51
|
Lai TH, Chen HT, Wu WB. Trophoblast Coculture Induces Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 Expression in Uterine Endometrial Epithelial Cells Through TNF-α Production: Implication of Role of FSH and ICAM-1 during Embryo Implantation. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 152:103650. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
52
|
Robertson SA, Moldenhauer LM, Green ES, Care AS, Hull ML. Immune determinants of endometrial receptivity: a biological perspective. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1107-1120. [PMID: 35618356 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells are essential for endometrial receptivity to embryo implantation and early placental development. They exert tissue-remodeling and immune regulatory roles-acting to promote epithelial attachment competence, regulate the differentiation of decidual cells, remodel the uterine vasculature, control and resolve inflammatory activation, and suppress destructive immunity to paternally inherited alloantigens. From a biological perspective, the endometrial immune response exerts a form of "quality control"-it promotes implantation success when conditions are favorable but constrains receptivity when physiological circumstances are not ideal. Women with recurrent implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage may exhibit altered numbers or disturbed function of certain uterine immune cell populations-most notably uterine natural killer cells and regulatory T cells. Preclinical and animal studies indicate that deficiencies or aberrant activation states in these cells can be causal in the pathophysiological mechanisms of infertility. Immune cells are, therefore, targets for diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic intervention. However, current diagnostic tests are overly simplistic and have limited clinical utility. To be more informative, they need to account for the full complexity and reflect the range of perturbations that can occur in uterine immune cell phenotypes and networks. Moreover, safe and effective interventions to modulate these cells are in their infancy, and personalized approaches matched to specific diagnostic criteria will be needed. Here we summarize current biological understanding and identify knowledge gaps to be resolved before the promise of therapies to target the uterine immune response can be fully realized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Lachlan M Moldenhauer
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ella S Green
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alison S Care
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - M Louise Hull
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
53
|
Smith SJ, Guillon E, Holley SA. The roles of inter-tissue adhesion in development and morphological evolution. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:275268. [PMID: 35522159 PMCID: PMC9264361 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of how neighboring tissues physically interact with each other, inter-tissue adhesion, is an emerging field at the interface of cell biology, biophysics and developmental biology. Inter-tissue adhesion can be mediated by either cell-extracellular matrix adhesion or cell-cell adhesion, and both the mechanisms and consequences of inter-tissue adhesion have been studied in vivo in numerous vertebrate and invertebrate species. In this Review, we discuss recent progress in understanding the many functions of inter-tissue adhesion in development and evolution. Inter-tissue adhesion can couple the motion of adjacent tissues, be the source of mechanical resistance that constrains morphogenesis, and transmit tension required for normal development. Tissue-tissue adhesion can also create mechanical instability that leads to tissue folding or looping. Transient inter-tissue adhesion can facilitate tissue invasion, and weak tissue adhesion can generate friction that shapes and positions tissues within the embryo. Lastly, we review studies that reveal how inter-tissue adhesion contributes to the diversification of animal morphologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Jacquelyn Smith
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Emilie Guillon
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Scott A Holley
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Jiang H, Li L, Zhu D, Zhou X, Yu Y, Zhou Q, Sun L. A Review of Nanotechnology for Treating Dysfunctional Placenta. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:845779. [PMID: 35402416 PMCID: PMC8987505 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.845779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta plays a significant role during pregnancy. Placental dysfunction contributes to major obstetric complications, such as fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. Currently, there is no effective treatment for placental dysfunction in the perinatal period, and prophylaxis is often delivered too late, at which point the disease manifestation cannot be prevented. However, with recent integration of nanoscience and medicine to perform elaborate experiments on the human placenta, it is expected that novel and efficient nanotherapies will be developed to resolve the challenge of managing placental dysfunction. The advent of nanomedicine has enabled the safe and targeted delivery of drugs using nanoparticles. These smart nanoparticles can load the necessary therapeutic substances that specifically target the placenta, such as drugs, targeting molecules, and ligands. Packaging multifunctional molecules into specific delivery systems with high targeting ability, diagnosis, and treatment has emerged as a novel theragnostic (both