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Liu M, Peng R, Tian C, Shi J, Ma J, Shi R, Qi X, Zhao R, Guan H. Effects of the gut microbiota and its metabolite short-chain fatty acids on endometriosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1373004. [PMID: 38938880 PMCID: PMC11208329 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1373004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a growing body of research has confirmed that the gut microbiota plays a major role in the maintenance of human health and disease. A gut microbiota imbalance can lead to the development of many diseases, such as pregnancy complications, adverse pregnancy outcomes, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and cancer. Short-chain fatty acids are metabolites of specific intestinal bacteria and are crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and regulating metabolism and immunity. Endometriosis is the result of cell proliferation, escape from immune surveillance, and invasive metastasis. There is a strong correlation between the anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of short-chain fatty acids produced by gut microbes and the development of endometriosis. Given that the mechanism of action of gut microbiota and Short-chain fatty acids in endometriosis remain unclear, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the complex interactions between intestinal flora, short-chain fatty acids and endometriosis. In addition, we explored potential microbial-based treatment strategies for endometriosis, providing new insights into the future development of diagnostic tests and prevention and treatment methods for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghe Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ru Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hohhot Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Chunfang Tian
- Department of Oncology, Inner Mongolia Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jianping Shi
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jiannan Ma
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ruiwen Shi
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiao Qi
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Rongwei Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Haibin Guan
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
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Zhou W, Su P, Wang Y, Li Z, Liu L. Exploration of the molecular linkage between endometriosis and Crohn disease by bioinformatics methods. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38097. [PMID: 38758892 PMCID: PMC11098239 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis (EMT) is a common disease in reproductive-age woman and Crohn disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder in gastrointestinal tract. Previous studies reported that patients with EMT had an increased risk of CD. However, the linkage between EMT and CD remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential molecular mechanism of EMT and CD. METHODS The microarray data of EMT and CD were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus. Common genes of EMT and CD were obtained to perform the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene Genomes enrichments. The protein-protein interaction network was constructed by Cytoscape software and the hub genes were identified by CytoHubba plug-in. Finally we predicted the transcription factors (TFs) of hub genes and constructed a TFs-hub genes regulation network. RESULTS A total of 50 common genes were identified. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene Genomes enrichment showed that the common genes mainly enriched in MAPK pathway, VEGF pathway, Wnt pathway, TGF-beta pathway, and Ras pathway. Fifteen hub genes were collected from the protein-protein interaction network, including FMOD, FRZB, CPE, SST, ISG15, EFEMP1, KDR, ADRA2A, FZD7, AQP1, IGFBP5, NAMPT, PLUA, FGF9, and FHL2. Among them, FGF9, FZD7, IGFBP5, KDR, and NAMPT were both validated in the other 2 datasets. Finally TFs-hub genes regulation network were constructed. CONCLUSION Our findings firstly revealed the linkage between EMT and CD, including inflammation, angiogenesis, immune regulation, and cell behaviors, which may lead to the risk of CD in EMT. FGF9, FZD7, IGFBP5, KDR, and NAMPT may closely relate to the linkage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Six Affiliated Hospital of South China University of Technology, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Peizhu Su
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yilin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhaotao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Six Affiliated Hospital of South China University of Technology, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, China
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Proestling K, Husslein H, Hudson QJ, Witzmann-Stern M, Widmar B, Bagó-Horváth Z, Sandrieser L, Perricos A, Wenzl R, Yotova I. MLLT11 Regulates Endometrial Stroma Cell Adhesion, Proliferation and Survival in Ectopic Lesions of Women with Advanced Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:439. [PMID: 38203610 PMCID: PMC10778601 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
MLLT11 is a gene implicated in cell differentiation and the development and progression of human cancers, but whose role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis is still unknown. Using quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, we analyzed 37 women with and 33 women without endometriosis for differences in MLLT11 expression. We found that MLLT11 is reduced in the ectopic stroma cells of women with advanced stage endometriosis compared to women without endometriosis. MLLT11 knockdown in control stroma cells resulted in the downregulation of their proliferation accompanied by G1 cell arrest and an increase in the expression of p21 and p27. Furthermore, the knockdown of MLLT11 was associated with increased apoptosis resistance to camptothecin associated with changes in BCL2/BAX signaling. Finally, MLLT11 siRNA knockdown in the control primary stroma cells led to an increase in cell adhesion associated with the transcriptional activation of ACTA2 and TGFB2. We found that the cellular phenotype of MLLT11 knockdown cells resembled the phenotype of the primary endometriosis stroma cells of the lesion, where the levels of MLLT11 are significantly reduced compared to the eutopic stroma cells of women without the disease. Overall, our results indicate that MLLT11 may be a new clinically relevant player in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Proestling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - Heinrich Husslein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - Quanah James Hudson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - Matthias Witzmann-Stern
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - Barbara Widmar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Bagó-Horváth
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Lejla Sandrieser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - Alexandra Perricos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - René Wenzl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
| | - Iveta Yotova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (K.P.); (H.H.); (Q.J.H.); (M.W.-S.); (B.W.); (L.S.); (A.P.); (R.W.)
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Zhao X, Luo D, Liu T, Zhang H, Xie Y, Kong W. BIBR1532 Affects Endometrial Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion in Endometriosis via Telomerase Inhibition and MAPK Signaling. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2023; 88:226-239. [PMID: 37429261 DOI: 10.1159/000530460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effect of telomerase inhibitor BIBR1532 on endometriotic cells was investigated to explore the inhibitory effect of targeting telomerase on endometriosis. DESIGN In vitro primary cell culture study. Participants/Materials: Primary endometrial cells derived from eutopic and ectopic endometrium in patients with endometriosis. SETTING The study was conducted in the university hospital. METHODS Paired eutopic and ectopic endometrial cells were collected from 6 patients from January 2018 to July 2021. A TRAP assay was performed to detect the telomerase activity of the cells. MTT, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and invasion assays were performed to study the inhibitory effect of BIBR1532. Enrichment analysis was performed to identify the key pathways involved in endometriosis progression and telomerase action. Then, Western blotting was used to investigate the expression of related proteins. RESULTS BIBR1532 treatment significantly inhibited the growth of eutopic and ectopic endometrial cells, with apoptosis and cell cycle signaling involved. Migration and invasion, important characteristics for the establishment of ectopic lesions, were also inhibited by BIBR1532. The MAPK signaling cascade, related to telomerase and endometriosis, was decreased in eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells with the treatment of BIBR1532. LIMITATIONS The severe side effects of telomerase inhibitors might be the main obstacle to clinical application, so it is necessary to find better drug delivery methods in vivo. CONCLUSIONS The telomerase inhibitor BIBR1532 affects endometrial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Zhao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - He Zhang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yunkai Xie
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weimin Kong
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
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Tan D, Lu M, Cai Y, Qi W, Wu F, Bao H, Qv M, He Q, Xu Y, Wang X, Shen T, Luo J, He Y, Wu J, Tang L, Barkat MQ, Xu C, Wu X. SUMOylation of Rho-associated protein kinase 2 induces goblet cell metaplasia in allergic airways. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3887. [PMID: 37393345 PMCID: PMC10314948 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39600-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergic asthma is characterized by goblet cell metaplasia and subsequent mucus hypersecretion that contribute to the morbidity and mortality of this disease. Here, we explore the potential role and underlying mechanism of protein SUMOylation-mediated goblet cell metaplasia. The components of SUMOylaion machinery are specifically expressed in healthy human bronchial epithelia and robustly upregulated in bronchial epithelia of patients or mouse models with allergic asthma. Intratracheal suppression of SUMOylation by 2-D08 robustly attenuates not only allergen-induced airway inflammation, goblet cell metaplasia, and hyperreactivity, but IL-13-induced goblet cell metaplasia. Phosphoproteomics and biochemical analyses reveal SUMOylation on K1007 activates ROCK2, a master regulator of goblet cell metaplasia, by facilitating its binding to and activation by RhoA, and an E3 ligase PIAS1 is responsible for SUMOylation on K1007. As a result, knockdown of PIAS1 in bronchial epithelia inactivates ROCK2 to attenuate IL-13-induced goblet cell metaplasia, and bronchial epithelial knock-in of ROCK2(K1007R) consistently inactivates ROCK2 to alleviate not only allergen-induced airway inflammation, goblet cell metaplasia, and hyperreactivity, but IL-13-induced goblet cell metaplasia. Together, SUMOylation-mediated ROCK2 activation is an integral component of Rho/ROCK signaling in regulating the pathological conditions of asthma and thus SUMOylation is an additional target for the therapeutic intervention of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of CFDA for Respiratory Drug Research, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Meiping Lu
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Yuqing Cai
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Weibo Qi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, China
| | - Fugen Wu
- Department of Paediatrics, the First People's Hospital of Wenling City, Wenling City, 317500, China
| | - Hangyang Bao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Meiyu Qv
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Qiangqiang He
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yana Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiangzhi Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Tingyu Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jiahao Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yangxun He
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Junsong Wu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Lanfang Tang
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Muhammad Qasim Barkat
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Chengyun Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of CFDA for Respiratory Drug Research, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Ximei Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of CFDA for Respiratory Drug Research, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Zhang M, Xu T, Tong D, Li S, Yu X, Liu B, Jiang L, Liu K. Research advances in endometriosis-related signaling pathways: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114909. [PMID: 37210898 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is characterized by the existence of endometrial mucosa outside the uterine cavity, which causesinfertility, persistent aches, and a decline in women's quality of life. Both hormone therapies and nonhormone therapies, such as NSAIDs, are ineffective, generic categories of EM drugs. Endometriosis is a benign gynecological condition, yet it shares a number of features with cancer cells, including immune evasion, survival, adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis. Several endometriosis-related signaling pathways are comprehensively reviewed in this article, including E2, NF-κB, MAPK, ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, YAP, Wnt/β-catenin, Rho/ROCK, TGF-β, VEGF, NO, iron, cytokines and chemokines. To find and develop novel medications for the treatment of EM, it is essential to implicitly determine the molecular pathways that are disordered during EM development. Additionally, research on the shared pathways between EM and tumors can provide hypotheses or suggestions for endometriosis therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manlin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tongtong Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Deming Tong
- Department of General Surgery, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
| | - Siman Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaodan Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Boya Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lili Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Kuiran Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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Artemova D, Vishnyakova P, Gantsova E, Elchaninov A, Fatkhudinov T, Sukhikh G. The prospects of cell therapy for endometriosis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:955-967. [PMID: 36964451 PMCID: PMC10239410 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02772-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory estrogen-dependent disease characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the physiological region. Despite the fact that this disease is common, laparoscopic surgery is currently the gold standard in the treatment of endometriosis. In this regard, it is necessary to develop new effective methods of minimally invasive therapy for endometriosis. One of the promising areas in the treatment of endometriosis is cell therapy. Cellular therapy is a vast branch of therapeutic methods with various agents. Potential cell therapies for endometriosis may be based on the principle of targeting aspects of the pathogenesis of the disease: suppression of estrogen receptor activity, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and a decrease in the content of stem cells in endometriosis foci. In addition, immune cells such as NK cells and macrophages may be promising agents for cell therapy of endometriosis. Standing apart in the methods of cell therapy is the replacement therapy of endometriosis. Thus, many studies in the field of the pathogenesis of endometriosis can shed light not only on the causes of the disease and may contribute to the development of new methods for personalized cell therapy of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Artemova
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery", Moscow, Russia
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Polina Vishnyakova
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Gantsova
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery", Moscow, Russia
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey Elchaninov
- Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology of Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery", Moscow, Russia
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Timur Fatkhudinov
- Research Institute of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia.
