51
|
Haraguchi R, Kitazawa R, Murashima A, Yamada G, Kitazawa S. Developmental Contribution of Wnt-signal-responsive Cells to Mouse Reproductive Tract Formation. Acta Histochem Cytochem 2017; 50:127-133. [PMID: 28928542 PMCID: PMC5593815 DOI: 10.1267/ahc.17017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the müllerian duct (MD) is an embryonic tubular structure that gives rise to the female reproductive tract (FRT). The MD originates from the coelomic epithelium (CoE) and takes on a rostral to caudal shape to establish the primary structure of the FRT under the regulation of morphogenetic signals. During these developmental processes, the MD and its derivatives require proper regulation of the Wnt-signaling-pathway. Here, to investigate the developmental contribution of FRT primordia under the influence of the Wnt-signaling, genetic lineage tracing was carried out using TopCreER/Rosa-LacZ mice to follow the fate of Wnt-signal-responsive cells during reproductive tract formation. TopCreER-marked-LacZ+ cells, arising from the Wnt-signal-responsive progenitors in CoE, give rise to spatially restricted MD and the uterine luminal epithelium. Similarly, the progeny from LacZ+ mesenchymal cells surrounding the MD contribute to both the uterine smooth muscle and stroma. Furthermore, in males, the Wnt-signal-responsive MD mesenchyme develops into the epididymis. These results show, for the first time, evidence of the sequential involvement of reproductive tract progenitors under the influence of Wnt-signal throughout the developmental term. This study provides a precise outline for assessing the lineage relation between the reproductive tract and the cell fate of its primordia in a temporally regulated manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryuma Haraguchi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Riko Kitazawa
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Ehime University Hospital
| | - Aki Murashima
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Wakayama Medical University
- Department of Anatomy, Iwate Medical University
| | - Gen Yamada
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Wakayama Medical University
| | - Sohei Kitazawa
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Bilyk O, Coatham M, Jewer M, Postovit LM. Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in the Female Reproductive Tract: From Normal Functioning to Disease Pathology. Front Oncol 2017; 7:145. [PMID: 28725636 PMCID: PMC5497565 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2017.00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a physiological process that is vital throughout the human lifespan. In addition to contributing to the development of various tissues within the growing embryo, EMT is also responsible for wound healing and tissue regeneration later in adulthood. In this review, we highlight the importance of EMT in the development and normal functioning of the female reproductive organs (the ovaries and the uterus) and describe how dysregulation of EMT can lead to pathological conditions, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, and carcinogenesis. We also summarize the current literature relating to EMT in the context of ovarian and endometrial carcinomas, with a particular focus on how molecular mechanisms and the tumor microenvironment can govern cancer cell plasticity, therapy resistance, and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olena Bilyk
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Mackenzie Coatham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Michael Jewer
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
53
|
Zhang Z, Wang X, Zhang L, Shi Y, Wang J, Yan H. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in trophoblasts and abnormal activation in preeclampsia (Review). Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:1007-1013. [PMID: 29067442 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the most common types of hypertensive disease and occurs in 3‑4% of pregnancies. There are a number of theories on the pathogenesis of PE. Abnormal differentiation of the placenta may lead to failure of trophoblast migration, shallow placenta implantation and placental ischemia/hypoxia, followed by the subsequent occurrence of PE. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a canonical Wnt‑signaling pathway that regulates several biological processes, including proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. Abnormal activation of the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway may serve an important role in the pathogenesis of various human diseases, particularly in human cancer. Recent studies have demonstrated that the dysregulation of the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway may contribute to PE. The present review aims to summarize the articles on Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway in the trophoblast and abnormal activation in PE. Wnt/β-catenin signaling may serve a significant role in the pathogenesis of PE and may be a prospective therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of PE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Ying Shi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Jinming Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Huan Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Laganà AS, Vitale SG, Salmeri FM, Triolo O, Ban Frangež H, Vrtačnik-Bokal E, Stojanovska L, Apostolopoulos V, Granese R, Sofo V. Unus pro omnibus, omnes pro uno: A novel, evidence-based, unifying theory for the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Med Hypotheses 2017; 103:10-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2017.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
|
55
|
Nayeem SB, Arfuso F, Dharmarajan A, Keelan JA. Role of Wnt signalling in early pregnancy. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:525-44. [PMID: 25190280 DOI: 10.1071/rd14079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The integration of a complex network of signalling molecules promotes implantation of the blastocyst and development of the placenta. These processes are crucial for a successful pregnancy and fetal growth and development. The signalling network involves both cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix communication. The family of secreted glycoprotein ligands, the Wnts, plays a major role in regulating a wide range of biological processes, including embryonic development, cell fate, proliferation, migration, stem cell maintenance, tumour suppression, oncogenesis and tissue homeostasis. Recent studies have provided evidence that Wnt signalling pathways play an important role in reproductive tissues and in early pregnancy events. The focus of this review is to summarise our present knowledge of expression, regulation and function of the Wnt signalling pathways in early pregnancy events of human and other model systems, and its association with pathological conditions. Despite our recent progress, much remains to be learned about Wnt signalling in human reproduction. The advancement of knowledge in this area has applications in the reduction of infertility and the incidence and morbidity of gestational diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarmah B Nayeem
- School of Women's and Infant's Health, University of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, 374 Bagot Road, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
| | - Frank Arfuso
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, Faculty of Science, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jeffrey A Keelan
- School of Women's and Infant's Health, University of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, 374 Bagot Road, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
56
|
Guerrero Schimpf M, Milesi MM, Ingaramo PI, Luque EH, Varayoud J. Neonatal exposure to a glyphosate based herbicide alters the development of the rat uterus. Toxicology 2017; 376:2-14. [PMID: 27287056 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2016.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are extensively used to control weeds on both cropland and non-cropland areas. No reports are available regarding the effects of GBHs exposure on uterine development. We evaluated if neonatal exposure to a GBH affects uterine morphology, proliferation and expression of proteins that regulate uterine organogenetic differentiation in rats. Female Wistar pups received saline solution (control, C) or a commercial formulation of glyphosate (GBH, 2mg/kg) by sc injection every 48h from postnatal day (PND) 1 to PND7. Rats were sacrificed on PND8 (neonatal period) and PND21 (prepubertal period) to evaluate acute and short-term effects, respectively. The uterine morphology was evaluated in hematoxylin and eosin stained sections. The epithelial and stromal immunophenotypes were established by assessing the expression of luminal epithelial protein (cytokeratin 8; CK8), basal epithelial proteins (p63 and pan cytokeratin CK1, 5, 10 and 14); and vimentin by immunohistochemistry (IHC). To investigate changes on proteins that regulate uterine organogenetic differentiation we evaluated the expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), progesterone receptor (PR), Hoxa10 and Wnt7a by IHC. The GBH-exposed uteri showed morphological changes, characterized by an increase in the incidence of luminal epithelial hyperplasia (LEH) and an increase in the stromal and myometrial thickness. The epithelial cells showed a positive immunostaining for CK8, while the stromal cells for vimentin. GBH treatment increased cell proliferation in the luminal and stromal compartment on PND8, without changes on PND21. GBH treatment also altered the expression of proteins involved in uterine organogenetic differentiation. PR and Hoxa10 were deregulated both immediately and two weeks after the exposure. ERα was induced in the stromal compartment on PND8, and was downregulated in the luminal epithelial cells of gyphosate-exposed animals on PND21. GBH treatment also increased the expression of Wnt7a in the stromal and glandular epithelial cells on PND21. Neonatal exposure to GBH disrupts the postnatal uterine development at the neonatal and prepubertal period. All these changes may alter the functional differentiation of the uterus, affecting the female fertility and/or promoting the development of neoplasias.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marlise Guerrero Schimpf
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María M Milesi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Paola I Ingaramo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Farah O, Biechele S, Rossant J, Dufort D. Porcupine-dependent Wnt signaling controls stromal proliferation and endometrial gland maintenance through the action of distinct WNTs. Dev Biol 2016; 422:58-69. [PMID: 27965056 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling has been shown to be important in orchestrating proper development of the female reproductive tract. In the uterus, six members of the Wnt family are expressed in the neonatal endometrium and deletion of individual Wnt genes often leads to similar phenotypes, suggesting an interaction of these genes in uterine development and function. Furthermore, Wnts may have complementary functions, which could mask the identification of their individual functional role in single gene deletions. To circumvent this issue, we have generated a deletion of the Porcupine homolog within the female reproductive tract using progesterone receptor-Cre mice (PgrCre/+); preventing Wnt secretion from the producing cells. We show that Porcupine-dependent Wnt signaling, unlike previously reported, is dispensable for postnatal gland formation but is required for post-pubertal gland maintenance as well as for stromal cell proliferation. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that WNT7a is sufficient to restore post-pubertal endometrial gland formation. Although WNT5a did not restore gland formation, it rescued stromal cell proliferation; up-regulating several secreted factors including Fgf10 and Ihh. Our results further elucidate the roles of Wnt signaling in uterine development and function as well as provide an ideal system to address individual Wnt functions in the uterus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Farah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Steffen Biechele
