Editorial

4 pages, 198 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms

by Annunziata Mauro, Paolo Berardinelli and Barbara Barboni

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(11), 6303; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23116303 - 04 Jun 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1263

The intention of this Special Edition was to collect review and original research articles that illustrate and stimulate the growing efforts to highlight the mechanisms of action of gonadotropins, as well as deepen our understanding of their biological roles in health and disease, [...] Read more.

The intention of this Special Edition was to collect review and original research articles that illustrate and stimulate the growing efforts to highlight the mechanisms of action of gonadotropins, as well as deepen our understanding of their biological roles in health and disease, aiming at revealing novel therapeutic opportunities in reproductive and regenerative medicine [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

Research

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18 pages, 3368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of P₄ Antagonist RU486 on VEGF and Its Receptors’ Signaling during the In Vivo Transition from the Preovulatory to Periovulatory Phase of Ovarian Follicles

by Annunziata Mauro, Paolo Berardinelli, Valentina Russo, Nicola Bernabò, Alessandra Martelli, Delia Nardinocchi, Oriana Di Giacinto, Maura Turriani and Barbara Barboni

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(24), 13520; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222413520 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2256

Abstract

The development of an adequate blood vessel network is crucial for the accomplishment of ovarian follicle growth and ovulation, which is necessary to support the proliferative and endocrine functions of the follicular cells. Although the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) through gonadotropins guides [...] Read more.

The development of an adequate blood vessel network is crucial for the accomplishment of ovarian follicle growth and ovulation, which is necessary to support the proliferative and endocrine functions of the follicular cells. Although the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) through gonadotropins guides ovarian angiogenesis, the role exerted by the switch on of Progesterone (P₄) during the periovulatory phase remains to be clarified. The present research aimed to investigate in vivo VEGF-mediated mechanisms by inducing the development of periovulatory follicles using a pharmacologically validated synchronization treatment carried out in presence or absence of P₄ receptor antagonist RU486. Spatio-temporal expression profiles of VEGF, FLT1, and FLK1 receptors and the two major MAPK/ERKs and PI3K/AKT downstream pathways were analyzed on granulosa and on theca compartment. For the first time, the results demonstrated that in vivo administration of P₄ antagonist RU486 inhibits follicular VEGF receptors’ signaling mainly acting on the theca layer by downregulating the activation of ERKs and AKTs. Under the effect of RU486, periovulatory follicles’ microarchitecture did not move towards the periovulatory stage. The present evidence provides new insights on P₄ in vivo biological effects in driving vascular and tissue remodeling during the periovulatory phase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

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22 pages, 3636 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin as an Effective FSH Replacement for In Vitro Ovine Follicle and Oocyte Development

by Chiara Di Berardino, Alessia Peserico, Giulia Capacchietti, Martina Crociati, Maurizio Monaci, Umberto Tosi, Annunziata Mauro, Valentina Russo, Nicola Bernabò and Barbara Barboni

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(22), 12422; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222212422 - 17 Nov 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2423

Abstract

The use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) still requires strategies through which to maximize individual fertility chances. In vitro folliculogenesis (ivF) may represent a valid option to convey the large source of immature oocytes in ART. Several efforts have been made [...] Read more.

The use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) still requires strategies through which to maximize individual fertility chances. In vitro folliculogenesis (ivF) may represent a valid option to convey the large source of immature oocytes in ART. Several efforts have been made to set up ivF cultural protocols in medium-sized mammals, starting with the identification of the most suitable gonadotropic stimulus. In this study, Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin (eCG) is proposed as an alternative to Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) based on its long superovulation use, trans-species validation, long half-life, and low costs. The use of 3D ivF on single-ovine preantral (PA) follicles allowed us to compare the hormonal effects and to validate their influence under two different cultural conditions. The use of eCG helped to stimulate the in vitro growth of ovine PA follicles by maximizing its influence under FBS-free medium. Higher performance of follicular growth, antrum formation, steroidogenic activity and gap junction marker expression were recorded. In addition, eCG, promoted a positive effect on the germinal compartment, leading to a higher incidence of meiotic competent oocytes. These findings should help to widen the use of eCG to ivF as a valid and largely available hormonal support enabling a synchronized in vitro follicle and oocyte development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

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19 pages, 2747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ovarian Folliculogenesis and Uterine Endometrial Receptivity after Intermittent Vaginal Injection of Recombinant Human Follicle-Stimulating Hormone in Infertile Women Receiving In Vitro Fertilization and in Immature Female Rats

by Chao-Chin Hsu, Leonard Hsu, Yuan-Shuo Hsueh, Chih-Ying Lin, Hui Hua Chang and Chao-Tien Hsu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(19), 10769; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms221910769 - 05 Oct 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2265

Abstract

The uterine first-pass effect occurs when drugs are delivered vaginally. However, the effect of vaginally administered recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (rhFSH) on ovarian folliculogenesis and endometrial receptivity is not well established. We aimed to compare the efficacy of rhFSH administered vaginally and abdominally [...] Read more.

