neurogenesis, neuroinflammation and gut microbiota composition. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 99:206-215. [PMID: 30265917 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Persistent alteration of plasma neuroactive steroid levels associated with major depression has been recently reported in men after the suspension of the treatment for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride, an inhibitor of the enzyme 5alpha-reductase. Observations in male rats confirmed persistent alterations in neuroactive steroid levels also in the brain. In the present study, we have ascertained possible effects on depressive-like behavior, neurogenesis, gliosis, neuroinflammation and gut microbiota in male rats after subchronic treatment for 20 days with finasteride and after one month of its withdrawal. At the end of treatment there was an increase in the number of pH3 immunoreactive cells in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus together with an increase in the mRNA levels of TNF-α in the hippocampus. By one month after the end of finasteride treatment, rats showed depressive-like behavior coupled with a decrease in the number of pH3 immunoreactive cells in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus, a decrease in granule cell density in the granule cell layer and an increase in the number of GFAP immunoreactive astrocytes in the dentate gyrus. Finally, alteration of gut microbiota (i.e., an increase in Bacteroidetes phylum and in Prevotellaceae family at the end of the treatment and a decrease in Ruminococcaceae family, Oscillospira and Lachnospira genus at the end of the withdrawal period) was detected. In conclusion, finasteride treatment in male rats has long term effects on depressive-like behavior, hippocampal neurogenesis and neuroinflammation and gut microbiota composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Borgo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Barcella
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Borghi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - José Luis Trejo
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Melcangi RC. Neuroactive Steroids and Sex-Dimorphic Nervous Damage Induced by Diabetes Mellitus. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2018; 39:493-502. [PMID: 30109515 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-018-0613-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease where improper glycaemic control may induce severe complications in different organs. In this review, we will discuss alterations occurring in peripheral and central nervous system of patients with type 1 (i.e., insulin dependent diabetes mellitus,) or type 2 diabetes (i.e., non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus), as well as related experimental models. A particular focus will be on the role exerted by neuroactive steroids (i.e., important regulators of nervous functions) in the nervous damage induced by diabetes. Indeed, the nervous levels of these molecules are affected by the pathology and, in agreement, their neuroprotective effects have been reported. Interestingly, the sex is another important variable. As discussed, nervous diabetic complications show sex dimorphic features in term of incidence, functional outcomes and neuroactive steroid levels. Therefore, these features represent an interesting background for possible sex-oriented therapies with neuroactive steroids aimed to counteract nervous damage observed in diabetic pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Baracca E, Carraro M, Picariello C, Giatti S, Lanza D, Aggio S, D'Elia K, Roncon L. 5310His bundle pacing in patients with low ejection fraction at implant: long-term follow-up. Eur Heart J 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy566.5310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Baracca E, Picariello C, Galasso MP, Lanza D, Giatti S, Aggio S, D'Elia K, Carraro M, Roncon L. P5739LV lead apical position could be the best option in selected CRT patients. Eur Heart J 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy566.p5739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Baracca E, Picariello C, Lanza D, Giatti S, D'Elia K, Conte L, Carraro M, Roncon L. P5736MPP reduces the ventricular arrhythmias burden compared to standard biventricular pacing in CRT patients. Eur Heart J 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy566.p5736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | - L Conte
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Panzica G, Melcangi RC. Post-finasteride syndrome and post-SSRI sexual dysfunction: two sides of the same coin? Endocrine 2018; 61:180-193. [PMID: 29675596 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-018-1593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction is a clinical condition due to different causes including the iatrogenic origin. For instance, it is well known that sexual dysfunction may occur in patients treated with antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). A similar side effect has been also reported during treatment with finasteride, an inhibitor of the enzyme 5alpha-reductase, for androgenetic alopecia. Interestingly, sexual dysfunction persists in both cases after drug discontinuation. These conditions have been named post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) and post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). In particular, feeling of a lack of connection between the brain and penis, loss of libido and sex drive, difficulty in achieving an erection and genital paresthesia have been reported by patients of both conditions. It is interesting to note that the incidence of these diseases is probably so far underestimated and their etiopathogenesis is not sufficiently explored. To this aim, the present review will report the state of art of these two different pathologies and discuss, on the basis of the role exerted by three different neuromodulators such as dopamine, serotonin and neuroactive steroids, whether the persistent sexual dysfunction observed could be determined by common mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Panzica