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Gennady Sukhikh
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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Rashidi N, Arefi S, Sadri M, Delbandi AA. Effect of active vitamin D on proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis in endometriotic stromal cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:436-445. [PMID: 36588053 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the effect of vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) on proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis of endometrial stromal cells (ESC) in endometriotic patients? DESIGN ESC isolated from 10 women with endometriosis and 10 healthy controls were treated with 1,25(OH)2D3. The proliferation of control endometrial stromal cells (CESC), eutopic endometrial stromal cells (EuESC) and ectopic endometrial stromal cells (EESC) was analysed 72 h after the treatment using methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. Propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry were used to determine the cell cycle distribution in ESC. Annexin V/propidium iodide double staining was used to evaluate apoptosis in ESC. RESULTS In the presence of oestrogen, 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment inhibited the proliferation of ESC from all three origins (P = 0.009 for CESC, P = 0.005 for EuESC and P < 0.001 for EESC). The percentage of S phase cells in EESC was higher than in EuESC and CESC (P = 0.002 and P = 0.001, respectively). The percentage of S phase cells in EuESC was higher than in CESC (P = 0.005). The percentage of G1 phase cells in EESC was lower than that of EuESC and CESC (P = 0.003 and P = 0.002, respectively) and the percentage of G1 phase cells in EuESC was lower than that of CESC (P = 0.007). Moreover, 1,25(OH)2D3 inhibited cell cycle regardless of cell type (P = 0.002 in EESC, P = 0.001 in EuESC and P = 0.014 in CESC), but in the absence of oestrogen, inhibited cell cycle only in EuESC (P = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS Although 1,25(OH)2D3 increased apoptotic and necrotic cells and decreased live cells in the EuESC and EESC, it did not affect apoptosis in CESC and only increased necrotic cells. These findings indicate that 1,25(OH)2D3 potentially has a growth-inhibiting and pro-apoptotic effect on ESC from endometriotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesa Rashidi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Arefi
- Bahman Hospital Infertility Center, Tehran, Iran; Genetics and In Vitro Assisted Reproductive (GIVAR) Center, Erfan Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sadri
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Antonio LGL, Meola J, Rosa-e-Silva ACJDS, Nogueira AA, Candido dos Reis FJ, Poli-Neto OB, Rosa-e-Silva JC. Altered Differential Expression of Genes and microRNAs Related to Adhesion and Apoptosis Pathways in Patients with Different Phenotypes of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054434. [PMID: 36901866 PMCID: PMC10002379 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
We aim to investigate the expression of genes (MAPK1 and CAPN2) and microRNAs (miR-30a-5p, miR-7-5p, miR-143-3p, and miR-93-5p) involved in adhesion and apoptosis pathways in superficial peritoneal endometriosis (SE), deep infiltrating endometriosis (DE), and ovarian endometrioma (OE), and to evaluate whether these lesions share the same pathophysiological mechanisms. We used samples of SE (n = 10), DE (n = 10), and OE (n = 10), and endometrial biopsies of these respective patients affected with endometriosis under treatment at a tertiary University Hospital. Endometrial biopsies collected in the tubal ligation procedure from women without endometriosis comprised the control group (n = 10). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed. The expression of MAPK1 (p < 0.0001), miR-93-5p (p = 0.0168), and miR-7-5p (p = 0.0006) was significantly lower in the SE group than in the DE and OE groups. The expression of miR-30a (p = 0.0018) and miR-93 (p = 0.0052) was significantly upregulated in the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis compared to the controls. MiR-143 (p = 0.0225) expression also showed a statistical difference between the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis and the control group. In summary, SE showed lower pro-survival gene expression and miRNAs involved in this pathway, indicating that this phenotype has a different pathophysiological mechanism compared to DE and OE.
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10
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Higher Oxidative Stress in Endometriotic Lesions Upregulates Senescence-Associated p16 ink4a and β-Galactosidase in Stromal Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020914. [PMID: 36674426 PMCID: PMC9860681 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis affects a significant proportion of women worldwide; however, no definitive cure for this disease has been discovered to date. Oxidative stress promotes endometriotic lesion maintenance in the peritoneal cavity in women. Furthermore, there is evidence of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway and senescence involvement in the physiopathogenesis of endometriosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause oxidative damage and are expected to trigger senescence in the endometrium while also causing alterations in MAPK signaling. However, the role of ROS in the senescence-associated phenotype in endometriosis remains unknown. In this context, this study attempted to delineate the pathways linking ROS to senescence in endometrial and endometriotic lesions of healthy individuals and those with endometriosis. Our results indicate a higher presence of ROS in endometriotic lesions, and the upregulation of MAPK. Furthermore, we show that endometriotic lesions in stromal cells stimulated with hydrogen peroxide develop more senescence traits than eutopic and non-endometriosis endometrium. Overall, endometriotic cells respond differently to extracellular distress. Our contribution to further research in this field contributed to the roadmap of endometriosis' search for alternative treatments.
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11
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Wang F, Li YM, Li RY, Yang YE, Wei M, Ha C. U0126 and BAY11-7082 Inhibit the Progression of Endometriosis in a Rat Model by Suppressing the MEK/ERK/NF-κB Pathway. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2023; 4:65-77. [PMID: 36874235 PMCID: PMC9983136 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2021.0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an aggressive disease. It is the main cause of chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility, affecting the well-being of women. This study aimed to explore the role of U0126 and BAY11-7082 in endometriosis (EMs) treatment in rats by targeting the MEK/ERK/NF-κB pathway. The EMs model was generated and the rats were divided into model, dimethyl sulfoxide, U0126, BAY11-708, and control groups (Sham operation group). After 4 weeks of treatment, the rats were sacrificed. Compared with model group, U0126 and BAY11-7082 treatment significantly inhibited ectopic lesion growth, glandular hyperplasia, and interstitial inflammation. Compared to control group, PCNA and MMP9 levels were significantly increased in the eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues of model group; the levels of MEK/ERK/NF-κB pathway proteins also increased significantly. Compared with model group, MEK, ERK, and NF-κB levels decreased significantly after U0126 treatment and NF-κB protein expression decreased significantly after BAY11-7082 treatment, with no significant difference in MEK and ERK levels. The proliferation and invasion activities of eutopic and ectopic endometrial cells also significantly decreased after U0126 and BAY11-7082 treatment. In summary, our results showed that U0126 and BAY11-7082 inhibited ectopic lesion growth, glandular hyperplasia, and interstitial inflammatory response in EMs rats by inhibiting the MEK/ERK/NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, People's Hospital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Yong Mei Li
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Ru Yue Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Yu E. Yang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Meng Wei
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Chunfang Ha
- Department of Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Address correspondence to: Chunfang Ha, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
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12
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Endometriosis Stem Cells as a Possible Main Target for Carcinogenesis of Endometriosis-Associated Ovarian Cancer (EAOC). Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010111. [PMID: 36612107 PMCID: PMC9817684 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a serious recurrent disease impairing the quality of life and fertility, and being a risk for some histologic types of ovarian cancer defined as endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers (EAOC). The presence of stem cells in the endometriotic foci could account for the proliferative, migrative and angiogenic activity of the lesions. Their phenotype and sources have been described. The similarly disturbed expression of several genes, miRNAs, galectins and chaperones has been observed both in endometriotic lesions and in ovarian or endometrial cancer. The importance of stem cells for nascence and sustain of malignant tumors is commonly appreciated. Although the proposed mechanisms promoting carcinogenesis leading from endometriosis into the EAOC are not completely known, they have been discussed in several articles. However, the role of endometriosis stem cells (ESCs) has not been discussed in this context. Here, we postulate that ESCs may be a main target for the carcinogenesis of EAOC and present the possible sequence of events resulting finally in the development of EAOC.
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13
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Bovine and human endometrium-derived hydrogels support organoid culture from healthy and cancerous tissues. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2208040119. [PMID: 36279452 PMCID: PMC9636948 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2208040119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoid technology has provided unique insights into human organ development, function, and diseases. Patient-derived organoids are increasingly used for drug screening, modeling rare disorders, designing regenerative therapies, and understanding disease pathogenesis. However, the use of Matrigel to grow organoids represents a major challenge in the clinical translation of organoid technology. Matrigel is a poorly defined mixture of extracellular matrix proteins and growth factors extracted from the Engelbreth–Holm–Swarm mouse tumor. The extracellular matrix is a major driver of multiple cellular processes and differs significantly between tissues as well as in healthy and disease states of the same tissue. Therefore, we envisioned that the extracellular matrix derived from a native healthy tissue would be able to support organoid growth akin to organogenesis in vivo. Here, we have developed hydrogels from decellularized human and bovine endometrium. These hydrogels supported the growth of mouse and human endometrial organoids, which was comparable to Matrigel. Organoids grown in endometrial hydrogels were proteomically more similar to the native tissue than those cultured in Matrigel. Proteomic and Raman microspectroscopy analyses showed that the method of decellularization affects the biochemical composition of hydrogels and, subsequently, their ability to support organoid growth. The amount of laminin in hydrogels correlated with the number and shape of organoids. We also demonstrated the utility of endometrial hydrogels in developing solid scaffolds for supporting high-throughput, cell culture–based applications. In summary, endometrial hydrogels overcome a major limitation of organoid technology and greatly expand the applicability of organoids to understand endometrial biology and associated pathologies.