The uterine first-pass effect occurs when drugs are delivered vaginally. However, the effect of vaginally administered recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (rhFSH) on ovarian folliculogenesis and endometrial receptivity is not well established. We aimed to compare the efficacy of rhFSH administered vaginally and abdominally in clinical in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, pharmacokinetic study, and animal study. In IVF treatment, the number of oocytes retrieved, endometrial thickness and uterine artery blood perfusion were not different between women who received the rhFSH either vaginally or abdominally. For serum pharmacokinetic parameters, significantly lower Tmax, clearance, and higher AUC and T_1/2_elimination of rhFSH were observed in women who received rhFSH vaginally, but urine parameters were not different. Immature female rats that received daily abdominal or vaginal injections (1 IU twice daily for 4 days) or intermittent vaginal injections (4 IU every other day for two doses) of rhFSH had more total follicles than the control group. In addition, the serum progesterone and progesterone receptors in the local endometrium were significantly higher in the groups treated with intermittent abdominal or vaginal injection of rhFSH, compared with those who recieved daily injection. In summary, vaginal administration of rhFSH may provide an alternative treatment regimen in women receiving IVF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

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23 pages, 4886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacological Characterization of Low Molecular Weight Biased Agonists at the Follicle Stimulating Hormone Receptor

by Francesco De Pascali, Mohammed Akli Ayoub, Riccardo Benevelli, Silvia Sposini, Jordan Lehoux, Nathalie Gallay, Pauline Raynaud, Flavie Landomiel, Frédéric Jean-Alphonse, Christophe Gauthier, Lucie P. Pellissier, Pascale Crépieux, Anne Poupon, Asuka Inoue, Nicolas Joubert, Marie-Claude Viaud-Massuard, Livio Casarini, Manuela Simoni, Aylin C. Hanyaloglu, Selva G. Nataraja, Henry N. Yu, Stephen S. Palmer, Romain Yvinec and Eric Reiter Show full author list Hide full author list

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(18), 9850; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22189850 - 12 Sep 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2999

Abstract

Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) plays a key role in reproduction through the activation of multiple signaling pathways. Low molecular weight (LMW) ligands composed of biased agonist properties are highly valuable tools to decipher complex signaling mechanisms as they allow selective activation of discrete [...] Read more.

Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) plays a key role in reproduction through the activation of multiple signaling pathways. Low molecular weight (LMW) ligands composed of biased agonist properties are highly valuable tools to decipher complex signaling mechanisms as they allow selective activation of discrete signaling cascades. However, available LMW FSHR ligands have not been fully characterized yet. In this context, we explored the pharmacological diversity of three benzamide and two thiazolidinone derivatives compared to FSH. Concentration/activity curves were generated for Gαs, Gαq, Gαi, β-arrestin 2 recruitment, and cAMP production, using BRET assays in living cells. ERK phosphorylation was analyzed by Western blotting, and CRE-dependent transcription was assessed using a luciferase reporter assay. All assays were done in either wild-type, Gαs or β-arrestin 1/2 CRISPR knockout HEK293 cells. Bias factors were calculated for each pair of read-outs by using the operational model. Our results show that each ligand presented a discrete pharmacological efficacy compared to FSH, ranging from super-agonist for β-arrestin 2 recruitment to pure Gαs bias. Interestingly, LMW ligands generated kinetic profiles distinct from FSH (i.e., faster, slower or transient, depending on the ligand) and correlated with CRE-dependent transcription. In addition, clear system biases were observed in cells depleted of either Gαs or β-arrestin genes. Such LMW properties are useful pharmacological tools to better dissect the multiple signaling pathways activated by FSHR and assess their relative contributions at the cellular and physio-pathological levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

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Review

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11 pages, 1385 KiB

Open AccessReview

Aberrant Notch Signaling Pathway as a Potential Mechanism of Central Precocious Puberty

by Young Suk Shim, Hae Sang Lee and Jin Soon Hwang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(6), 3332; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23063332 - 19 Mar 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2406

Abstract

The Notch signaling pathway is highly conserved during evolution. It has been well documented that Notch signaling regulates cell proliferation, migration, and death in the nervous, cardiac, and endocrine systems. The Notch pathway is relatively simple, but its activity is regulated by numerous [...] Read more.

