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Castillo AF, Poderoso C, Maloberti PM, Cornejo Maciel F, Mori Sequeiros Garcia MM, Orlando UD, Mele P, Benzo Y, Dattilo MA, Prada J, Quevedo L, Belluno M, Paz C, Podesta EJ. Specific cellular microenvironments for spatiotemporal regulation of StAR and steroid synthesis. J Endocrinol 2024; 261:e230391. [PMID: 38470178 DOI: 10.1530/joe-23-0391] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
For many years, research in the field of steroid synthesis has aimed to understand the regulation of the rate-limiting step of steroid synthesis, i.e. the transport of cholesterol from the outer to the inner mitochondrial membrane, and identify the protein involved in the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone. The extraordinary work by B Clark, J Wells, S R King, and D M Stocco eventually identified this protein and named it steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). The group's finding was also one of the milestones in understanding the mechanism of nonvesicular lipid transport between organelles. A notable feature of StAR is its high degree of phosphorylation. In fact, StAR phosphorylation in the acute phase is required for full steroid biosynthesis. As a contribution to this subject, our work has led to the characterization of StAR as a substrate of kinases and phosphatases and as an integral part of a mitochondrion-associated multiprotein complex, essential for StAR function and cholesterol binding and mitochondrial transport to yield maximum steroid production. Results allow us to postulate the existence of a specific cellular microenvironment where StAR protein synthesis and activation, along with steroid synthesis and secretion, are performed in a compartmentalized manner, at the site of hormone receptor stimulation, and involving the compartmentalized formation of the steroid molecule-synthesizing complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Fernanda Castillo
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Poderoso
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula Mariana Maloberti
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fabiana Cornejo Maciel
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Mercedes Mori Sequeiros Garcia
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ulises Daniel Orlando
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo Mele
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Yanina Benzo
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Melina Andrea Dattilo
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jesica Prada
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciano Quevedo
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matías Belluno
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristina Paz
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ernesto Jorge Podesta
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Chen G, Zhang W, Li D, Song J, Dong M. Testosterone synthesis was inhibited in the testis metabolomics of a depression mouse model. J Affect Disord 2024; 350:627-635. [PMID: 38244803 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.143] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Depression is a common emotional disorder. Previous studies have suggested that depression is associated with the central nervous system. Recent studies have suggested that reduced testosterone level is the core inducement of depression. Testis is the vital organ for the synthesis of testosterone. How does testis mediate depression is still unknown. OBJECTIVES We adopted a classical depression model of mouse caused through chronic mild stress (CMS). The metabolomics liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was adopted to analyse the influence of CMS on testis metabolism. Then we confirmed the possible abnormal metabolism of the testis in depression mice by pathway analysis and molecular biological technique. RESULTS Compared with control mice, 16 differential metabolites were found in CMS mice by multivariate statistical analysis. In comparison with control mice, CMS mice showed higher levels for campesterol, ribitol, citric acid, platelet activating factor, guanosine, cytosine and xanthine and lower levels for docosahexaenoic acid, hippuric acid, creatine, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, progesterone, l-carnitine, acetyl carnitine and propionyl carnitine. The pathway analysis indicated that these differential metabolites are associated with steroid hormone synthesis, purine metabolism and phenylalanine metabolism. In addition, we also first discovered that testicular morphology in depression mice was damaged and steroid hormone synthetases (including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and P450 cholesterol side chain cleavage) were inhibited. CONCLUSION These findings may be helpful to parse molecular mechanisms of pathophysiology of depression. It also pointed out the direction to search for potential therapy schedules for male depression and provide novel insights into exploring the pathogenesis of male depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanghui Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Wenbin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Dongyan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jian Song
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Meixue Dong
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.
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Liu B, Fu B, Zhou S, Wang H, Bi B, Guo M, Cheng JC, Fang L. Bone morphogenetic protein-9 downregulates StAR expression by inducing snail expression via SMAD1/5/8 signaling in human granulosa-lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 582:112126. [PMID: 38109991 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112126] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian steroidogenesis mediated by granulosa cells is pivotal in maintaining normal female reproductive function. The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) regulates the rate-limiting step in steroidogenesis. Bone morphogenetic protein-9 (BMP-9), also known as growth differentiation factor-2 (GDF-2), is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily. BMP-9 induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that contributes to cancer progression. However, the function of BMP-9 in the female reproductive system remains largely unknown. It has been recently shown that BMP-9 is expressed in human follicular fluid and can downregulate StAR expression in human ovarian granulosa cells. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms warrant investigation. Our results show that treatment of primary granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells with BMP-9 downregulates StAR expression. In addition, two EMT-related transcription factors, Snail and Slug, are upregulated by the treatment of BMP-9. Using pharmacological inhibitors and a siRNA-mediated knockdown approach, we show that BMP-9 upregulates Snail and Slug expression by activating SMAD1/5/8 signaling. We also examine the effects of BMP-9 on SMAD-independent signaling pathways, including ERK1/2, p38, JNK, AKT, and CREB. However, none of them is affected by the BMP-9. Moreover, we use gain- and loss-of-function approaches to reveal that only Snail, not Slug, is required for the BMP-9-induced downregulation of StAR expression in hGL cells. This study increases the understanding of the physiology function of BMP-9 in hGL cells and provides important insights into the regulation of StAR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boqun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Bingxin Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Shenghui Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Beibei Bi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Manman Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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Gomez-Sanchez CE, Gomez-Sanchez EP. Cholesterol Availability and Adrenal Steroidogenesis. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae032. [PMID: 38500355 PMCID: PMC10977269 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Celso E Gomez-Sanchez
- Research and Medical Service, G. V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
| | - Elise P Gomez-Sanchez
- Research and Medical Service, G. V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
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Liu B, Jia Q, Hong IS, Dang X, Wu Z, Wang H, Cheng JC, Fang L. TGF-β1 and TGF-β3, but not TGF-β2, are upregulated in the ovaries of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:116-129. [PMID: 37801702 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad132] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a life-threatening and potentially fatal complication during in vitro fertilization treatment. The levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) are upregulated in human follicular fluid and granulosa-lutein cells (hGL) of OHSS patients and could contribute to the development of OHSS by downregulating steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression. However, whether the same is true for the other two members of the TGF-β family, TGF-β2 and -β3, remains unknown. We showed that all three TGF-β isoforms were expressed in human follicular fluid. In comparison, TGF-β1 was expressed at the highest level, followed by TGF-β2 and TGF-β3. Compared to non-OHSS patients, follicular fluid levels of TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 were significantly upregulated in OHSS patients. The same results were observed in mRNA levels of TGF-β isoforms in hGL cells and ovaries of OHSS rats. In addition, StAR mRNA levels were upregulated in hGL cells of OHSS patients and the ovaries of OHSS rats. Treatment cells with TGF-β isoforms downregulated the StAR expression with a comparable effect. Moreover, activations of SMAD3 signaling were required for TGF-β isoforms-induced downregulation of StAR expression. This study indicates that follicular fluid TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 levels could be used as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the OHSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boqun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qiongqiong Jia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - In-Sun Hong
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Xuan Dang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ze Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Panda SP, Kesharwani A, Singh GD, Prasanth D, Vatchavai BR, Kumari PVK, Panda SK, Mallick SP. Impose of KNDy/GnRH neural circuit in PCOS, ageing, cancer and Alzheimer's disease: StAR actions in prevention of neuroendocrine dysfunction. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102086. [PMID: 37821047 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102086] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The Kisspeptin1 (KISS1)/neurokinin B (NKB)/Dynorphin (Dyn) [KNDy] neurons in the hypothalamus regulate the reproduction stage in human beings and rodents. KNDy neurons co-expressed all KISS1, NKB, and Dyn peptides, and hence commonly regarded as KISS1 neurons. KNDy neurons contribute to the "GnRH pulse generator" and are implicated in the regulation of pulsatile GnRH release. The estradiol (E2)-estrogen receptor (ER) interactions over GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus cause nitric oxide (NO) discharge, in addition to presynaptic GABA and glutamate discharge from respective neurons. The released GABA and glutamate facilitate the activity of GnRH neurons via GABAA-R and AMPA/kainate-R. The KISS1 stimulates MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling and cause the release of Ca2+ from intracellular store, which contribute to neuroendocrine function, increase apoptosis and decrease cell proliferation and metastasis. The ageing in women deteriorates KISS1/KISS1R interaction in the hypothalamus which causes lower levels of GnRH. Because examining the human brain is so challenging, decades of clinical research have failed to find the causes of KNDy/GnRH dysfunction. The KISS1/KISS1R interactions in the brain have a neuroprotective effect against Alzheimer's disease (AD). These findings modulate the pathophysiological role of the KNDy/GnRH neural network in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) associated with ageing and, its protective role in cancer and AD. This review concludes with protecting effect of the steroid-derived acute regulatory enzyme (StAR) against neurotoxicity in the hippocampus, and hypothalamus, and these measures are fundamental for delaying ageing with PCOS. StAR could serve as novel diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for the most prevalent hormone-sensitive breast cancers (BCs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva Prasad Panda
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Adarsh Kesharwani
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Dsnbk Prasanth
- KVSR Siddhartha College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vijayawada, Andhrapradesh, India
| | - Bhaskara Raju Vatchavai
- Sri Vasavi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pedatadepalli, Tadepalligudem, Andhrapradesh, India
| | - P V Kamala Kumari
- Vignan Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Duvvada, Visakhapatnam, Andhrapradesh, India
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Xie W, Gao Q, Chen P, Zhang H, Liu Y, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of the translocator protein (18 kDa), voltage-dependent anion channel, and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein in the scent glands of muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus). J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 234:106400. [PMID: 37722462 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106400] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Steroidogenesis machinery involves the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), which regulates cholesterol transfer within the mitochondria, and the transport of cholesterol via a channel composed of 18-kDa translocator protein (TSPO), the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) plus some accessory proteins. In this study, we investigated the immunolocalizations and expressions of StAR, TSPO, VDAC and cytochrome P450 side chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc, CYP11A1) in the scent glands of muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) during the breeding and non-breeding periods. StAR, TSPO, VDAC and CYP11A1 were immunolocalized in the scent glandular, interstitial and epithelial cells in both breeding and non-breeding seasons with stronger immunostaining in the breeding season. The mRNA expression levels of StAR, TSPO, VDAC and CYP11A1 were higher in the scent glands of the breeding season than those of the non-breeding season. The circulating follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) as well as scent glandular T and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) concentrations were also significantly higher in the breeding season. Additionally, the transcriptomic study in the scent glands identified that differentially expressed genes might be related to the lipid metabolic process, integral component of membrane, and steroid hormone receptor activity and hormone activity using GO analysis. Further in vitro study verified that StAR, TSPO, VDAC and CYP11A1 expression levels increased significantly after human chorionic gonadotropin, hCG/FSH treatment compared with the control group. The KEGG pathway enriched by differentially expressed genes detected to be involved in endocrine system or amino acid metabolism. These findings suggested that the scent glands of the muskrats have ability to synthesize steroids de novo, and that the steroid hormones may have an important regulatory role in the scent glandular function via an autocrine/paracrine pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Xie
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingjing Gao
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyu Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuning Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China.
| | - Qiang Weng
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China.