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Roles of microRNAs in Regulating Apoptosis in the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12091321. [PMID: 36143357 PMCID: PMC9500848 DOI: 10.3390/life12091321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecologic disorder characterized by the presence of endometrial tissues outside the uterine cavity affecting reproductive-aged women. Previous studies have shown that microRNAs and their target mRNAs are expressed differently in endometriosis, suggesting that this molecule may play a role in the development and persistence of endometriotic lesions. microRNA (miRNA), a small non-coding RNA fragment, regulates cellular functions such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis by the post-transcriptional modulation of gene expression. In this review, we focused on the dysregulated miRNAs in women with endometriosis and their roles in the regulation of apoptosis. The dysregulated miRNAs and their target genes in this pathophysiology were highlighted. Circulating miRNAs as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of endometriosis have also been identified. As shown by various studies, miRNAs were reported to be a potent regulator of gene expression in endometriosis; thus, identifying the dysregulated miRNAs and their target genes could help discover new therapeutic targets for treating this disease. The goal of this review is to draw attention to the functions that miRNAs play in the pathophysiology of endometriosis, particularly those that govern cell death.
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15
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Choi S, Lee HS, Cho N, Kim I, Cheon S, Park C, Kim EM, Kim W, Kim KK. RBFOX2-regulated TEAD1 alternative splicing plays a pivotal role in Hippo-YAP signaling. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:8658-8673. [PMID: 35699208 PMCID: PMC9410899 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative pre-mRNA splicing is key to proteome diversity; however, the biological roles of alternative splicing (AS) in signaling pathways remain elusive. Here, we focus on TEA domain transcription factor 1 (TEAD1), a YAP binding factor in the Hippo signaling pathway. Public database analyses showed that expression of YAP-TEAD target genes negatively correlated with the expression of a TEAD1 isoform lacking exon 6 (TEAD1ΔE6) but did not correlate with overall TEAD1 expression. We confirmed that the transcriptional activity and oncogenic properties of the full-length TEAD1 isoform were greater than those of TEAD1ΔE6, with the difference in transcription related to YAP interaction. Furthermore, we showed that RNA-binding Fox-1 homolog 2 (RBFOX2) promoted the inclusion of TEAD1 exon 6 via binding to the conserved GCAUG element in the downstream intron. These results suggest a regulatory mechanism of RBFOX2-mediated TEAD1 AS and provide insight into AS-specific modulation of signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunkyung Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Seong Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Namjoon Cho
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Inyoung Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongmin Cheon
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.,Proteomics Core Facility, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Chungoo Park
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Mi Kim
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Wantae Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kee K Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
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16
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Macrophages Protect Endometriotic Cells Against Oxidative Damage Through a Cross-Talk Mechanism. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:2165-2178. [PMID: 35199318 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00890-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This aim of this study was to investigate whether macrophages protect endometriotic cells from oxidative injury and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of any protection. Endometriotic cells cultured with or without differentiated macrophages (dTHP-1 cells) were treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or methemoglobin, a major component of hemoglobin species in endometriotic cyst fluid. Co-culture experiments, microarray analysis, screening and validation of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), cell proliferation and viability assays, and experiments using a specific inhibitor were conducted to investigate the functional cross-talk between endometriotic cells and macrophages. Microarray analysis revealed that endometriotic cells co-cultured with dTHP-1 differentially express several genes compared with monoculture. Quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blotting analysis identified TGF-β1 as a promising candidate gene expressed in endometriotic cells co-cultured with dTHP-1 cells. TGF-β1 stimulated the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in dTHP-1 cells. HO-1 expression was increased in dTHP-1 cells co-cultured with endometriotic cells compared with the dTHP-1 monoculture. Both H2O2 and methemoglobin upregulated the expression of the HO-1 protein in the dTHP-1 monoculture; moreover, co-culture with endometriotic cells further enhanced HO-1 production. The co-culture with dTHP-1 protected endometriotic cells against oxidative injury. Blockade of HO-1 abolished the protective effects of macrophages. In an oxidative stress environment, TGF-β1 produced by endometriotic cells may protect against oxidative injury through the upregulation of macrophage-derived HO-1. The cross-talk between endometriotic cells and macrophages may contribute to the progression and pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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17
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Lee JH, Park JH, Won BH, Im W, Cho S. Administration of red ginseng regulates microRNA expression in a mouse model of endometriosis. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:337-346. [PMID: 34781599 PMCID: PMC8651755 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2021.04392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Red ginseng (RG) exerts anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and immunomodulatory effects on endometriosis through the regulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression. It may also ameliorate endometriosis by affecting the expression of multiple miRNAs simultaneously, rather than acting on a single miRNA at a given time. Since studies on the overall effects of RG on endometriosis via the regulation of miRNA expression are lacking, the current study aimed to explore the global effect of RG on miRNA expression in a mouse model of endometriosis. METHODS To establish the mouse model, the uterine horn of donor mice was implanted into the lateral side of the recipients' peritoneum, followed by vehicle or RG treatment for 8 weeks. RESULTS To confirm the effects of RG on the established mouse model, the size of the implanted uterus was measured; it was found to be lower in mice from the RG group than in mice from the control group. miRNA expression profiles in the implanted uterus of the mouse model of endometriosis after vehicle or RG administration were analyzed using microarray technology. Thereafter, seven candidate miRNAs and 125 candidate genes (miRNA targets) were identified through a bioinformatics analysis. CONCLUSION The present findings suggest that RG regulates the expression of multiple miRNAs and mRNAs, thereby alleviating endometriosis in a mouse model of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hoon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Women’s Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Hyun Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bo Hee Won
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Wooseok Im
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Women’s Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - SiHyun Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Women’s Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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18
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The Role of Abnormal Uterine Junction Zone in the Occurrence and Development of Adenomyosis. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2719-2730. [PMID: 34515984 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00684-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Adenomyosis is a benign disease with a malignant behavior, bothering a lot of women at reproductive age who suffer from increased menstruation, prolonged menstruation, progressive dysmenorrhea, and infertility. At present, there is no effective treatment for adenomyosis. It seriously affects the life quality of these patients. However, the pathogenesis of adenomyosis is not yet clear. Recently, uterus junctional zone, defined as the inner 1/3 of myometrium between endometrium and myometrium, has gained broad attention. As is reported, the structure and function disorder of uterus junctional zone may play an important part in the occurrence and development of adenomyosis. In this issue, the present study generally reviews the role of uterine junction zone and the related mechanisms involved in adenomyosis, such as the local micro-damage, the formation of inflammatory and hypoxic microenvironment, changes of cytokines, and abnormalities of miRNA as well as signal pathways. It will provide new insights and potential therapeutic target strategies for clinical strategies in the management of adenomyosis.
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19
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Esfandiari F, Chitsazian F, Jahromi MG, Favaedi R, Bazrgar M, Aflatoonian R, Afsharian P, Aflatoonian A, Shahhoseini M. HOX cluster and their cofactors showed an altered expression pattern in eutopic and ectopic endometriosis tissues. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:132. [PMID: 34470627 PMCID: PMC8409001 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00816-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is major gynecological disease that affects over 10% of women worldwide and 30%-50% of these women have pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding and infertility. The cause of endometriosis is unknown and there is no definite cure mainly because of our limited knowledge about its pathophysiology at the cellular and molecular levels. Therefore, demystifying the molecular mechanisms that underlie endometriosis is essential to develop advanced therapies for this disease. In this regard, HOX genes are remarkable because of their critical role in endometrial development and receptivity during implantation, which is attributed to their ability to mediate some of the sex steroid functions during the reproductive period. Access to the expression profiles of these genes would provide the necessary information to uncover new genes for endometriosis and assist with disease diagnosis and treatment. In this study we demonstrate an altered expression pattern for the HOX clusters (A-D) and their cofactors in both eutopic and ectopic conditions compared to control tissue biopsies. Remarkably, most of the intensive changes occurred in eutopic samples from endometriosis patients compared to control tissue biopsies. Pathway analysis revealed the involvement of differentially expressed genes in cancer that correlate with an association between endometriosis and cancer. Our results suggest critical roles for the HOX cluster and their cofactors in endometriosis pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Esfandiari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Chitsazian
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Hafez St.Resalat Ave, P.O. Box, 19395-4644, Banihashem St.Tehran, No. 2, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Golestan Jahromi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Bouali Ave; Safaeyeh, Yazd, Iran
| | - Raha Favaedi
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Hafez St.Resalat Ave, P.O. Box, 19395-4644, Banihashem St.Tehran, No. 2, Iran
| | - Masood Bazrgar
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Hafez St.Resalat Ave, P.O. Box, 19395-4644, Banihashem St.Tehran, No. 2, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parvaneh Afsharian
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Hafez St.Resalat Ave, P.O. Box, 19395-4644, Banihashem St.Tehran, No. 2, Iran
| | - Abbas Aflatoonian
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Bouali Ave; Safaeyeh, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Maryam Shahhoseini
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Hafez St.Resalat Ave, P.O. Box, 19395-4644, Banihashem St.Tehran, No. 2, Iran.
- Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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20
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Giacomini E, Minetto S, Li Piani L, Pagliardini L, Somigliana E, Viganò P. Genetics and Inflammation in Endometriosis: Improving Knowledge for Development of New Pharmacological Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169033. [PMID: 34445738 PMCID: PMC8396487 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
According to a rich body of literature, immune cell dysfunctions, both locally and systemically, and an inflammatory environment characterize all forms of endometriosis. Alterations in transcripts and proteins involved in the recruitment of immune cells, in the interaction between cytokines and their receptors, cellular adhesion and apoptosis have been demonstrated in endometriotic lesions. The objective of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the components and mechanisms at the intersection between inflammation and genetics that may constitute vanguard therapeutic approaches in endometriosis. The GWAS technology and pathway-based analysis highlighted the role of the MAPK and the WNT/β-catenin cascades in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. These signaling pathways have been suggested to interfere with the disease establishment via several mechanisms, including apoptosis, migration and angiogenesis. Extracellular vesicle-associated molecules may be not only interesting to explain some aspects of endometriosis progression, but they may also serve as therapeutic regimens per se. Immune/inflammatory dysfunctions have always represented attractive therapeutic targets in endometriosis. These would be even more interesting if genetic evidence supported the involvement of functional pathways at the basis of these alterations. Targeting these dysfunctions through next-generation inhibitors can constitute a therapeutic alternative for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giacomini
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (E.G.); (L.P.)
| | - Sabrina Minetto
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Letizia Li Piani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.L.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Luca Pagliardini
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (E.G.); (L.P.)