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, 35 Medical Center Way, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Janet Rossant
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
58
|
Galoppo GH, Stoker C, Canesini G, Schierano-Marotti G, Durando M, Luque EH, Muñoz-de-Toro M. Postnatal development and histofunctional differentiation of the oviduct in the broad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 236:42-53. [PMID: 27388661 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Caiman latirostris is a South American crocodilian species characterized as a sentinel of the presence of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs). Evaluating developmental events in hormone-dependent organs, such as the oviduct, is crucial to understand physiological postnatal development, to identify putative periods of exposure sensitive to EDCs, and/or to identify biomarkers useful to evaluate the effects of EDC exposure. In this study, we describe the histomorphological features of C. latirostris oviducts by establishing the ontogeny of changes at cellular, tissue and molecular levels from the neonatal to the pre-pubertal juvenile stages. Since the histological diagnosis of the adenogenic oviduct lies on a group of features, here we defined a histofunctional score system and a cut-off value to distinguish between preadenogenic and adenogenic oviducts. Our results showed that the maturation of the C. latirostris oviduct is completed postnatally and characterized by changes that mimic the pattern of histological modifications described for the mammalian uterus. Ontogenic changes in the oviductal epithelium parallel changes at subepithelial level, and include collagen remodeling and characteristic spatial-temporal patterns of α-actin and desmin. The expression pattern of estrogen receptor alpha and progesterone receptor evidenced that, even at early postnatal developmental stages, the oviduct of C. latirostris is a target organ of endogenous and environmental hormones. Besides, oviductal adenogenesis seems to be an estrogen-dependent process. Results presented here provide not only insights into the histophysiological aspect of caiman female reproductive ducts but also new tools to better characterize caimans as sentinels of endocrine disruption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G H Galoppo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - C Stoker
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - G Canesini
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - G Schierano-Marotti
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - M Durando
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - E H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - M Muñoz-de-Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
59
|
León S, Fernandois D, Sull A, Sull J, Calder M, Hayashi K, Bhattacharya M, Power S, Vilos GA, Vilos AG, Tena-Sempere M, Babwah AV. Beyond the brain-Peripheral kisspeptin signaling is essential for promoting endometrial gland development and function. Sci Rep 2016; 6:29073. [PMID: 27364226 PMCID: PMC4929565 DOI: 10.1038/srep29073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine growth and endometrial gland formation (adenogenesis) and function, are essential for fertility and are controlled by estrogens and other regulators, whose nature and physiological relevance are yet to be elucidated. Kisspeptin, which signals via Kiss1r, is essential for fertility, primarily through its central control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, but also likely through peripheral actions. Using genetically modified mice, we addressed the contributions of central and peripheral kisspeptin signaling in regulating uterine growth and adenogenesis. Global ablation of Kiss1 or Kiss1r dramatically suppressed uterine growth and almost fully prevented adenogenesis. However, while uterine growth was fully rescued by E2 treatment of Kiss1−/− mice and by genetic restoration of kisspeptin signaling in GnRH neurons in Kiss1r−/− mice, functional adenogenesis was only marginally restored. Thus, while uterine growth is largely dependent on ovarian E2-output via central kisspeptin signaling, peripheral kisspeptin signaling is indispensable for endometrial adenogenesis and function, essential aspects of reproductive competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia León
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology &Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Instituto Maimonides de Investigacion Biomedica de Córdoba (IMIBIC)/Hospital Reina Sofia, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, Spain
| | - Daniela Fernandois
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology &Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Instituto Maimonides de Investigacion Biomedica de Córdoba (IMIBIC)/Hospital Reina Sofia, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, Spain
| | - Alexandra Sull
- The Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Judith Sull
- The Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michele Calder
- The Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Kanako Hayashi
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Moshmi Bhattacharya
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Oncology, London, Ontario University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Stephen Power
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - George A Vilos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Angelos G Vilos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology &Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Instituto Maimonides de Investigacion Biomedica de Córdoba (IMIBIC)/Hospital Reina Sofia, University of Córdoba, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, Spain.,CIBEROBN, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004 Córdoba, Spain.,FiDiPro Program, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Andy V Babwah
- The Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, London, Ontario, N6C 2V5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
60
|
Vigezzi L, Ramos JG, Kass L, Tschopp MV, Muñoz-de-Toro M, Luque EH, Bosquiazzo VL. A deregulated expression of estrogen-target genes is associated with an altered response to estradiol in aged rats perinatally exposed to bisphenol A. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 426:33-42. [PMID: 26898831 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Here we assessed the effects of perinatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) on the uterine response to 17β-estradiol (E2) in aged rats. Pregnant rats were orally exposed to 0.5 or 50 μg BPA/kg/day from gestational day 9 until weaning. On postnatal day (PND) 360, the rats were ovariectomized and treated with E2 for three months. The uterine tissue of BPA50 and BPA0.5 rats showed increased density of glands with squamous metaplasia (GSM) and glands with daughter glands respectively. Wnt7a expression was lower in GSM of BPA50 rats than in controls. The expression of estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and its 5'- untranslated exons ESR1-O and ESR1-OT was lower in BPA50 rats. Both doses of BPA modified the expression of coactivator proteins and epigenetic regulatory enzymes. Thus, perinatal BPA-exposed rats showed different glandular abnormalities associated with deregulated expression of E2-target genes. Different mechanisms would be involved depending on the BPA dose administered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Vigezzi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorge G Ramos
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Laura Kass
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María V Tschopp
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mónica Muñoz-de-Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Verónica L Bosquiazzo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
61
|
Rider V, Talbott A, Bhusri A, Krumsick Z, Foster S, Wormington J, Kimler BF. WINGLESS (WNT) signaling is a progesterone target for rat uterine stromal cell proliferation. J Endocrinol 2016; 229:197-207. [PMID: 26975616 PMCID: PMC4902779 DOI: 10.1530/joe-15-0523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Preparation of mammalian uterus for embryo implantation requires a precise sequence of cell proliferation. In rodent uterus, estradiol stimulates proliferation of epithelial cells. Progesterone operates as a molecular switch and redirects proliferation to the stroma by down-regulating glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and stimulating β-catenin accumulation in the periluminal stromal cells. In this study, the WNT signal involved in the progesterone-dependent proliferative switch was investigated. Transcripts of four candidate Wnt genes were measured in the uteri from ovariectomized (OVX) rats, progesterone-pretreated (3 days of progesterone, 2mg/daily) rats, and progesterone-pretreated rats given a single dose (0.2µg) of estradiol. The spatial distribution of the WNT proteins was determined in the uteri after the same treatments. Wnt5a increased in response to progesterone and the protein emerged in the periluminal stromal cells of progesterone-pretreated rat uteri. To investigate whether WNT5A was required for proliferation, uterine stromal cell lines were stimulated with progesterone (1µM) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF, 50ng/mL). Proliferating stromal cells expressed a two-fold increase in WNT5A protein at 12h post stimulation. Stimulated stromal cells were cultured with actinomycin D (25µg/mL) to inhibit new RNA synthesis. Relative Wnt5a expression increased at 4 and 6 h of culture, suggesting that progesterone plus FGF preferentially increased Wnt5a mRNA stability. Knockdown of Wnt5a in uterine stromal cell lines inhibited stromal cell proliferation and decreased Wnt5a mRNA. The results indicate that progesterone initiates and synchronizes uterine stromal cell proliferation by increasing WNT5A expression and signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Rider
- Department of BiologyPittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas, USA
| | - Alex Talbott
- Department of BiologyPittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas, USA
| | - Anuradha Bhusri
- Department of BiologyPittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas, USA
| | - Zach Krumsick
- Department of BiologyPittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas, USA
| | - Sierra Foster
- Department of BiologyPittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas, USA
| | - Joshua Wormington
- Department of BiologyPittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas, USA
| | - Bruce F Kimler
- Department of Radiation OncologyThe University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Guimarães-Young A, Neff T, Dupuy AJ, Goodheart MJ. Conditional deletion of Sox17 reveals complex effects on uterine adenogenesis and function. Dev Biol 2016; 414:219-27. [PMID: 27102016 PMCID: PMC5521196 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The importance of canonical Wnt signaling to murine uterine development is well established. Mouse models in which uterine-specific Wnt ligands, β-catenin, or Lef1 are disrupted result in failure of postnatal endometrial gland development. Sox17 is a transcription factor characterized in numerous tissues as an antagonist of Wnt signaling. Thus, we hypothesized that conditional ablation of Sox17 would lead to hyperproliferation of endometrial glands in mice. Contrary to our prediction, disruption of Sox17 in epithelial and stromal compartments led to inhibition of endometrial adenogenesis and a loss of reproductive capacity. Epithelium-specific Sox17 disruption resulted in normal adenogenesis although reproductive capacity remained impaired. These findings suggest that non-epithelial, Sox17-positive cells are necessary for adenogenesis and that glands require Sox17 to properly function. To our knowledge, these findings are the first to implicate Sox17 in endometrial gland formation and reproductive success. The data presented herein underscore the importance of studying Sox17 in uterine homeostasis and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Guimarães-Young