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Hazrati P, Ramezani M, Ahmadimoghaddam D, Asl SS, Artimani T. The effects of AdipoRon on cytochrome P450-related gene expression, acute steroidogenic regulatory protein, and structure of ovary in polycystic ovary syndrome model. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2453-2461. [PMID: 37668858 PMCID: PMC10504226 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02900-1] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE One of the most common causes of infertility in adult women is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which has been identified with symptoms such as chronic hyperandrogenism, anovulation, and polycystic ovaries. Adiponectin modulates steroidogenesis and the expression of ovulation-related genes. Herein, we assessed the effect of AdipoRon (adiponectin agonist) in the PCOS model mice. METHODS The PCOS model was induced with letrozole in the adult female mice and the animals received intraperitoneal injection of AdipoRon (5 mg/kg) for 10 days. Expression of CYP11A, CYP17A, and CYP19A genes, StAR protein, and histomorphology of the ovary were evaluated using real-time RT-PCR, western blotting, and histochemistry methods, respectively. RESULTS Although administration of letrozole caused an increase in the expression of CYP11A, CYP17A, and StAR and a decrease in the CYP19A1 expression, injection of AdipoRon reversed these changes. Moreover, AdipoRon treatment resulted in an improvement of folliculogenesis and a reduction of cysts compared to the letrozole-treated mice. CONCLUSION It is likely that AdipoRon has protective effects on the PCOS through modulation of cytochrome P450-related genes and steroidogenesis but needs further study to be sure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pegah Hazrati
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mahdi Ramezani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Centre, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Davoud Ahmadimoghaddam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Sara Soleimani Asl
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Centre, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Tayebe Artimani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Centre, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Sidhu SK, Mishra S. A cholesterol-centric outlook on steroidogenesis. Vitam Horm 2023; 124:405-428. [PMID: 38408806 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.05.006] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol, an essential and versatile lipid, is the precursor substrate for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones, and a key structural and functional component of organelle membranes in eukaryotic cells. Consequently, the framework of steroidogenesis across main steroidogenic cell types is built around cholesterol, including its cellular uptake, mobilization from intracellular storage, and finally, its transport to the mitochondria where steroidogenesis begins. This setup, which is controlled by different trophic hormones in their respective target tissues, allows steroidogenic cells to meet their steroidogenic need of cholesterol effectively without impinging on the basic need for organelle membranes and their functions. However, our understanding of the basal steroidogenesis (i.e., independent of trophic hormone stimulation), which is a cell-intrinsic trait, remains poor. Particularly, the role that cholesterol itself plays in the regulation of steroidogenic factors and events in steroid hormone-producing cells remains largely unexplored. This is likely because of challenges in selectively targeting the steroidogenic intracellular cholesterol pool in studies. New evidence suggests that cholesterol plays a role in steroidogenesis. These new findings have created new opportunities to advance our understanding in this field. In this book chapter, we will provide a cholesterol-centric view on steroidogenesis and emphasize the importance of the interplay between cholesterol and the mitochondria in steroidogenic cells. Moreover, we will discuss a novel mitochondrial player, prohibitin-1, in this context. The overall goal is to provide a stimulating perspective on cholesterol as an important regulator of steroidogenesis (i.e., more than just a substrate for steroid hormones) and present the mitochondria as a potential cell-intrinsic factor in regulating steroidogenic cholesterol homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simarjit Kaur Sidhu
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Suresh Mishra
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
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Manna PR, Kshirsagar S, Pradeepkiran JA, Rawat P, Kumar S, Reddy AP, Reddy PH. Protective function of StAR in amyloid-β accumulated hippocampal neurotoxicity and neurosteroidogenesis: Mechanistic insights into Alzheimer's disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166738. [PMID: 37142132 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein principally mediates steroid hormone biosynthesis by governing the transport of intramitochondrial cholesterol. Neurosteroids progressively decrease during aging, the key risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is triggered by brain-region specific accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) precursor protein (APP), a key pathological factor. We demonstrate that hippocampal neuronal cells overexpressing wild-type (WtAPP) and mutant APP (mAPP) plasmids, conditions mimetic to AD, resulted in decreases in StAR mRNA, free cholesterol, and pregnenolone levels. The magnitude of suppression of the steroidogenic response was more pronounced with mAPP than that of WtAPP. While mAPP-waned assorted anomalies correlate to AD pathology, deterioration of APP/Aβ laden StAR expression and neurosteroid biosynthesis was enhanced by retinoid signaling. An abundance of mitochondrially targeted StAR expression partially restored APP/Aβ accumulated diverse neurodegenerative vulnerabilities. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed that overexpression of StAR diminishes mAPP provoked Aβ aggregation. Co-expression of StAR and mAPP in hippocampal neurons substantially reversed the declines in mAPP mediated cell survival, mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate, and ATP production. Concurrently, induction of mAPP induced Aβ loading showed an increase in cholesterol esters, but decrease in free cholesterol, concomitant with pregnenolone biosynthesis, events that were inversely regulated by StAR. Moreover, retinoid signaling was found to augment cholesterol content for facilitating neurosteroid biosynthesis in an AD mimetic condition. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular events by which StAR acts to protect mAPP-induced hippocampal neurotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurosteroidogenesis, and these measures are fundamental for ameliorating and/or delaying dementia in individuals with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pulak R Manna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Sudhir Kshirsagar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | | | - Priyanka Rawat
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Subodh Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Arubala P Reddy
- Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - P Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA; Neurology, Departments of School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Public Health Department of Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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11
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Manna PR, Bose C, Reddy PH. Downregulation of StAR driven neurosteroid biosynthesis as a distinctive feature in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166757. [PMID: 37209874 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pulak R Manna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Chhanda Bose
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - P Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Neurology, Departments of School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Public Health Department of Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA.
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12
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Zhang H, Wang W, Wu Z, Zheng Y, Li X, Han S, Wang J, Zhang C. Effect of Notch Signal Pathway on Steroid Synthesis Enzymes in TM3 Cells. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2023:EMIDDT-EPUB-131085. [PMID: 37106514 DOI: 10.2174/1871530323666230418113852] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies have indicated that the conservative Notch pathway contributes to steroid hormone synthesis in the ovaries; however, its role in hormone synthesis of the testis remains unclear. We have previously reported Notch 1, 2, and 3 to be expressed in murine Leydig cells and that inhibition of Notch signaling caused G0/G1 arrest in TM3 Leydig cells. METHOD In this study, we have further explored the effect of different Notch signal pathways on key steroidogenic enzymes in murine Leydig cells. TM3 cells were treated with Notch signaling pathway inhibitor MK-0752, and different Notch receptors were also overexpressed in TM3 cells. RESULT We evaluated the expression of key enzymes of steroid synthesis, including p450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450Scc), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), and key transcriptional factors for steroid synthesis, including steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1), GATA-binding protein 4 (GATA4) and GATA6. CONCLUSION We found the level of P450Scc, 3β-HSD, StAR and SF1 to be decreased after treatment with MK-0752, while overexpression of Notch1 up-regulated the expression of 3β-HSD, P450Scc, StAR and SF1. MK-0752 and overexpression of different Notch members had no influence on the expression of GATA4 and GATA6. In conclusion, Notch1 signaling may contribute to the steroid synthesis in Leydig cells through regulating SF1 and downstream steroidogenic enzymes (3β-HSD, StAR and P450Scc).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongdan Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Joint Programme of Nanchang University and Queen Mary University of London, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zaichao Wu
- Joint Programme of Nanchang University and Queen Mary University of London, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuxiang Zheng
- Joint Programme of Nanchang University and Queen Mary University of London, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Suo Han
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chunping Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangxi Medicine School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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13
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Ogawa K, Tanida T. Mixed-Culture Propagation of Uterine-Tissue-Resident Macrophages and Their Expression Properties of Steroidogenic Molecules. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030985. [PMID: 36979964 PMCID: PMC10046189 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030985] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue-resident macrophages (Mø) play tissue/organ-specific roles, and the physiological/pathological implications of uterine Mø in fertility and infertility are not yet fully understood. Herein, we report a simple propagation method for tissue-resident Mø by mixed culture with the respective tissue/organ-residing cells as the niche. We successfully propagated mouse uterine Mø by mixed culture with fibroblastic cells that exhibited properties of endometrial stromal cells. Propagated mouse uterine Mø were CD206- and arginase-1-positive; iNOS- and MHC-II-negative, indicating M2 polarization; and highly phagocytic, similar to endometrial Mø. Furthermore, uterine Mø were observed to express steroidogenic molecules including SRD5A1 and exhibited gap junction formation, likely with endometrial stromal cells. Accordingly, uterine Mø propagated by mixed culture may provide a new tool for studying immune-endocrine interactions related to fertility and infertility, particularly androgen's intracrine actions in preparing the uterine tissue environment to support implantation and pregnancy as well as in the etiology of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazushige Ogawa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-58 Rinku-Ourai-Kita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Takashi Tanida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 1-58 Rinku-Ourai-Kita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
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14
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Dang X, Fang L, Zhang Q, Liu B, Cheng JC, Sun YP. AREG upregulates secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine expression in human granulosa cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 561:111826. [PMID: 36462647 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111826] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a secreted glycoprotein and the expression of ovarian SPARC peaks during ovulation and luteinization. Besides, SPARC expression was induced by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in rat granulosa cells. Amphiregulin (AREG) is the most abundant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligand expressed in human granulosa cells and follicular fluid. AREG mediates the physiological functions of luteinizing hormone (LH)/hCG in the ovary. However, to date, the biological function of SPARC in the human ovary remains undetermined, and whether AREG regulates SPARC expression in human granulosa cells is unknown. In this study, we show that AREG upregulated SPARC expression via EGFR in a human granulosa-like tumor cell line, KGN. Treatment of AREG activated ERK1/2, JNK, p38 MAPK, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways and all of them were required for the AREG-induced SPARC expression. Using RNA-sequencing, we identified that steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) was a downstream target gene of SPARC. In addition, we demonstrated that SPARC mRNA levels were positively correlated with the levels of StAR mRNA in the primary culture of human granulosa cells. Moreover, SPARC protein levels were positively correlated with progesterone levels in follicular fluid of in vitro fertilization patients. This study provides the regulatory role of AREG on the expression of SPARC and reveals the novel function of SPARC in progesterone production in granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Dang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Boqun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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15
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Manna PR, Reddy AP, Pradeepkiran JA, Kshirsagar S, Reddy PH. Regulation of retinoid mediated StAR transcription and steroidogenesis in hippocampal neuronal cells: Implications for StAR in protecting Alzheimer's disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166596. [PMID: 36356843 PMCID: PMC9772146 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166596] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Retinoids (vitamin A and its derivatives) play pivotal roles in diverse processes, ranging from homeostasis to neurodegeneration, which are also influenced by steroid hormones. The rate-limiting step in steroid biosynthesis is mediated by the steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein. In the present study, we demonstrate that retinoids enhanced StAR expression and pregnenolone biosynthesis, and these parameters were markedly augmented by activation of the PKA pathway in mouse hippocampal neuronal HT22 cells. Deletion and mutational analyses of the 5'-flanking regions of the StAR gene revealed the importance of a retinoic acid receptor (RAR)/retinoid X receptor (RXR)-liver X receptor (LXR) heterodimeric motif at -200/-185 bp region in retinoid responsiveness. The RAR/RXR-LXR sequence motif can bind RARα and RXRα, and retinoid regulated transcription of the StAR gene was found to be influenced by the LXR pathway, representing signaling cross-talk in hippocampal neurosteroid biosynthesis. Steroidogenesis decreases during senescence due to declines in the central nervous system and the endocrine system, and results in hormone deficiencies, inferring the need for hormonal balance for healthy aging. Loss of neuronal cells, involving accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) and/or phosphorylated Tau within the brain, is the pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). HT22 cells overexpressing either mutant APP (mAPP) or mutant Tau (mTau), conditions mimetic to AD, enhanced toxicities, and resulted in attenuation of both basal and retinoid-responsive StAR and pregnenolone levels. Co-expression of StAR with either mAPP or mTau diminished cytotoxicity, and concomitantly elevated neurosteroid biosynthesis, pointing to a protective role of StAR in AD. These findings provide insights into the molecular events by which retinoid signaling upregulates StAR and steroid levels in hippocampal neuronal cells, and StAR, by rescuing mAPP and/or mTau-induced toxicities, modulates neurosteroidogenesis and restores hormonal balance, which may have important implications in protecting AD and age-related complications and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pulak R Manna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Arubala P Reddy
- Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | | | - Sudhir Kshirsagar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - P Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, 1301 Akron Ave, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA; Neurology, Departments of School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Public Health Department of Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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16
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Manna PR, Ramachandran S, Pradeepkiran JA, Molehin D, Castro-Piedras I, Pruitt K, Ganapathy V, Reddy PH. Expression and Function of StAR in Cancerous and Non-Cancerous Human and Mouse Breast Tissues: New Insights into Diagnosis and Treatment of Hormone-Sensitive Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24. [PMID: 36614200 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is primarily triggered by estrogens, especially 17β-estradiol (E2), which are synthesized by the aromatase enzyme. While all steroid hormones are derived from cholesterol, the rate-limiting step in steroid biosynthesis is mediated by the steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein. Herein, we demonstrate that StAR mRNA expression was aberrantly high in human hormone-dependent BC (MCF7, MDA-MB-361, and T-47D), modest in hormone-independent triple negative BC (TNBC; MDA-MB-468, BT-549, and MDA-MB-231), and had little to none in non-cancerous mammary epithelial (HMEC, MCF10A, and MCF12F) cells. In contrast, these cell lines showed abundant expression of aromatase (CYP19A1) mRNA. Immunofluorescence displayed qualitatively similar patterns of both StAR and aromatase expression in various breast cells. Additionally, three different transgenic (Tg) mouse models of spontaneous breast tumors, i.e., MMTV-Neu, MMTV-HRAS, and MMTV-PyMT, demonstrated markedly higher expression of StAR mRNA/protein in breast tumors than in normal mammary tissue. While breast tumors in these mouse models exhibited higher expression of ERα, ERβ, and PR mRNAs, their levels were undetected in TNBC tumors. Accumulation of E2 in plasma and breast tissues, from MMTV-PyMT and non-cancerous Tg mice, correlated with StAR, but not with aromatase, signifying the importance of StAR in governing E2 biosynthesis in mammary tissue. Treatment with a variety of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) in primary cultures of enriched breast tumor epithelial cells, from MMTV-PyMT mice, resulted in suppression of StAR and E2 levels. Importantly, inhibition of StAR, concomitant with E2 synthesis, by various HDACIs, at clinical and preclinical doses, in MCF7 cells, indicated therapeutic relevance of StAR in hormone-dependent BCs. These findings provide insights into the molecular events underlying the differential expression of StAR in human and mouse cancerous and non-cancerous breast cells/tissues, highlighting StAR could serve not only as a novel diagnostic maker but also as a therapeutic target for the most prevalent hormone-sensitive BCs.
