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Mouse epidermal growth factor concentrations are altered by gonadectomy and treatments with estradiol and
T Tuomela1, L Viinikka, J Perheentupa
1Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki, Finland.
Abstract:
In adult male and female mice we compared the epidermal growth factor (EGF) concentrations after gonadectomy and studied the effects of postgonadectomy treatments with estradiol and progesterone. In gonadectomized mice the mean concentration of EGF in the submandibular salivary gland (SMG) was (7-fold) higher in the females than the males. In the kidneys the males had (1.3-fold) higher levels of EGF than the females. Yet, gonadectomized males had higher plasma EGF levels and females higher urinary EGF concentrations. Estradiol treatment clearly decreased the EGF concentration in the SMG and increased it in urine and kidneys. Progesterone decreased male kidney EGF. Combined treatment with estradiol and progesterone increased the EGF concentration in the male urine and SMG, and decreased it in male kidneys.
Insights
Gonadectomy alters epidermal growth factor (EGF) levels in mice. Estradiol and progesterone treatments modify these EGF concentrations in salivary glands, kidneys, plasma, and urine.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) plays a crucial role in cellular processes.
- Gonadal hormones are known to influence various physiological functions.
- The interaction between gonadal steroids and EGF in adult mice requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare epidermal growth factor (EGF) concentrations in gonadectomized male and female mice.
- To investigate the effects of post-gonadectomy treatments with estradiol and progesterone on EGF levels.
Main Methods:
- Adult male and female mice underwent gonadectomy.
- Submandibular salivary gland (SMG), kidney, plasma, and urine samples were collected.
- EGF concentrations were measured using established biochemical assays.
- Mice received post-gonadectomy treatments with estradiol, progesterone, or a combination.
Main Results:
- Gonadectomized females exhibited significantly higher EGF concentrations in the SMG compared to males (7-fold).
- Males showed higher EGF levels in kidneys (1.3-fold) and plasma, while females had higher urinary EGF.
- Estradiol treatment decreased SMG EGF and increased urinary and kidney EGF.
- Progesterone affected male kidney EGF, and combined treatments modulated EGF in male urine and SMG.
Conclusions:
- Gonadectomy significantly impacts EGF distribution across different tissues and biofluids in mice.
- Estradiol and progesterone differentially modulate EGF concentrations, suggesting a complex hormonal regulation.
- These findings highlight the influence of sex hormones on EGF homeostasis and have implications for understanding tissue-specific responses.