therapeutic and diagnostic) approach. In this review, the authors discuss recent advances in nanotechnology for placental dysfunction treatment. In particular, the authors highlight potential candidate nanoparticle-loaded molecules that target the placenta to improve utero-placental blood flow, and reduce reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. The authors intend to provide basic insight and understanding of placental dysfunction, potential delivery targets, and recent research on placenta-targeted nanoparticle delivery systems for the potential treatment of placental dysfunction. The authors hope that this review will sensitize the reader for continued exploration of novel nanomedicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huabo Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyao Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongsheng Yu
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yongsheng Yu, ; Qian Zhou, ; Luming Sun,
| | - Qian Zhou
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yongsheng Yu, ; Qian Zhou, ; Luming Sun,
| | - Luming Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yongsheng Yu, ; Qian Zhou, ; Luming Sun,
| |
Collapse
|
55
|
Zuccarello D, Sorrentino U, Brasson V, Marin L, Piccolo C, Capalbo A, Andrisani A, Cassina M. Epigenetics of pregnancy: looking beyond the DNA code. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:801-816. [PMID: 35301622 PMCID: PMC9050975 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02451-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is the branch of genetics that studies the different mechanisms that influence gene expression without direct modification of the DNA sequence. An ever-increasing amount of evidence suggests that such regulatory processes may play a pivotal role both in the initiation of pregnancy and in the later processes of embryonic and fetal development, thus determining long-term effects even in adult life. In this narrative review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of epigenetics in pregnancy, from its most studied and well-known mechanisms to the new frontiers of epigenetic regulation, such as the role of ncRNAs and the effects of the gestational environment on fetal brain development. Epigenetic mechanisms in pregnancy are a dynamic phenomenon that responds both to maternal-fetal and environmental factors, which can influence and modify the embryo-fetal development during the various gestational phases. Therefore, we also recapitulate the effects of the most notable environmental factors that can affect pregnancy and prenatal development, such as maternal nutrition, stress hormones, microbiome, and teratogens, focusing on their ability to cause epigenetic modifications in the gestational environment and ultimately in the fetus. Despite the promising advancements in the knowledge of epigenetics in pregnancy, more experience and data on this topic are still needed. A better understanding of epigenetic regulation in pregnancy could in fact prove valuable towards a better management of both physiological pregnancies and assisted reproduction treatments, other than allowing to better comprehend the origin of multifactorial pathological conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Zuccarello
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - Ugo Sorrentino
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Valeria Brasson
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Loris Marin
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Piccolo
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Andrisani
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Cassina
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
56
|
Aplin JD, Stevens A. Use of 'omics for endometrial timing: the cycle moves on. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:644-650. [PMID: 35147196 PMCID: PMC8971645 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
For some years, the prospect of precise and personalized timing of the endometrial cycle for optimal embryo replacement has been held out as a potential solution to low implantation rates. It is envisaged that a receptive state can be defined and reached at a predictable time, and embryo replacement performed in synchrony. In the last century, morphological changes characteristic of the mid secretory phase were defined in precisely timed cycles in women of proven fertility, but when deviations from this standardized schedule occur, their significance for implantation has remained uncertain. ‘Omics technologies have been widely advocated for staging the endometrial cycle and defining a set of biochemical requirements for implantation, but after two decades of research, improvements to pregnancy rates have not followed, and there is a striking lack of agreement regarding the molecular characterization of the receptive state. Some of the rationale underlying these problems is now emerging with the application of higher-level computational and biological methodology. Here, we consider the challenges of defining an endometrial phenotype that can support implantation and continuing pregnancy. Receptivity may be an emergent trait depending on contributions from multiple proteins that have low pathway connectivity. We recommend that authors choose language which rigorously avoids the implication that protocols for molecular staging of the mid secretory phase inherently identify a state of receptivity to the implanting blastocyst.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Adam Stevens
