Progesterone Regulation Research Articles

Plasma γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Concentrations in Lactating Holstein Cows during Thermoneutral and Heat Stress Conditions and Their Relationships with Circulating Glucose, Insulin and Progesterone Levels.

Heat-stressed lactating dairy cattle exhibit unique metabolic symptoms, many of which are undoubtedly involved in heat-induced subfertility. Because of its known systemic effects, we hypothesized that γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) participates in the regulation of insulin and progesterone during heat stress. Multiparous lactating Holstein cows (n = 6) were studied during four experimental periods: (1) thermoneutral (TN; d 1-5), (2) TN + hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic clamp (d 6-10), (3) heat stress (HS; d 16-20), and (4) HS + euglycemic clamp (d 21-25). Blood samples were collected once daily via coccygeal venipuncture into heparinized evacuated tubes. Analysis of GABA concentrations from all four treatment periods yielded no differences. In direct comparison to TN concentrations, plasma GABA tended to decrease during the HS period (16.57 ± 2.64 vs. 13.87 ± 2.28 ng/mL, respectively, p = 0.06). Both milk production and plasma insulin were moderately correlated with plasma GABA (r = 0.35, p < 0.01; r = -0.32, p < 0.01). Plasma progesterone was correlated with plasma GABA concentrations during TN but not HS periods. These results are the first to indicate that peripheral GABA could be involved in the regulation of factors known to affect production and reproduction during heat stress. More research is needed to determine its precise role(s).

SNAT2-mediated regulation of estrogen and progesterone in the proliferation of goat mammary epithelial cells

The development of the goat mammary gland is mainly under the control of ovarian hormones particularly estrogen and progesterone (P4). Amino acids play an essential role in mammary gland development and milk production, and sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 2 (SNAT2) was reported to be expressed in the mammary gland of rats and bovine mammary epithelial cells, which may affect the synthesis of milk proteins or mammary cell proliferation by mediating prolactin, 17β-estradiol (E2) or methionine function. However, whether SNAT2 mediates the regulatory effects of E2 and P4 on the development of the ruminant mammary gland is still unclear. In this study, we show that E2 and P4 could increase the proliferation of goat mammary epithelial cells (GMECs) and regulate SNAT2 mRNA and protein expression in a dose-dependent manner. Further investigation revealed that SNAT2 is abundantly expressed in the mammary gland during late pregnancy and early lactation, while knockdown and overexpression of SNAT2 in GMECs could inhibit or enhance E2- and P4-induced cell proliferation as well as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling. We also found that the accelerated proliferation induced by SNAT2 overexpression in GMECs was suppressed by the mTOR signaling pathway inhibitor rapamycin. This indicates that the regulation of GMECs proliferation mediated by SNAT2 in response to E2 and P4 is dependent on the mTOR signaling pathway. Finally, we found that the total content of the amino acids in GMECs changed after knocking-down and overexpressing SNAT2. In summary, the results demonstrate that the regulatory effects of E2 and P4 on GMECs proliferation may be mediated by the SNAT2-transported amino acid pathway. These results may offer a novel nutritional target for improving the development of the ruminant mammary gland and milk production.

Expression of genes and enzymes involved in ovarian steroidogenesis in relation to human follicular development.