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.L.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Paola Viganò
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-5503-4302
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21
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Hung SW, Zhang R, Tan Z, Chung JPW, Zhang T, Wang CC. Pharmaceuticals targeting signaling pathways of endometriosis as potential new medical treatment: A review. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:2489-2564. [PMID: 33948974 PMCID: PMC8252000 DOI: 10.1002/med.21802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is defined as endometrial tissues found outside the uterus. Growth and development of endometriotic cells in ectopic sites can be promoted via multiple pathways, including MAPK/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, Rho/ROCK, reactive oxidative stress, tumor necrosis factor, transforming growth factor-β, Wnt/β-catenin, vascular endothelial growth factor, estrogen, and cytokines. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms include proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, invasion, fibrosis, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune escape. Current medical treatments for EM are mainly hormonal and symptomatic, and thus the development of new, effective, and safe pharmaceuticals targeting specific molecular and signaling pathways is needed. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature focused on pharmaceuticals that specifically target the molecular and signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of EM. Potential drug targets, their upstream and downstream molecules with key aberrant signaling, and the regulatory mechanisms promoting the growth and development of endometriotic cells and tissues were discussed. Hormonal pharmaceuticals, including melatonin, exerts proapoptotic via regulating matrix metallopeptidase activity while nonhormonal pharmaceutical sorafenib exerts antiproliferative effect via MAPK/ERK pathway and antiangiogenesis activity via VEGF/VEGFR pathway. N-acetyl cysteine, curcumin, and ginsenoside exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via radical scavenging activity. Natural products have high efficacy with minimal side effects; for example, resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate have multiple targets and provide synergistic efficacy to resolve the complexity of the pathophysiology of EM, showing promising efficacy in treating EM. Although new medical treatments are currently being developed, more detailed pharmacological studies and large sample size clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of these treatments in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Wan Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and GeneticsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhou
| | - Zhouyurong Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | | | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- School of Biomedical SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Chinese University of Hong Kong‐Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive MedicineThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
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22
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He Y, Xiong T, Guo F, Du Z, Fan Y, Sun H, Feng Z, Zhang G. Interleukin-37b inhibits the growth of murine endometriosis-like lesions by regulating proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis and inflammation. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:240-255. [PMID: 32119739 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disease with abnormal expression of interleukin (IL)-37 which can suppress inflammation and the immune system. Here we investigated the role of the IL-37b splice variant in endometriosis in vivo and in vitro. In a murine model of endometriosis, in vivo administration of IL-37b significantly inhibited the development of lesions judged by the number (P = 0.0213), size (P = 0.0130) and weight (P = 0.0152) of lesions. IL-37b had no effect on the early stage of lesion formation, however administration in the growth stage of lesions decreased the number (P = 0.0158), size (P = 0.0158) and weight (P = 0.0258) of lesions compared with PBS control, an effect that was not reversed by macrophage depletion. Expressions of inflammatory factors, matrix metalloproteinases and vascular endothelial growth factor-A mRNA/protein were significantly inhibited in ectopic lesions following IL-37b administration, and in uterine segments treated in vitro. In vitro treatment of uterine segments with IL-37b inhibited phosphorylation of Akt and Erk1/2 in uterine segments. Isolated mouse endometrial stromal treated with IL-37b and transfected with pIL-37b plasmid got suppressed cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis and the expression of inflammatory factors. In addition, transfection with pIL-37b significantly decreased the phosphorylation of Akt and Erk1/2. IL-37b also inhibited proliferation and the expression of inflammatory and angiogenesis factors in epithelial cell line RL95-2. These findings suggest that IL-37b may inhibit the growth of lesions by regulating proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis and inflammation through Akt and Erk1/2 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongpei He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The people's Republic of China
| | - Ting Xiong
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Reproductive Medical center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The people's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhen Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The people's Republic of China
| | - Yixian Fan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The people's Republic of China
| | - Huanhuan Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The people's Republic of China
| | - Zuohua Feng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The people's Republic of China
| | - Guimei Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The people's Republic of China
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23
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Bora G, Yaba A. The role of mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway in endometriosis. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:1610-1623. [PMID: 33590617 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent chronic inflammatory condition which causes pain, infertility, and predisposition for ovarian cancer. Endometriosis generates a unique microenvironment for survivability of endometriotic lesions which includes cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. For these cellular activities, cascading activations of intracellular kinases are needed. Many kinase signaling pathways, IKKβ/NK-κB pathway, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways (ERK1/2, p38, and JNK), are activated in endometriosis. In this review, we focus on the role of MAPK pathways in endometriosis. METHODS To identify the role of MAP Kinase signaling pathway in endometriosis we searched the Pubmed database using the search terms in various combinations "endometriosis," "endometrium," "ovary," "MAPK pathway," "ERK pathway," "p38 pathway," "JNK pathway," "estrogen," and "progesterone." RESULTS According to the current literature, MAPK signaling pathway has various roles in generating microenvironment and survival of endometriosis. Abnormal MAPK activation in migration, implantation, growth, invasion into the pelvic structures, proliferation, and apoptosis leads to the form of endometriosis and to worsen the condition in patients with endometriosis. CONCLUSION To further investigations on the effective and long-term endometriosis treatment, MAPK signaling pathways may be targeted. Molecular mechanism of MAPK signaling pathway in endometriosis should be more deeply understood and clinical trials should be more commonly performed for possible new endometriosis treatments to improve fertility and rescue endometriosis irreversibly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem Bora
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Yeditepe University School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Aylin Yaba
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Yeditepe University School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
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24
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Chen P, Mamillapalli R, Habata S, Taylor HS. Endometriosis Cell Proliferation Induced by Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:426-434. [PMID: 32812213 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00294-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecological disorder that affects 10% of reproductive-aged women and causes pelvic pain and infertility. Bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDCs) are known to engraft endometriosis in association with lesion growth; however, they do not undergo significant clonal expansion. The indirect effects of BMDCs on endometriosis growth and cell proliferation are not well characterized. Here, we demonstrate that BMDCs' co-culture increased endometrial stromal cell proliferation. In vitro studies using endometrial cells showed that BMDCs increased cell proliferation and activation of CDK1 in both an endometriosis cell line and primary endometrial stromal cells from women with endometriosis, however not in normal endometrial cells. In vivo studies using a mouse model of endometriosis showed increased CDK1+ expression associated with engrafted GFP + BMDCs. These results suggest that endometrial cell proliferation is induced by stem cell-derived trophic factors leading to the growth of endometriotic lesions. Targeting the specific signaling molecules secreted by BMDC may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for controlling cell proliferation in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Ramanaiah Mamillapalli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
| | - Shutaro Habata
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
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25
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Tu J, Yang H, Chen Y, Chen Y, Chen H, Li Z, Li L, Zhang Y, Chen X, Yu Z. Current and Future Roles of Circular RNAs in Normal and Pathological Endometrium. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:668073. [PMID: 34122342 PMCID: PMC8187767 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.668073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterine endometrium, which lines the mammalian uterus, is essential for embryo implantation. This lining undergoes significant changes during sexual and menstrual cycles. The endometrium is also associated with hormone-related diseases such as endometriosis and endometrial cancer. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a role in various biological processes. Recent studies have determined that circRNAs function in both normal and pathological endometrial environments. Here, we review high-throughput studies pertaining to circRNAs as well as individual circRNAs active in the endometrium, in order to explore the myriad functions of circRNAs in the endometrium and mechanisms underlying these functions, from panoramic and individual perspectives. Owing to their abundant expression, stability, and small size, circRNAs have displayed potential usefulness as diagnostic markers and treatment targets for endometrial-related diseases. Therefore, the specific role of circRNAs in the endometrium warrants systematic investigation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajie Tu
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Jiajie Tu, ; Zhiying Yu,
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - He Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhe Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaochun Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiying Yu
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Jiajie Tu, ; Zhiying Yu,
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26
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Cui D, Liu Y, Ma J, Lin K, Xu K, Lin J. Identification of key genes and pathways in endometriosis by integrated expression profiles analysis. PeerJ 2020; 8:e10171. [PMID: 33354413 PMCID: PMC7727381 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to integrate the existing expression profile data on endometriosis (EM)-related tissues in order to identify the differentially expressed genes. In this study, three series of raw expression data were downloaded from GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in three tissue types were screened. GO, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, core differential genes (CDGs) protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were performed, finally, the dysregulation of Hippo pathway in ectopic endometrium (EC) was detected by Western blotting. A total of 1,811 DEGs between eutopic (EU) and normal endometrium (NE), 5,947 DEGs between EC and EU, and 3,192 DEGs between EC and NE datasets were identified. After screening, 394 CDGs were obtained, and 5 hub genes identified in the PPI network. CDGs enrichment and WGCNA network analysis revealed cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and other biological processes, Hippo and Wnt signaling pathways, and a variety of tumor-related pathways. Western blotting results showed that YAP/TAZ was upregulated, and MOB1, pMOB1, SAV1, LATS1 and LATS2 were downregulated in EC. Moreover, CDGs, especially the hub genes, are potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Finally, the Hippo pathway might play a key role in the development of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding Cui
- Department of Laboratory, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Laboratory, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junyan Ma
- Department of Laboratory, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kaiqing Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kaihong Xu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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27
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Karakurt S, AbuŞoĞlu G, Arituluk ZC. Comparison of anticarcinogenic properties of Viburnum opulus and its active compound p-coumaric acid on human colorectal carcinoma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 44:252-263. [PMID: 33110363 PMCID: PMC7585157 DOI: 10.3906/biy-2002-30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Resistance to therapeutic agents and the highly toxic side effects of synthetic drugs has spurred new research in the treatment of colon cancer, which has high morbidity and mortality ratios. This study aims to clarify the molecular mechanisms of the anticarcinogenic properties of methanol extract of Viburnum opulus L. (EVO)and its main active compound, trans-p -coumaric acid ( p -CA), on human colon cancer cells (DLD-1, HT-29, SW-620, Caco-2) and healthy colon epithelial cells (CCD-18Co). The effects of EVO on controlled cell death (apoptosis) and the cell division cycle were determined by flow cytometry. Alteration in mRNA and protein expressions of switch genes in colorectal carcinoma (APC, MLH1, TP53, SMAD4, KRAS, and BRAF) were determined by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Our results show that EVO possesses a strong reducing capacity and free-radical scavenging activity. HPLC analyses prove that p -CAis the main compound of EVO. EVO and p -CA inhibit the proliferation of human colon cancer cells DLD-1 and HT-29 in a dose-dependent manner. EVO increases apoptosis of DLD-1 cells and halts the cell cycle in the G2 stage in HT-29 cells. mRNA and protein expressions of p53 and SMAD-4 are upregulated, while BRAFs are downregulated. The results were directly proportional to p -CA. EVO and p -CA up- and downregulate switch genes and protein expressions of DLD-1 cells, which alter the expression of 186 other genes. This is the first study of pharmacological exploration of V.opulus in human colon cancer. Its antiproliferative effects may be due to the presence of p -CA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serdar Karakurt
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Selçuk University, Konya Turkey
| | - Gülsüm AbuŞoĞlu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Vocational School of Health, Selçuk University, Konya Turkey
| | - Zekiye Ceren Arituluk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara Turkey
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28
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Cousins FL, Farley JK, Kerrigan R, Mukherjee S, Darzi S, Gargett CE, Deane JA. The effects of hedgehog ligand neutralising antibody 5E1 in a mouse model of endometriosis. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:454. [PMID: 32977859 PMCID: PMC7519518 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05299-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Endometriosis is a common and painful condition characterised by the formation of endometrial lesions within the peritoneal cavity. Previous studies have suggested a role for hedgehog signalling in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. We investigated the role of hedgehog signalling in the establishment of endometriosis lesions using 5E1, a hedgehog ligand neutralising antibody, and a mouse model of endometriosis. To mimic the initiation of endometriosis by retrograde menstruation, which is believed to occur in humans, donor mice underwent an artificial menstruation protocol. Fragments of menstrual endometrium were injected into the peritoneal cavity of estrogen primed recipients. Recipients received twice weekly injections of 5E1 or an isotype matched control antibody for three weeks. Lesions were collected and analysed for markers of epithelium, proliferation and apoptosis by immunofluorescence microscopy. Results Treatment with 5E1 reduced the number of lesions found on the mesentery. No significant changes were found in the size of lesions, abundance of endometrial epithelial cells, proliferation or apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F L Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC, Australia. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences At Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, 3168, Australia.