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Traci Neff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Adam J Dupuy
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Michael J Goodheart
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Ingaramo PI, Milesi MM, Schimpf MG, Ramos JG, Vigezzi L, Muñoz-de-Toro M, Luque EH, Varayoud J. Endosulfan affects uterine development and functional differentiation by disrupting Wnt7a and β-catenin expression in rats. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 425:37-47. [PMID: 26911934 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal exposure to a low dose of endosulfan may disrupt the expression of Wnt7a and β-catenin during uterine development leading to the failure of uterine functional differentiation during implantation. New-born female Wistar rats were treated with vehicle, endosulfan (600 μg/kg/d, E600) or diethylstilbestrol (0.2 μg/kg/d, DES) on postnatal days (PNDs) 1, 3, 5 and 7. Subsequently, uterine histomorphology and the protein expression of Wnt7a and β-catenin were evaluated on PND8, PND21 and gestational day (GD) 5 (pre-implantation period). In the E600 rats, Wnt7a and β-catenin protein expression was increased in the epithelium on PND8, and Wnt7a expression was decreased in the endometrial glands on PND21. On GD5, the number of uterine glands was decreased in the E600-and DES-treated rats. In addition, Wnt7a expression was decreased in all uterine compartments, and β-catenin expression was increased in the luminal and glandular epithelia of the E600-and DES-treated rats. Disruption of Wnt7a and β-catenin uterine expression in the prepubertal and adult females altered the uterine preparation for embryo implantation, which could be associated with the subfertility triggered by endosulfan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola I Ingaramo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María M Milesi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Marlise Guerrero Schimpf
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorge G Ramos
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Lucía Vigezzi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mónica Muñoz-de-Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente Del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Zhang L, Xiong W, Xiong Y, Liu H, Liu Y. 17 β-Estradiol promotes vascular endothelial growth factor expression via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway during the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:526-35. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
|
65
|
Candidate gene analysis in a case of congenital absence of the endometrium. FERTILITY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 2:3. [PMID: 28620530 PMCID: PMC5424362 DOI: 10.1186/s40738-016-0015-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Primary amenorrhea usually result from a genetic or anatomic abnormality. We present the first reported patient with the absence of endometrium and lumen in a small bicornuate uterus in a patient with primary amenorrhea. Case presentation A 41-year-old woman presented for evaluation of primary amenorrhea and infertility. She did develop normal secondary sexual characteristics but never had menses. Physical examination, hormone analyses, and karyotype analysis were normal. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed a small uterus with absent endometrial stripe. Ovaries were normal in size. Pathology from hysterectomy for abnormal Pap smears revealed a hypoplastic bicornuate uterus with absence of lumen and absent endometrium. DNA analyses for mutations in the coding sequences of three members of HOXA gene family was performed, but no variants in the coding sequence of these genes were found. These findings support the hypothesis that mutations in the coding sequence of HOXA10, HOXA11, and HOXA13 are not responsible for congenital endometrial absence with bicornuate hypoplastic uterus. Conclusions Congenital absence of the endometrium is an uncommon etiology for primary amenorrhea, and nonvisualization of the endometrial stripe on ultrasound imaging in association with primary amenorrhea should raise suspicion of this rare disorder in this case.
Collapse
|
66
|
Bellessort B, Le Cardinal M, Bachelot A, Narboux-Nême N, Garagnani P, Pirazzini C, Barbieri O, Mastracci L, Jonchere V, Duvernois-Berthet E, Fontaine A, Alfama G, Levi G. Dlx5 and Dlx6 control uterine adenogenesis during post-natal maturation: possible consequences for endometriosis. Hum Mol Genet 2016; 25:97-108. [PMID: 26512061 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Dlx5 and Dlx6 are two closely associated homeobox genes which code for transcription factors involved in the control of steroidogenesis and reproduction. Inactivation of Dlx5/6 in the mouse results in a Leydig cell defect in the male and in ovarian insufficiency in the female. DLX5/6 are also strongly expressed by the human endometrium but their function in the uterus is unknown. The involvement of DLX5/6 in human uterine pathology is suggested by their strong downregulation in endometriotic lesions and upregulation in endometrioïd adenocarcinomas. We first show that Dlx5/6 expression begins in Müllerian ducts epithelia and persists then in the uterine luminal and glandular epithelia throughout post-natal maturation and in the adult. We then use a new mouse model in which Dlx5 and Dlx6 can be simultaneously inactivated in the endometrium using a Pgr(cre/+) allele. Post-natal inactivation of Dlx5/6 in the uterus results in sterility without any obvious ovarian involvement. The uteri of Pgr(cre/+); Dlx5/6(flox/flox) mice present very few uterine glands and numerous abnormally large and branched invaginations of the uterine lumen. In Dlx5/6 mutant uteri, the expression of genes involved in gland formation (Foxa2) and in epithelial remodelling during implantation (Msx1) is significantly reduced. Furthermore, we show that DLX5 is highly expressed in human endometrial glandular epithelium and that its expression is affected in endometriosis. We conclude that Dlx5 and Dlx6 expression determines uterine architecture and adenogenesis and is needed for implantation. Given their importance for female reproduction, DLX5 and DLX6 must be regarded as interesting targets for future clinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brice Bellessort
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France
| | - Marine Le Cardinal
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France
| | - Anne Bachelot
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France, AP-HP, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Centre de Référence des Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital (Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière), Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Site Pitié, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Narboux-Nême
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France
| | - Paolo Garagnani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy, Interdepartmental Center 'L. Galvani', University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Chiara Pirazzini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy, Interdepartmental Center 'L. Galvani', University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Ottavia Barbieri
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES) and, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, National Institute for Cancer Research, Genova, Italy and
| | - Luca Mastracci
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Surgical Science and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Vincent Jonchere
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France
| | - Evelyne Duvernois-Berthet
- Department of Régulations, Développement et Diversité Moléculaire, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France
| | - Anastasia Fontaine
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France
| | - Gladys Alfama
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France
| | - Giovanni Levi
- Évolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, CNRS UMR 7221, Muséum Nationale d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris 75005, France,
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
Zhang Q, Yan J. Update of Wnt signaling in implantation and decidualization. Reprod Med Biol 2015; 15:95-105. [PMID: 29259425 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-015-0226-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic development into an implantation-competent blastocyst, synchronized uterine transformation into a receptive stage, and an intimate cross-talk between the activated blastocyst and the receptive uterus are essential for successful implantation, and therefore for subsequent pregnancy outcome. Evidence accumulating during recent years has underlined the importance of the Wnt signaling pathway in mammalian implantation and decidualization. Herein, this review focuses on the current state of knowledge regarding Wnt signaling in multiple implantation and decidualization events: pre-implantation embryo development, blastocyst activation for implantation, uterine development, and decidualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University 250021 Jinan China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics Jinan China.,The Key Laboratory for Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education Jinan China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine Jinan China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University 250021 Jinan China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics Jinan China.,The Key Laboratory for Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education Jinan China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine Jinan China
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Participation of WNT and β-Catenin in Physiological and Pathological Endometrial Changes: Association with Angiogenesis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:854056. [PMID: 26366420 PMCID: PMC4558421 DOI: 10.1155/2015/854056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
WNT proteins are involved in embryonic development, sex determination, stem cell recruitment, angiogenesis, and cancer. They take part in morphological changes in the endometrium during development, regulate processes of endometrial proliferation and differentiation. This review presents current knowledge about implication of WNT proteins and β-catenin in physiological endometrial functions as well as their involvement in uterine carcinogenesis. Influence of WNT proteins on the formation of blood vessel, taking place both under healthy and pathological conditions, is also considered. Participation of WNT proteins, β-catenin, and inhibitors and inducers of WNT signaling in the process of endometrial angiogenesis is largely unknown. Thus, confirmation of their local and systemic participation in the process of endometrial angiogenesis may in the long term help to establish new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in conditions associated with the pathology of the female reproductive system.