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Rawlings TM, Makwana K, Tryfonos M, Lucas ES. Organoids to model the endometrium: implantation and beyond. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 2:R85-R101. [PMID: 35118399 PMCID: PMC8801025 DOI: 10.1530/raf-21-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in assisted reproductive techniques in the 4 decades since the first human birth after in vitro fertilisation, 1–2% of couples experience recurrent implantation failure, and some will never achieve a successful pregnancy even in the absence of a confirmed dysfunction. Furthermore, 1–2% of couples who do conceive, either naturally or with assistance, will experience recurrent early loss of karyotypically normal pregnancies. In both cases, embryo-endometrial interaction is a clear candidate for exploration. The impossibility of studying implantation processes within the human body has necessitated the use of animal models and cell culture approaches. Recent advances in 3-dimensional modelling techniques, namely the advent of organoids, present an exciting opportunity to elucidate the unanswerable within human reproduction. In this review, we will explore the ontogeny of implantation modelling and propose a roadmap to application and discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Rawlings
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Komal Makwana
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Maria Tryfonos
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Emma S Lucas
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| |
Collapse
|
58
|
Preimplantation Endometrial Transcriptomics in Natural Conception Cycle of the Rhesus Monkey. REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/reprodmed3010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is no report on preimplantation phase endometrial transcriptomics in natural conception cycles of primates. In the present study, the whole-genome expression array of endometrium on Days 2, 4, and 6 post-ovulation (pov) in proven natural conception (Group 1; n = 12) and non-mated, ovulatory (Group 2; n = 12) cycles of rhesus monkeys was examined, compared, and validated. Of fifteen (15) genes showing differential expression (>2-fold; pFDR < 0.05), six genes (CHRND, FOXD3, GJD4, MAPK8IP3, MKS1, and NUP50) were upregulated, while eight genes (ADCY5, ADIPOR1, NNMT, PATL1, PIGV, TGFBR2, TOX2, and VWA5B1) were down regulated on Day 6 pov as compared to Day 2 pov in conception cycles. On Day 6 pov, four genes (ADCY5, NNMT, TOX2, and VWA5B1) were down regulated, and AVEN was upregulated in conception cycles compared with the non-conception cycle. These observations were orthogonally validated at protein expression level. Group-specifically expressed unique genes in conception cycles influence the process of induction of immune-tolerance, while the genes expressed in both groups influence processes of protein targeting and metabolism. A triad of timed-actions of progesterone, seminal plasma, and preimplantation embryo putatively regulate several input molecules to CREB, NF-kB, and STAT regulatory networks during secretory phase towards evolution of endometrial receptivity in the rhesus monkey.
Collapse
|
59
|
Ruane PT, Garner T, Parsons L, Babbington PA, Wangsaputra I, Kimber SJ, Stevens A, Westwood M, Brison DR, Aplin JD. Trophectoderm differentiation to invasive syncytiotrophoblast is promoted by endometrial epithelial cells during human embryo implantation. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:777-792. [PMID: 35079788 PMCID: PMC9398450 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does the human embryo breach the endometrial epithelium at implantation? SUMMARY ANSWER Embryo attachment to the endometrial epithelium promotes the formation of multinuclear syncytiotrophoblast from trophectoderm, which goes on to breach the epithelial layer. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A significant proportion of natural conceptions and assisted reproduction treatments fail due to unsuccessful implantation. The trophectoderm lineage of the embryo attaches to the endometrial epithelium before breaching this barrier to implant into the endometrium. Trophectoderm-derived syncytiotrophoblast has been observed in recent in vitro cultures of peri-implantation embryos, and historical histology has shown invasive syncytiotrophoblast in embryos that have invaded beyond the epithelium, but the cell type mediating invasion of the epithelial layer at implantation is unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fresh and frozen human blastocyst-stage embryos (n = 46) or human trophoblast stem cell (TSC) spheroids were co-cultured with confluent monolayers of the Ishikawa endometrial epithelial cell line to model the epithelial phase of implantation in vitro. Systems biology approaches with published transcriptomic datasets were used to model the epithelial phase of implantation in silico. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human embryos surplus to treatment requirements were consented for research. Day 6 blastocysts were co-cultured with Ishikawa cell layers until Day 8, and human TSC spheroids modelling blastocyst trophectoderm were co-cultured with Ishikawa cell layers for 48 h. Embryo and TSC morphology was assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy, and TSC differentiation by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and ELISA. Single-cell human blastocyst transcriptomes, and bulk transcriptomes of TSC and primary human endometrial epithelium were used to model the trophectoderm-epithelium interaction in silico. Hypernetworks, pathway analysis, random forest machine learning and RNA velocity were employed to identify gene networks associated with implantation. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The majority of embryos co-cultured with Ishikawa cell layers from Day 6 to 8 breached the epithelial layer (37/46), and syncytiotrophoblast was seen in all of these. Syncytiotrophoblast was observed at the embryo-epithelium interface before breaching, and syncytiotrophoblast mediated all pioneering breaching events observed (7/7 events). Multiple independent syncytiotrophoblast regions were seen in 26/46 embryos, suggesting derivation from different regions of trophectoderm. Human TSC spheroids co-cultured with Ishikawa layers also exhibited syncytiotrophoblast formation upon invasion into the epithelium. RT-qPCR comparison of TSC spheroids in isolated culture and co-culture demonstrated epithelium-induced upregulation of syncytiotrophoblast genes CGB (P = 0.03) and SDC1 (P = 0.008), and ELISA revealed the induction of hCGβ secretion (P = 0.03). Secretory-phase primary endometrial epithelium surface transcriptomes were used to identify trophectoderm surface binding partners to model the embryo-epithelium interface. Hypernetwork analysis established a group of 25 epithelium-interacting trophectoderm genes that were highly connected to the rest of the trophectoderm transcriptome, and epithelium-coupled gene networks in cells of the polar region of the trophectoderm exhibited greater connectivity (P < 0.001) and more organized connections (P < 0.0001) than those in the mural region. Pathway analysis revealed a striking similarity with syncytiotrophoblast differentiation, as 4/6 most highly activated pathways upon TSC-syncytiotrophoblast differentiation (false discovery rate (FDR < 0.026)) were represented in the most enriched pathways of epithelium-coupled gene networks in both polar and mural trophectoderm (FDR < 0.001). Random forest machine learning also showed that 80% of the endometrial epithelium-interacting trophectoderm genes identified in the hypernetwork could be quantified as classifiers of TSC-syncytiotrophoblast differentiation. This multi-model approach suggests that invasive syncytiotrophoblast formation from both polar and mural trophectoderm is promoted by attachment to the endometrial epithelium to enable embryonic invasion. LARGE SCALE DATA No omics datasets were generated in this study, and those used from previously published studies are cited. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION In vitro and in silico models may not recapitulate the dynamic embryo-endometrial interactions that occur in vivo. The influence of other cellular compartments in the endometrium, including decidual stromal cells and leukocytes, was not represented in these models. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Understanding the mechanism of human embryo breaching of the epithelium and the gene networks involved is crucial to improve implantation success rates after assisted reproduction. Moreover, early trophoblast lineages arising at the epithelial phase of implantation form the blueprint for the placenta and thus underpin foetal growth trajectories, pregnancy health and offspring health. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by grants from Wellbeing of Women, Diabetes UK, the NIHR Local Comprehensive Research Network and Manchester Clinical Research Facility, and the Department of Health Scientist Practitioner Training Scheme. None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Ruane
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK,Correspondence address. Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1476-1666
| | - Terence Garner
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Lydia Parsons
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Phoebe A Babbington
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Ivan Wangsaputra
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Adam Stevens
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - John D Aplin
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
60
|
Increased expression of HMGB1 in the implantation phase endometrium is related to recurrent implantation failure. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:1701-1710. [PMID: 35031923 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06979-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impaired endometrial receptivity was the main cause of recurrent implantation failure (RIF); however, its underlying mechanisms had not been elucidated. This study aimed to determine the expression level of high-mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) in the endometrium with RIF and its effect on endometrial receptivity. METHODS AND RESULTS Genome-wide expression profiling, real-time reverse transcription PCR, immunohistochemical staining, western blot, and in vitro assays were performed in this study. We found that HMGB1 expression was significantly decreased in the implantation phase endometrium in the control group (patients with tubal infertility and successfully achieve conception after the first embryo transfer) (P = 0.006). However, the expression levels of HMGB1 mRNA and protein were significantly upregulated during the implantation phase in endometrial tissues obtained from patients with RIF compared to that in the control group (P = 0.001), consistent with the results of the genome-wide expression profiling. Moreover, in vitro assays showed that increased expression of HMGB1 in human endometrial epithelial cells dramatically displayed a marked deficiency in supporting blastocysts and human embryonic JAR cells adhesion, which mimic the process of embryo adhesion. CONCLUSION These findings strongly indicated that increased HMGB1 levels suppressed the epithelial cell adhesion capability, therefore contributing to impaired endometrial receptivity in patients with recurrent implantation failure, which can be used as a target for the recognition and treatment of recurrent implantation failure in clinical practice.