Granulosa cells (GCs) and theca cells (TCs) play a pivotal role in human ovarian steroidogenesis, facilitating the conversion of cholesterol into sex steroids that regulate normal reproductive function. This study aims to explore the expression patterns of key enzymes that govern human ovarian steroidogenesis throughout follicle development, employing both genomic and immunological methodologies. Follicles and GCs obtained from women undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and in vitro fertilisation treatment were utilized. Gene expression data were obtained from a Chinese study using RNA sequencing and from microarray data generated in our laboratory to comprehensively analyse gene expression profiles across distinct stages of follicular development. To corroborate the localisation of key enzymes within GCs and TCs, immunohistochemistry analyses utilizing colourimetric and fluorescent techniques were conducted. Steroidogenesis-related enzymes displayed low gene expression levels during early follicle development. However, a notable upregulation of HSD3B2 was observed in GCs as follicles progressed to the antral/preovulatory stage, confirmed consistently using both microarray and RNA sequencing methodologies. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analyses effectively demonstrated that HSD3B2 were not only expressed in GCs, but co-localised with CYP17A1 within a specific subset of TCs surrounding human small antral follicles. Contributing to an enhanced progesterone production during the second half of the follicular phase was a significant upregulation of CYB5A in both microarray and RNA-seq datasets as follicles transition from the antral stage to the pre-ovulatory stage. Moreover, an augmented expression of DHCR24 and LDLR in both types of data, along with HMGCR expression expression in the microarray data, indicates increased substrate availability for ovarian steroidogenesis. This study confirms and extends that GCs gradually augment expression of HSD3B2 thereby enhancing their capacity for progesterone synthesis as follicles reach the size of selection at around 10 mm in diameter. This is supported by the expression CYB5A and possibly augmented availability of steroid precursors. A subset of TCs exhibit concurrent expression of CYP17A1 and HSD3B2, collectively contributing to the synthesis of 17-hydroxyprogesterone. These data significantly enhance our understanding of the dynamic regulation of progesterone throughout the process of follicular development.

Resveratrol stimulates StAR expression and progesterone production by GPER-mediated downregulation of Snail expression in human granulosa cells.

Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) plays a critical role in the regulation of progesterone (P4) production. Resveratrol (RSV), a natural polyphenol, has beneficial effects on reproductive function. However, its effects on StAR expression and P4 production in human granulosa cells remain undetermined. In this study, we showed that treatment of RSV upregulated StAR expression in human granulosa cells. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) and ERK1/2 signaling were involved in RSV-stimulated StAR expression and P4 production. In addition, the expression of a transcriptional repressor, Snail, was downregulated by RSV, which contributed to the RSV-induced inductions of StAR expression and P4 production.

Regulatory T cells are paramount effectors in progesterone regulation of embryo implantation and fetal growth.

Progesterone (P4) is essential for embryo implantation, but the extent to which the pro-gestational effects of P4 depend on the maternal immune compartment is unknown. Here, we investigate whether regulatory T cells (Treg cells) act to mediate luteal phase P4 effects on uterine receptivity in mice. P4 antagonist RU486 administered to mice on days 0.5 and 2.5 postcoitum to model luteal phase P4 deficiency caused fewer CD4+Foxp3+ Treg cells and impaired Treg functional competence, along with dysfunctional uterine vascular remodeling and perturbed placental development in midgestation. These effects were linked with fetal loss and fetal growth restriction, accompanied by a Th1/CD8-skewed T cell profile. Adoptive transfer at implantation of Treg cells - but not conventional T cells - alleviated fetal loss and fetal growth restriction by mitigating adverse effects of reduced P4 signaling on uterine blood vessel remodeling and placental structure and by restoring maternal T cell imbalance. These findings demonstrate an essential role for Treg cells in mediating P4 effects at implantation and indicate that Treg cells are a sensitive and critical effector mechanism through which P4 drives uterine receptivity to support robust placental development and fetal growth.

Correlation of cervical progesterone levels to plasma progesterone levels in normal pregnancy and preterm labor: A cross-sectional study

Background: The theory of “functional progesterone withdrawal” explains the role of progesterone prior to delivery. Previous studies mentioned the existence of progesterone regulation in the cervix that plays a role in maintaining the integrity of the cervix and cervical ripening. Cervical progesterone levels relate to activities of progesterone at the cervix, compared to its amount in circulation. The objective of this study was to measure cervical mucus progesterone levels and its correlation to plasma progesterone levels in pregnancy. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in January-September 2010 at Persahabatan Hospital. The subjects were pregnant women in the 28th – 34th weeks of gestational age. In total, 72 subjects who met the criteria were divided into normal pregnancy group and preterm labor group. The cervical and plasma progesterone levels were measured using The Advia Centaur® Progesterone kit, which is a commercial immunoassay with direct chemiluminescence method. Results: There was a positive correlation (r=0.539) between cervical progesterone levels with plasma progesterone levels in the preterm labor group. There was no correlation between cervical progesterone levels with plasma progesterone levels in the normal pregnancy group. Conclusion: This study showed that cervical progesterone levels could be measured through cervical mucus. A significant positive correlation was found by this study between cervical progesterone levels and plasma progesterone levels in the preterm labor group. This study is expected to provide new insights for understanding the metabolism and the role of progesterone in maintaining cervical integrity during pregnancy, and its relation to prevention of preterm birth.