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze "Rita Levi Montalcini", Università degli studi di Torino, Neuroscience Institute Cavallieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Giatti S, Garcia-Segura LM, Barreto GE, Melcangi RC. Neuroactive steroids, neurosteroidogenesis and sex. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 176:1-17. [PMID: 29981391 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system is a target and a source of steroids. Neuroactive steroids are steroids that target neurons and glial cells. They include hormonal steroids originated in the peripheral glands, steroids locally synthesized by the neurons and glial cells (neurosteroids) and synthetic steroids, some of them used in clinical practice. Here we review the mechanisms of synthesis, metabolism and action of neuroactive steroids, including the role of epigenetic modifications and the mitochondria in their sex specific actions. We examine sex differences in neuroactive steroid levels under physiological conditions and their role in the establishment of sex dimorphic structures in the nervous system and sex differences in its function. In addition, particular attention is paid to neuroactive steroids under pathological conditions, analyzing how pathology alters their levels and their role as neuroprotective factors, considering the influence of sex in both cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luis M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - George E Barreto
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Romano S, Mitro N, Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Pesaresi M, Spezzano R, Audano M, Garcia-Segura LM, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Diabetes induces mitochondrial dysfunction and alters cholesterol homeostasis and neurosteroidogenesis in the rat cerebral cortex. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:108-116. [PMID: 29183767 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system synthesizes and metabolizes steroids (i.e., neurosteroidogenesis). Recent observations indicate that neurosteroidogenesis is affected by different nervous pathologies. Among these, long-term type 1 diabetes, together with other functional and biochemical changes, has been shown to alter neuroactive steroid levels in the nervous system. Using an experimental model of type 1 diabetes (i.e., streptozotocin injection) we here show that the levels of these molecules are already decreased in the rat cerebral cortex after one month of the initiation of the pathology. Moreover, decreased levels of free cholesterol, together with alterations in the expression of molecules involved in cholesterol biosynthesis, bioavailability, trafficking and metabolism were detected in the rat cerebral cortex after one month of diabetes. Furthermore, mitochondrial functionality was also affected in the cerebral cortex and consequently may also contribute to the decrease in neuroactive steroid levels. Altogether, these results indicate that neurosteroidogenesis is an early target for the effect of type 1 diabetes in the cerebral cortex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Romano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Marzia Pesaresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Spezzano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Audano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Baracca E, Pastore G, Giatti S, Aggio S, Picariello C, Lanza D, Roncon L, Noventa F, Conte L, Carraro M, Rinuncini M, Galasso MP, D'elia K. P1132LV lead apical placement could be the best option in selected patients candidate to CRT. Europace 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euy015.618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | - L Conte
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Giatti S, Baracca E, Aggio S, Picariello C, Roncon L, Conte L, Lanza D, D' Elia K, Carraro M, Galasso MP, Rinuncini M. P411His pacing improved ejection fraction on long term follow-up in the subgroup of patients with low ejection fraction at implant. Europace 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euy015.222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | - L Conte
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Baracca E, Aggio S, Carraro M, Picariello C, Lanza D, Giatti S, Rinuncini M, Galasso MP, D'elia K, Roncon L, Conte L. 42His bundle pacing in BBB patients: outcomes over a long-term follow-up. Europace 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euy015.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - L Conte
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Baracca E, Picariello C, Lanza D, Giatti S, Aggio S, Carraro M, Conte L, D'elia K, Roncon L, Rinuncini M, Galasso MP. 43Hisian pacing with apical back-up on demand is safe and effective. Europace 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euy015.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | - L Conte
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Pastore G, Giatti S, Aggio S, Roncon L, Baracca E. P1242Hisian pacing restores physiological cardiac function and synchrony. Europace 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euy015.723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zanon F, Marcantoni L, Baracca E, Pastore G, Giatti S, Aggio S, Picariello C, Lanza D, Roncon L, D'elia K, Noventa F, Carraro M, Rinuncini M, Galasso MP, Conte L. P1143MPP reduces the ventricular arrhythmias burden compared to standard biventricular pacing in CRT patients. Europace 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euy015.629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F Zanon
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - S Aggio
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | - D Lanza
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - L Conte