Collapse
|
69
|
Nayeem SB, Dharmarajan A, Keelan JA. Paracrine communication modulates production of Wnt antagonists and COX1-mediated prostaglandins in a decidual-trophoblast co-culture model. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 405:52-62. [PMID: 25680918 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signalling has important roles in decidualisation, implantation and placentation. We investigated the role of decidua-trophoblast communication and Wnt signalling in the placenta using a co-culture model. Expression of a wide range of Wnt-related genes was observed in both decidual and trophoblast cells using PCR array, with remarkably similar expression profiles. Co-culture induced altered expression of several Wnt-related proteins, with the Wnt inhibitors sFPR4 and DKK1 being among the most differentially expressed genes. Media concentrations of sFRP4 and DKK1 were increased with co-culture, coincident with a decrease in canonical Wnt signalling activity. Expression of PTGS1 mRNA and COX1 protein was also increased with co-culture as were media PGE2 concentrations; these changes were replicated by addition of exogenous DKK1 and sFRP4. Collectively, these data suggest that paracrine interactions between decidua and trophoblast stimulate Wnt antagonist secretion leading to increased placental prostaglandin production. This may be important for implantation and placental function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarmah B Nayeem
- School of Women's and Infant's Health, University of Western Australia, 374 Bagot Road, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6845, Australia
| | - Jeffrey A Keelan
- School of Women's and Infant's Health, University of Western Australia, 374 Bagot Road, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
70
|
Gao Y, Duran S, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Burghardt RC, Bayless KJ, Bartholin L, Li Q. Constitutive activation of transforming growth factor Beta receptor 1 in the mouse uterus impairs uterine morphology and function. Biol Reprod 2014; 92:34. [PMID: 25505200 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.125146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite increasing evidence pointing to the essential involvement of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) superfamily in reproduction, a definitive role of TGFB signaling in the uterus remains to be unveiled. In this study, we generated a gain-of-function mouse model harboring a constitutively active (CA) TGFB receptor 1 (TGFBR1), the expression of which was conditionally induced by the progesterone receptor (Pgr)-Cre recombinase. Overactivation of TGFB signaling was verified by enhanced phosphorylation of SMAD2 and increased expression of TGFB target genes in the uterus. TGFBR1 Pgr-Cre CA mice were sterile. Histological, cellular, and molecular analyses demonstrated that constitutive activation of TGFBR1 in the mouse uterus promoted formation of hypermuscled uteri. Accompanying this phenotype was the upregulation of a battery of smooth muscle genes in the uterus. Furthermore, TGFB ligands activated SMAD2/3 and stimulated the expression of a smooth muscle maker gene, alpha smooth muscle actin (ACTA2), in human uterine smooth muscle cells. Immunofluorescence microscopy identified a marked reduction of uterine glands in TGFBR1 Pgr-Cre CA mice within the endometrial compartment that contained myofibroblast-like cells. Thus, constitutive activation of TGFBR1 in the mouse uterus caused defects in uterine morphology and function, as evidenced by abnormal myometrial structure, dramatically reduced uterine glands, and impaired uterine decidualization. These results underscore the importance of a precisely controlled TGFB signaling system in establishing a uterine microenvironment conducive to normal development and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Samantha Duran
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Robert C Burghardt
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Laurent Bartholin
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Université Lyon 1, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
71
|
Li Q. Transforming growth factor β signaling in uterine development and function. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2014; 5:52. [PMID: 25478164 PMCID: PMC4255921 DOI: 10.1186/2049-1891-5-52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily is evolutionarily conserved and plays fundamental roles in cell growth and differentiation. Mounting evidence supports its important role in female reproduction and development. TGFBs1-3 are founding members of this growth factor family, however, the in vivo function of TGFβ signaling in the uterus remains poorly defined. By drawing on mouse and human studies as a main source, this review focuses on the recent progress on understanding TGFβ signaling in the uterus. The review also considers the involvement of dysregulated TGFβ signaling in pathological conditions that cause pregnancy loss and fertility problems in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843 USA
| |
Collapse
|
72
|
Murata T, Ishitsuka Y, Karouji K, Kaneda H, Toki H, Nakai Y, Makino S, Fukumura R, Kotaki H, Wakana S, Noda T, Gondo Y. β-CateninC429S mice exhibit sterility consequent to spatiotemporally sustained Wnt signalling in the internal genitalia. Sci Rep 2014; 4:6959. [PMID: 25376241 PMCID: PMC4223658 DOI: 10.1038/srep06959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signalling regulates numerous developmental and homeostatic processes. Ctnnb1 (also known as β-catenin) is the only protein that transmits signals from various Wnt ligands to downstream genes. In this study, we report that our newly established mouse strain, which harbours a Cys429 to Ser missense mutation in the β-catenin gene, exhibited specific organ defects in contrast to mice with broadly functioning Wnt/β-catenin signalling. Both homozygous mutant males and females produced normal gametes but were infertile because of abnormal seminal vesicle and vaginal morphogenesis. An ins-TOPGAL transgenic reporter spatiotemporally sustained Wnt/β-catenin signalling during the corresponding organogenesis. Therefore, β-catenin(C429S) should provide new insights into β-catenin as a universal component of Wnt/β-catenin signal transduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Murata
- Mutagenesis and Genomics Team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuichi Ishitsuka
- Mutagenesis and Genomics Team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kumiko Karouji
- Population and Quantitative Genomics Team, RIKEN Genomic Sciences Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hideki Kaneda
- Japan Mouse Clinic, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hideaki Toki
- Team for Advanced Development and Evaluation of Human Disease Models, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuji Nakai
- Mutagenesis and Genomics Team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shigeru Makino
- Mutagenesis and Genomics Team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Fukumura
- Mutagenesis and Genomics Team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hayato Kotaki
- Mutagenesis and Genomics Team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shigeharu Wakana
- Japan Mouse Clinic, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Noda
- Team for Advanced Development and Evaluation of Human Disease Models, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoichi Gondo
- Mutagenesis and Genomics Team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
73
|
Abstract
Uterine anomalies are one of the most common parental causes of recurrent pregnancy loss, occurring in about 19% of patients. Congenital uterine anomalies are most likely caused by HOX gene mutations, although the mechanism is probably polygenic. There are no known environmental causes other than estrogenic endocrine disruptors such as diethylstilbestrol. Acquired uterine anomalies may result from uterine trauma (adhesions) or benign growths of the myometrium (fibroids) or endometrium (polyps). Although randomized controlled trials are lacking, surgical treatment is recommended for repair of uterine septa, and for removal of severe adhesions and submucosal fibroids, especially if no other causes are identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn R Jaslow
- Department of Biology, Rhodes College, 2000 North Parkway, Memphis, TN 38112, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
74
|
Bai Y, Fang N, Gu T, Kang Y, Wu J, Yang D, Zhang H, Suo Z, Ji S. HOXA11 gene is hypermethylation and aberrant expression in gastric cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2014; 14:79. [PMID: 25788862 PMCID: PMC4364045 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-014-0079-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aberrant DNA methylation is an acquired epigenetic alteration that serves as an alternative to genetic defects in the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes and other genes in diverse human cancers. Gastric carcinoma is one of the tumors with a high frequency of aberrant methylation in promoter region. Hence we investigated the promoter methylation status and expression level of HOXA11 gene which may involve in GC development. Methods Thirty-two surgical excised gastric cancer specimens, twelve paired adjacent non-cancerous specimens and seven normal gastric mucosas were examined. The methylation status and expression level of HOXA11 gene were determined by bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (BSP), real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) respectively. HOXA11 expression was knocked-down with siRNA to mimic HOXA11 gene hypermethylation and ability of cell proliferation and migration was determinate. In addition, we analyzed and correlated the findings with clinicopathological features. Results The methylation level of HOXA11 gene in gastric cancer tissues and adjacent non-cancerous tissues were higher than those in normal gastric mucosa (P < 0.05). The methylation level was higher in TNM III and IV patients of GC than those in TNM I and II patients (P < 0.05). The expression of HOXA11 mRNA and protein decreased in normal gastric mucosa, peri-cancer tissue and GC (P < 0.05). HOXA11 expression was inversely correlated with DNA methylation (P < 0.05). Knocked-down of HOXA11 expression with siRNA in BGC-823 cells enhanced cell proliferation compared with control, but no significant different was observed in migration ability. Conclusion Hypermethylation and decreased expression of HOXA11 gene may be involved in the carcinogenesis and development of GC and may provide useful information for the prediction of the malignant behaviors of GC. And the expression of HOXA11 is impaired by DNA methylation. However, repression of HOXA11 expression promoted BGC-823 cell proliferation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinguo Bai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, Henan Province, China ; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan Province, China
| | - Na Fang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan Province, China
| | - Tingxun Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan Province, China
| | - Yuhua Kang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, Henan Province, China
| | - Jiang Wu
- Department of pathology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, Henan Province, China
| | - Desheng Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, Henan Province, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, Henan Province, China
| | - Zhimin Suo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, Henan Province, China
| | - Shaoping Ji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, Henan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
The epidermal growth factor receptor critically regulates endometrial function during early pregnancy. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1004451. [PMID: 24945252 PMCID: PMC4063709 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility and adverse gynecological outcomes such as preeclampsia and miscarriage represent significant female reproductive health concerns. The spatiotemporal expression of growth factors indicates that they play an important role in pregnancy. The goal of this study is to define the role of the ERBB family of growth factor receptors in endometrial function. Using conditional ablation in mice and siRNA in primary human endometrial stromal cells, we identified the epidermal growth factor receptor (Egfr) to be critical for endometrial function during early pregnancy. While ablation of Her2 or Erbb3 led to only a modest reduction in litter size, mice lacking Egfr expression are severely subfertile. Pregnancy demise occurred shortly after blastocyst implantation due to defects in decidualization including decreased proliferation, cell survival, differentiation and target gene expression. To place Egfr in a genetic regulatory hierarchy, transcriptome analyses was used to compare the gene signatures from mice with conditional ablation of Egfr, wingless-related MMTV integration site 4 (Wnt4) or boneless morphogenic protein 2 (Bmp2); revealing that not only are Bmp2 and Wnt4 key downstream effectors of Egfr, but they also regulate distinct physiological functions. In primary human endometrial stromal cells, marker gene expression, a novel high content image-based approach and phosphokinase array analysis were used to demonstrate that EGFR is a critical regulator of human decidualization. Furthermore, inhibition of EGFR signaling intermediaries WNK1 and AKT1S1, members identified in the kinase array and previously unreported to play a role in the endometrium, also attenuate decidualization. These results demonstrate that EGFR plays an integral role in establishing the cellular context necessary for successful pregnancy via the activation of intricate signaling and transcriptional networks, thereby providing valuable insight into potential therapeutic targets. Approximately 10% of reproductive aged women are considered infertile. While great strides have been made in assisted reproductive technologies, overall success rates, especially considering the cost, remain low. Studies indicate that due to its sequential nature, nearly 75% of pregnancy failures are due to defects that occur very early in gestation. Therefore, understanding the physiological changes that occur in the endometrium during this period and how those changes are regulated is of paramount importance if we are to improve our ability to address female reproductive health concerns. We investigated a family of growth factor receptors and identified one that critically regulates the growth and survival of the endometrium in response to the implanting embryo. Furthermore, we used unbiased approaches to identify which signaling pathways and genetic networks are activated downstream of this receptor to execute each of the processes necessary for a successful pregnancy. Understanding the mechanisms and genetic networks with which pregnancy is regulated is a prerequisite to the development of effective pharmaceutical therapeutics.