Adjustment of progesterone administration after endometrial transcriptomic analysis does not improve reproductive outcomes in women with adenomyosis

Research questionDo patients with adenomyosis present a dysregulated endometrial receptivity that can be reversed with personalized embryo transfer (PET) by transcriptomic-based progesterone adjustment, improving IVF outcomes? DesignA multicentre, retrospective, cohort study that transcriptomically analysed the endometrial receptivity of the endometrium in patients with adenomyosis (n = 81) and healthy women (n = 231). Subsequently, implantation, biochemical and clinical miscarriage, and live birth rates between adenomyosis patients with one previous implantation failure using donor oocytes who received (n = 59) or did not receive (n = 66) PET based on endometrial receptivity, were observed to evaluate if adjusted progesterone improves reproductive outcomes of adenomyosis patients. ResultsPatients with adenomyosis significantly presented an altered endometrial receptivity (non-receptive) compared with healthy patients (53.1% versus 37.2%, P = 0.0179), elevating the risk of adenomyosis patients having a non-receptive endometrium 42.59% higher (95% CI 41.50 to 44.45). No significant differences were found in implantation (62.7% versus 78.8%, P = 0.0514), biochemical (13.5% versus 3.9%, P = 0.1223) and clinical (10.8% versus 15.4%, P = 0.7543) miscarriage, or live birth rates (75.7% versus 80.8%, P = 0.6066), in patients with PET compared with those without PET. ConclusionsWomen with adenomyosis presented an altered expression of genes involved in decidualization, and a higher rate of non-receptive endometrial statuses than controls. Although progesterone is indispensable for implantation, adjusting progesterone before PET, using endometrial transcriptomic signatures, does not improve IVF outcomes in patients with adenomyosis. Other molecular mechanisms beyond progesterone regulation may be involved in implantation failure.

POLYMORPHISMS OF THE PROGESTERONE RECEPTOR GENE IN ENDOMETRIOSIS PATIENTS OF SOUTH SUMATRA, INDONESIA

Polymorphisms of the progesterone receptor gene alter the expressions of two receptor isoforms involved in the regulation of progesterone's antiproliferative effect in endometriotic tissue. This study aims to identify the +331G/A polymorphism of the progesterone receptor gene in endometriosis patients in Palembang, South Sumatra. Identification of +331G/A single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was conducted on 42 endometriosis patients through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). In this study, twenty-six (61.9%) subjects had heterozygous mutant genotype for the +331G/A SNP. No subject with homozygous mutant genotype for the +331G/A polymorphism was identified. The frequencies of polymorphic alleles for the +331G/A polymorphism was 30.9%. In conclusion, the +331G/A progesterone receptor gene polymorphism was present in endometriosis patients in Palembang, South Sumatra. This finding may warrant further studies to determine whether this polymorphism play a role in the development of endometriosis in the Indonesian population.

Regulation of progesterone during follicular development by FSH and LH in sheep.

Progesterone (P4) can participate in the development of female mammalian antral follicles through nuclear receptor (PGR). In this experiment, the differences of P4 synthesis and PGR expression in different developmental stages of sheep antral follicles (large > 5mm, medium 2-5mm, small < 2mm) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Secondly, sheep follicular granulosa cells were cultured in vitro. The effects of different concentrations of FSH and LH on P4 synthesis and PGR expression were studied. The results showed that acute steroid regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side chain lyase (P450scc) and 3β Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and PGR were expressed in antral follicles, and with the development of antral follicles in sheep, StAR, P450scc and the expression of 3β-HSD and PGR increased significantly. In vitro experiments showed that FSH and LH alone or together treatment could regulate P4 secretion and PGR expression in sheep follicular granulosa cells to varying degrees, hint P4 and PGR by FSH and LH, and LH was the main factor. Our results supplement the effects of FSH and LH on the regulation of P4 synthesis during follicular development, which provides new data for further study of steroid synthesis and function in follicular development.