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17
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Yang M, Ji Y, Yong T, Liu T, Yang S, Guo S, Meng F, Han X, Liang Q, Cao X, Huang L, Du X, Huang A, Kong F, Zeng X, Bu G. Corticosterone stage-dependently inhibits progesterone production presumably via impeding the cAMP- StAR cascade in granulosa cells of chicken preovulatory follicles. Poult Sci 2022; 102:102379. [PMID: 36608454 PMCID: PMC9829700 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102379] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress can suppress reproduction capacity in either wild or domestic animals, but the exact mechanism behind it, especially in terms of steroidogenesis, remains under-investigated so far. Considering the important roles of progesterone in avian breeding, we investigated the modulation of corticosterone on progesterone production in cultured granulosa cells of chicken follicles at different developmental stages. Using enzyme immunoassays, our study showed that corticosterone could only inhibit progesterone synthesis in granulosa cells from F5-6, F4, and F3 follicles, but not F2 and F1 follicles. Coincidentally, both quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting revealed that corticosterone could downregulate steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression, suggesting the importance of StAR in corticosterone-related actions. Using the dual-luciferase reporter system, we found that corticosterone can potentially enhance, rather than inhibit, the activity of StAR promoter. Of note, combining high-throughput transcriptomic analysis and quantitative real-time PCR, phosphodiesterase 10A (PDE10A), protein kinase cAMP-dependent type II regulatory subunit alpha (PRKAR2A) and cAMP responsive element modulator (CREM) were identified to exhibit the differential expression patterns consistent with cAMP blocking in granulosa cells from F5-6, F4, and F3, but not F2 and F1 follicles. Afterward, the expression profiles of these genes in granulosa cells of distinct developmental-stage follicles were examined by quantitative real-time PCR, in which all of them expressed correspondingly with progesterone levels of granulosa cells during development. Collectively, these findings indicate that corticosterone can stage-dependently inhibit progesterone production in granulosa cells of chicken preovulatory follicles, through impeding cAMP-induced StAR activity presumptively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China
| | - Yu Ji
- Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Tao Yong
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China
| | - Tuoyuan Liu
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China
| | - Shuai Yang
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China
| | - Shasha Guo
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China
| | - Fengyan Meng
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xingfa Han
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Qiuxia Liang
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xiaohan Cao
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Linyan Huang
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xiaogang Du
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Anqi Huang
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Fanli Kong
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xianyin Zeng
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Guixian Bu
- Isotope Research Laboratory, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an, 625014, PR China,Department of Bio-engineering and Applied Biology, College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China,Corresponding author:
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18
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Yue X, Kong Y, Zhang Y, Sun M, Liu S, Wu Z, Gao L, Liang X, Ma C. SREBF2- STARD4 axis confers sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating mitochondrial cholesterol homeostasis. Cancer Sci 2022; 114:477-489. [PMID: 35642354 PMCID: PMC9899602 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib resistance limits its survival benefit for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Cholesterol metabolism is dysregulated in HCC, and its role in sorafenib resistance of HCC has not been fully elucidated. Aiming to elucidate this, in vitro and in vivo sorafenib resistant models were established. Sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 2 (SREBF2), the key regulator of cholesterol metabolism, was activated in sorafenib resistant HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Knockdown of SREBF2 resensitized sorafenib resistant cells and xenografts tumors to sorafenib. Further study showed that SREBF2 positively correlated with StAR related lipid transfer domain containing 4 (STARD4) in our sorafenib resistant models and publicly available datasets. STARD4, mediating cholesterol trafficking, not only promoted proliferation and migration of HepG2 and Huh7 cells, but also increased sorafenib resistance in liver cancer. Mechanically, SREBF2 promoted expression of STARD4 by directly binding to its promoter region, leading to increased mitochondrial cholesterol levels and inhibition of mitochondrial cytochrome c release. Importantly, knockdown of SREBF2 or STARD4 decreased mitochondrial cholesterol levels and increased mitochondrial cytochrome c release, respectively. Moreover, overexpression of STARD4 reversed the effect of SREBF2 knockdown on mitochondrial cytochrome c release and sorafenib resistance. In conclusion, SREBF2 promotes STARD4 transcription, which in turn contributes to mitochondrial cholesterol transport and sorafenib resistance in HCC. Therefore, targeting the SREBF2-STARD4 axis would be beneficial to a subset of HCC patients with sorafenib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuetian Yue
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Youzi Kong
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Yankun Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo Medical College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Min Sun
- Department of Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Shuyue Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Zhuanchang Wu
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo Medical College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Lifen Gao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo Medical College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Xiaohong Liang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo Medical College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Chunhong Ma
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, and Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo Medical College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
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19
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Qu H, He K, Zou ZH, Niu G, Lu L, Yao B, Zhong WW, Wang DJ, Li W. Grim-19 plays a key role in mitochondrial steroidogenic acute regulatory protein stability and ligand-binding properties in Leydig cells. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102671. [PMID: 36334625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Grim-19 (gene associated with retinoid-IFN-induced mortality 19), the essential component of complex I of mitochondrial respiratory chain, functions as a noncanonical tumor suppressor by controlling apoptosis and energy metabolism. However, additional biological actions of Grim-19 have been recently suggested in male reproduction. We investigated here the expression and functional role of Grim-19 in murine testis. Testicular Grim-19 expression was detected from mouse puberty and increased progressively thereafter, and GRIM-19 protein was observed to be expressed exclusively in interstitial Leydig cells (LCs), with a prominent mitochondrial localization. In vivo lentiviral vector-mediated knockdown of Grim-19 resulted in a significant decrease in testosterone production and triggered aberrant oxidative stress in testis, thus impairing male fertility by inducing germ cell apoptosis and oligozoospermia. The control of testicular steroidogenesis by GRIM-19 was validated using the in vivo knockdown model with isolated primary LCs and in vitro experiments with MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cells. Mechanistically, we suggest that the negative regulation exerted by GRIM-19 deficiency-induced oxidative stress on steroidogenesis may be the result of two phenomena: a direct effect through inhibition of phosphorylation of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and subsequent impediment to StAR localization in mitochondria and an indirect pathway that is to facilitate the inhibiting role exerted by the extracellular matrix on the steroidogenic capacity of LCs via promotion of integrin activation. Altogether, our observations suggest that Grim-19 plays a potent role in testicular steroidogenesis and that its alterations may contribute to testosterone deficiency-related disorders linked to metabolic stress and male infertility.