Collapse
|
76
|
Suzuki D, Leu NA, Brice AK, Senoo M. Expression analysis of Dact1 in mice using a LacZ reporter. Gene Expr Patterns 2014; 15:21-30. [PMID: 24681206 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway is essential for cell fate decisions during embryonic development as well as for homeostasis after birth. Dapper antagonist of catenin-1 (Dact1) plays an important role during embryogenesis by regulating Wnt signaling pathways. Consequently, targeted disruption of the Dact1 gene in mice leads to perinatal lethality due to severe developmental defects involving the central nervous system, genitourinary system and distal digestive tract. However, the expression and potential function of Dact1 in other tissues during development and postnatal life have not been well studied. Here, we have generated reporter mice in which LacZ expression is driven by the Dact1 gene promoter and characterized Dact1-LacZ expression in embryos and adult tissues. Our data show that while Dact1-LacZ is expressed in multiple mesoderm- and neuroectoderm-derived tissues during development, high expression of Dact1-LacZ is restricted to a small subset of adult tissues, including the brain, eye, heart, and some reproductive organs. These results will serve as a basis for future investigation of Dact1 function in Wnt-mediated organogenesis and tissue homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Suzuki
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - N Adrian Leu
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Angela K Brice
- University Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Makoto Senoo
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
Takagi S, Shimizu T, Kuramoto G, Ishitani K, Matsui H, Yamato M, Okano T. Reconstruction of functional endometrium-like tissue in vitro and in vivo using cell sheet engineering. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 446:335-40. [PMID: 24602616 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.02.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Uterus is a female specific reproductive organ and plays critical roles in allowing embryo to grow. Therefore, the endometrial disorders lead to female infertility. Hence, the regeneration of endometrium allowing fertilized ovum to implant might be valuable in the field of fertility treatment. Recently, cell sheet engineering using a temperature-responsive culture dish has advanced in regenerative medicine. With this technology, endometrial cells were harvested as a contiguous cell sheet by reducing temperature. Firstly, mouse endometrial cell sheets were re-cultured for 3 days to evaluate the function. Histological analyses revealed that endometrial epithelial cell-specific cytokeratin 18 and female-specific hormone receptors, estrogen receptor β and progesterone receptor, were expressed. Furthermore, endometrial epithelial cells constructed epithelial layer at the apical side. Then, endometrial cell sheets from green-fluorescent-protein rat cells were transplanted onto the buttock muscle of nude rat for evaluating the function in vivo. Histological analyses showed that endometrial cell sheets reconstructed endometrium-like tissue, which was found to form uterus-specific endometrial glands having hormonal receptor to estrogen. In this study, endometrial cell sheets were speculated to contribute to the regeneration of functional endometrium as a new therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soichi Takagi
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Shimizu
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Goro Kuramoto
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Ken Ishitani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Hideo Matsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Masayuki Yamato
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Teruo Okano
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
78
|
Ruan YC, Chen H, Chan HC. Ion channels in the endometrium: regulation of endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:517-29. [PMID: 24591147 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although embryo implantation is a prerequisite for human reproduction, it remains a poorly understood process. The molecular mechanisms regulating endometrial receptivity and/or embryo implantation are still largely unclear. METHODS Pubmed and Medline literature databases were searched for articles in English published up to December 2013 with relevant keywords including 'endometrium', 'Na(+), Cl(-), K(+), or Ca(2+) channels', 'ion channels', 'endometrial receptivity', 'blastocyst implantation' and 'embryo implantation'. RESULTS At the time of writing, more than 14 types of ion channels, including the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, epithelial sodium channel and various Ca(2+) and K(+) channels, had been reported to be expressed in the endometrium or cells of endometrial origin. In vitro and/or in vivo studies conducted on different species, including rodents, pigs and humans, demonstrated the involvement of various ion channels in the process of embryo implantation by regulating: (i) uterine luminal fluid volume; (ii) decidualization; and (iii) the expression of the genes associated with implantation. Importantly, abnormal ion channel expression was found to be associated with implantation failure in IVF patients. CONCLUSIONS Ion channels in the endometrium are emerging as important players in regulating endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Abnormal expression or function of ion channels in the endometrium may lead to impaired endometrial receptivity and/or implantation failure. Further investigation into the roles of endometrial ion channels may provide a better understanding of the complex process of embryo implantation and thus reveal novel targets for diagnosis and treatment of implantation failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Chun Ruan
- Sichuan University - The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| | - Hui Chen
- Sichuan University - The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| | - Hsiao Chang Chan
- Sichuan University - The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
79
|
Huang CC, Orvis GD, Kwan KM, Behringer RR. Lhx1 is required in Müllerian duct epithelium for uterine development. Dev Biol 2014; 389:124-36. [PMID: 24560999 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract organs of mammals, including the oviducts, uterus, cervix and upper vagina, are derived from the Müllerian ducts, a pair of epithelial tubes that form within the mesonephroi. The Müllerian ducts form in a rostral to caudal manner, guided by and dependent on the Wolffian ducts that have already formed. Experimental embryological studies indicate that caudal elongation of the Müllerian duct towards the urogenital sinus occurs in part by proliferation at the ductal tip. The molecular mechanisms that regulate the elongation of the Müllerian duct are currently unclear. Lhx1 encodes a LIM-homeodomain transcription factor that is essential for male and female reproductive tract development. Lhx1 is expressed in both the Wolffian and Müllerian ducts. Wolffian duct-specific knockout of Lhx1 results in degeneration of the Wolffian duct and consequently the non-cell-autonomous loss of the Müllerian duct. To determine the role of Lhx1 specifically in the Müllerian duct epithelium, we performed a Müllerian duct-specific knockout study using Wnt7a-Cre mice. Loss of Lhx1 in the Müllerian duct epithelium led to a block in Müllerian duct elongation and uterine hypoplasia characterized by loss of the entire endometrium (luminal and glandular epithelium and stroma) and inner circular but not the outer longitudinal muscle layer. Time-lapse imaging and molecular analyses indicate that Lhx1 acts cell autonomously to maintain ductal progenitor cells for Müllerian duct elongation. These studies identify LHX1 as the first transcription factor that is essential in the Müllerian duct epithelial progenitor cells for female reproductive tract development. Furthermore, these genetic studies demonstrate the requirement of epithelial-mesenchymal interactions for uterine tissue compartment differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Chiu Huang
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Grant D Orvis
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kin Ming Kwan
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
80
|
Bae SM, Lim W, Jeong W, Lee JY, Kim J, Han JY, Bazer FW, Song G. Hormonal regulation of beta-catenin during development of the avian oviduct and its expression in epithelial cell-derived ovarian carcinogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:46-54. [PMID: 24055276 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Beta-catenin (CTNNB1) is a dual function molecule that acts as a key component of the cadherin complex and WNT signaling pathway. It has a crucial role in embryogenesis, tumorigenesis, angiogenesis and progression of metastasis. Recently, it has been suggested that the CTNNB1 complex is a major regulator of development of the mouse oviduct and uterus. However, little is known about the CTNNB1 gene in chickens. Therefore, in this study, we focused on the CTNNB1 gene in the chicken reproductive tract and hormonal control of its expression in the chicken oviduct. CTNNB1 was localized specifically to the luminal and glandular epithelium of the four segments of chicken oviduct and DES (diethylstilbestrol, a synthetic non-steroidal estrogen) increased its expression primarily in LE of the magnum. In addition, CTNNB1 mRNA and protein were expressed abundantly in glandular epithelium of endometrioid-type ovarian carcinoma, but not in normal ovaries. Moreover, CTNNB1 expression was post-transcriptionally regulated via its 3'-UTR by binding with target miRNAs including miR-217, miR-1467, miR-1623 and miR-1697. Collectively, these results indicate that CTNNB1 is a novel gene regulated by estrogen in epithelial cells of the chicken oviduct and that it is also abundantly expressed in epithelial cells of endometrioid-type ovarian carcinoma suggesting that it could be used as a marker for diagnosis of ovarian cancer in laying hens and women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Min Bae