Involvement of chemerin and CMKLR1 in the progesterone decrease by PCOS granulosa cells.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the main cause of infertility in women. It is frequently associated with reduced progesterone production by human luteinised granulosa cells (hlGCs). However, the molecular mechanisms involved in these steroidogenesis alterations in PCOS patients are unclear. In a dihydrotestosterone-induced PCOS mouse model, steroid production is maintained in the setting of chemokine-like receptor 1 (Cmklr1) knockout. Thus, chemerin and chemerin receptors in terms of expression and progesterone regulation could be different in control and PCOS hlGCs. We first confirmed that progesterone levels in both plasma (P < 0.0001) and follicular fluid (FF) (P < 0.0001) were significantly reduced in PCOS normal weight women compared to control women. These data were associated with a lower STAR mRNA expression in both in vivo (P < 0.0001) and in vitro (P < 0.0001) hlGCs from PCOS women. Secondly, chemerin FF levels (P < 0.0001) and RARRES2 (P < 0.05) and CMKLR1 (P < 0.0001) mRNA levels in GCs were higher in PCOS normal weight patients. Thirdly, treatment of hlGCs with a specific nanobody (the VHH CA4910) targeting the human receptor for CMKLR1 leading to its inactivation abolished chemerin-induced progesterone inhibition, suggesting the involvement of CMKLR1 in this process. Furthermore, the inhibition of progesterone secretion induced by chemerin was two-fold higher in PCOS hlGCs (P < 0.05). Moreover, the VHH CA4910 reinstated a normal progesterone secretion with lower concentrations in PCOS hlGCs, suggesting a different chemerin sensitivity between PCOS and control hlGCs. Thus, chemerin, through CMKLR1, could be involved in the steroidogenesis alterations in PCOS hlGCs.

Effects of Fuke Qianjin Formula on hormones and their receptors and metabonomics study in uterine fibroids model rats

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of different fractions from Fuke Qianjin Formula (妇科千金方, FKQJF) on uterine leiomyoma (UL) to determine the best fraction. MethodsFKQJF was extracted and isolated to obtain polysaccharides (FKP), flavonoids (FKF), and grease (FKG). 140 female SPF SD rats were divided into 14 groups [model (MOD), normal control (NC), Gouliuqing (GLQ), Mifepristone (MFST), FKQJF, low, medium, and high dose of polysaccharides (l-FKP, m-FKP, and h-FKP), low, medium, and high dose of flavonoids (l-FKF, m-FKF, and h-FKF), low, medium, and high dose of grease (l-FKG, m-FKG, and h-FKG)], and uterine fibroids model rats were treated with drugs for four weeks. Serum levels of estrogen and progesterone were measured using enzyme-linked immunoassay assay (ELISA) kits. The expression of estrogen receptor (ER-α, ER-β) and progesterone receptor (PR) in the uterus was observed using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Serum metabolite profiles and FKG were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). ResultsFKQJF, h-FKF, m-FKG, and h-FKG significantly downregulated the estrogen level in the uterine fibroid model rats (P < 0.01). FKQJF, h-FKF, and h-FKG significantly reduced the level of progesterone in the uterine fibroid model rats (P < 0.01). The levels of ER-α, ER-β, and PR in uterine fibroid model rats were significantly decreased by FKQJF and h-FKG (P < 0.01). The levels of ER-α, ER-β, and PR in the fibroid model rats were decreased by m-FKG (P < 0.05). Additionally, serum metabolism results revealed that h-FKG and FKQJF could regulate related endogenous metabolites and make the pathological indices of uterine fibroids in rats close to the normal group. Forty-six components were identified in the oil, accounting for 91.97% of the total oil components. ConclusionFKQJF and h-FKG showed a significant anti-myoma activity and significantly improved the pathological state of the uterus in rats with hysteromyoma. The mechanism of action may be related to the regulation of estrogen progesterone and its receptor in uterine fibroid model animals. These findings proved the effect of FKQJF on uterine leiomyoma and provided an experimental basis for its clinical research and application.