| | - J K Farley
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - R Kerrigan
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - S Mukherjee
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences At Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, 3168, Australia
| | - S Darzi
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences At Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, 3168, Australia
| | - C E Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences At Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, 3168, Australia
| | - J A Deane
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences At Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, 3168, Australia.
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29
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Huang Y, Zhang T, Chen L, Yu M, Liu Q, Zhou C, Tang Q, Zhou L, Zhan H, Li J, Xu K, Lin J. Elevated expressions of SHP2 and GAB2 correlated with VEGF in eutopic and ectopic endometrium of women with ovarian endometriosis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2020; 36:813-818. [PMID: 32619126 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1787378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Protein tyrosine phosphatase Src-homology-2-domain-containing phosphatase 2 (SHP2) and adaptor protein Grb2-associated binding protein 2 (GAB2) can bind to each other in various signal transduction. However, the expression of SHP2 and GAB2 have not been investigated in endometriosis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the expressions of SHP2 and GAB2, and explore the correlation with Ki67 and VEGF in ovarian endometriosis.Materials and methods: The protein expressions and localizations were assessed immunohistochemically in ectopic, eutopic endometrium and normal endometrium from patients with (n = 30) and without (n = 30) ovarian endometriosis.Results: SHP2 was mainly present in the endometrial glandular epithelium, with increased expression in eutopic endometrium and even higher expression in ectopic endometrium compared to control endometrium (p < .05). GAB2 was immunolocalized in endometrial epithelium and stroma, increasing its expression from control endometrium to eutopic and ectopic endometrium (p < .05). Positive correlation was found between SHP2 and GAB2 in endometrium (p < .01). SHP2 and GAB2 both positively correlated with VEGF (p < .05), but not Ki67 in endometrium.Conclusions: We provide the first evidence that the protein expressions of SHP2 and GAB2 were elevated in ectopic and eutopic endometrium, suggesting GAB2-SHP2 axis regulating VEGF might contribute to the pathomechanism of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhou Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Liqing Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Minghua Yu
- Department of Pathology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Liu
- Department of Pathology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Caiyun Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qile Tang
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Linpo Zhou
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhan
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Juanqing Li
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaihong Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
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30
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Huang ZX, Mao XM, Wu RF, Huang SM, Ding XY, Chen QH, Chen QX. RhoA/ROCK pathway mediates the effect of oestrogen on regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition and proliferation in endometriosis. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:10693-10704. [PMID: 32725958 PMCID: PMC7521234 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological disease appearing with pelvic pain, rising dysmenorrhoea and infertility seriously impacting on 10% of reproductive‐age females. This research attempts to demonstrate the function and molecular mechanism of RhoA/ROCK pathway on epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and proliferation in endometriosis. The expression of Rho family was abnormally changed in endometriotic lesions; in particular, RhoA and ROCK1/2 were significantly elevated. Overexpression of RhoA in human eutopic endometrial epithelial cells (eutopic EECs) enhanced the cell mobility, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and proliferation, and RhoA knockdown exhibited the opposite function. Oestrogen up‐regulated the RhoA activity and expression of RhoA and ROCK1/2. RhoA overexpression reinforced the effect of oestrogen on promoting EMT and proliferation, and RhoA knockdown impaired the effect of oestrogen. oestrogen receptor α (ERα) was involved with the regulation of oestrogen on EMT and proliferation and up‐regulated RhoA activity and expression of RhoA and ROCK1/2. The function of ERα was modulated by the change in RhoA expression. Furthermore, phosphorylated ERK that was enhanced by oestrogen and ERα promoted the protein expression of RhoA/ROCK pathway. Endometriosis mouse model revealed that oestrogen enhanced the size and weight of endometriotic lesions. The expression of RhoA and phosphorylated ERK in mouse endometriotic lesions was significantly elevated by oestrogen. We conclude that abnormal activated RhoA/ROCK pathway in endometriosis is responsible for the function of oestrogen/ERα/ERK signalling, which promoted EMT and proliferation and resulted in the development of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiao-Mei Mao
- School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Rong-Feng Wu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Shao-Min Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xin-Yu Ding
- The Key Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qiong-Hua Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qing-Xi Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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31
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Prašnikar E, Knez J, Kovačič B, Kunej T. Molecular signature of eutopic endometrium in endometriosis based on the multi-omics integrative synthesis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1593-1611. [PMID: 32474803 PMCID: PMC7376782 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01833-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To synthesise data from genome-wide studies reporting molecular signature of eutopic endometrium through the phases of the menstrual cycle in endometriosis. METHODS Extraction of data from publications reporting genetic signatures characterising endometrium associated with endometriosis. The nomenclature of extracted differentially expressed transcripts and proteins was adopted according to the HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC). Loci were further sorted according to the different phases of the menstrual cycle, i.e. menstrual (M), proliferative (P), secretory (S), early-secretory (ES), mid-secretory (MS), late-secretory (LS), and not specified (N/S) if the endometrial dating was not available. Enrichment analysis was performed using the DAVID bioinformatics tool. RESULTS Altered molecular changes were reported by 21 studies, including 13 performed at the transcriptomic, 6 at proteomic, and 2 at epigenomic level. Extracted data resulted in a catalogue of total 670 genetic causes with available 591 official gene symbols, i.e. M = 3, P = 188, S = 81, ES = 82, MS = 173, LS = 36, and N/S = 28. Enriched pathways included oestrogen signalling pathway, extracellular matrix organization, and endothelial cell chemotaxis. Our study revealed that knowledge of endometrium biology in endometriosis is fragmented due to heterogeneity of published data. However, 15 genes reported as dysregulated by at least two studies within the same phase and 33 significantly enriched GO-BP terms/KEGG pathways associated with different phases of the menstrual cycle were identified. CONCLUSIONS A multi-omics insight into molecular patterns underlying endometriosis could contribute towards identification of endometrial pathological mechanisms that impact fertility capacities of women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Prašnikar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Jure Knez
- Department of Gynecological and Breast Oncology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Borut Kovačič
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Maribor, 2000, Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Tanja Kunej
- Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Animal Science, University of Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Mikhaleva LM, Davydov AI, Patsap OI, Mikhaylenko EV, Nikolenko VN, Neganova ME, Klochkov SG, Somasundaram SG, Kirkland CE, Aliev G. Malignant Transformation and Associated Biomarkers of Ovarian Endometriosis: A Narrative Review. Adv Ther 2020; 37:2580-2603. [PMID: 32385745 PMCID: PMC7467438 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01363-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This review focuses on pathogenesis of endometriosis, its possible biomarkers and role in endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer. We analyzed various databases to obtain new insights, theories, and biomarkers associated with endometriosis. There are several theories of endometriosis development and biomarker changes including atypical forms. A number of studies have attempted to establish specific, reliable biomarkers to help diagnose endometriosis and endometriosis-associated diseases on the basis of different pathogenetic pathways. Nevertheless, despite intensive research extending even to the molecular level, the origin, natural history, malignant transformation, and laboratory management of endometriosis and related diseases are not yet clearly defined. Therefore, early laboratory diagnoses of endometriosis, its atypical form, and endometriosis-associated ovarian tumors are important problems that require further study in the context of advanced therapeutic strategies to provide maximal health benefits to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liudmila M Mikhaleva
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Federal State Budgetary Institution "Research Institute of Human Morphology", 3, Tsyurupy Str, Moscow, 117418, Russian Federation
| | - Aleksandr I Davydov
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 8/2, Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
- Department of Pathology, City Clinical Hospital After Named S.S. Udina, 4, Bld., 3, Kolomensky Passage, Moscow, 115446, Russian Federation
| | - Olga I Patsap
- Department of Pathology, City Clinical Hospital After Named S.S. Udina, 4, Bld., 3, Kolomensky Passage, Moscow, 115446, Russian Federation
| | - Elizaveta V Mikhaylenko
- I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 8/2 Trubetskaya Str, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Vladimir N Nikolenko
- I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 8/2 Trubetskaya Str, Moscow, 119991, Russia
- Department of Normal and Topographic Anatomy, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 1, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Margarita E Neganova
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences, 1 Severny pr, Chernogolovka, Moscow Region, 142432, Russia
| | - Sergey G Klochkov
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences, 1 Severny pr, Chernogolovka, Moscow Region, 142432, Russia
| | | | - Cecil E Kirkland
- Department of Biological Sciences, Salem University, Salem, WV, 26426, USA
| | - Gjumrakch Aliev
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Federal State Budgetary Institution "Research Institute of Human Morphology", 3, Tsyurupy Str, Moscow, 117418, Russian Federation.
- I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 8/2 Trubetskaya Str, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences, 1 Severny pr, Chernogolovka, Moscow Region, 142432, Russia.