- General Hospital, Rovigo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Pesaresi M, Giatti S, Spezzano R, Romano S, Diviccaro S, Borsello T, Mitro N, Caruso D, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Axonal transport in a peripheral diabetic neuropathy model: sex-dimorphic features. Biol Sex Differ 2018; 9:6. [PMID: 29351809 PMCID: PMC5775621 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-018-0164-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Disruption of axonal transport plays a pivotal role in diabetic neuropathy. A sex-dimorphism exists in the incidence and symptomatology of diabetic neuropathy; however, no studies so far have addressed sex differences in axonal motor proteins expression in early diabetes as well as the possible involvement of neuroactive steroids. Interestingly, recent data point to a role for mitochondria in the sexual dimorphism of neurodegenerative diseases. Mitochondria have a fundamental role in axonal transport by producing the motors’ energy source, ATP. Moreover, neuroactive steroids can also regulate mitochondrial function. Methods Here, we investigated the impact of short-term diabetes in the peripheral nervous system of male and female rats on key motor proteins important for axonal transport, mitochondrial function, and neuroactive steroids levels. Results We show that short-term diabetes alters mRNA levels and axoplasm protein contents of kinesin family member KIF1A, KIF5B, KIF5A and Myosin Va in male but not in female rats. Similarly, the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ co-activator-1α, a subunit of the respiratory chain complex IV, ATP levels and the key regulators of mitochondrial dynamics were affected in males but not in females. Concomitant analysis of neuroactive steroid levels in sciatic nerve showed an alteration of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and allopregnanolone in diabetic males, whereas no changes were observed in female rats. Conclusions These findings suggest that sex-specific decrease in neuroactive steroid levels in male diabetic animals may cause an alteration in their mitochondrial function that in turn might impact in axonal transport, contributing to the sex difference observed in diabetic neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Pesaresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Spezzano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Simone Romano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Tiziana Borsello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS-Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milano, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, CSIC, CIBER de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Giatti S, Mastrangelo R, D'Antonio M, Pesaresi M, Romano S, Diviccaro S, Caruso D, Mitro N, Melcangi RC. Neuroactive steroids and diabetic complications in the nervous system. Front Neuroendocrinol 2018; 48:58-69. [PMID: 28739507 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Important complications of diabetes mellitus in the nervous system are represented by diabetic peripheral neuropathy and diabetic encephalopathy. In this context, an important link is represented by neuroactive steroids (i.e., steroids coming from peripheral glands and affecting nervous functionality as well as directly synthesized in the nervous system). Indeed, diabetes does not only affect the reproductive axis and consequently the levels of sex steroid hormones, but also those of neuroactive steroids. Indeed, as will be here summarized, the levels of these neuromodulators present in the central and peripheral nervous system are affected by the pathology in a sex-dimorphic way. In addition, some of these neuroactive steroids, such as the metabolites of progesterone or testosterone, as well as pharmacological tools able to increase their levels have been demonstrated, in experimental models, to be promising protective agents against diabetic peripheral neuropathy and diabetic encephalopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - R Mastrangelo
- Division of Genetic and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, DIBIT, Milano, Italy
| | - M D'Antonio
- Division of Genetic and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, DIBIT, Milano, Italy
| | - M Pesaresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - S Romano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - S Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - D Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - N Mitro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - R C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Melcangi RC, Santi D, Spezzano R, Grimoldi M, Tabacchi T, Fusco ML, Diviccaro S, Giatti S, Carrà G, Caruso D, Simoni M, Cavaletti G. Neuroactive steroid levels and psychiatric and andrological features in post-finasteride patients. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 171:229-235. [PMID: 28408350 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent reports show that, in patients treated with finasteride for male pattern hair loss, persistent side effects including sexual side effects, depression, anxiety and cognitive complaints may occur. We here explored the psychiatric and andrological features of patients affected by post-finasteride syndrome (PFS) and verified whether the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma levels of neuroactive steroids (i.e., important regulators of nervous function) are modified. We found that eight out of sixteen PFS male patients considered suffered from a DSM-IV major depressive disorder (MDD). In addition, all PFS patients showed erectile dysfunction (ED); in particular, ten patients showed a severe and six a mild-moderate ED. We also reported abnormal somatosensory evoked potentials of the pudendal nerve in PFS patients with severe ED, the first objective evidence of a neuropathy involving peripheral neurogenic control of erection. Testicular volume by ultrasonography was normal in PFS patients. Data obtained on neuroactive steroid levels also indicate interesting features. Indeed, decreased levels of pregnenolone, progesterone and its metabolite (i.e., dihydroprogesterone), dihydrotestosterone and 17beta-estradiol and increased levels of dehydroepiandrosterone, testosterone and 5alpha-androstane-3alpha,17beta-diol were observed in CSF of PFS patients. Neuroactive steroid levels were also altered in plasma of PFS patients, however these changes did not reflect exactly what occurs in CSF. Finally, finasteride did not only affect, as expected, the levels of 5alpha-reduced metabolites of progesterone and testosterone, but also the further metabolites and precursors suggesting that this drug has broad consequence on neuroactive steroid levels of PFS patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Spezzano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Grimoldi