Progesterone Suppresses Cholesterol Esterification in APP/PS1 mice and a cell model of Alzheimer’s Disease

AimsCholesteryl ester(CE), generated from the mitochondria associated membrane (MAM), is involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). In theory, the different neuroprotective effects of progesterone in AD are all linked to MAM, yet the effect on cholesterol esterification has not been reported. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the regulation of progesterone on intracerebral CE in AD models and the underlying mechanism. MethodsAPP/PS1 mice and AD cell model induced by Aβ 25-35 were selected as the research objects. APP/PS1 mice were daily administrated intragastrically with progesterone and The Morris Water Maze test was performed to detect the learning and memory abilities. Intracellular cholesterol was measured by Cholesterol/Cholesteryl Ester Quantitation Assay. The structure of MAMs were observed with transmission electron microscopy. The expression of acyl-CoA: cholesterol acyltransferase 1 (ACAT1), ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2 were detected with western blotting, immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence. ResultsProgesterone suppressed the accumulation of intracellular CE, shortened the length of abnormally prolonged MAM in cortex of APP/PS1 mice. Progesterone decreased the expression of ACAT1, which could be blocked by progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) inhibitor AG205. The ERK1/2 pathway maybe involved in the progesterone mediated regulation of ACAT1 in AD models, rather than the PI3K/Akt and the P38 MEPK pathways. SignificanceThe results supported a line of evidence that progesterone regulates CE level and the structure of MAM in neurons of AD models, providing a promising treatment against AD on the dysfunction of cholesterol metabolism.

Rhythmic Changes in Serum Progesterone and Estradiol-17β in Surti Goats under Different Synchronization Protocols

Background: Success of any estrous synchronization protocol to optimize production and reproduction in goats requires deeper insight of dynamic regulation of hormones progesterone and estradiol-17β. Surti goats reared mostly by marginal livestock owners are native to Gujarat. Present study was conducted to study rhythmic changes in serum progesterone and estradiol-17β in Surti goats under different synchronization protocols.Methods: 18 Surti goats were divided equally (n=6) in 3 groups viz. G1, G2 and G3 (control). G1 and G2 groups were injected with GnRH analogue (day 0 and 11) and PGF2α analogue (day 9). Progestogen sponge was kept intravaginal in G1 group (day 0) and removed (day 11) before GnRH analogue injection. G3 group (control) received placebo of 2 ml normal saline simultaneous to treatment groups.Result: Levels were higher at estrus and lower at day 30 for Estradiol-17β and vice versa for progesterone. Coefficient of variation for estradiol-17β at estrus and for progesterone at day 30 was lower for G1 and higher in control. It was concluded that GPG synchronization protocol with intravaginal progestogen was better to synchronize estrus and establish reproductive cyclicity in Surti goats as it effectively minimized variability of progesterone during pregnancy and estradiol-17β at estrus.

Role of the superior ovarian nerve in the regulation of follicular development and steroidogenesis in the morning of diestrus 1.

Little is known about the role of the superior ovarian nerve (SON) in follicular development during the estrus cycle. The aim of the present study was to analyze the role of neural signals arriving through the SON at the ovaries in the regulation of follicular development and ovarian steroid secretion in diestrus 1 of cyclic rats. Cyclic rats were subjected to left, right, or bilateral SON sectioning or to unilateral or bilateral laparotomy at diestrus 1 at 11:00h. Animals were sacrificed 24h after surgery. Compared to laparotomized animals, unilateral SON sectioning decreased the number of preovulatory follicles, while bilateral SON sectioning resulted in a decreased number of atretic preantral follicles. An important observation was the presence of invaginations in the follicular wall of large antral and preovulatory follicles in animals with denervation. Furthermore, left SON sectioning increased progesterone levels but decreased testosterone levels, which are effects that were not observed in animals that were subjected to right denervation. At 11:00h of diestrus 1, the SON was found to stimulate follicle development, possibly via neural signals, such as noradrenaline and/or vasoactive intestinal peptide, and this stimulation induced the formation of follicle-stimulating hormone receptors. The role of the SON in the regulation of ovarian steroid secretion is asymmetric: the left SON inhibits the regulation of progesterone and stimulates testosterone secretion, and the right nerve does not participate in these processes.