- GALLY International Research Institute, 7733 Louis Pasteur Drive, #330, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
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Rho GTPases in Gynecologic Cancers: In-Depth Analysis toward the Paradigm Change from Reactive to Predictive, Preventive, and Personalized Medical Approach Benefiting the Patient and Healthcare. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12051292. [PMID: 32443784 PMCID: PMC7281750 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho guanosine triphospatases (GTPases) resemble a conserved family of GTP-binding proteins regulating actin cytoskeleton dynamics and several signaling pathways central for the cell. Rho GTPases create a so-called Ras-superfamily of GTPases subdivided into subgroups comprising at least 20 members. Rho GTPases play a key regulatory role in gene expression, cell cycle control and proliferation, epithelial cell polarity, cell migration, survival, and apoptosis, among others. They also have tissue-related functions including angiogenesis being involved in inflammatory and wound healing processes. Contextually, any abnormality in the Rho GTPase function may result in severe consequences at molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Rho GTPases also play a key role in tumorigenesis and metastatic disease. Corresponding mechanisms include a number of targets such as kinases and scaffold/adaptor-like proteins initiating GTPases-related signaling cascades. The accumulated evidence demonstrates the oncogenic relevance of Rho GTPases for several solid malignancies including breast, liver, bladder, melanoma, testicular, lung, central nervous system (CNS), head and neck, cervical, and ovarian cancers. Furthermore, Rho GTPases play a crucial role in the development of radio- and chemoresistance e.g. under cisplatin-based cancer treatment. This article provides an in-depth overview on the role of Rho GTPases in gynecological cancers, highlights relevant signaling pathways and pathomechanisms, and sheds light on their involvement in tumor progression, metastatic spread, and radio/chemo resistance. In addition, insights into a spectrum of novel biomarkers and innovative approaches based on the paradigm shift from reactive to predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine are provided.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is complex, but identifying the novel biomarkers, inflammatory molecules, and genetic links holds the key to the enhanced detection, prediction and treatment of both endometriosis and endometriosis related malignant neoplasia. Here we review the literature relating to the specific molecular mechanism(s) mediating tumorigenesis arising within endometriosis. METHODS Guidance (e.g. Cochrane) and published studies were identified. The Published studies were identified through PubMed using the systematic review methods filter, and the authors' topic knowledge. These data were reviewed to identify key and relevant articles to create a comprehensive review article to explore the molecular fingerprint associated with in endometriosis-driven tumorigenesis. RESULTS An important focus is the link between C3aR1, PGR, ER1, SOX-17 and other relevant gene expression profiles and endometriosis-driven tumorigenesis. Further studies should also focus on the combined use of CA-125 with HE-4, and the role for OVA1/MIA as clinically relevant diagnostic biomarkers in the prediction of endometriosis-driven tumorigenesis. CONCLUSIONS Elucidating endometriosis' molecular fingerprint is to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive the endometriosis-associated malignant phenotype. A better understanding of the predictive roles of these genes and the value of the biomarker proteins will allow for the derivation of unique molecular treatment algorithms to better serve our patients.
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Altayyeb A, Othman E, Khashbah M, Esmaeel A, El-Mokhtar M, Lambalk C, Mijatovic V, Abdelgawad M. Characterization of Mechanical Signature of Eutopic Endometrial Stromal Cells of Endometriosis Patients. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:364-374. [PMID: 32046462 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00042-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis affects 5-10% of women in reproductive age and causes pelvic pain and subfertility. Exact etiology of the disease is unknown. Here, we present a microfluidic platform for characterizing mechanical properties of eutopic endometrial stromal cells of endometriosis patients based on cellular deformability inside narrow microchannels. Primary human endometrial stromal cells were isolated from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis patients (4407 cells, from 7 endometriosis patients) and from disease-free women (4541 cells, from 6 control women) and were pumped through microchannels (formed of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by standard soft lithography, with dimensions of 8 × 20 × 150 μm, as width × height × length) at a constant flow rate of 2 μL/min. High-speed imaging was used to capture videos of cells as they flow inside microchannels, and a computer vision code was used to track cells, measure their area, and calculate the time each cell takes to pass through the microchannel. Compared with their counterparts from control women, eutopic endometrial stromal cells from endometriosis patients showed significantly increased deformation index (1.65 ± 0.2 versus 1.43 ± 0.19, respectively, P value < 0.001), and higher velocity in travelling through narrow microchannels (96.530 ± 0.710 mm/s versus 57.518 ± 0.585 mm/s, respectively, P value < 0.001). The same difference in velocities between the two cell types was maintained after controlling for cell area. Eutopic endometrial stromal cells of endometriosis patients showed a mechanical phenotype characterized by high deformability and reduced stiffness. This mechanical signature can represent basis of a mechanical biomarker of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Altayyeb
- Center for Nanotechnology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Essam Othman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt. .,Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VUmc, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Maha Khashbah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Mohamed El-Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Cornelis Lambalk
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VUmc, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Velja Mijatovic
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VUmc, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mohamed Abdelgawad
- Mechanical Engineering department, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt. .,Mechanical Engineering Department, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
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Lavogina D, Samuel K, Lavrits A, Meltsov A, Sõritsa D, Kadastik Ü, Peters M, Rinken A, Salumets A. Chemosensitivity and chemoresistance in endometriosis – differences for ectopic versus eutopic cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:556-568. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Meng X, Liu J, Wang H, Chen P, Wang D. MicroRNA-126-5p downregulates BCAR3 expression to promote cell migration and invasion in endometriosis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 494:110486. [PMID: 31233772 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Endometriosis (EMs) is an estrogen-dependent multifactorial disease. Inhibition of estrogen in endometrial cells contributes to their failure to form lesions in ectopic sites. However, whether reducing or suppressing the inhibitory effect of estrogen results in the establishment of ectopic lesions remains unclear. The BCAR3 gene induces estrogen resistance in estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells and promotes cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, the expression of BCAR3 in endometriosis and its effect on endometrial cell function and the anti-estrogen effect of endometriosis have not been reported. These issues are addressed in the present study. METHODS The study included 32 cases of ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium in patients with endometriosis and 31 cases of normal endometrium as controls. The expression of BCAR3 and microRNA (miR)-126-5p was detected by real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. The effects of BCAR3 and miR-126-5p on the morphology and biological behavior of eutopic endometrial cells were verified using lentivirus overexpression and a vector knockdown model, the CCK-8 assay, Transwell experiments, and estrogen intervention experiments using primary cultures of epithelial and stromal cells. RESULTS The BCAR3 gene was highly expressed in ectopic endometrium and the eutopic endometrium of patients with endometriosis, and the expression level was higher in stage III-IV patients than in stage I-II patients. In vitro cell experiments showed that miR-126-5p negatively regulated the expression of BCAR3 and its effect on the migration and invasion of stromal cells. Low expression of miR-126-5p and high expression of BCAR3 promoted endometriosis stromal cell migration and invasion. Assessment of EMT in endometriosis compared with eutopic endometrium showed that the expression of vimentin was significantly increased and the expression of E-cadherin was significantly decreased in ectopic endometrium. Estrogen promoted EMT in eutopic endometrial epithelial cells and this effect was reversed by estrogen inhibitors. BCAR3 had no direct effect on EMT and did not act synergistically with estrogen on promoting EMT. CONCLUSION miR-126-5p negatively regulated BCAR3 expression in eutopic endometriosis, enhanced the migration and invasion of endometrial cells, and promoted the occurrence of endometriosis. BCAR3 did not induce EMT and had no synergistic effect with estrogen, but its inhibition of anti-estrogen function may provide new insight into the mechanism of local estrogen action in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiannan Meng
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, PR China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, PR China
| | - Huimin Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, PR China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, PR China
| | - Danbo Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, PR China.