Collapse
|
61
|
Yoshihara M, Mizutani S, Kato Y, Matsumoto K, Mizutani E, Mizutani H, Fujimoto H, Osuka S, Kajiyama H. Recent Insights into Human Endometrial Peptidases in Blastocyst Implantation via Shedding of Microvesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13479. [PMID: 34948276 PMCID: PMC8708926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocyst implantation involves multiple interactions with numerous molecules expressed in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) during the implantation window; however, there is limited information regarding the molecular mechanism underlying the crosstalk. In blastocysts, fibronectin plays a major role in the adhesion of various types of cells by binding to extracellular matrix proteins via the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif. In EECs, RGD-recognizing integrins are important bridging receptors for fibronectin, whereas the non-RGD binding of fibronectin includes interactions with dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV)/cluster of differentiation (CD) 26. Fibronectin may also bind to aminopeptidase N (APN)/CD13, and in the endometrium, these peptidases are present in plasma membranes and lysosomal membranes. Blastocyst implantation is accompanied by lysosome exocytosis, which transports various peptidases and nutrients into the endometrial cavity to facilitate blastocyst implantation. Both DPPIV and APN are released into the uterine cavity via shedding of microvesicles (MVs) from EECs. Recently, extracellular vesicles derived from endometrial cells have been proposed to act on trophectoderm cells to promote implantation. MVs are also secreted from embryonal stem cells and may play an active role in implantation. Thus, crosstalk between the blastocyst and endometrium via extracellular vesicles is a new insight into the fundamental molecular basis of blastocyst implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masato Yoshihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| | - Shigehiko Mizutani
- Daiyabilding Lady’s Clinic, 1-1-17 Meieki, Nishi-ku, Nagoya 451-0045, Japan;
| | - Yukio Kato
- Department of Molecular Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan;
| | - Kunio Matsumoto
- Division of Tumor Dynamics and Regulation, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan;
| | - Eita Mizutani
- Daiyabilding Lady’s Clinic, 1-1-17 Meieki, Nishi-ku, Nagoya 451-0045, Japan;
| | - Hidesuke Mizutani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| | - Hiroki Fujimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Satoko Osuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsuruma-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (H.M.); (H.F.); (S.O.); (H.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Heng S, Samarajeewa N, Wang Y, Paule SG, Breen J, Nie G. Podocalyxin promotes an impermeable epithelium and inhibits pro-implantation factors to negatively regulate endometrial receptivity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24016. [PMID: 34907278 PMCID: PMC8671585 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03425-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation is a key step in establishing pregnancy and a major limiting factor in IVF. Implantation requires a receptive endometrium but the mechanisms governing receptivity are not well understood. We have recently discovered that podocalyxin (PCX or PODXL) is a key negative regulator of human endometrial receptivity. PCX is expressed in all endometrial epithelial cells in the non-receptive endometrium but selectively down-regulated in the luminal epithelium at receptivity. We have further demonstrated that this down-regulation is essential for implantation because PCX inhibits embryo attachment and penetration. However, how PCX confers this role is unknown. In this study, through RNAseq analysis of Ishikawa cell line stably overexpressing PCX, we discovered that PCX suppresses expression of genes controlling cell adhesion and communication, but increases those governing epithelial barrier functions, especially the adherens and tight junctions. Moreover, PCX suppresses multiple factors such as LIF and signaling pathways including Wnt and calcium signaling that support receptivity but stimulates anti-implantation genes such as LEFTY2. Functional studies confirmed that PCX promotes epithelial barrier functions by increasing key epithelial junction proteins such as E-cadherin and claudin 4. PCX thus promotes an anti-adhesive and impermeable epithelium while impedes pro-implantation factors to negatively control endometrial receptivity for implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophea Heng
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campus, Melbourne, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Nirukshi Samarajeewa
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campus, Melbourne, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Yao Wang
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campus, Melbourne, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Sarah G Paule