- Experimental Neurology Unit and Milan Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Tommaso Tabacchi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Fusco
- Experimental Neurology Unit and Milan Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Guido Cavaletti
- Experimental Neurology Unit and Milan Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Mitro N, Cermenati G, Audano M, Giatti S, Pesaresi M, Pedretti S, Spezzano R, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Sterol regulatory element binding protein-1C knockout mice show altered neuroactive steroid levels in sciatic nerve. J Neurochem 2017; 142:420-428. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nico Mitro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Gaia Cermenati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Matteo Audano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Marzia Pesaresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Silvia Pedretti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Roberto Spezzano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari; Università degli Studi di Milano; Milan Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Cermenati G, Giatti S, Audano M, Pesaresi M, Spezzano R, Caruso D, Mitro N, Melcangi RC. Diabetes alters myelin lipid profile in rat cerebral cortex: Protective effects of dihydroprogesterone. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 168:60-70. [PMID: 28167298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Due to the emerging association of diabetes with several psychiatric and neurodegenerative events, the evaluation of the effects of this pathology on the brain function has now a high priority in biomedical research. In particular, the effects of diabetes on myelin compartment have been poorly taken into consideration. To this purpose, we performed a deep lipidomic analysis of cortical myelin in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model. In male rats three months of diabetes induced an extensive alterations in levels of phosphatidylcholines and phosphatidylethanolamines (the main species present in myelin membranes), plasmalogens as well as phosphatidylinositols and phosphatidylserines. In addition, the levels of cholesterol and myelin basic protein were also decreased. Because these lipids exert important functional and structural roles in the myelin compartment, our data indicate that cerebral cortex myelin is severely compromised in diabetic status. Treatment for one-month with a metabolite of progesterone, dihydroprogesterone, restored the lipid and protein myelin profiles to the levels observed in non-diabetic animals. These data suggest the potential of therapeutic efficacy of DHP to restore myelin in the diabetic brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Cermenati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Audano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Marzia Pesaresi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Spezzano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Leonardi M, Barbara C, Agati R, Simonetti L, Giatti S. Trattamento percutaneo dell'ernia discale lombare con iniezione intradiscale di miscela di ozono. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/19714009010140s111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Negli ultimi anni si sono moltiplicate le segnalazioni dell'utilità dell'ossigeno-ozono terapia intradiscale, che abbiamo iniziato nel 1997 con iniezione intradiscale e paraspinale. Dal Dicembre 1997 all'Agosto 2000 sono stati trattati 444 pazienti, di cui maschi 240 e femmine 204, per complessivi 723 trattamenti. Vengono qui presentati 191 pazienti sottoposti a trattamento con unica seduta, dei quali si è completato il controllo a sei mesi. Nel complesso i risultati ottimi - buoni raggiungono un livello percentuale che è appena inferiore a quello ottenibile con chemonucleolisi enzimatica; l'introduzione della ossigeno ozono terapia intradiscale nella nostra pratica clinica si è rivelata sicuramente positiva.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Leonardi
- Servizio di Neuroradiologia, Ospedale Bellaria; Bologna
| | - C. Barbara
- Servizio di Neuroradiologia, Ospedale Bellaria; Bologna
| | - R. Agati
- Servizio di Neuroradiologia, Ospedale Bellaria; Bologna
| | - L. Simonetti
- Servizio di Neuroradiologia, Ospedale Bellaria; Bologna
| | - S. Giatti
- Servizio di Neuroradiologia, Ospedale Bellaria; Bologna
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Lopez-Rodriguez AB, Acaz-Fonseca E, Spezzano R, Giatti S, Caruso D, Viveros MP, Melcangi RC, Garcia-Segura LM. Profiling Neuroactive Steroid Levels After Traumatic Brain Injury in Male Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:3983-3993. [PMID: 27547849 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in humans has rapidly increased in the last ten years. The most common causes are falls and car accidents. Approximately 80 000-90 000 persons per year will suffer some permanent disability as a result of the lesion, and one of the most common symptoms is the decline of hormone levels, also known as post-TBI hormonal deficiency syndrome. This issue has become more and more important, and many studies have focused on shedding some light on it. The hormonal decline affects not only gonadal steroid hormones but also neuroactive steroids, which play an important role in TBI recovery by neuroprotective and neurotrophic actions. The present work used an adolescent close-head murine model to analyze brain and plasma neurosteroid level changes after TBI and to establish correlations with edema and neurological impairments, 2 of the hallmarks of TBI. Our results showed changes in brain pregnenolone, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and 3α-diol levels whereas in plasma, the changes were present in progesterone, DHT, 3α-diol, and 3β-diol. Within them, pregnenolone, progesterone, DHT, and 3α-diol levels positively correlated with edema formation and neurological score, whereas testosterone inversely correlated with these 2 variables. These findings suggest that changes in the brain levels of some neuroactive steroids may contribute to the alterations in brain function caused by the lesion and that plasma levels of some neuroactive steroids could be good candidates of blood markers to predict TBI outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Belen Lopez-Rodriguez