The Notch signaling pathway is highly conserved during evolution. It has been well documented that Notch signaling regulates cell proliferation, migration, and death in the nervous, cardiac, and endocrine systems. The Notch pathway is relatively simple, but its activity is regulated by numerous complex mechanisms. Ligands bind to Notch receptors, inducing their activation and cleavage. Various post-translational processes regulate Notch signaling by affecting the synthesis, secretion, activation, and degradation of Notch pathway-related proteins. Through such post-translational regulatory processes, Notch signaling has versatile effects in many tissues, including the hypothalamus. Recently, several studies have reported that mutations in genes related to the Notch signaling pathway were found in patients with central precocious puberty (CPP). CPP is characterized by the early activation of the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. Although genetic factors play an important role in CPP development, few associated genetic variants have been identified. Aberrant Notch signaling may be associated with abnormal pubertal development. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge about the role of the Notch signaling pathway in puberty and consider the potential mechanisms underlying CPP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

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20 pages, 2418 KiB

Open AccessReview

ERβ Regulation of Gonadotropin Responses during Folliculogenesis

by Eun B. Lee, V. Praveen Chakravarthi, Michael W. Wolfe and M. A. Karim Rumi

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(19), 10348; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms221910348 - 26 Sep 2021

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7609

Abstract

Gonadotropins are essential for regulating ovarian development, steroidogenesis, and gametogenesis. While follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes the development of ovarian follicles, luteinizing hormone (LH) regulates preovulatory maturation of oocytes, ovulation, and formation of corpus luteum. Cognate receptors of FSH and LH are G-protein [...] Read more.

Gonadotropins are essential for regulating ovarian development, steroidogenesis, and gametogenesis. While follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes the development of ovarian follicles, luteinizing hormone (LH) regulates preovulatory maturation of oocytes, ovulation, and formation of corpus luteum. Cognate receptors of FSH and LH are G-protein coupled receptors that predominantly signal through cAMP-dependent and cAMP-independent mechanisms that activate protein kinases. Subsequent vital steps in response to gonadotropins are mediated through activation or inhibition of transcription factors required for follicular gene expression. Estrogen receptors, classical ligand-activated transcriptional regulators, play crucial roles in regulating gonadotropin secretion from the hypothalamic–pituitary axis as well as gonadotropin function in the target organs. In this review, we discuss the role of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) regulating gonadotropin response during folliculogenesis. Ovarian follicles in Erβ knockout (Erβ^KO) mutant female mice and rats cannot develop beyond the antral state, lack oocyte maturation, and fail to ovulate. Theca cells (TCs) in ovarian follicles express LH receptor, whereas granulosa cells (GCs) express both FSH receptor (FSHR) and LH receptor (LHCGR). As oocytes do not express the gonadotropin receptors, the somatic cells play a crucial role during gonadotropin induced oocyte maturation. Somatic cells also express high levels of estrogen receptors; while TCs express ERα and are involved in steroidogenesis, GCs express ERβ and are involved in both steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis. GCs are the primary site of ERβ-regulated gene expression. We observed that a subset of gonadotropin-induced genes in GCs, which are essential for ovarian follicle development, oocyte maturation and ovulation, are dependent on ERβ. Thus, ERβ plays a vital role in regulating the gonadotropin responses in ovary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

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27 pages, 1708 KiB

Open AccessReview

Actions and Roles of FSH in Germinative Cells

by Kaiana Recchia, Amanda Soares Jorge, Laís Vicari de Figueiredo Pessôa, Ramon Cesar Botigelli, Vanessa Cristiane Zugaib, Aline Fernanda de Souza, Daniele dos Santos Martins, Carlos Eduardo Ambrósio, Fabiana Fernandes Bressan and Naira Caroline Godoy Pieri

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(18), 10110; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms221810110 - 18 Sep 2021

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7445

Abstract

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in a coordinated hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis event, plays important roles in reproduction and germ cell development during different phases of reproductive development (fetal, neonatal, puberty, and adult life), and is consequently essential for [...] Read more.

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in a coordinated hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis event, plays important roles in reproduction and germ cell development during different phases of reproductive development (fetal, neonatal, puberty, and adult life), and is consequently essential for fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone of two dissociable subunits, α and β. The FSH β-subunit (FSHβ) function starts upon coupling to its specific receptor: follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR). FSHRs are localized mainly on the surface of target cells on the testis and ovary (granulosa and Sertoli cells) and have recently been found in testicular stem cells and extra-gonadal tissue. Several reproduction disorders are associated with absent or low FSH secretion, with mutation of the FSH β-subunit or the FSH receptor, and/or its signaling pathways. However, the influence of FSH on germ cells is still poorly understood; some studies have suggested that this hormone also plays a determinant role in the self-renewal of germinative cells and acts to increase undifferentiated spermatogonia proliferation. In addition, in vitro, together with other factors, it assists the process of differentiation of primordial germ cells (PGCLCs) into gametes (oocyte-like and SSCLCs). In this review, we describe relevant research on the influence of FSH on spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis, mainly in the germ cell of humans and other species. The possible roles of FSH in germ cell generation in vitro are also presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gonadotropin Cell Transduction Mechanisms)

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