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20
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Cheng JC, Han X, Meng Q, Guo Y, Liu B, Song T, Jia Y, Fang L, Sun YP. HB-EGF upregulates StAR expression and stimulates progesterone production through ERK1/2 signaling in human granulosa-lutein cells. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:166. [PMID: 36284301 PMCID: PMC9598000 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00983-4] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) belongs to the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family of growth factors. HB-EGF and its receptors, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and HER4, are expressed in the human corpus luteum. HB-EGF has been shown to regulate luteal function by preventing cell apoptosis. Steroidogenesis is the primary function of the human corpus luteum. Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) plays a critical role in steroidogenesis. StAR expression and progesterone (P4) production in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells have been shown to be upregulated by a ligand of EGFR, amphiregulin. However, whether HB-EGF can achieve the same effects remains unknown. Methods A steroidogenic human ovarian granulosa-like tumor cell line, KGN, and primary culture of hGL cells obtained from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment were used as experimental models. The underlying molecular mechanisms mediating the effects of HB-EGF on StAR expression and P4 production were explored by a series of in vitro experiments. Results Western blot showed that EGFR, HER2, and HER4 were expressed in both KGN and hGL cells. Treatment with HB-EGF for 24 h induced StAR expression but did not affect the expression of steroidogenesis-related enzymes, P450 side chain cleavage enzyme, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and aromatase. Using pharmacological inhibitors and a siRNA-mediated knockdown approach, we showed that EGFR, HER4, but not HER2, were required for HB-EGF-stimulated StAR expression and P4 production. In addition, HB-EGF-induced upregulations of StAR expression and P4 production were mediated by the activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Conclusion This study increases the understanding of the physiological role of HB-EGF in human luteal functions. Video Abstract
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-022-00983-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Chien Cheng
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Xiaoyu Han
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Qingxue Meng
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Yanjie Guo
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Boqun Liu
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Tinglin Song
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Yuanyuan Jia
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, Henan China
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21
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Jia Q, Liu B, Dang X, Guo Y, Han X, Song T, Cheng JC, Fang L. Growth differentiation factor-11 downregulates steroidogenic acute regulatory protein expression through ALK5-mediated SMAD3 signaling pathway in human granulosa-lutein cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:34. [PMID: 35183204 PMCID: PMC8857810 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00912-7] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growth differentiation factor-11 (GDF-11) belongs to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily. To date, the expression of GDF-11 in the ovary and its role in regulating ovarian function are completely unknown. Ovarian granulosa cell-mediated steroidogenesis plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal female reproductive function. GDF-11 and GDF-8 share high sequence similarity and exhibit many similar features and functions. Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) regulates the rate-limiting step in steroidogenesis and its expression can be downregulated by GDF-8. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of female infertility. The expression levels of GDF-8 are upregulated in the human follicular fluid and granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells of PCOS patients. However, whether similar results can be observed for the GDF-11 needs to be determined. METHODS The effect of GDF-11 on StAR expression and the underlying molecular mechanisms were explored by a series of in vitro experiments in a primary culture of hGL cells obtained from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Human follicular fluid samples were obtained from 36 non-PCOS patients and 36 PCOS patients. GDF-11 levels in follicular fluid were measured by ELISA. RESULTS GDF-11 downregulates StAR expression, whereas the expression levels of the P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) are not affected by GDF-11 in hGL cells. Using pharmacological inhibitors and a siRNA-mediated approach, we reveal that ALK5 but not ALK4 mediates the suppressive effect of GDF-11 on StAR expression. Although GDF-11 activates both SMAD2 and SMAD3 signaling pathways, only SMAD3 is involved in the GDF-11-induced downregulation of StAR expression. In addition, we show that SMAD1/5/8, ERK1/2, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways are not activated by GDF-11 in hGL cells. RT-qPCR and ELISA detect GDF-11 mRNA expression in hGL cells and GDF-11 protein expression in human follicular fluid, respectively. Interestingly, unlike GDF-8, the expression levels of GDF-11 are not varied in hGL cells and follicular fluid between non-PCOS and PCOS patients. CONCLUSIONS This study increases the understanding of the biological function of GDF-11 and provides important insights into the regulation of ovarian steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongqiong Jia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Boqun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xuan Dang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yanjie Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xiaoyu Han
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Tinglin Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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22
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Darghouthi M, Rezg R, Boughmadi O, Mornagui B. Low-dose bisphenol S exposure induces hypospermatogenesis and mitochondrial dysfunction in rats: A possible implication of StAR protein. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 107:104-111. [PMID: 34838688 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A wide variety of environmental chemicals/xenobiotics including bisphenol A (BPA) has been shown to cause male reproductive dysfunctions and infertility. Recently, bisphenol S (BPS) replaces BPA, in several products, including foodstuffs, under the BPA-free label. However, several studies have raised inquietude about the potential adverse effects of BPS. The present study was conducted to evaluate sperm parameters, biochemical parameters, mitochondrial function, and histopathological patterns after post-lactation BPS exposure at a low dose. Male rats (21 days old) were exposed to water containing BPS at 50 μg/L in drinking water for 10 weeks. Results showed no significant alteration in the gonadosomatic index (GSI) and relative reproductive organs weight. However, a significant reduction in epididymal sperm parameters (number, viability, and mobility) with morphological abnormalities were observed in the BPS group compared to control. An increase of malondialdehyde (MDA) level accompanied by antioxidant defense alteration particularly, in glutathione peroxidase activity, as well as a defective mitochondrial function were observed in testicular tissues of BPS treated rats. More importantly, in histopathological diagnosis, BPS treatment induces hypospermatogenesis and alteration in Sertoli cells. In silico docking studies illustrated BPS binds with steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein thereby affecting the transport of cholesterol into mitochondria resulting in decreased steroidogenesis. These results reflect a reprotoxic effect of BPS vould potentially lead to fertility reduction, in sexually maturity age. We highlighted that post-lactation exposure to BPS, equivalent in humans to the period covering childhood and adolescent stages, disrupt male reproduction function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malek Darghouthi
- LR18ES36, University of Gabes, Faculty of Sciences of Gabes, Gabes, Tunisia
| | - Raja Rezg
- BIOLIVAL LR-14ES06, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Olfa Boughmadi
- BIOLIVAL LR-14ES06, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Bessem Mornagui
- LR18ES36, University of Gabes, Faculty of Sciences of Gabes, Gabes, Tunisia.
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23
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Gholami SK, Tay CS, Lee JM, Zagoren E, Maris SA, Wong JY, Garza AE, Caliskan Guzelce E, Pojoga LH, Adler GK, Romero JR, Williams GH. Biological sex modifies aldosterone's secretion at a cellular level. J Endocrinol 2021; 252:1-13. [PMID: 34643545 DOI: 10.1530/joe-21-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Inconsistencies have been reported on the effect of sex on aldosterone (ALDO) levels leading to clinical confusion. The reasons for these inconsistencies are uncertain but include estrogen and/or its receptor modulating target gene responses to mineralocorticoid receptor activation and ALDO secretagogues' levels. This study's goal was to determine whether ALDO's biosynthesis also differed by sex. Two approaches were used. First, plasma renin activity and aldosterone were measured in rats. Both were significantly higher in males. Secondly, using rat zona glomerulosa (ZG) cells, we assessed three ex vivo areas: (1) activity/levels of early steps in ALDO's biosynthesis (StAR and CYP11A1); (2) activity/levels of a late step (CYP11B2); and (3) the status of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR)-mediated, ultrashort feedback loop. Females had higher expression of CYP11A1 and StAR and increased CYP11A1 activity (increased pregnenolone/corticosterone levels) but did not differ in CYP11B2 expression or activity (ALDO levels). Activating the ZG's MR (thereby activating the ultrashort feedback loop) reduced CYP11B2's activity similarly in both sexes. Exvivo, these molecular effects were accompanied, in females, by lower ALDO basally but higher ALDO with angiotensin II stimulation. In conclusion, we documented that not only was there a sex-mediated difference in the activity of ALDO's biosynthesis but also these differences at the molecular level help explain the variable reports on ALDO's circulating levels. Basally, both in vivo and ex vivo, males had higher ALDO levels, likely secondary to higher ALDO secretagogue levels. However, in response to acute stimulation, ALDO levels are higher in females because of the greater levels and/or activity of their StAR/CYP11A1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi K Gholami
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chee Sin Tay
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jessica M Lee
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Eleanor Zagoren
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephen A Maris
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Exercise Science and Athletic Training, Springfield College, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jian Yao Wong
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amanda E Garza
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ezgi Caliskan Guzelce
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luminita H Pojoga
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gail K Adler
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jose R Romero
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gordon H Williams
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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24
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Abstract
Steroidogenesis in the adrenal cortex or gonads is a complicated process, modulated by various elements either at the tissue or molecular level. The substrate-cholesterol is first delivered to the outer membrane of mitochondria, undergoing a series of enzymatic reactions along with the material exchange between the mitochondria and the ER (endoplasmic reticulum) and ultimately yield various steroids: aldosterone, cortisol, testosterone and estrone. Several valves are set to adjust the amount of production to the needs. e.g. StAR(steroidogenic acute regulator) is in charge of the rate-limiting step-traffic of cholesterol from outer membrane to inner membrane of mitochondria. And the "needs" is partly reflected by trophic signals like ACTH、LH and downstream pathways-- intracellular cAMP pathway, which represents the endocrinal regulation of steroid synthesis, too. The coordinated activities of these related factors are all associated with another crucial cellular constituent-the cytoskeleton, which plays a crucial role in the cellular architecture and substrate trafficking. Though considerable studies have been performed regarding steroid synthesis, details about the upstream signaling pathways and mechanisms of the regulation by cytoskeleton network still remain unclear. The metabolism and interplays of the pivotal cellular organelles with cytoskeleton are worth exploring as well. In this review, we summarize research of different time span, describing the roles of specific cytoskeleton elements in steroidogenesis and related signaling pathways involved in the steroid synthesis. In addition, we discussed the inner cytoskeletal network involved in steroidogenic processes such as mitochondrial movement, organelle interactions and cholesterol trafficking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaichao Wu
- Joint Program of Nanchang University and Queen Mary University of London, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi. China
| | - Chunping Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi. China
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25
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Judan Cruz KG, Landingin EP, Gajeton MB, Fernando SID, Watanabe K. Carotenoid coloration and coloration-linked gene expression in red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) tissues. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:314. [PMID: 34563199 PMCID: PMC8466994 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03006-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Production, marketability and consumer preference of red tilapia often depends upon the intensity of coloration. Hence, new approaches to develop coloration are now geared to improve market acceptability and profit. This study evaluated the effects of carotenoid-rich diets on the phenotypic coloration, carotenoid level, weight gain and expression of coloration-linked genes in skin, fin and muscle tissues. Carotenoids were extracted from dried Daucus carota peel, Ipomoea aquatica leaves, and Moringa oleifera leaves. Eighty (80) size-14 fish were fed with carotenoid-rich treatments twice a day for 120 days. The phenotypic effect of the carotenoid extracts was measured through a color chart. Skin carotenoid level was measured through UV-vis spectrophotometer. csf1ra, Bcdo2 and StAR expression analysis was done using qRT-PCR. Results Treatments with carotenoid extracts yielded higher overall scores on phenotypic coloration and tissue carotenoid levels. Differential expression of carotenoid-linked genes such as the elevated expression in csf1ra and lower expression in Bcdo2b following supplementation of the enhanced diet supports the phenotypic redness and increased carotenoid values in red tilapia fed with D. carota peel and I. aquatica leaves. Conclusions Overall improvement in the redness of the tilapia was achieved through the supplementation of carotenoid-rich diet derived from readily available plants. Differential expression of coloration-linked genes supports the increase in the intensity of phenotypic coloration and level of carotenoids in the tissues. The study emphasizes the importance of carotenoids in the commercial tilapia industry and highlights the potential of the plant extracts for integration and development of feeds for color enhancement in red tilapia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khristina G Judan Cruz
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Central Luzon State University, Nueva Ecija, Science City of Munoz, Philippines.
| | - Ervee P Landingin
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Central Luzon State University, Nueva Ecija, Science City of Munoz, Philippines
| | - Maureen B Gajeton
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Central Luzon State University, Nueva Ecija, Science City of Munoz, Philippines
| | - Somar Israel D Fernando
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Central Luzon State University, Nueva Ecija, Science City of Munoz, Philippines
| | - Kozo Watanabe
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 3, Matsuyama, 790-8577, Japan.,Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama, Ehime, 790-8577, Japan
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26
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Andersen CL, Byun H, Li Y, Xiao S, Miller DM, Wang Z, Viswanathan S, Hancock JM, Bromfield J, Ye X. Varied effects of doxorubicin (DOX) on the corpus luteum of C57BL/6 mice during early pregnancy. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1521-1532. [PMID: 34554181 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab180] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Certain chemotherapeutic drugs are toxic to ovarian follicles. The corpus luteum (CL) is normally developed from an ovulated follicle for producing progesterone (P4) to support early pregnancy. To fill in the knowledge gap about effects of chemotherapy on the CL, we tested the hypothesis that chemotherapy may target endothelial cells and/or luteal cells in the CL to impair CL function in P4 steroidogenesis using doxorubicin (DOX) as a representative chemotherapeutic drug in mice. In both mixed background mice and C57BL/6 mice, a single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (10 mg/kg) on 0.5 days post coitum (D0.5, post-ovulation) led to ~58% D3.5 mice with serum P4 levels lower than the serum P4 range in the PBS-treated control mice. Further studies in the C57BL/6 ovaries revealed that CLs from DOX-treated mice with low P4 levels had less defined luteal cords and disrupted collagen IV expression pattern, indicating disrupted capillary, accompanied with less differentiated luteal cells that had smaller cytoplasm and reduced StAR expression. DOX-treated ovaries had increased granulosa cell death in the growing follicles, reduced PCNA-positive endothelial cells in the CLs, enlarged lipid droplets and disrupted F-actin in the luteal cells. These novel data suggest that the proliferating endothelial cells in the developing CL may be the primary target of DOX to impair the vascular support for luteal cell differentiation and subsequently P4 steroidogenesis. This study fills in the knowledge gap about the toxic effects of chemotherapy on the CL and provides critical information for risk assessment of chemotherapy in premenopausal patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Lee Andersen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Haeyeun Byun
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Yuehuan Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Shuo Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Doris M Miller
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Zidao Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Suvitha Viswanathan
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Jonathan Matthew Hancock
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Jaymie Bromfield
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Xiaoqin Ye
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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27
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Biswas S, Maitra S. Altered redox homeostasis in steroid-depleted follicles attenuates hCG regulation of follicular events: Cross-talk between endocrine and IGF axis in maturing oocytes. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 172:675-687. [PMID: 34289395 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Steroids and insulin-like growth factors (Igfs) are indispensable for folliculogenesis and reproductive fitness in the vertebrate ovary. The intrafollicular redox balance is also of immense importance for ovarian follicles wherein low levels of ROS are being utilized for cell signalling and regulation of gene expression; its excess may interfere with normal physiological processes leading to ovotoxicity. However, the functional relevance of ovarian steroidogenesis in maintaining the follicular microenvironment with coordinated redox homeostasis and intra-ovarian growth factors axis is relatively less understood. Using zebrafish full-grown (FG) ovarian follicles in vitro, our study shows that blocking steroid biosynthesis with anti-steroidal drugs, DL-aminoglutethimide (AG) or Trilostane (Trilo), prevents hCG (LH analogue)-induced StAR expression concomitant with a robust increase in intrafollicular ROS levels. Congruent with heightened intracellular levels of superoxide anions (O2•-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), priming with AG or Trilo abrogates the transcript abundance of major antioxidant enzyme genes (SOD1, SOD2, and CAT) in hCG-stimulated follicles. Significantly, blocking steroidogenesis attenuates transcript abundance of HSP70 but elevates NOX4 expression potentially through ERα-mediated pathway. Importantly, disrupted redox balance in AG/Trilo pre-incubated FG follicles negatively impacts hCG-mediated activation of PKA/CREB signaling and transcriptional activation of igf ligands. Elevated ROS attenuation of antioxidant defense parameters and impaired endocrine and autocrine/paracrine homeostasis converge upon reduced p34cdc2 (Thr-161) phosphorylation, a reliable marker for MPF activation, and resumption of meiotic G2-M1 transition in hCG-treated follicles. Collectively, altered redox homeostasis in steroid-depleted follicles has a significant negative influence on GTH (LH) regulation of follicular events, specifically Igf synthesis, meiotic maturational competence and ovarian fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhasri Biswas
- Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, 731235, India
| | - Sudipta Maitra
- Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, 731235, India.