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Estefania Acaz-Fonseca
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Spezzano
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Maria-Paz Viveros
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Luis M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal (A.B.L.-R., E.A.-F., L.M.G.-S.), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain; Department of Animal Physiology (Animal Physiology II) (A.B.L.-R., M.-P.V.), Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; and Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (P.S., S.G., D.C., R.C.M.), Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
Progestins are a broad class of progestational agents widely differing in their chemical structures and pharmacological properties. Despite emerging data suggest that progestins, besides their action as endometrial protection, can also have multiple nonreproductive functions, much remains to be discovered regarding the actions exerted by these molecules in the nervous system. Here, we report the role exerted by different progestins, currently used for contraception or in postmenopausal hormone replacement therapies, in regulating cognitive functions as well as social behavior and mood. We provide evidence that the effects and mechanisms underlying their actions are still confusing due to the use of different estrogens and progestins as well as different doses, duration of exposure, route of administration, baseline hormonal status and age of treated women. We also discuss the emerging issue concerning the relevant increase of these substances in the environment, able to deeply affect aquatic wildlife as well as to exert a possible influence in humans, which may be exposed to these compounds via contaminated drinking water and seafood. Finally, we report literature data showing the neurobiological action of progestins and in particular their importance during neurodegenerative events. This is extremely interesting, since some of the progestins currently used in clinical practice exert neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in the nervous system, opening new promising opportunities for the use of these molecules as therapeutic agents for trauma and neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesCenter of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesCenter of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Pesaresi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesCenter of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Giatti S, Foglio B, Romano S, Pesaresi M, Panzica G, Garcia-Segura LM, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Effects of Subchronic Finasteride Treatment and Withdrawal on Neuroactive Steroid Levels and Their Receptors in the Male Rat Brain. Neuroendocrinology 2016; 103:746-57. [PMID: 26646518 DOI: 10.1159/000442982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The enzymatic conversion of progesterone and testosterone by the enzyme 5alpha-reductase exerts a crucial role in the control of nervous function. The effects of finasteride in the brain, an inhibitor of this enzyme used for the treatment of human benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenic alopecia, have been poorly explored. Therefore, the effects of a subchronic treatment with finasteride at low doses (3 mg/kg/day) and the consequences of its withdrawal on neuroactive steroid levels in plasma, cerebrospinal fluid and some brain regions as well as on the expression of classical and non-classical steroid receptors have been evaluated in male rats. After subchronic treatment (i.e., for 20 days) the following effects were detected: (i) depending on the compartment considered, alteration in the levels of neuroactive steroids, not only in 5alpha-reduced metabolites but also in its precursors and in neuroactive steroids from other steroidogenic pathways and (ii) an upregulation of the androgen receptor in the cerebral cortex and beta3 subunit of the GABA-A receptor in the cerebellum. One month after the last treatment (i.e., withdrawal period), some of these effects persisted (i.e., the upregulation of the androgen receptor in the cerebral cortex, an increase of dihydroprogesterone in the cerebellum, a decrease of dihydrotestosterone in plasma). Moreover, other changes in neuroactive steroid levels, steroid receptors (i.e., an upregulation of the estrogen receptor alpha and a downregulation of the estrogen receptor beta in the cerebral cortex) and GABA-A receptor subunits (i.e., a decrease of alpha 4 and beta 3 mRNA levels in the cerebral cortex) were detected. These findings suggest that finasteride treatment may have broad consequences for brain function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Giatti S, Romano S, Pesaresi M, Cermenati G, Mitro N, Caruso D, Tetel MJ, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Neuroactive steroids and the peripheral nervous system: An update. Steroids 2015; 103:23-30. [PMID: 25824325 PMCID: PMC6314841 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2015.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2014] [Revised: 03/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In the present review we summarize observations to date supporting the concept that neuroactive steroids are synthesized in the peripheral nervous system, regulate the physiology of peripheral nerves and exert notable neuroprotective actions. Indeed, neuroactive steroids have been recently proposed as therapies for different types of peripheral neuropathy, like for instance those occurring during aging, chemotherapy, physical injury and diabetes. Moreover, pharmacological tools able to increase the synthesis of neuroactive steroids might represent new interesting therapeutic strategy to be applied in case of peripheral neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Romano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Pesaresi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gaia Cermenati
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marc J Tetel
- Neuroscience Program, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, USA
| | | | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|