Paraben concentrations found in human body fluids do not exert steroidogenic effects in human granulosa primary cell cultures

In cosmetics and food products, parabens are widely used as antimicrobial agents. Reports have suggested that parabens may be linked to infertility, owing to their effects on basal steroidogenesis properties or their capacity to inflict mitochondrial damage. Despite growing concerns about parabens as endocrine disruptors, it is unclear whether they affect any of these actions in humans, particularly at environmentally relevant concentrations. In this work, an in vitro primary culture of human granulosa cells was used to evaluate steroidogenesis, based on the assessment of progesterone production and regulation of critical steroidogenic genes: CYP11A1, HSD3B1, CYP19A1, and HSD17B1. The effects of two commercially relevant parabens, methylparaben (MPB) and butylparaben (BPB), were screened. Cells were exposed to multiple concentrations ranging from relatively low (typical environmental exposure) to relatively high. The effect was assessed by the parabens’ ability to modify steroidogenic genes, progesterone or estradiol production, and on mitochondrial health, by evaluating mitochondrial activity as well as mtDNA content. Neither MPB nor BPB showed any effect over progesterone production or the expression of genes controlling steroid production. Only BPB affected the mitochondria, decreasing mtDNA content at supraphysiological concentrations (1000 nM). Prolonged exposure to these compounds produced no effects in neither of these parameters. In conclusion, neither MPB nor BPB significantly affected basal steroidogenesis in granulosa cells. Although evidence supporting paraben toxicity is prevalent, here we put forth evidence that suggests that parabens do not affect basal steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells.

Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1)-mediated progesterone effect on preimplantation development of in vitro produced porcine embryos

Progesterone is a steroid hormone well known for its significant role in the reproduction process of mammals. Numerous studies have reported on the regulation of progesterone during implantation, pregnancy and parturition, but there are fewer studies on progesterone in relation to the early stages of embryo development. In the present study, we investigated the effects of progesterone during the development of in vitro produced porcine embryos. First, gene expression of various progesterone receptors in the in vitro produced porcine embryos were analyzed. PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 (progesterone receptor membrane component 1 and 2) showed distinct expression. Next, the embryos were treated with two concentrations of progesterone (10 nM and 100 nM) for two different durations (from day 0 and from day 4) to compare the developmental rates, cell numbers, and apoptosis rates of day 7 blastocysts. The experimental groups in both durations showed similarly increased blastocyst cell numbers and decreased apoptosis rates when treated with 100 nM progesterone. Furthermore, the expression levels of PGRMC1, PGRMC2, PAIRBP1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor RNA-binding protein 1), and apoptosis-related genes were examined in blastocysts and showed significant increases in the 100 nM treatment group compared to the control group. Subsequently, the embryos were treated with the PGRMC1 inhibitor, AG-205, and developmental rates, cell numbers, and apoptosis rates of day 7 blastocysts were compared. In addition, 100 nM progesterone was treated simultaneously with AG-205 to test if the inhibition effect is relieved by progesterone. Groups treated with 1 μM and 2 μM AG-205 showed decreased cell numbers and increased apoptosis rates in day 7 blastocysts compared to the control group. We also confirmed the recovery of inhibition by 100 nM progesterone. In conclusion, the present study indicated that progesterone positively affects the development of in vitro produced preimplantation porcine embryos by increasing cell proliferation and decreasing apoptosis via PGRMC1-involved actions. However, the detailed mechanisms of PGRMC1 need further elucidation.

Mir-let-7a/g Enhances Uterine Receptivity via Suppressing Wnt/β-Catenin Under the Modulation of Ovarian Hormones.

Microarray has indicated a huge number of miRNAs exist in reproductive tissues and cells. Moreover, the expression of miRNA in the reproductive system varies under the strict monitoring of different regulations. To understand the role of miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional gene regulation in female reproduction, we investigated the level and function of a mir-let-7 family member in both mice and human uterine receptivity. As we observed, mir-let-7 a/g had a higher expression in mouse and human receptive uterine epithelium; the level of mir-let-7a was under the inverse regulation of estrogen and progesterone; upregulated mir-let-7a/g in mouse and human uterine epithelium increased uterine receptivity, thus improved implantation-related embryo attachment and outgrowth ability; the let-7a/g enhanced uterine receptivity through suppressing canonical Wnt signaling. In summary, our findings suggest that mir-let-7 a/g increases uterine receptivity via inhibiting Wnt signaling and under the modulation of ovarian hormones.