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Fang L, Guo Y, Li Y, Jia Q, Han X, Liu B, Chen J, Cheng JC, Sun YP. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate stimulates StAR expression and progesterone production in human granulosa cells through the 67-kDa laminin receptor-mediated CREB signaling pathway. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:687-695. [PMID: 34318927 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant and biologically active catechins extracted from green tea. The health benefits of EGCG have been extendedly studied. Ovarian steroidogenesis plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal reproductive function. Granulosa cells in the ovary are essential for steroid hormone production. To date, the effect of EGCG on steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells remains unclear. In the present study, we examine the physiological concentrations of EGCG on steroidogenesis in a steroidogenic human granulosa-like tumor cell line, KGN. Our results demonstrate that treatment with EGCG upregulates steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression and increases progesterone (P4) production. EGCG does not affect the expression levels of other steroidogenesis-related enzymes, such as P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and aromatase. In addition, we identify the expression of 67-kDa laminin receptor (67LR) in KGN cells. Moreover, EGCG-induced StAR expression and P4 production require the 67LR-mediated activation of the PKA-CREB signaling pathway. These results provide a better understanding of the function of EGCG on ovarian steroidogenesis, which may lead to the development of alternative therapeutic approaches for reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanjie Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiran Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiongqiong Jia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Han
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Boqun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiaye Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Fang L, Jia Q, Liu B, Yan Y, Han X, Guo Y, Cheng JC, Sun YP. BMP-9 downregulates StAR expression and progesterone production by activating both SMAD1/5/8 and SMAD2/3 signaling pathways in human granulosa-lutein cells obtained from gonadotropins induced ovarian cycles. Cell Signal 2021; 86:110089. [PMID: 34265413 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are expressed in different cell types of the human ovarian follicle and play important roles in the regulation of ovarian function. BMP-9, also known as growth differentiation factor-2 (GDF-2), belongs to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily. BMP-9 is mainly synthesized in the liver and secreted into the blood which allows it to regulate various physiological and pathological functions. To date, the expression of BMP-9 in the human ovary and its function in human granulosa cells remains unknown. In the present study, we detect the protein expression of BMP-9 in the human follicular fluid. Using the primary culture of human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells obtained from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization as a cell model, we show that treatment with BMP-9 downregulates steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression and suppresses progesterone (P4) production. The expression levels of the P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) are not affected by BMP-9 treatment. Mechanistically, treatment of hGL cells with BMP-9 activates both SMAD1/5/8 and SMAD2/3 signaling pathways. Blocking the activations of SMAD1/5/8 and SMAD2/3 by pharmacological inhibitors or knockdown of SMAD4 attenuates the inhibitory effects of BMP-9 on StAR expression and P4 production. This study reveals a novel function of BMP-9 in the regulation of ovarian steroidogenesis.
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30
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Hassen MT, Mohamed HK, Montaser MM, El-Sharnouby ME, Awad N, Ebiya RA. Molecular, Immunomodulatory, and Histopathological Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Beetroot Extract on Cisplatin Induced Testicular Damage in Albino Rats. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041142. [PMID: 33923635 PMCID: PMC8074130 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041142] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The chemotherapeutic agent Cisplatin (Cis) has testicular damage as a side effect. Therefore, efforts are being done by scientists to get over this effect. The current experiment was done to utilize bone marrow-derived stem cells (BM-MSCs) and beetroot extract (BRE) in reducing the Cis testicular damage in rats. In the current study, Cis reduced the sperm count, plasma testosterone level, the testicular activity of alkaline phosphatase beside a marked inhabitation of succinate dehydrogenase activity. Also, it significantly increased malondialdehyde and along with a marked decrease in testis reduced glutathione content and total antioxidant capacity. At the same time, Cis administration resulted in a marked elevation in interleukine-6 and the iNOS and caspase-3 genes, however it decreased the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Stem cell therapy (BM-MSCs) was accompanied with the use of herbal therapy (BRE) resulted in great improvement of all previous parameters. These results were confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. In conclusion the current study recommends the use of beetroot as natural food in combination with stem cell therapy for the patient suffering from the testicular side effect of cisplatin chemotherapy. Abstract Cisplatin (Cis) a drug commonly used as a chemotherapeutic agent to treat various types of cancer, inducing testicular damage. The present study aimed to investigate the inhibitory potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and beetroot extract (BRE) in albino rats after testicular toxicity induced by cisplatin. Thirty adult male albino rats were grouped into: the control group, Cis group receiving a single dose of 7 mg/kg i.p. (intraperitoneal) to induce testicular toxicity, Cis plus BM-MSCs injected Cis followed by 2 × 106 of BM-MSCs; Cis plus BRE group receiving Cis followed by 300 mg/kg body weight/day of BRE, and Cis plus BM-MSCs and BRE group. In the current study, Cis reduced sperm count, serum testosterone level, and testicular activity of alkaline phosphatase (AKP), besides a marked inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity. In addition, it significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and along with a marked decrease in testis reduced glutathione content and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). At the same time, Cis administration resulted in a marked elevation in interleukine-6 and the iNOS and caspase-3 genes; however, it decreased the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Combined treatment with BM-MSCs and BRE resulted in great improvement of all previous parameters. These results were also confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. In conclusion, both MSCs and BRE were found to have potent potentials to inhibit testicular damage induced by cisplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa T. Hassen
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11757, Egypt; (M.T.H.); (H.K.M.); (R.A.E.)
| | - Hanaa K. Mohamed
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11757, Egypt; (M.T.H.); (H.K.M.); (R.A.E.)
| | - Metwally M. Montaser
- Science and Technology Department, University College of Ranyah, Taif University, Ranyah 21975, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Nabil Awad
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Aswan University, Aswan 81528, Egypt;
- College of Biotechnology, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza 12563, Egypt
| | - Rasha A. Ebiya
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11757, Egypt; (M.T.H.); (H.K.M.); (R.A.E.)
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31
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Dattilo MA, Benzo Y, Herrera LM, Prada JG, Lopez PF, Caruso CM, Lasaga M, García CI, Paz C, Maloberti PM. Regulation and role of Acyl-CoA synthetase 4 in glial cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 208:105792. [PMID: 33246155 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2020.105792] [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: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Acyl-CoA synthetase 4 (Acsl4), an enzyme involved in arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism, participates in physiological and pathological processes such as steroidogenesis and cancer. The role of Acsl4 in neurons and in nervous system development has also been documented but little is known regarding its functionality in glial cells. In turn, several processes in glial cells, including neurosteroidogenesis, stellation and AA uptake, are regulated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signal. In this context, the aim of this work was to analyze the expression and functional role of Acsl4 in primary rat astrocyte cultures and in the C6 glioma cell line by chemical inhibition and stable silencing, respectively. Results show that Acsl4 expression was regulated by cAMP in both models and that cAMP stimulation of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein mRNA levels was reduced by Acsl4 inhibition or silencing. Also, Acsl4 inhibition reduced progesterone synthesis stimulated by cAMP and also affected cAMP-induced astrocyte stellation, decreasing process elongation and increasing branching complexity. Similar effects were observed for Acsl4 silencing on cAMP-induced C6 cell morphological shift. Moreover, Acsl4 inhibition and silencing reduced proliferation and migration of both cell types. Acsl4 silencing in C6 cells reduced the capacity for colony proliferation and neurosphere formation, the latter ability also being abolished by Acsl4 inhibition. In sum, this work presents novel evidence of Acsl4 involvement in neurosteroidogenesis and the morphological changes of glial cells promoted by cAMP. Furthermore, Acsl4 participates in migration and proliferation, also affecting cell self-renewal. Altogether, these findings provide insights into Acsl4 functions in glial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina A Dattilo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Yanina Benzo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lucia M Herrera
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jesica G Prada
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula F Lopez
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carla M Caruso
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Lasaga
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Corina I García
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Fundación Instituto Leloir and Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristina Paz
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula M Maloberti
- Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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32
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Pagotto MA, Roldán ML, Molinas SM, Raices T, Pisani GB, Pignataro OP, Monasterolo LA. Impairment of renal steroidogenesis at the onset of diabetes. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 524:111170. [PMID: 33482284 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates the association between changes in circulating sex steroid hormone levels and the development of diabetic nephropathy. However, the renal synthesis of steroid hormones during diabetes is essentially unknown. Male Wistar rats were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) or vehicle. After one week, no changes in functional or structural parameters related to kidney damage were observed in STZ group; however, a higher renal expression of proinflammatory cytokines and HSP70 was found. Expression of Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory protein (StAR) and P450scc (CYP11A1) was decreased in STZ kidneys. Incubation of isolated mitochondria with 22R-hydroxycholesterol revealed a marked inhibition in CYP11A1 function at the medullary level in STZ group. The inhibition of these first steps of renal steroidogenesis in early STZ-induced diabetes led to a decreased local synthesis of pregnenolone and progesterone. These findings stimulate investigation of the probable role of nephrosteroids in kidney damage associated with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina A Pagotto
- Institute of Experimental Physiology, National Scientific and Technical Research Council (IFISE-CONICET), Suipacha 531, PC 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - María L Roldán
- Pharmacology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Suipacha 531, PC 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Sara M Molinas
- Pharmacology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Suipacha 531, PC 2000, Rosario, Argentina; National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Trinidad Raices
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Signal Transduction, Institute of Biology and Experimental Medicine (IBYME)- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), PC C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Gerardo B Pisani
- Morphology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Suipacha 531, PC 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Omar P Pignataro
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology and Signal Transduction, Institute of Biology and Experimental Medicine (IBYME)- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), PC C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires (UBA), PC 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Liliana A Monasterolo
- Pharmacology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Suipacha 531, PC 2000, Rosario, Argentina; National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Argentina; Research Council of the National University of Rosario (CIC-UNR), Argentina.