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Wang D, Luo Y, Wang G, Yang Q. Circular RNA expression profiles and bioinformatics analysis in ovarian endometriosis. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e00756. [PMID: 31144476 PMCID: PMC6637292 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Circular RNAs (circRNAs) with miRNA response elements (MREs) could function as competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) in regulating gene expression, thus playing vital roles in pathogenesis and progression of many diseases. However, the function of circRNAs in endometriosis remains unknown. This study was carried to profile the expression patterns of circRNAs in ovarian endometriosis. Methods High throughput RNA‐Seq was performed in six paired ectopic and eutopic endometrium tissues (ecEM vs. euEM), followed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) in 30 paired samples. Through bioinformatics prediction, we constructed a circRNA‐miRNA ‐mRNA network and elucidated circRNAs functions by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Results A total of 146 upregulated and 148 downregulated circRNAs were identified, binding with 2,495 MREs. The qRT‐PCR validation results of four upregulated circRNAs matched the RNA‐Seq data. The ceRNA network included 48 miRNAs and 296 mRNAs. Functional analysis revealed several important pathways such as MAPK signaling pathway, and PI3K‐AKT signaling pathway, which might be associated with the pathogenesis and development of endometriosis. Conclusion Our data suggested that circRNAs are differentially expressed in endometriosis, which might be candidate factors for pathogenesis of this disease and be considered as promising therapeutic targets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yajuan Luo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Guangwei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Zhou H, Zhang Q, Qi C. Impact of a Chinese Medicinal Formula, Xiao Liu Fang, on the "3A" Ability of Endometrial Stromal Cells in Patients with Endometriosis. MOLECULAR THERAPY-ONCOLYTICS 2018; 12:1-8. [PMID: 30581987 PMCID: PMC6298906 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of endometriosis (EMS) is complicated, and treatment results are unsatisfactory. It has become the focus of gynecological research. Analysis targeting the pathogenesis of EMS is the key to providing more effective treatments. In recent years, the superiority of traditional Chinese medicine in treating EMS has been highlighted, so we investigated the impact of a Chinese medicinal formula (Xiao Liu Fang) on the “3A” ability, in situ, of ectopic endometrial stromal cells in patients with EMS. Primary endometrial stromal cells were isolated using a modified net filtration method, cultured, and identified in different groups. Endometrial cell attachment was measured using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) colorimetric assay, cell aggression was detected by the transwell cell-invasion assay, and angiogenesis was defined by evaluating the mRNA concentrations of intercellular cell adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), matrix metallo peptidase 9 (MMP-9), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Attachment, aggression, and angiogenesis (AAA) plays an important role in EMS, and a high dose of the Xiao Liu Fang extract can be used for the treatment of EMS owing to its inhibition of the AAA of endometrial stromal cells. Therefore, in-depth studies targeting the effective mechanisms and targets of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are of great significance for the prevention and treatment of EMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zhou
- Department of Gynaecology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Cong Qi
- Department of Gynaecology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
- Corresponding author: Cong Qi, Department of Gynaecology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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Soni UK, Chadchan SB, Kumar V, Ubba V, Khan MTA, Vinod BSV, Konwar R, Bora HK, Rath SK, Sharma S, Jha RK. A high level of TGF-B1 promotes endometriosis development via cell migration, adhesiveness, colonization, and invasiveness†. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:917-938. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Upendra Kumar Soni
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Vijay Kumar
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Vaibhave Ubba
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | | | | | - Rituraj Konwar
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Himangsu Kousik Bora
- Animal Laboratory Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Srikanta Kumar Rath
- Toxicology and Experimental Medicine Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Sharad Sharma
- Toxicology and Experimental Medicine Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Jha
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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Chen Q, Hang Y, Zhang T, Tan L, Li S, Jin Y. USP10 promotes proliferation and migration and inhibits apoptosis of endometrial stromal cells in endometriosis through activating the Raf-1/MEK/ERK pathway. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2018; 315:C863-C872. [PMID: 30281322 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00272.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis has been initially described as endometrial-like tissue outside of the uterine cavity. The mitogen-activated protein kinase/ERK kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway playing an important role in the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration has been found to be activated in endometriosis. However, regulation of the MEK/ERK signaling pathway in endometriosis has not been fully understood. In this study, primary-cultured endometrial stromal cells were collected from patients with endometriosis and healthy controls, and the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of ectopic endometrial stromal cells transfected with ubiquitin-specific protease 10 (USP10)-small-interfering RNA (siRNA) or pLVX-Puro-USP10 with or without MEK inhibitor PD-98059 or exogenous signaling stimulation such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) were measured by CCK-8, flow cytometry, and Transwell, respectively. The gene and protein expressions were measured by real-time PCR or Western blot. USP10 overexpression promoted ectopic endometrial stromal cell migration and proliferation, suppressed cell apoptosis, and activated MEK/ERK signaling that is a critical downstream target of the serine/threonine protein kinase Raf-1, which was significantly blocked by PD-98059. USP10 silencing demonstrated the inverse effects, and these effects induced by USP10 silencing were significantly blocked by EGF. USP10 overexpression promoted Raf-1 protein expression, but not mRNA expression, through deubiquitination. In conclusion, these results suggest that USP10 promotes proliferation and migration and inhibits apoptosis of endometrial stromal cells in endometriosis through activating the Raf-1/MEK/ERK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Yuanyuan Hang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Li Tan
- Department of Gynecology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai , China
| | - Shuangdi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Yuli Jin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
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Cui D, Ma J, Liu Y, Lin K, Jiang X, Qu Y, Lin J, Xu K. Analysis of long non-coding RNA expression profiles using RNA sequencing in ovarian endometriosis. Gene 2018; 673:140-148. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Guo S. Cancer driver mutations in endometriosis: Variations on the major theme of fibrogenesis. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:369-397. [PMID: 30377392 PMCID: PMC6194252 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One recent study reports cancer driver mutations in deep endometriosis, but its biological/clinical significance remains unclear. Since the natural history of endometriosis is essentially gradual progression toward fibrosis, it is thus hypothesized that the six driver genes reported to be mutated in endometriosis (the RP set) may play important roles in fibrogenesis but not necessarily malignant transformation. METHODS Extensive PubMed search to see whether RP and another set of driver genes not yet reported (NR) to be mutated in endometriosis have any roles in fibrogenesis. All studies reporting on the role of fibrogenesis of the genes in both RP and NR sets were retrieved and evaluated in this review. RESULTS All six RP genes were involved in various aspects of fibrogenesis as compared with only three NR genes. These nine genes can be anchored in networks linking with their upstream and downstream genes that are known to be aberrantly expressed in endometriosis, piecing together seemingly unrelated findings. CONCLUSIONS Given that somatic driver mutations can and do occur frequently in physiologically normal tissues, it is argued that these mutations in endometriosis are not necessarily synonymous with malignancy or premalignancy, but the result of enormous pressure for fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun‐Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine‐Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
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Peng Y, Lin J, Ma J, Lin K, Xu K, Lin J. Upregulation of S100A6 in patients with endometriosis and its role in ectopic endometrial stromal cells. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:815-820. [PMID: 29544367 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2018.1451506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
S100 calcium-binding protein A6 (S100A6) is up-regulated in many malignancies and overexpression of S100A6 has been identified associated with proliferation, migration and invasion phenotype in several cancer cells. In the present study, we explored whether S100A6 plays a role in the development of endometriosis. Significantly higher levels of mRNA and protein expression of S100A6 were observed in ectopic endometrial tissues compared to eutopic and normal endometrial tissues. Silencing of S100A6 in ectopic endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) significantly inhibited cell viability, migration and invasion. Moreover, knockdown of S100A6 suppressed p38/MAPK activity in ectopic ESCs, which can be partially attenuated by CacyBP/SIP phosphorylation inhibitor. In conclusion, our results suggest that the abnormal expression of S100A6 may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis and the S100A6/CacyBP/p38 signaling may provide as a promising treatment target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoming Peng
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University Medical College , Hangzhou , P.R. China
| | - Jiabin Lin
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University Medical College , Hangzhou , P.R. China
| | - Junyan Ma
- b Department of Laboratory , Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University , Hangzhou , P.R. China
| | - Kaiqing Lin
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University Medical College , Hangzhou , P.R. China
| | - Kaihong Xu
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University Medical College , Hangzhou , P.R. China
| | - Jun Lin
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University Medical College , Hangzhou , P.R. China
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Inside the Endometrial Cell Signaling Subway: Mind the Gap(s). Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092477. [PMID: 30134622 PMCID: PMC6164241 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cells perceive and respond to their microenvironment forming the basis of endometrial homeostasis. Errors in endometrial cell signaling are responsible for a wide spectrum of endometrial pathologies ranging from infertility to cancer. Intensive research over the years has been decoding the sophisticated molecular means by which endometrial cells communicate to each other and with the embryo. The objective of this review is to provide the scientific community with the first overview of key endometrial cell signaling pathways operating throughout the menstrual cycle. On this basis, a comprehensive and critical assessment of the literature was performed to provide the tools for the authorship of this narrative review summarizing the pivotal components and signaling cascades operating during seven endometrial cell fate “routes”: proliferation, decidualization, implantation, migration, breakdown, regeneration, and angiogenesis. Albeit schematically presented as separate transit routes in a subway network and narrated in a distinct fashion, the majority of the time these routes overlap or occur simultaneously within endometrial cells. This review facilitates identification of novel trajectories of research in endometrial cellular communication and signaling. The meticulous study of endometrial signaling pathways potentiates both the discovery of novel therapeutic targets to tackle disease and vanguard fertility approaches.
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Lu J, Wang Z, Cao J, Chen Y, Dong Y. A novel and compact review on the role of oxidative stress in female reproduction. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:80. [PMID: 30126412 PMCID: PMC6102891 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0391-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the study of oxidative stress (OS) has become increasingly popular. In particular, the role of OS on female fertility is very important and has been focused on closely. The occurrence of OS is due to the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are a double-edged sword; they not only play an important role as secondary messengers in many intracellular signaling cascades, but they also exert indispensable effects on pathological processes involving the female genital tract. ROS and antioxidants join in the regulation of reproductive processes in both animals and humans. Imbalances between pro-oxidants and antioxidants could lead to a number of female reproductive diseases. This review focuses on the mechanism of OS and a series of female reproductive processes, explaining the role of OS in female reproduction and female reproductive diseases caused by OS, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, preeclampsia and so on. Many signaling pathways involved in female reproduction, including the Keap1-Nrf2, NF-κB, FOXO and MAPK pathways, which are affected by OS, are described, providing new ideas for the mechanism of reproductive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayin Lu
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Cao
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yaoxing Chen
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yulan Dong
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, College of Animal Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