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooyoung Jeong
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Young Lee
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyoung Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Yong Han
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea; Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics and Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2471, USA
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea; Division of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 136-713, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
81
|
Park JH, Tanaka Y, Arango NA, Zhang L, Benedict LA, Roh MI, Donahoe PK, Teixeira JM. Induction of WNT inhibitory factor 1 expression by Müllerian inhibiting substance/antiMullerian hormone in the Müllerian duct mesenchyme is linked to Müllerian duct regression. Dev Biol 2013; 386:227-36. [PMID: 24362065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2013.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Revised: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
A key event during mammalian sexual development is regression of the Müllerian ducts (MDs) in the bipotential urogenital ridges (UGRs) of fetal males, which is caused by the expression of Müllerian inhibiting substance (MIS) in the Sertoli cells of the differentiating testes. The paracrine signaling mechanisms involved in MD regression are not completely understood, particularly since the receptor for MIS, MISR2, is expressed in the mesenchyme surrounding the MD, but regression occurs in both the epithelium and mesenchyme. Microarray analysis comparing MIS signaling competent and Misr2 knockout embryonic UGRs was performed to identify secreted factors that might be important for MIS-mediated regression of the MD. A seven-fold increase in the expression of Wif1, an inhibitor of WNT/β-catenin signaling, was observed in the Misr2-expressing UGRs. Whole mount in situ hybridization of Wif1 revealed a spatial and temporal pattern of expression consistent with Misr2 during the window of MD regression in the mesenchyme surrounding the MD epithelium that was absent in both female UGRs and UGRs knocked out for Misr2. Knockdown of Wif1 expression in male UGRs by Wif1-specific siRNAs beginning on embryonic day 13.5 resulted in MD retention in an organ culture assay, and exposure of female UGRs to added recombinant human MIS induced Wif1 expression in the MD mesenchyme. Knockdown of Wif1 led to increased expression of β-catenin and its downstream targets TCF1/LEF1 in the MD mesenchyme and to decreased apoptosis, resulting in partial to complete retention of the MD. These results strongly suggest that WIF1 secretion by the MD mesenchyme plays a role in MD regression in fetal males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joo Hyun Park
- Vincent Center of Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yoshihiro Tanaka
- Vincent Center of Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nelson A Arango
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lihua Zhang
- Vincent Center of Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - L Andrew Benedict
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mi In Roh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Patricia K Donahoe
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jose M Teixeira
- Vincent Center of Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
82
|
Van Camp JK, Beckers S, Zegers D, Van Hul W. Wnt Signaling and the Control of Human Stem Cell Fate. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2013; 10:207-29. [DOI: 10.1007/s12015-013-9486-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
83
|
Regenerating endometrium from stem/progenitor cells: is it abnormal in endometriosis, Asherman's syndrome and infertility? Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2013; 25:193-200. [PMID: 23562953 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0b013e32836024e7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Stem/progenitor cells are present in human and rodent endometrium and have a key role in endometrial regeneration in normal cycling and after parturition. We review emerging evidence of multiple types of endometrial stem/progenitor cells, and that abnormalities in their location and function may contribute to endometriosis. RECENT FINDINGS Candidate human endometrial stem/progenitors have been identified as clonogenic, Side Population and possessing tissue reconstitution activity. Markers have been identified for human endometrial mesenchymal stem cells, showing their perivascular location in functionalis and basalis endometrium. Human embryonic stem cells can be induced to develop endometrial epithelium, recapitulating endometrial development. In rodent studies, endometrial stem/progenitor cells were identified as label-retaining cells and their role in endometrial repair and regeneration revealed, perhaps via mesenchymal to epithelial transition. Studies of Wnt signalling in the regulation of endometrial stem/progenitor cells may yield insights into their function in endometrial regeneration. Stem/progenitor cells can be isolated from endometrial biopsy or menstrual blood and may be used autologously to regenerate endometrium in Asherman's syndrome. SUMMARY There is much to be learnt about endometrial stem/progenitor cell biology and their role in endometriosis. Endometrial stem/progenitor cells hold great promise for new treatments for infertility associated disorders, including thin dysfunctional endometrium and Asherman's syndrome.
Collapse
|
84
|
Saben J, Zhong Y, McKelvey S, Dajani NK, Andres A, Badger TM, Gomez-Acevedo H, Shankar K. A comprehensive analysis of the human placenta transcriptome. Placenta 2013; 35:125-31. [PMID: 24333048 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
As the conduit for nutrients and growth signals, the placenta is critical to establishing an environment sufficient for fetal growth and development. To better understand the mechanisms regulating placental development and gene expression, we characterized the transcriptome of term placenta from 20 healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies using RNA-seq. To identify genes that were highly expressed and unique to the placenta we compared placental RNA-seq data to data from 7 other tissues (adipose, breast, hear, kidney, liver, lung, and smooth muscle) and identified several genes novel to placental biology (QSOX1, DLG5, and SEMA7A). Semi-quantitative RT-PCR confirmed the RNA-seq results and immunohistochemistry indicated these proteins were highly expressed in the placental syncytium. Additionally, we mined our RNA-seq data to map the relative expression of key developmental gene families (Fox, Sox, Gata, Tead, and Wnt) within the placenta. We identified FOXO4, GATA3, and WNT7A to be amongst the highest expressed members of these families. Overall, these findings provide a new reference for understanding of placental transcriptome and can aid in the identification of novel pathways regulating placenta physiology that may be dysregulated in placental disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Saben
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Y Zhong
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - S McKelvey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - N K Dajani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - A Andres
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - T M Badger
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - H Gomez-Acevedo
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - K Shankar
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
85
|
Chang G, Zhang H, Wang J, Zhang Y, Xu H, Wang C, Zhang H, Ma L, Li Q, Pang T. CD44 targets Wnt/β-catenin pathway to mediate the proliferation of K562 cells. Cancer Cell Int 2013; 13:117. [PMID: 24257075 PMCID: PMC4176735 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2867-13-117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic myeloid leukemia is a clonal myeloproliferative disorder disease in which BCR/ABL plays an important role as an oncoprotein and molecular target. Despite the success of targeted therapy using tyrosine kinase inhibitors, CML remains largely incurable, most likely due to the treatment resistance after firstly chemical therapy. So know well the unique molecular pathway of CML is very important. Methods The expressions of CD44 in different leukemia patients and cell lines were detected by real-time PCR and western blotting. The effects of CD44 on proliferation of K562 cells were determined using the MTT and colony formation assays, and even in a nude mouse transplantation model. Then, the cell cycle changes were detected by flow cytometric analysis and the early apoptosis of cells was detected by the annexin V/propidium iodide double-staining assay. The expressions of the cycles and apoptosis-related proteins p21, Cyclin D1 and Bcl-2 were analyzed by western blot and real-time PCR assay. Finally, the decreased nuclear accumulation of β-catenin was detected by western blotting and immunefluorescence. Results Firstly, we showed that CD44 expression was increased in several kinds of leukemia patients and K562 cells. By contrast, the down-regulation of CD44 resulted in decreased proliferation with a G0/G1 arrest of cell cycle in K562 cells according to the MTT assay and the flow cytometric analysis. And no significant induction of both the early and late phases of apoptosis was shown by the annexin V-FITC and PI staining. During this process, p21 and cyclin D1 are the major causes for cell cycle arrest. In addition, we found CD44 down-regulation decreased the expression of β-catenin and increased the expression of phosphorylated β-catenin. The instability of Wnt/β-catenin pathway induced by increased expression of p-β-catenin resulted in a decreased nuclear accumulation in CD44 silenced K562 cells. In the nude mouse transplantation model, we also found the same results. Conclusions These results show that K562 cells depend to a greater extent on CD44 for proliferation, and CD44 down-regulation may induce a cell cycle arrest through Wnt/β-catenin pathway. CD44 blockade may be beneficial in therapy of CML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiang Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Hospital of Blood Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing Road 288, Tianjin 300020, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