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33
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Xiao Y, Zhao L, Li W, Wang X, Ma T, Yang L, Gao L, Li C, Zhang M, Yang D, Zhang J, Jiang H, Zhao H, Wang Y, Chao HW, Wang A, Jin Y, Chen H. Circadian clock gene BMAL1 controls testosterone production by regulating steroidogenesis-related gene transcription in goat Leydig cells. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:6706-6725. [PMID: 33598947 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [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: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone is produced by Leydig cells (LCs) and undergoes diurnal changes in serum levels in rats, mice, and humans, but little is known in goats. The present study revealed that goat serum testosterone levels displayed diurnal rhythmic changes (peak time at ZT11.2). Immunohistochemical staining showed that BMAL1, a circadian clock protein, is highly expressed in goat LCs. ELISA revealed that both hCG (0-5 IU/ml) and 22R-OH-cholesterol (0-30 μM) addition stimulated testosterone synthesis in primary goat LCs in a dose-dependent manner. Treating goat LCs with hCG (5 IU/ml) significantly increased intracellular cAMP levels. Additionally, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis revealed that the circadian clock (BMAL1, PER1, PER2, DBP, and NR1D1) and steroidogenesis-related genes (SF1, NUR77, StAR, HSD3B2, CYP17A1, CYP11A1, and HSD17B3) showed rhythmic expression patterns in goat LCs following dexamethasone synchronization. Several Bmal1-Luc circadian oscillations were clearly observed in dexamethasone-treated goat LCs transfected with the pLV6-Bmal1-Luc plasmid. BMAL1 knockdown significantly downregulated mRNA levels of PER2, NR1D1, DBP, StAR, HSD3B2, SF1, NUR77, and GATA4, and dramatically decreased StAR and HSD3B2 protein levels and testosterone production. In contrast, BMAL1 overexpression significantly increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of StAR and HSD17B3 and enhanced testosterone production. Reporter assays revealed that goat BMAL1, or in combination with mouse CLOCK, activated goat HSD17B3 transcription in vitro. These data indicate that BMAL1 contributes to testosterone production by regulating transcription of steroidogenesis-related genes in goat LCs, providing a basis for further exploring the underlying mechanism by which the circadian clock regulates ruminant reproductive capability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Xiao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lijia Zhao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Weidong Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tiantian Ma
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Luda Yang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Cuimei Li
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Manhui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dan Yang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haizhen Jiang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongcong Zhao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yiqun Wang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hsu-Wen Chao
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Aihua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Jin
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huatao Chen
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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Venditti M, Romano MZ, Aniello F, Minucci S. Preliminary Investigation on the Ameliorative Role Exerted by D-Aspartic Acid in Counteracting Ethane Dimethane Sulfonate (EDS) Toxicity in the Rat Testis. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11010133. [PMID: 33435542 PMCID: PMC7827869 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary For proper fertility, the production of good-quality spermatozoa is essential. Nowadays, many environmental pollutants affect the spermatogenetic process, at different levels. For this reason, new approaches are needed to prevent/counteract these toxic effects. Here, we showed that the excitatory amino acid D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) prevents the deadly action of ethane dimethane sulfonate (EDS) on the testosterone-secreting Leydig cells in rat testis. We found that EDS, probably via the reduced testosterone level, alters the normal histology of the seminiferous epithelium, leading to germ cells death and to the decreased protein level of two Leydig cell “markers”: steroidogenic acute regulatory and prolyl endopeptidase. In addition, the same analysis performed on rats that were pre-treated with D-Asp revealed a protective role of this compound, since all the above parameters were quite normal. Moreover, we found that the protective mechanism of action involved in this scenario may be due to the ability of D-Asp to reduce the oxidative stress induced by EDS. Based on these findings, we could affirm that D-Asp may be an encouraging candidate to be used to alleviate the harmful action due to environmental pollutants exposure, in order to maintain appropriate fertility. Abstract Herein is reported the first evidence of the protective role of D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) in preventing the toxic effect exerted by the alkylating agent ethane dimethane sulfonate (EDS) in the rat testis. We confirmed that EDS treatment specifically destroyed Leydig cells (LC), resulting in the drastic decrease of the serum testosterone level and producing morphological changes in the germinal tubules, i.e., altered organization of the epithelium, loss of cell contacts and the consequent presence of empty spaces between them, and a reduce number of spermatozoa. Moreover, an increase of TUNEL-positive germ cells, other than alteration in the protein level and localization of two LC “markers”, StAR and PREP, were observed. Interestingly, results obtained from rats pre-treated with D-Asp for 15 days before EDS-injection showed that all the considered parameters were quite normal. To explore the probable mechanism(s) involved in the protection exerted by D-Asp, we considered the increased oxidative stress induced by EDS and the D-Asp antioxidant effects. Thiobarbiturc acid-reactive species (TBARS) levels increased following EDS-injection, while no change was observed in the D-Asp + EDS treated rats. Our results showed that D-Asp may be used as a strategy to mitigate the toxic effects exerted by environmental pollutants, as endocrine disrupters, in order to preserve the reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (M.V.); (M.Z.R.)
| | - Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (M.V.); (M.Z.R.)
| | - Francesco Aniello
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli ‘Federico II, Via Cinthia’, 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (M.V.); (M.Z.R.)
- Correspondence:
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Smith LIF, Zhao Z, Walker J, Lightman S, Spiga F. Activation and expression of endogenous CREB-regulated transcription coactivators (CRTC) 1, 2 and 3 in the rat adrenal gland. J Neuroendocrinol 2021; 33:e12920. [PMID: 33314405 PMCID: PMC7900988 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The activation and nuclear translocation of cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB)-regulated transcription coactivator (CRTC)2 occurs in the rat adrenal gland, in response to adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and stressors, and has been implicated in the transcriptional regulation of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). We have recently demonstrated the activation of CRTC isoforms, CRTC1 and CRTC3, in adrenocortical cell lines. In the present study, we aimed to determine the activation and expression of the three CRTC isoforms in vivo in relation to Star transcription, under basal conditions and following a robust endotoxic stress challenge. Rat adrenal glands and blood plasma were collected following i.v. administration of either an ultradian-sized pulse of ACTH or administration of lipopolysaccharide, as well as under unstressed conditions across the 24-hour period. Plasma ACTH and corticosterone (CORT) were measured and the adrenal glands were processed for measurement of protein by western immunoblotting, RNA by a quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and association of CRTC2 and CRTC3 with the Star promoter by chromatin immunoprecipitation. An increase in nuclear localisation of CRTC2 and CRTC3 followed increases in both ultradian and endotoxic stress-induced plasma ACTH, and this was associated with increased CREB phosphorylation and corresponding increases in Star transcription. Both CRTC2 and CRTC3 were shown to associate with the Star promoter, with the dynamics of CRTC3 binding corresponding to that of nuclear changes in protein levels. CRTC isoforms show little variation in ultradian expression or variation across 24 hours, although evidence of long-term down-regulation following endotoxic stress was found. We conclude that co-transcription factors CRTC2 and, more clearly, CRTC3 appear to act alongside phosphorylated CREB in the generation of ultradian pulses of Star transcription, essential for the maintenance of basal StAR expression. Similarly, our findings suggest CRTC2 and CRTC3 mediate Star transcriptional initiation following an endotoxic stressor; however, other transcription factors are likely to be responsible for the long-term up-regulation of adrenal Star transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna I. F. Smith
- Bristol Medical School: Translational Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Zidong Zhao
- Bristol Medical School: Translational Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Jamie Walker
- Bristol Medical School: Translational Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical SciencesUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
- EPSRC Centre for Predictive Modelling in HealthcareUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Stafford Lightman
- Bristol Medical School: Translational Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Francesca Spiga
- Bristol Medical School: Translational Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
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Labib H, Galal A. Caffeine versus antioxidant combination (Antox) and their role in modifying cadmium-induced testicular injury in adult male albino rats. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13948. [PMID: 33372294 DOI: 10.1111/and.13948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the current work was to compare the roles of caffeine and antioxidants in prevention of cadmium-induced testicular damage when given, in addition to cadmium, in adult male albino rats. Histopathological and ultra-structural examination as well as biochemical and molecular assessments were done. Cadmium chloride (4 mg/kg body weight) was administered via oral gavage from day 21 to 28 of the experiment. Caffeine (25 mg/kg) via intra-peritoneal injection and antioxidant preparation (Antox) 10 mg/kg via oral gavage were given as a pre-treatment for 21 days and concomitantly with Cd from day 21 to 28. Real-time PCR was done for determination of 3, 17 β hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, caspase-9 and mitofusin 1,2 gene expression. Testosterone level, glutathione S-transferase enzyme activity, reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase were measured spectrophotometrically by ELISA. Histological and ultra-structural evaluation revealed disturbance of normal architecture, vacuolisation and necrosis. Vascular dilatation and congestion and collagen fibre deposition were present. A statistically significant difference was seen in all parameters when caffeine and antioxidants were given against cadmium-induced testicular injury. Overall, we conclude that both caffeine and antioxidants have the ability to reverse cadmium-induced testicular injury when given as pre-treatment prior to cadmium exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Labib
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Kasr Alainy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Galal
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Kasr Alainy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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Razin T, Melamed-Book N, Argaman J, Galin I, Lowy Y, Anuka E, Naftali-Shani N, Kandel-Kfir M, Garfinkel BP, Brielle S, Granot Z, Apte RN, Conway SJ, Molkentin JD, Kamari Y, Leor J, Orly J. Interleukin-1α dependent survival of cardiac fibroblasts is associated with StAR/STARD1 expression and improved cardiac remodeling and function after myocardial infarction. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2021; 155:125-37. [PMID: 33130150 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS One unaddressed aspect of healing after myocardial infarction (MI) is how non-myocyte cells that survived the ischemic injury, keep withstanding additional cellular damage by stress forms typically arising during the post-infarction inflammation. Here we aimed to determine if cell survival is conferred by expression of a mitochondrial protein novel to the cardiac proteome, known as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, (StAR/STARD1). Further studies aimed to unravel the regulation and role of the non-steroidogenic cardiac StAR after MI. METHODS AND RESULTS Following permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery in mouse heart, timeline western blot analyses showed that StAR expression corresponds to the inflammatory response to MI. Following the identification of StAR in mitochondria of cardiac fibroblasts in culture, confocal microscopy immunohistochemistry (IHC) identified StAR expression in left ventricular (LV) activated interstitial fibroblasts, adventitial fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Further work with the primary fibroblasts model revealed that interleukin-1α (IL-1α) signaling via NF-κB and p38 MAPK pathways efficiently upregulates the expression of the Star gene products. At the functional level, IL-1α primed fibroblasts were protected against apoptosis when exposed to cisplatin mimicry of in vivo apoptotic stress; yet, the protective impact of IL-1α was lost upon siRNA mediated StAR downregulation. At the physiological level, StAR expression was nullified during post-MI inflammation in a mouse model with global IL-1α deficiency, concomitantly resulting in a 4-fold elevation of apoptotic fibroblasts. Serial echocardiography and IHC studies of mice examined 24 days after MI revealed aggravation of LV dysfunction, LV dilatation, anterior wall thinning and adverse tissue remodeling when compared with loxP control hearts. CONCLUSIONS This study calls attention to overlooked aspects of cellular responses evolved under the stress conditions associated with the default inflammatory response to MI. Our observations suggest that LV IL-1α is cardioprotective, and at least one mechanism of this action is mediated by induction of StAR expression in border zone fibroblasts, which renders them apoptosis resistant. This acquired survival feature also has long-term ramifications on the heart recovery by diminishing adverse remodeling and improving the heart function after MI.