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Tapia-Pizarro A, Archiles S, Argandoña F, Valencia C, Zavaleta K, Cecilia Johnson M, González-Ramos R, Devoto L. hCG activates Epac-Erk1/2 signaling regulating Progesterone Receptor expression and function in human endometrial stromal cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:393-405. [PMID: 28333280 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does hCG signal in human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and what is its role in regulating ESC function? SUMMARY ANSWER hCG signaling in ESCs activates the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases 1 and 2 (Erk1/2) pathway through exchange protein activated by cyclic AMP (cAMP) (Epac) and transiently increases progesterone receptor (PR) transcript and protein expression and its transcriptional function. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY hCG is one of the earliest embryo-derived secreted signals in the endometrium, which abundantly expresses LH/hCG receptors. hCG signals through cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) in gonadal cells, but in endometrial epithelial cells, hCG induces Erk1/2 activation independent of the cAMP/PKA pathway. Few data exist concerning the signal transduction pathways triggered by hCG in ESCs and their role in regulation of ESC function. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is an in vitro study comprising patients undergoing benign gynecological surgery (n = 46). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Endometrial samples were collected from normal cycling women during the mid-secretory phase for ESCs isolation. The study conducted in an academic research laboratory within a tertiary-care hospital. The activation of the Erk1/2 signal transduction pathway elicited by hCG was evaluated in ESC. Signaling pathway inhibitors were used to examine the roles of PKA, PI3K, PKC, adenylyl cyclase and Epac on the hCG-stimulated up-regulation of phospho-Erk1/2 (pErk1/2). Erk1/2 phosphorylation was determined by immunoblot. siRNA targeting Epac was used to investigate the molecular mechanisms. To assess the role of Erk1/2 signaling induced by hCG on ESC function, gene expression regulation was examined by immunofluorescence and real-time quantitative PCR. The role of PR on the regulation of transcript levels was studied using progesterone and the PR antagonist RU486. All experiments were conducted using at least three different cell culture preparations in triplicate. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Addition of hCG to ESCs in vitro induced the phosphorylation of Erk1/2 through cAMP accumulation. Such induction could not be blocked by inhibitors for PKA, PKC and PI3K. Epac inhibition and knockdown with siRNA prevented pErk1/2 induction by hCG. ESCs stimulated with hCG for up to 72 h showed a significant increase in PR mRNA and immunofluorescent label at 48 h only; an effect that was abrogated with the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor UO126. In addition, the hCG-activated Erk1/2 pathway significantly decreased the mRNA levels for secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4) at 24 h, whereas it increased those for homeobox A10 (HOXA10) at 48 h (P = 0.041 and P = 0.022 versus control, respectively). Prolactin mRNA levels were not significantly modified. HOXA10 mRNA up-regulation by hCG was not enhanced by co-stimulation with progesterone; however, it was completely abolished in the presence of RU486 (P = 0.036 hCG versus hCG + RU486). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study utilizing stromal cell cultures from human endometrial tissues. Furthermore, results obtained should also be confirmed in vivo in the context of the whole human endometrial tissue and hormonal milieu. The in vitro experiments using hCG have been conducted without other hormones/factors that may also modulate the ESCs response to hCG. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We have determined that hCG induces the PR through the Erk1/2 pathway in ESCs which may render them more sensitive to progesterone, increasing our understanding about the effects of hCG at the embryo-maternal interface. The activation of such a pathway in the context of the hormonal milieu during the window of implantation might contribute to a successful dialog between the embryo and the uterus, leading to appropriate endometrial function. Defective hCG signaling in the endometrial stromal tissue may lead to an incomplete uterine response, compromising embryo implantation and early pregnancy. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development, Government of Chile (FONDECYT) grants 11100443 and 1140614 (A.T.-P.). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Tapia-Pizarro
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
| | - Sebastián Archiles
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
| | - Felipe Argandoña
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
| | - Cecilia Valencia
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
| | - Keyla Zavaleta
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
| | - M Cecilia Johnson
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
| | - Reinaldo González-Ramos
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
| | - Luigi Devoto
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Sta. Rosa 1234, 2do piso, Santiago 8360160, Chile
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Moon JM, Chung YJ, Chae B, Kang HJ, Cho HH, Kim JH, Kim MR. Effect of mistletoe on endometrial stromal cell survival and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in patients with endometriosis. Int J Med Sci 2018; 15:1530-1536. [PMID: 30443175 PMCID: PMC6216063 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.28470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Research Question: To evaluate the effect of mistletoe on the cell viability of patients with endometriosis, the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured, and the change in the expression level of VEGF following mistletoe treatment was recorded. Design: Forty reproductive-aged women with endometriosis (stage I/II [group 1, n=20], and stage III/IV [group 2, n=20]) were prospectively enrolled. Twenty women who underwent gynaecologic operations for benign conditions were selected as the control group. Both eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues were obtained from the endometriosis patients. The endometrial tissues were cultured and the stromal cells were separated. The cells were cultured for 24 hours with peritoneal fluid from patients and controls with and without mistletoe supplementation (200 ng/mL), respectively. The MTT assay was used to assess cell viability, and VEGF expression was analysed by Western blotting and ELISA. Results: Using peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients treated with mistletoe, we found that both eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cell viability increased after treatment with peritoneal fluid from patients with early-stage (I and II) endometriosis. After mistletoe treatment, the cell viability was decreased, in both eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells in all stages of endometriosis. These findings were verified consistently by evaluating the expression and concentration of VEGF, a marker of angiogenesis. Conclusions: The present study showed that mistletoe can reduce the cell viability of endometrial stromal cells and the peritoneal fluid-induced elevation of VEGF in eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells obtained from endometriosis patients, especially in the early stage. Mistletoe might have anti-angiogenic activity on endometrial stromal cells and thus is a potential candidate for the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Youn-Jee Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Boah Chae
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jin Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Hee Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jang Heub Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mee-Ran Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Lv X, Wang D, Ma Y, Long Z. Analysis of the oncogene BRAF mutation and the correlation of the expression of wild-type BRAF and CREB1 in endometriosis. Int J Mol Med 2017; 41:1349-1356. [PMID: 29286077 PMCID: PMC5819909 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase (BRAF) has previously been identified as a candidate target gene in endometriosis. Wild-type and mutated BRAF serve important roles in different diseases. The aim of the present study was to explore BRAF mutation, the mRNA and protein expression of wild-type BRAF (wtBRAF) in endometriosis, and the association between the expression levels of wtBRAF and the predicted transcription factor cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1). In the present study, BRAF mutation was detected using Sanger sequencing among 30 ectopic and matched eutopic endometrium samples of patients with endometriosis as well as 25 normal endometrium samples, and no BRAF mutation was detected in exons 11 or 15. A region of ~2,000 bp upstream of the BRAF gene was then screened using NCBI and UCSC databases, and CREB1 was identified as a potential transcription factor of BRAF by analysis with the JASPAR and the TRANSFAC databases. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to analysis the mRNA expression levels of wtBRAF and CREB1, and the corresponding protein expression levels were evaluated using immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. The results revealed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of wtBRAF and CREB1 were significantly upregulated in the eutopic endometrial tissues of patients with endometriosis compared with normal endometrial tissues (P<0.05) and no significant difference in wtBRAF and CREB1 levels was detected between the ectopic and eutopic endometrium (P>0.05). In addition, correlation analysis revealed that the protein expression of CREB1 was positively correlated with the transcript level and protein expression of wtBRAF. It is reasonable to speculate that CREB1 may activate the transcription of wtBRAF through directly binding to its promoter, increasing BRAF expression and regulating the cell proliferation, migration and invasion of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Lv
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning 110042, P.R. China
| | - Danbo Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning 110042, P.R. China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning 110042, P.R. China
| | - Zaiqiu Long
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning 110042, P.R. China
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Uimari O, Rahmioglu N, Nyholt DR, Vincent K, Missmer SA, Becker C, Morris AP, Montgomery GW, Zondervan KT. Genome-wide genetic analyses highlight mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:780-793. [PMID: 28333195 PMCID: PMC5400041 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for endometriosis provide insight into novel biological pathways associated with its pathogenesis? SUMMARY ANSWER GWAS analysis uncovered multiple pathways that are statistically enriched for genetic association signals, analysis of Stage A disease highlighted a novel variant in MAP3K4, while top pathways significantly associated with all endometriosis and Stage A disease included several mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-related pathways. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Endometriosis is a complex disease with an estimated heritability of 50%. To date, GWAS revealed 10 genomic regions associated with endometriosis, explaining <4% of heritability, while half of the heritability is estimated to be due to common risk variants. Pathway analyses combine the evidence of single variants into gene-based measures, leveraging the aggregate effect of variants in genes and uncovering biological pathways involved in disease pathogenesis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Pathway analysis was conducted utilizing the International Endogene Consortium GWAS data, comprising 3194 surgically confirmed endometriosis cases and 7060 controls of European ancestry with genotype data imputed up to 1000 Genomes Phase three reference panel. GWAS was performed for all endometriosis cases and for Stage A (revised American Fertility Society (rAFS) I/II, n = 1686) and B (rAFS III/IV, n = 1364) cases separately. The identified significant pathways were compared with pathways previously investigated in the literature through candidate association studies. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The most comprehensive biological pathway databases, MSigDB (including BioCarta, KEGG, PID, SA, SIG, ST and GO) and PANTHER were utilized to test for enrichment of genetic variants associated with endometriosis. Statistical enrichment analysis was performed using the MAGENTA (Meta-Analysis Gene-set Enrichment of variaNT Associations) software. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The first genome-wide association analysis for Stage A endometriosis revealed a novel locus, rs144240142 (P = 6.45 × 10−8, OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.23–2.37), an intronic single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within MAP3K4. This SNP was not associated with Stage B disease (P = 0.086). MAP3K4 was also shown to be differentially expressed in eutopic endometrium between Stage A endometriosis cases and controls (P = 3.8 × 10−4), but not with Stage B disease (P = 0.26). A total of 14 pathways enriched with genetic endometriosis associations were identified (false discovery rate (FDR)-P < 0.05). The pathways associated with any endometriosis were Grb2-Sos provides linkage to MAPK signaling for integrins pathway (P = 2.8 × 10−5, FDR-P = 3.0 × 10−3), Wnt signaling (P = 0.026, FDR-P = 0.026) and p130Cas linkage to MAPK signaling for integrins pathway (P = 6.0 × 10−4, FDR-P = 0.029); with Stage A endometriosis: extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1 ERK2 MAPK (P = 5.0 × 10−4, FDR-P = 5.0 × 10−4) and with Stage B endometriosis: two overlapping pathways that related to extracellular matrix biology—Core matrisome (P = 1.4 × 10−3, FDR-P = 0.013) and ECM glycoproteins (P = 1.8 × 10−3, FDR-P = 7.1 × 10−3). Genes arising from endometriosis candidate gene studies performed to date were enriched for Interleukin signaling pathway (P = 2.3 × 10−12), Apoptosis signaling pathway (P = 9.7 × 10−9) and Gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor pathway (P = 1.2 × 10−6); however, these pathways did not feature in the results based on GWAS data. LARGE SCALE DATA Not applicable. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The analysis is restricted to (i) variants in/near genes that can be assigned to pathways, excluding intergenic variants; (ii) the gene-based pathway definition as registered in the databases; (iii) women of European ancestry. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The top ranked pathways associated with overall and Stage A endometriosis in particular involve integrin-mediated MAPK activation and intracellular ERK/MAPK acting downstream in the MAPK cascade, both acting in the control of cell division, gene expression, cell movement and survival. Other top enriched pathways in Stage B disease include ECM glycoprotein pathways important for extracellular structure and biochemical support. The results highlight the need for increased efforts to understand the functional role of these pathways in endometriosis pathogenesis, including the investigation of the biological effects of the genetic variants on downstream molecular processes in tissue relevant to endometriosis. Additionally, our results offer further support for the hypothesis of at least partially distinct causal pathophysiology for minimal/mild (rAFS I/II) vs. moderate/severe (rAFS III/IV) endometriosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The genome-wide association data and Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium (WTCCC) were generated through funding from the Wellcome Trust (WT084766/Z/08/Z, 076113 and 085475) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia (241944, 339462, 389927, 389875, 389891, 389892, 389938, 443036, 442915, 442981, 496610, 496739, 552485 and 552498). N.R. was funded by a grant from the Medical Research Council UK (MR/K011480/1). A.P.M. is a Wellcome Trust Senior Fellow in Basic Biomedical Science (grant WT098017). All authors declare there are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Outi Uimari
- Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.,Wellcome Trust Center for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, UK
| | - Nilufer Rahmioglu
- Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.,Wellcome Trust Center for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, UK
| | - Dale R Nyholt
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, Australia
| | - Katy Vincent
- Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Stacey A Missmer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Francis Street, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christian Becker
- Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrew P Morris
- Wellcome Trust Center for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, UK.,Department of Biostatistics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Grant W Montgomery
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Krina T Zondervan
- Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.,Wellcome Trust Center for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, UK
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