86
|
Filant J, Spencer TE. Cell-specific transcriptional profiling reveals candidate mechanisms regulating development and function of uterine epithelia in mice. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:86. [PMID: 23946541 PMCID: PMC7289334 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.111971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
All mammalian uteri have luminal (LE) and glandular epithelia (GE) in their endometrium. The LE mediates uterine receptivity and blastocyst attachment for implantation, and the GE synthesize and secrete or transport bioactive substances involved in blastocyst implantation, uterine receptivity, and stromal cell decidualization. However, the mechanisms governing uterine epithelial development after birth and their function in the adult are not fully understood. Here, comprehensive microarray analysis was conducted on LE and GE isolated by laser capture microdissection from uteri on Postnatal Day 10 (PD 10) and day of pseudopregnancy (DOPP) 2.5 and 3.5. This data was integrated with analysis of uteri from gland-containing control and aglandular progesterone-induced uterine gland knockout mice from PD 10 and DOPP 3.5. Many genes were expressed in both epithelia, but there was greater expression of genes in the LE than in the GE. In the neonate, GE-expressed genes were enriched for morphogenesis, development, migration, and retinoic acid signaling. In the adult, LE-expressed genes were enriched for metabolic processes and steroid biosynthesis, whereas retinoid signaling, tight junction, extracellular matrix, and regulation of kinase activity were enriched in the GE. The transcriptome differences in the epithelia support the idea that each cell type has a distinct and complementary function in the uterus. The candidate genes and regulatory networks identified here provide a framework to discover new mechanisms regulating development of epithelia in the postnatal uterus and their functions in early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Filant
- Department of Animal Sciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
| | | |
Collapse
|
87
|
Sone M, Oyama K, Mohri Y, Hayashi R, Clevers H, Nishimori K. LGR4 expressed in uterine epithelium is necessary for uterine gland development and contributes to decidualization in mice. FASEB J 2013; 27:4917-28. [PMID: 23975934 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-232215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In previous work we generated mice with a tissue specific ablation of a leucine-rich repeat containing G-protein-coupled receptor 4 (Lgr4) using the Keratin-5 (K5) Cre transgenic mouse strain (Lgr4(K5 KO)). Interestingly, the Lgr4(K5 KO) female mice were subfertile, and their embryos had impaired development. Notably, the contributions of uterine development to the subfertility phenotype were not elucidated in the previous report. In a readdress, the following study explores uterine aberration in Lgr4(K5 KO) female mice. Histological analysis revealed that the uteri of Lgr4(K5 KO) mice displayed altered epithelial differentiation characterized by a reduction in the number of uterine glands. Furthermore, Lgr4 deletion led to the reduced expression of morphoregulatory genes related to the Wnt signaling pathway. Additionally, the uteri of the Lgr4(K5 KO) mice lost the ability to undergo induced decidualization. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis and administration of recombinant leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) demonstrated that the impaired decidualization in Lgr4(K5 KO) mice resulted from the decreased secretion of LIF concurrent with a reduction in uterine gland count. Thus, we propose that LGR4 contributes to uterine gland development, which supports decidualization during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mizuki Sone
- 3Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 1-1, Tsutsumidori-Amamiyamachi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 981-8555, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
88
|
Al-Qattan MM. Molecular basis of the clinical features of Al-Awadi-Raas-Rothschild (limb/pelvis/uterus-hypoplasia/aplasia) syndrome (AARRS) and Fuhrmann syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2013; 161A:2274-80. [PMID: 23922166 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.35437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2011] [Accepted: 03/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This paper reviews the molecular basis of the clinical features of Al-Awadi-Raas-Rothschild (limb/pelvis/uterus-hypoplasia-aplasia) (AARRS) syndrome and Fuhrmann syndrome. Human WNT7A mutations are also reviewed. Based on this review, these mutations will be classified into two main groups of phenotypes: Fuhrmann and AARRS phenotypes in which there is partial and complete loss of WNT7A functions, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M M Al-Qattan
- Division of Plastic Surgery, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
89
|
Stewart CA, Wang Y, Bonilla-Claudio M, Martin JF, Gonzalez G, Taketo MM, Behringer RR. CTNNB1 in mesenchyme regulates epithelial cell differentiation during Müllerian duct and postnatal uterine development. Mol Endocrinol 2013; 27:1442-54. [PMID: 23904126 DOI: 10.1210/me.2012-1126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Müllerian duct differentiation and development into the female reproductive tract is essential for fertility, but mechanisms regulating these processes are poorly understood. WNT signaling is critical for proper development of the female reproductive tract as evident by the phenotypes of Wnt4, Wnt5a, Wnt7a, and β-catenin (Ctnnb1) mutant mice. Here we extend these findings by determining the effects of constitutive CTNNB1 activation within the mesenchyme of the developing Müllerian duct and its differentiated derivatives. This was accomplished by crossing Amhr2-Cre knock-in mice with Ctnnb1 exon (ex) 3(f/f) mice. Amhr2-Cre(Δ/+); Ctnnb1 ex3(f/+) females did not form an oviduct, had smaller uteri, endometrial gland defects, and were infertile. At the cellular level, stabilization of CTNNB1 in the mesenchyme caused alterations within the epithelium, including less proliferation, delayed uterine gland formation, and induction of an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) event. This EMT event is observed before birth and is complete within 5 days after birth. Misexpression of estrogen receptor α in the epithelia correlated with the EMT before birth, but not after. These studies indicate that regulated CTNNB1 in mesenchyme is important for epithelial cell differentiation during female reproductive tract development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Allison Stewart
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
90
|
Haplotypes and effects on growth traits of bovine Wnt7a gene in Chinese Qinchuan cattle. Gene 2013; 524:241-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
91
|
Yamashita S, Kudo A, Kawakami H, Okada Y. Mechanisms of Angiogenic Suppression in Uteri Exposed to Diethylstilbestrol Neonatally in the Mouse1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:116. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.106443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
|
92
|
Abstract
Although Wnt7a has been implicated in axon guidance and synapse formation, investigations of its role in the early steps of neurogenesis have just begun. We show here that Wnt7a is essential for neural stem cell self-renewal and neural progenitor cell cycle progression in adult mouse brains. Loss of Wnt7a expression dramatically reduced the neural stem cell population and increased the rate of cell cycle exit in neural progenitors in the hippocampal dentate gyrus of adult mice. Furthermore, Wnt7a is important for neuronal differentiation and maturation. Loss of Wnt7a expression led to a substantial decrease in the number of newborn neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus. Wnt7a(-/-) dentate granule neurons exhibited dramatically impaired dendritic development. Moreover, Wnt7a activated β-catenin and its downstream target genes to regulate neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Wnt7a stimulated neural stem cell proliferation by activating the β-catenin-cyclin D1 pathway and promoted neuronal differentiation and maturation by inducing the β-catenin-neurogenin 2 pathway. Thus, Wnt7a exercised critical control over multiple steps of neurogenesis by regulating genes involved in both cell cycle control and neuronal differentiation.