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Alotaibi MF, Al-Joufi F, Abou Seif HS, Alzoghaibi MA, Djouhri L, Ahmeda AF, Mahmoud AM. Umbelliferone Inhibits Spermatogenic Defects and Testicular Injury in Lead-Intoxicated Rats by Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation, and Improving Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling. Drug Des Devel Ther 2020; 14:4003-4019. [PMID: 33061305 PMCID: PMC7532898 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s265636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lead (Pb) is an environmental toxic metal that threatens human health. Umbelliferone (UMB) is a coumarin with known medicinal and protective properties against cytotoxicity. This study explored the ameliorative effect of UMB against Pb-induced testicular toxicity in rats, focusing on steroidogenesis, oxidative stress and inflammation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Rats received lead acetate (50 mg/kg) and UMB (25, 50 or 100 mg/kg) via oral gavage for 4 weeks. RESULTS Pb-intoxicated rats exhibited testicular tissue injury and decreased serum levels of LH, FSH and testosterone. The count, viability, motility and normal morphology of the sperms were decreased accompanied with downregulated steroidogenesis markers in Pb-induced group. UMB prevented testicular injury, increased serum levels of LH, FSH and testosterone, upregulated steroidogenesis markers and improved the semen quality. In addition, UMB attenuated oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage, downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and Bax, boosted antioxidant defenses and Bcl-2, and upregulated Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in Pb-intoxicated rats. CONCLUSION UMB prevents Pb-induced testicular injury by suppressing oxidative damage, inflammation and cell death, and boosting antioxidant defenses, Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and pituitary-gonadal axis. Thus, UMB may represent a protective and cost-effective agent against Pb testicular toxicity, pending further investigations to elucidate other underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed F Alotaibi
- Physiology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fakhria Al-Joufi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 2014, Saudi Arabia
| | - Howida S Abou Seif
- Medical Physiology Department, Medical Research Branch, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mohammed A Alzoghaibi
- Physiology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laiche Djouhri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Ahmad F Ahmeda
- College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ayman M Mahmoud
- Physiology Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
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Wang Z, El Zowalaty AE, Li Y, Andersen CL, Ye X. Association of luteal cell degeneration and progesterone deficiency with lysosomal storage disorder mucolipidosis type IV in Mcoln1-/- mouse model†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:782-790. [PMID: 31317194 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential cation channel, mucolipin subfamily, member 1 (TRPML1) (MCOLN1/Mcoln1) is a lysosomal counter ion channel. Mutations in MCOLN1 cause mucolipidosis type IV (MLIV), a progressive and severe lysosomal storage disorder with a slow onset. Mcoln1-/- mice recapitulate typical MLIV phenotypes but roles of TRPML1 in female reproduction are unknown. Despite normal mating activities, Mcoln1-/- female mice had reduced fertility at 2 months old and quickly became infertile at 5 months old. Progesterone deficiency was detected on 4.5 days post coitum/gestation day 4.5 (D4.5). Immunohistochemistry revealed TRPML1 expression in luteal cells of wild type corpus luteum (CL). Corpus luteum formation was not impaired in 5-6 months old Mcoln1-/- females indicated by comparable CL numbers in control and Mcoln1-/- ovaries on both D1.5 and D4.5. In the 5-6 months old Mcoln1-/- ovaries, histology revealed less defined corpus luteal cord formation, extensive luteal cell vacuolization and degeneration; immunofluorescence revealed disorganized staining of collagen IV, a basal lamina marker for endothelial cells; Nile Red staining detected lipid droplet accumulation, a typical phenotype of MLIV; immunofluorescence of heat shock protein 60 (HSP60, a mitochondrial marker) and in situ hybridization of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR, for the rate-limiting step of steroidogenesis) showed reduced expression of HSP60 and StAR, indicating impaired mitochondrial functions. Luteal cell degeneration and impaired mitochondrial functions can both contribute to progesterone deficiency in the Mcoln1-/- mice. This study demonstrates a novel function of TRPML1 in maintaining CL luteal cell integrity and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zidao Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Ahmed E El Zowalaty
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Yuehuan Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Christian L Andersen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Xiaoqin Ye
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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Czuchlej SC, Volonteri MC, Scaia MF, Ceballos NR. Characterization of StAR protein of Rhinella arenarum (Amphibia, Anura). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 295:113535. [PMID: 32535173 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113535] [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: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein performs the delivery of cholesterol from the outer to inner mitochondrial membrane. This is considered the rate-limiting step of acute steroid production, widely studied in mammals. However, there are only few reports regarding the characterization and expression of StAR protein in non-mammalian vertebrates. In this study, StAR protein sequence of Rhinella arenarum has been characterized and deduced from interrenal and testis cDNA sequences. StAR encodes a 285 amino acid protein with a conserved domain containing putative lipid binding sites. In vitro incubations showed that expression of StAR mRNA in testis, determined by qPCR, and testosterone synthesis determined by radioimmunoassay were stimulated after treatment with hCG and 8Br-cAMP. However, StAR mRNA expression results obtained with hCG show a higher stimulation than those obtained with 8Br-cAMP, even though steroidogenic production is the same with both treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cristina Czuchlej
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - María Clara Volonteri
- Instituto de Diversidad y Evolución Austral (IDEAus CENPAT-CONICET). Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina.
| | - María Florencia Scaia
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Nora Raquel Ceballos
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Katharopoulos E, Di Iorgi N, Fernandez-Alvarez P, Pandey AV, Groessl M, Dubey S, Camats N, Napoli F, Patti G, Lezzi M, Maghnie M, Flück CE. Characterization of Two Novel Variants of the Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein Identified in a Girl with Classic Lipoid Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176185. [PMID: 32867102 PMCID: PMC7504070 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) consists of several autosomal recessive disorders that inhibit steroid biosynthesis. We describe a case report diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency due to low adrenal steroids and adrenocorticotropic hormone excess due to lack of cortisol negative feedback signaling to the pituary gland. Genetic work up revealed two missense variants, p.Thr204Arg and p.Leu260Arg in the STAR gene, inherited by both parents (non-consanguineous). The StAR protein supports CYP11A1 enzyme to cleave the side chain of cholesterol and synthesize pregnenolone which is metabolized to all steroid hormones. We used bioinformatics to predict the impact of the variants on StAR activity and then we performed functional tests to characterize the two novel variants. In a cell system we tested the ability of variants to support cholesterol conversion to pregnenolone and measured their mRNA and protein expression. For both variants, we observed loss of StAR function, reduced protein expression and categorized them as pathogenic variants according to guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology. These results fit the phenotype of the girl during diagnosis. This study characterizes two novel variants and expands the list of missense variants that cause CAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathios Katharopoulos
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology & Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.V.P.); (S.D.)
- Department of Biomedical Research, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
- Graduate School Bern, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Natascia Di Iorgi
- Department of Paediatrics, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (N.D.I.); (F.N.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (M.M.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Paula Fernandez-Alvarez
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics and Rare Disease Unit, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Amit V. Pandey
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology & Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.V.P.); (S.D.)
- Department of Biomedical Research, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Michael Groessl
- Department of Biomedical Research, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Shraddha Dubey
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology & Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.V.P.); (S.D.)
- Department of Biomedical Research, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Núria Camats
- Growth and Development Research Unit, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Centre of Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Flavia Napoli
- Department of Paediatrics, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (N.D.I.); (F.N.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Giuseppa Patti
- Department of Paediatrics, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (N.D.I.); (F.N.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (M.M.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Marilea Lezzi
- Department of Paediatrics, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (N.D.I.); (F.N.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (M.M.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Mohamad Maghnie
- Department of Paediatrics, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, 16147 Genoa, Italy; (N.D.I.); (F.N.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (M.M.)
| | - Christa E. Flück
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology & Metabolism, Bern University Hospital, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.V.P.); (S.D.)
- Department of Biomedical Research, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
- Correspondence:
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Chaudhari RK, Mahla AS, Singh SK, Pawde AM, Badasara SK, Kumar H, Patra MK, Krishnaswamy N. Effect of dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on the expression of genes involved in progesterone biosynthesis in the corpus luteum of goat (Capra hircus). Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1263-1266. [PMID: 32594630 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13757] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) alter the fatty acid composition of corpus luteum (CL) and directly affect the luteal function in the cow, which is independent of the inhibitory effect on the endometrial PGF2α production. The present study, thus, investigated the effects of n-3 PUFA rich fish oil (FO) supplementation on the transcriptional modulation of genes involved in the biosynthesis of progesterone (P4 ) in the CL collected during the luteolytic phase of oestrous cycle in the goat. On the day of synchronized oestrus, goats (n = 6/group) were fed an isocaloric diet supplemented with either FO or palm oil (PO). The dose of oil supplementation was 0.6 mlkg-1 body weight, and the duration was 55-57 days. The FO provided 156 mgkg-1 body weight of n-3 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The CL was collected by laparotomy on day 16 post-oestrus, and the relative abundance of P450 side-chain cleaving enzyme, steroid acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3β-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) genes was quantitated by real-time PCR. The results indicated that the dietary FO significantly upregulated the expression of 3β-HSD by 1.13-fold and downregulated StAR by ~2-fold as compared to PO group (p < .05). It is concluded that dietary FO differently affected the expression of genes involved in P4 synthesis in the CL during the luteolytic window of the oestrous cycle in the goat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravjibhai Karshanbhai Chaudhari
- Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India.,College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Dantiwada, India
| | - Ajit Singh Mahla
- ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar Singh
- Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India
| | - Abhijit M Pawde
- Division of Veterinary Surgery, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India
| | | | - Harendra Kumar
- Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India
| | - Manas Kumar Patra
- Livestock Production and Management Section, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, India
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Li X, Wang Y, Zhu Q, Yuan K, Su Z, Ge F, Ge RS, Huang Y. Epidermal growth factor regulates the development of stem and progenitor Leydig cells in rats. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:7313-7330. [PMID: 32441057 PMCID: PMC7339176 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor (EGF) has many physiological roles. However, its effects on stem and progenitor Leydig cell development remain unclear. Rat stem and progenitor Leydig cells were cultured with different concentrations of EGF alone or in combination with EGF antagonist, erlotinib or cetuximab. EGF (1 and 10 ng/mL) stimulated the proliferation of stem Leydig cells on the surface of seminiferous tubules and isolated CD90+ stem Leydig cells and progenitor Leydig cells but it blocked their differentiation. EGF also exerted anti‐apoptotic effects of progenitor Leydig cells. Erlotinib and cetuximab are able to reverse EGF‐mediated action. Gene microarray and qPCR of EGF‐treated progenitor Leydig cells revealed that the down‐regulation of steroidogenesis‐related proteins (Star and Hsd3b1) and antioxidative genes. It was found that EGF acted as a proliferative agent via increasing phosphorylation of AKT1. In conclusion, EGF stimulates the proliferation of rat stem and progenitor Leydig cells but blocks their differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Cell Biology & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Kaiming Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhijian Su
- Department of Cell Biology & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Sreerangaraja Urs DB, Wu WH, Komrskova K, Postlerova P, Lin YF, Tzeng CR, Kao SH. Mitochondrial Function in Modulating Human Granulosa Cell Steroidogenesis and Female Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3592. [PMID: 32438750 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicle steroidogenesis associated with embryo quality results in a successful pregnancy. Each follicle consists of an oocyte surrounded by granulosa cells, which secrete several steroid and peptide hormones. Follicles harvested from women who conceived after assisted reproductive therapy (ART) had significantly higher estradiol levels in follicular fluids than the follicles from women who failed to conceive after ART. The higher follicular estradiol levels correlate well with successful fertilization following ART. Mitochondria are the central sites for steroid hormone biosynthesis. The first and rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of steroid hormones occurs in the mitochondria of granulosa cells. In the present study, we hypothesized that the mitochondria in granulosa cells are critical for maintaining oocyte quality and fertility capacity. This study aims to clarify the relationship between mitochondrial function and granulosa cell steroidogenesis, and the relationship between hormone levels and fertility capacity. Sera, follicular fluids and granulosa cells were obtained from individuals undergoing IVF-ET treatment. The oocyte numbers, oocyte quality, fertilization rate, and pregnancy rate were also recorded. The patients who provided the granulosa cells were further classified into four groups: endometriosis, ovarian endometrioma, endometriosis without ovarian endometrioma, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); patients with other female factor infertility and male factor infertility were used as controls. We measured the levels of estradiol (E2) by radioimmunoassay. Concurrently, we analyzed the mitochondrial mass and membrane potential, and apoptosis by flow cytometry using nonyl acridine orange, TMRE, Annexin V-FITC and PI. Mitochondrial morphology was visualized by transfection with pLV-mitoDsRed. In addition, we assessed the protein levels of steroidogenic enzymes, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) by Western blot. The results showed significantly decreased serum E2 and follicular E2 levels, and decreased IVF outcomes, in the patients with endometriosis. Reduced mitochondrial mass and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential were correlated with lower E2. Furthermore, a significant decrease in StAR and 3β-HSD was found in patients with ovarian endometrioma. The enzyme levels of StAR and 3β-HSD were highly correlated with E2 levels. Finally, elevated cumulus cell apoptosis was found in the patient group with ovarian endometrioma and PCOS. In conclusion, mitochondrial dysfunction of human granulosa cells may contribute to the decline of steroidogenesis, decreased fertilization rate, oocyte maturation rate, and oocyte quality, and it can ultimately jeopardize fertility.