Malic enzyme 1 is important for uterine decidualization in response to progesterone/cAMP/PKA/HB-EGF pathway.

Malic enzyme 1 (Me1), a member of the malic enzymes involving in glycolytic pathway and citric acid cycle, is essential for the energy metabolism and maintenance of intracellular redox balance state, but its physiological role and regulatory mechanism in the uterine decidualization are still unknown. Current study showed that Me1 was strongly expressed in decidual cells, and could promote the proliferation and differentiation of stromal cells followed by an accelerated cell cycle transition, indicating an importance of Me1 in the uterine decidualization. Silencing of Me1 attenuated NADPH generation and reduced GR activity, while addition of NADPH improved the defect of GR activity elicited by Me1 depletion. Further analysis found that Me1 modulated intracellular GSH content via GR. Meanwhile, Me1 played a role in maintaining mitochondrial function as indicated by these observations that blockadge of Me1 led to the accumulation of mitochondrial level and decreased ATP production and mtDNA copy numbers accompanied with defective mitochondrial membrane potential. In uterine stromal cells, progesterone induced Me1 expression through PR-cAMP-PKA pathway. Knockdown of HB-EGF might impede the regulation of progesterone and cAMP on Me1. Collectively, Me1 is essential for uterine decidualization in response to progesterone/cAMP/PKA/HB-EGF pathway and plays an important role in preventing mitochondrial dysfunction.

Взаимосвязи между форменными элементами крови, половыми гормонами и системой ПОЛ у женщин с эссенциальной гипертонией

У женщин, больных гипертонической болезнью, существуют тесные корреляционные взаимосвязи между различными форменными элементами крови и уровнем артериального давления, показателями деятельности сердца, тестами, характеризующими состояние гемодинамики, тромбодинамики и коагуляционной активности крови. Цель исследования - изучение роли различных форменных элементов крови и их соотношения в регуляции уровня эстрогена, прогестерона и пролактина, ТБК-активных продуктов и антиоксидантной активности у больных гипертонической болезнью. Методика. Исследования проведены на 72 больных гипертонической болезнью, контрольную группу составили 12 женщин с нормальным артериальным давлением. Больные были разделены на 2 группы: в 1-ю группу вошли 37 пациенток с гипертонической болезнью II стадии, находящиеся на гипотензивной терапии, 2-ю - составили 35 женщин с гипертонией II стадии, которые кроме медикаментозного лечения, регулярно проходили курсы кинезотерапии на протяжении 2-3 лет. Результаты. Методом корреляционного анализа установлено, что у здоровых женщин и больных гипертонической болезнью, изучаемые взаимосвязи могут носить как однонаправленный, так и разнонаправленный характер. У здоровых женщин обнаруживается прямая связь между количеством лимфоцитов и уровнем прогестерона и обратная - с уровнем пролактина. Прямая связь также выявлена между индексом нейтрофилы/базофилы и прогестероном. При гипертонии у больных 1-й группы обнаруживается прямая связь между количеством эритроцитов и прогестероном, числом эозинофилов и пролактином; индекса лимфоциты/эозинофилы с эстрадиолом; индексов нейтрофилы/моноциты, нейтрофилы/базофилы и лимфоциты/базофилы с прогестероном. Отрицательная корреляция выявляется между индексами нейтрофилы/лимфоциты и нейтрофилы/эозинофилы с пролактином. У больных 2-й группы обнаружены прямые корреляционные связи между абсолютным количеством лейкоцитов, нейтрофилов и эозинофилов и отрицательная связь индекса эритроциты/лейкоциты с пролактином. При оценке корреляционных взаимосвязей показателей крови с показателями активности оксидантно/антиоксидантной системы показано, что у здоровых женщин существуют положительные связи между числом моноцитов с содержанием ТБК-продуктов и активностью антиоксидантной системы; эозинофилов с активностью антиоксидантной системы; индекса лейкоциты/тромбоциты с уровнем ТБК-продуктов. При гипертонической болезни в группе без кинезотерапии (1-я группа) выявлена отрицательная взаимосвязь между общим числом эритроцитов и показателями активности антиоксидантной системы. Заключение. Практически все форменные элементы крови и различные их взаимоотношения у здоровых и больных гипертонической болезнью играют существенную роль в регуляции уровня эстрадиола, прогестерона, пролактина и состояния системы перекисного окисления липидов - антиоксидантная активность. Close correlations exist between different blood cells (BC), blood pressure, heart function, results of hemodynamics tests, thrombodynamics, and blood coagulation in women with hypertension. Aim. The study addressed the role of different BCs and their combinations in regulation of estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, TBA-reactive substances (TBARS), and antioxidant activity (AOA) in hypertensive patients. Methods. The study included 12 healthy women (control) and 72 patients with essential hypertension (EH). Patients with EH were divided into two groups; the first group (EH-1) consisted of 37 women with stage II EH receiving an antihypertensive therapy and the second group (EH-2) consisted of 35 women who, in addition to the drug therapy, yearly underwent 3-4 courses of kinesitherapy for 2-3 year on a regular basis. Results. Both in healthy women and patients of the EH-1 and EH-2 groups, the studied relationships were either positive or negative. In healthy women, LYM positively correlated with progesterone and inversely correlated with prolactin, and the NEU/BAS ratio positively correlated with progesterone. In patients of the EH-1 group, there were positive correlations of RBC with progesterone; EOS with prolactin; and LYM/EOS with estradiol; and NEU/MON, NEU/BAS, and LYM/BAS with progesterone. The NEU/LYM and NEU/EOS ratios inversely correlated with prolactin. In patients of the EH-2 group, there were positive correlations of WBC, NEU, and EOS with prolactin and inverse correlations of the RBC/WBC ratio with prolactin. Evaluation of correlations between blood indexes and the oxidant/antioxidant system showed that in healthy women, there were positive correlations of the MON count with TBARS and AOA; EOS with AOA; and the WBC/PLT ratio with TBARS. Patients of the EH-1 group showed a negative correlation of the total RBC count with AOA. Conclusion. In both healthy subjects and EH groups, almost all BCs and their relationships play a significant role in regulation of estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and the lipid peroxidation/AOA system.