Collapse
|
93
|
Cooke PS, Spencer TE, Bartol FF, Hayashi K. Uterine glands: development, function and experimental model systems. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 19:547-58. [PMID: 23619340 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of uterine glands (adenogenesis) in mammals typically begins during the early post-natal period and involves budding of nascent glands from the luminal epithelium and extensive cell proliferation in these structures as they grow into the surrounding stroma, elongate and mature. Uterine glands are essential for pregnancy, as demonstrated by the infertility that results from inhibiting the development of these glands through gene mutation or epigenetic strategies. Several genes, including forkhead box A2, beta-catenin and members of the Wnt and Hox gene families, are implicated in uterine gland development. Progestins inhibit uterine epithelial proliferation, and this has been employed as a strategy to develop a model in which progestin treatment of ewes for 8 weeks from birth produces infertile adults lacking uterine glands. More recently, mouse models have been developed in which neonatal progestin treatment was used to permanently inhibit adenogenesis and adult fertility. These studies revealed a narrow and well-defined window in which progestin treatments induced permanent infertility by impairing neonatal gland development and establishing endometrial changes that result in implantation defects. These model systems are being utilized to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying uterine adenogenesis and endometrial function. The ability of neonatal progestin treatment in sheep and mice to produce infertility suggests that an approach of this kind may provide a contraceptive strategy with application in other species. Recent studies have defined the temporal patterns of adenogenesis in uteri of neonatal and juvenile dogs and work is underway to determine whether neonatal progestin or other steroid hormone treatments might be a viable contraceptive approach in this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Cooke
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
94
|
Gil-Sanchis C, Cervelló I, Mas A, Faus A, Pellicer A, Simón C. Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) as a putative human endometrial stem cell marker. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 19:407-14. [PMID: 23475985 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is recognized for its remarkable regenerative and remodeling capacity. Every month this hormonally regulated organ undergoes cycles of growth (from 0.5-2 to 7 mm), regression and shedding of two-third of the tissue, leading to its monthly renewal that occurs ∼400 times in a woman's reproductive lifetime. Several groups have suggested the existence of a human endometrial somatic stem cell (SSC) population located around the spiral arterioles of the basalis. Different groups have isolated, identified and characterized putative endometrial SSC populations in human endometrium based on the general features of undifferentiated cells, such as slow cycling detected using the 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine technique or identification of a side population using the Hoechst efflux dye technique. Nevertheless, specific markers to isolate these endometrial SSC have not yet been consistently elucidated. Accumulated evidence based on lineage tracing studies indicates that a surface protein named Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) is a marker that can identify SSC in several tissues such as small intestine mucosa (endodermal origin), hair follicles (ectodermal origin) or mature kidney nephrons (mesodermal origin). This protein plays a crucial role in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling system by acting on the self-renewal and maintenance of the SSC population. In this work, we present novel data suggestive of Lgr5 as a putative human endometrial SSC marker, and since this is a mesoderm-derived tissue, these findings reinforce the concept that Lgr5 can be considered a universal SSC marker.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Gil-Sanchis
- Fundación IVI-Instituto Universitario IVI-Universidad de Valencia, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
95
|
Al-Qattan M, Shamseldin H, Alkuraya F. The WNT7A G204S mutation is associated with both Al-Awadi–Raas Rothschild syndrome and Fuhrmann syndrome phenotypes. Gene 2013; 516:168-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2012] [Revised: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 12/02/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
96
|
Ji Y, Lu X, Zhong Q, Liu P, An Y, Zhang Y, Zhang S, Jia R, Tesfamariam IG, Kahsay AG, Zhang L, Zhu W, Zheng Y. Transcriptional profiling of mouse uterus at pre-implantation stage under VEGF repression. PLoS One 2013; 8:e57287. [PMID: 23468957 PMCID: PMC3585347 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0057287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterus development during pre-implantation stage affects implantation process and embryo growth. Aberrant uterus development is associated with many human reproductive diseases. Among the factors regulating uterus development, vascular remodeling promoters are critical for uterus function and fertility. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as one of the major members, has been found to be important in endothelial cell growth and blood vessel development, as well as in non-endothelial cells. VEGF mediation in reproduction has been broadly studied, but VEGF-induced transcriptional machinery during implantation window has not been systematically studied. In this study, a genetically repressed VEGF mouse model was used to analyze uterus transcriptome at gestation 2.5 (G2.5) by Solexa/Illumina's digital gene expression (DGE) system. A number of 831 uterus-specific and 2398 VEGF-regulated genes were identified. Gene ontology (GO) analysis indicated that genes actively involved in uterus development were members of collagen biosynthesis, cell proliferation and cell apoptosis. Uterus-specific genes were enriched in activities of phosphatidyl inositol phosphate kinase, histone H3-K36 demethylation and protein acetylation. Among VEGF-regulated genes, up-regulated were associated with RNA polymerase III activity while down-regulated were strongly related with muscle development. Comparable numbers of antisense transcripts were identified. Expression levels of the antisense transcripts were found tightly correlated with their sense expression levels, an indication of possibly non-specific transcripts generated around the active promoters and enhancers. The antisense transcripts with exceptionally high or low expression levels and the antisense transcripts under VEGF regulation were also identified. These transcripts may be important candidates in regulation of uterus development. This study provides a global survey on genes and antisense transcripts regulated by VEGF in the pre-implantation stage. Results will contribute to further study the candidate genes and pathways in regulating implantation process and related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ji
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaodan Lu
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Qingping Zhong
- KLAS and School of Mathematics and Statistics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Yao An
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuntao Zhang
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Shujie Zhang
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Ruirui Jia
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Isaias G. Tesfamariam
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Abraha G. Kahsay
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Luqing Zhang
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
- * E-mail: (LQZ); (WSZ); (YWZ)
| | - Wensheng Zhu
- KLAS and School of Mathematics and Statistics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
- * E-mail: (LQZ); (WSZ); (YWZ)
| | - Yaowu Zheng
- Transgenic Research Center, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
- * E-mail: (LQZ); (WSZ); (YWZ)
| |
Collapse
|
97
|
Zhang S, Lin H, Kong S, Wang S, Wang H, Wang H, Armant DR. Physiological and molecular determinants of embryo implantation. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:939-80. [PMID: 23290997 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 12/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation involves the intimate interaction between an implantation-competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus, which occurs in a limited time period known as the window of implantation. Emerging evidence shows that defects originating during embryo implantation induce ripple effects with adverse consequences on later gestation events, highlighting the significance of this event for pregnancy success. Although a multitude of cellular events and molecular pathways involved in embryo-uterine crosstalk during implantation have been identified through gene expression studies and genetically engineered mouse models, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of embryo implantation is still missing. This review focuses on recent progress with particular attention to physiological and molecular determinants of blastocyst activation, uterine receptivity, blastocyst attachment and uterine decidualization. A better understanding of underlying mechanisms governing embryo implantation should generate new strategies to rectify implantation failure and improve pregnancy rates in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
98
|
Tanwar PS, Kaneko-Tarui T, Lee HJ, Zhang L, Teixeira JM. PTEN loss and HOXA10 expression are associated with ovarian endometrioid adenocarcinoma differentiation and progression. Carcinogenesis 2012; 34:893-901. [PMID: 23276799 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgs405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer is a heterogeneous disease that is subdivided into five major histotypes but the mechanisms driving their differentiation are not clear. Mutations in adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and β-catenin are commonly observed in the human ovarian endometrioid adenocarcinoma (OEA) patients. However, the mechanisms subsequent to APC deletion in ovarian tumorigenesis have not been well characterized. We have conditionally deleted APC in the murine ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) and showed that its loss leads to development of epithelial inclusion cysts. High-grade OEAs with tightly packed villoglandular histology were observed in older APC-deleted mice. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression was elevated in the early lesions but lost after progression to the more advanced tumors. Knockdown of APC or expression of a gain-of-function β-catenin similarly induced human OSE cells to develop tumors with endometrioid histology in xenografts. Expression of HOXA10 was induced in both the advanced APC-deleted murine tumors and in the tumor xenografts of human OSE cells with knocked-down APC. These results show that reduced APC activity is sufficient to induce formation of epithelial inclusion cysts and support OEA development and suggest that induced HOXA10 expression and loss of PTEN are key mechanisms driving endometrioid histotype differentiation and progression.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma/genetics
- Adenomatous Polyposis Coli/genetics
- Animals
- Carcinoma, Endometrioid/genetics
- Carcinoma, Endometrioid/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Endometrioid/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial
- Cell Differentiation
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Disease Progression
- Female
- Homeobox A10 Proteins
- Homeodomain Proteins/genetics
- Humans
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Neoplasm Transplantation
- Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial/genetics
- Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial/pathology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/genetics
- Ovarian Neoplasms/pathology
- Ovary/pathology
- PTEN Phosphohydrolase/genetics
- Transplantation, Heterologous
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Wnt Signaling Pathway/genetics
- beta Catenin/genetics
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep S Tanwar
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
99
|
Expression and prognostic significance of wnt7a in human endometrial carcinoma. Obstet Gynecol Int 2012; 2012:134962. [PMID: 23304155 PMCID: PMC3523607 DOI: 10.1155/2012/134962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Wnt7a is a secreted glycoprotein that regulates normal cellular proliferation and differentiation as well as tumorigenesis and progression. However, less is understood about the role of Wnt7a in human endometrial carcinoma. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression and prognostic significance of Wnt7a in endometrial carcinoma. Methods. Wnt7a expression was immunohistochemically examined in 35 normal endometrium, 33 hyperplastic endometrium and 70 endometrial carcinomas. Results. Wnt7a expression was lower in endometrial carcinomas compared with that in normal and hyperplastic endometrium (P < 0.001). Wnt7a was inversely correlated with FIGO stage (P = 0.001), grade (P = 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.002), depth of myometrial invasion (P = 0.006), lymph vascular space involvement (P = 0.001) and peritoneal cytology (P = 0.013). There was a negative correlation between estrogen receptor (ER) and Wnt7a (r = −0.281, P = 0.019), and a positive correlation between progestogen receptor (PR) and Wnt7a (r = 0.249, P = 0.037). Patients with lost or reduced Wnt7a expression had poorer progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) (P = 0.005 and P = 0.042, resp.) on univariate analysis. But on multivariate analysis, Wnt7a expression was not an independent prognostic factor for PFS or OS. Conclusions. Our results indicate that Wnt7a expression may serve as an important prognostic marker.
Collapse
|
100
|
Cooke P, Borsdorf D, Ekman G, Doty K, Clark S, Dziuk P, Bartol F. Uterine gland development begins postnatally and is accompanied by estrogen and progesterone receptor expression in the dog. Theriogenology 2012; 78:1787-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2012] [Revised: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|