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Santillo A, Giacco A, Falvo S, Di Giacomo Russo F, Senese R, Di Fiore MM, Chieffi Baccari G, Lanni A, de Lange P. Mild Exercise Rescues Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis in Rats Submitted to Food Withdrawal. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:302. [PMID: 32477274 PMCID: PMC7237727 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The present investigation was undertaken to increase our insight into the molecular basis of the physiological changes in rat testis induced by food withdrawal, and to clarify whether reduced testicular function can be ameliorated by mild exercise. Male rats were selected for four separate experiments. The first of each group was chow-fed, the second was chow-fed and submitted to exercise (5 bouts in total for 30 min at 15 m/min, and 0° inclination), the third was submitted to food withdrawal (66 h) and the fourth was submitted to food withdrawal and to exercise. At the end of experiments, we investigated (i) serum and testicular sex hormone levels; (ii) protein levels of StAR, 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and P450 aromatase, which play a key role in steroid hormone biosynthesis; and (iii) protein levels of mitotic and meiotic markers of spermatogenesis in rats, in relation to testis morphology and morphometry. We found that mild exercise or food withdrawal alone induced a significant increase or decrease in both serum and testis testosterone levels, respectively. Interestingly, we found that these levels were brought back to basal levels when food withdrawal was combined with mild exercise. The changes in testosterone levels observed in our experimental groups correlated well with the expression of steroidogenic enzymes as well as with spermatogenic activity. With mild exercise the increased testosterone/17β-estradiol (T/E2) ratio in the testis correlated with an increased spermatogenic activity. The T/E2 ratio dropped in fasted rats and was significantly reversed when food withdrawal was combined with exercise. Histological and morphometric analyses confirmed that spermatogenic activity varied in concomitance with each experimental condition. Importantly, the testis and serum T/E2 ratios correlated, confirming that exercise rescues the decline in food withdrawal-induced spermatogenesis. In conclusion, this study highlights that mild exercise normalizes the reduced spermatogenic activity caused by food withdrawal through the modulation of the steroidogenic pathway and restoring the T/E2 ratio, underlining the beneficial effects of mild exercise on the prevention and/or amelioration of reduced testis function caused by restricted caloric intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santillo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonia Giacco
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
| | - Federica Di Giacomo Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosalba Senese
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonia Lanni
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
| | - Pieter de Lange
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli, ”Caserta, Italy
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Wang Q, Dong J, Lu W, He H, Sun X, Zhang K, Song Q, Jiang Y, Wang Y, Li C, Tu P. Phenylethanol glycosides from Cistanche tubulosa improved reproductive dysfunction by regulating testicular steroids through CYP450-3β-HSD pathway. J Ethnopharmacol 2020; 251:112500. [PMID: 31881320 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk) R. Wight has been used frequently in traditional folk medicine for treatment of male sexual dysfunction (MSD). Phenylethanol glycosides, the main components of C. tubulosa, possess a variety of pharmacological activities due to their multiple properties. However, the underlying mechanism by which phenylethanol glycosides from C. tubulosa (CPhGs) regulates testicular steroids has not been elucidated to date. AIM OF THE STUDY This study is to determine whether CPhGs promotes the reproductive functions of mice through CYP450-3β-HSD pathway of testosterone synthesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The major compositions of C. tubulosa (CPhGs) were quantified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The model of reproductive injury in mice were induced by injection of hydrocortisone (HCT). Different doses of CPhGs (72, 145 and 289 mg/kg) and testosterone propionate (TP, positive control drug) were administrated intragastrically for 14 d. The reproductive functions (erectile incubation period, capture and ejaculation incubation period, number of captures and ejaculations) and organ weights (testicle, epididymis, seminal vesicle and penis) were then determined. The levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone in serum were quantified by radioimmunoassay. The key enzymes in testosterone synthesis pathways such as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P450 cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc/CYP11A1) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) in the testis were assessed by immunofluorescence (IF) staining or/and Western blot (WB) analysis. RESULTS The results illustrated that the low dose of CPhGs (72 mg/kg) had no significant protective effect against the reproductive injury caused by HCT, while the moderate dose of CPhGs (145 mg/kg) improved the damaged reproductive ability and the declined levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone in the model mice (P < 0.001, P < 0.05, respectively). In particular, high dose of CPhGs (289 mg/kg) was most effective in improving HCT-induced changes in body weight (P < 0.01), reducing the incubation period of the erectile (P < 0.001), capture (P < 0.05) and ejaculation (P < 0.01), and increasing the number of captures and ejaculations (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, respectively). The weights of testcle, epididymis, seminal vesicle and penis (P < 0.001, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.001, respectively) were improved by high dose of CPhGs. The levels of testosterone and its upstream luteinizing hormone were up-regulated by high dose of CPhGs (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, the expressions of the key steroidogenic enzymes including CYP11A1 and 3β-HSD were significantly up-regulated after CPhGs treatment (P < 0.001), demonstrated that CPhGs exerted the effect through enhancing testosterone biosynthesis via CYP450-3β-HSD pathway. CONCLUSIONS CPhGs could significantly protect against HCT-induced deleterious reproductive dysfunction and testis injury. The protective effects were exerted by up-regulating synthesis of testosterone via the CYP450-3β-HSD pathway in Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixin Wang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jianteng Dong
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Wenji Lu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Hao He
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xiaoqian Sun
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Qingqing Song
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yong Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Chun Li
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Pengfei Tu
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Accialini P, Bechis A, Irusta G, Bianchi MS, Parborell F, Abramovich D, Tesone M. Modulation of the Notch System in Response to Wnt Inhibition Induces Restoration of the Rat Luteal Function. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:503-512. [PMID: 32046463 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00043-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether the Notch pathway is modulated in response to the downregulation of the Wnt/Β-catenin system in corpora lutea (CLs) from superovulated rats. To this end, we analyzed the effect of in vitro CL Wnt/Β-catenin inhibition on the expression of Notch members and on luteal function. Mechanically isolated rat CLs were cultured with ICG-001, a Wnt/B-catenin inhibitor. In this system, Wnt/B-catenin inhibition reduced progesterone production and decreased StAR protein levels. Besides, Wnt/B-catenin inhibition stimulated the Notch system, evidenced by an increase in Hes1 expression, and promoted the expression of selected Notch family members. At long incubation times, StAR levels and progesterone concentration reached the control values, effects probably mediated by the Notch pathway. These results provide the first evidence of a compensatory mechanism between Wnt/B-catenin signaling and the Notch system, which contributes to the homeostasis of luteal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Accialini
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrés Bechis
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Griselda Irusta
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maria Silvia Bianchi
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernanda Parborell
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Dalhia Abramovich
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marta Tesone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Smith LIF, Huang V, Olah M, Trinh L, Liu Y, Hazell G, Conway-Campbell B, Zhao Z, Martinez A, Lefrançois-Martinez AM, Lightman S, Spiga F, Aguilera G. Involvement of CREB-regulated transcription coactivators (CRTC) in transcriptional activation of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein ( Star) by ACTH. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 499:110612. [PMID: 31604124 PMCID: PMC6899503 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110612] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Studies in vivo have suggested the involvement of CREB-regulated transcription coactivator (CRTC)2 on ACTH-induced transcription of the key steroidogenic protein, Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory (StAR). The present study uses two ACTH-responsive adrenocortical cell lines, to examine the role of CRTC on Star transcription. Here we show that ACTH-induced Star primary transcript, or heteronuclear RNA (hnRNA), parallels rapid increases in nuclear levels of the 3 isoforms of CRTC; CRTC1, CRTC2 and CRTC3. Furthermore, ACTH promotes recruitment of CRTC2 and CRTC3 by the Star promoter and siRNA knockdown of either CRTC3 or CRTC2 attenuates the increases in ACTH-induced Star hnRNA. Using pharmacological inhibitors of PKA, MAP kinase and calcineurin, we show that the effects of ACTH on Star transcription and CRTC nuclear translocation depend predominantly on the PKA pathway. The data provides evidence that CRTC2 and CRTC3, contribute to activation of Star transcription by ACTH, and that PKA/CRTC-dependent pathways are part of the multifactorial mechanisms regulating Star transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna I F Smith
- Section on Endocrine Physiology, Program on Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA; Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Victoria Huang
- Section on Endocrine Physiology, Program on Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark Olah
- Section on Endocrine Physiology, Program on Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Loc Trinh
- Section on Endocrine Physiology, Program on Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ying Liu
- Section on Endocrine Physiology, Program on Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Georgina Hazell
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Becky Conway-Campbell
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Zidong Zhao
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Antoine Martinez
- Génétique Reproduction & Développement, CNRS UMR 6293, Inserm U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Anne-Marie Lefrançois-Martinez
- Génétique Reproduction & Développement, CNRS UMR 6293, Inserm U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, 63001, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Stafford Lightman
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Francesca Spiga
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Greti Aguilera
- Section on Endocrine Physiology, Program on Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Abstract
miRNAs are endogenous noncoding single-stranded small RNAs of ~22 nucleotides in length that post-transcriptionally repress the expression of their various target genes. They contribute to the regulation of a variety of physiologic processes including embryonic development, differentiation and proliferation, apoptosis, metabolism, hemostasis and inflammation. In addition, aberrant miRNA expression is implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases including cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic diseases. Steroid hormones regulate virtually every aspect of metabolism, and acute and chronic steroid hormone biosynthesis is primarily regulated by tissue-specific trophic hormones involving transcriptional and translational events. In addition, it is becoming increasingly clear that steroidogenic pathways are also subject to post-transcriptional and post-translational regulations including processes such as phosphorylation/dephosphorylation, protein‒protein interactions and regulation by specific miRNAs, although the latter is in its infancy state. Here, we summarize the recent advances in miRNA-mediated regulation of steroidogenesis with emphasis on adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salman Azhar
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Dachuan Dong
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Wen-Jun Shen
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Zhigang Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology and College of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fredric B Kraemer
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford, California, USA
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Mohamed MA, Ahmed MA, El Sayed RA. Molecular effects of Moringa leaf extract on insulin resistance and reproductive function in hyperinsulinemic male rats. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2019; 18:487-494. [PMID: 31890674 PMCID: PMC6915189 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-019-00454-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many studies have reported that insulin resistance impairs the antioxidant defense system and causes male infertility. Moringa oleifera is a medicinal plant that has been employed for the medicament of many disorders. It controls the levels of glucose and manages male sexual disorders. However, its extracts can reverse insulin resistance-linked metabolic alterations remains unknown. Therefore, the current study investigated the potential of the aqueous leaves extract from Moringa oleifera to reverse insulin resistance and testicular disorders in rats. METHODS Rats were fed either a chow (as a control group) or a high fructose diet (HFD, to persuade a state of insulin resistance), in addition to a group of rats fed HFD and treated with Moringa (300 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. RESULTS Moringa reversed hepatic insulin insensitivity and this was linked to up-regulation of genes involved in insulin receptors and glucose uptake in the liver. These results were associated with amended the insulin level in serum and standardization of insulin sensitivity. In addition, it improved the serum testosterone level and the gene expression of the testicular steridogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD). CONCLUSION Taken together, our findings demonstrate that Moringa reversed HFD diet-induced insulin resistance and improved the testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona A. Mohamed
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mervat A. Ahmed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Bisha University, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rasha A. El Sayed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
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