Effect of progesterone and first evidence about allopregnanolone action on the progression of epithelial human ovarian cancer cell lines

Ovarian carcinoma is one of the most common cause of death by gynecologic cancer. Several epidemiological and in vitro studies have shown controversial data about progesterone effects in ovarian cancer. Progesterone can be converted in its active metabolite, allopregnanolone, its effects in ovarian cancer are still unknown. Previously, we demonstrated that allopregnanolone modifies ovarian morphophysiology, being able to alter critical process of tumor development such as proliferation, apoptosis and angiogenesis. Taking into account these antecedents, we investigated the effect of progesterone and allopregnanolone on proliferation, apoptosis, clonogenic capacity and migration on two epithelial human ovarian cancer cell lines, IGROV-1 and SKOV-3. To this end, IGROV-1 and SKOV-3 cells were exposed to a range of progesterone and allopregnanolone concentrations (10-11 to 10-5 M) for 72 h. Proliferation was analyzed by MTT and Ki67 expression. Apoptosis was measured by immunocytochemistry of cleaved caspase 3. Clonogenic capacity was evaluated by counting colonies. Migration was analyzed by wound assay. We found that allopregnanolone increased proliferation and Ki67 expression respect to control on IGROV-1 cells, while expression of cleaved caspase 3 did not change in any cell line studied. IGROV-1 clonogenic capacity was also increased by allopregnanolone treatment. Both steroids, progesterone and allopregnanolone, increased IGROV-1 migration in a concentration dependent manner. None of the steroids tested modified SKOV-3 biological behavior analized. This is the first evidence that allopregnanolone, a progesterone metabolite, affects critical events in tumor development of human epithelial ovarian cancer. These results could have an impact in the future in clinic diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of ovarian cancer patients. The regulation of progesterone and allopregnanolone steroideogenesis and their molecular mechanisms might be considered as potential therapeutic tool in ovarian cancer.