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - James Breen
- The Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,University of Adelaide Bioinformatics Hub, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Guiying Nie
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campus, Melbourne, VIC, 3083, Australia. .,Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Tiwari A, Ashary N, Singh N, Sharma S, Modi D. Modulation of E-Cadherin and N-Cadherin by ovarian steroids and embryonic stimuli. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101670. [PMID: 34710830 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Endometrium is a dynamic tissue that undergoes extensive remodelling to attain a receptive state which is further modulated in presence of an embryo for successful initiation of pregnancy. Cadherins are the proteins of the junctional complex of which E-cadherin (E-Cad) is crucial for maintaining epithelial cell state and integrity of the epithelial barrier; gain of N-cadherin (N-Cad) in epithelial cells leads to epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). In the present study, we investigated the expression of E-Cad and N-Cad in the mouse endometrial luminal epithelium and its modulation by estrogen, progesterone, and embryonic stimuli. We observed that E-Cad is diffusely expressed in the luminal epithelium of mouse endometrium during the estrus stage and upon estrogen treatment. It is apico-laterally and basolaterally sorted at the diestrus stage and in response to the combined treatment of estrogen and progesterone. In 3D spheroids of human endometrial epithelial cells, combined treatment with estrogen and progesterone led to lateral sorting of E-Cad without any effects on its mRNA levels. at the time of embryo implantation, there is loss of E-Cad along with the gain of N-Cad and SNAIL expression suggestive of EMT in the luminal epithelium. This EMT is possibly driven by embryonic stimuli as treatment with estrogen and progesterone did not lead to the gain of N-Cad expression in the mouse endometrium in vivo or in human endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that steroid hormones directly affect E-Cad sorting in the endometrial epithelium which undergo EMT in response to embryonic stimuli.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tiwari
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Nancy Ashary
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Neha Singh
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Shipra Sharma
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Lamptey J, Czika A, Aremu JO, Pervaz S, Adu-Gyamfi EA, Otoo A, Li F, Wang YX, Ding YB. The role of fascin in carcinogenesis and embryo implantation. Exp Cell Res 2021; 409:112885. [PMID: 34662557 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The cytoskeleton, with its actin bundling proteins, plays crucial roles in a host of cellular function, such as cancer metastasis, antigen presentation and trophoblast migration and invasion, as a result of cytoskeletal remodeling. A key player in cytoskeletal remodeling is fascin. Upregulation of fascin induces the transition of epithelial phenotypes to mesenchymal phenotypes through complex interaction with transcription factors. Fascin expression also regulates mitochondrial F-actin to promote oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in some cancer cells. Trophoblast cells, on the other hand, exhibit similar physiological functions, involving the upregulation of genes crucial for its migration and invasion. Owing to the similar tumor-like characteristics among cancer and trophoblats, we review recent studies on fascin in relation to cancer and trophoblast cell biology; and based on existing evidence, link fascin to the establishment of the maternal-fetal interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jones Lamptey
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, KCCR, UPO, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Armin Czika
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - John Ogooluwa Aremu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Sadaf Pervaz
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Antonia Otoo
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
65
|
Stenhouse C, Seo H, Wu G, Johnson GA, Bazer FW. Insights into the Regulation of Implantation and Placentation in Humans, Rodents, Sheep, and Pigs. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1354:25-48. [PMID: 34807435 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-85686-1_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Precise cell-specific spatio-temporal molecular signaling cascades regulate the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Importantly, the mechanisms regulating uterine receptivity, conceptus apposition and adhesion to the uterine luminal epithelia/superficial glandular epithelia and, in some species, invasion into the endometrial stroma and decidualization of stromal cells, are critical prerequisite events for placentation which is essential for the appropriate regulation of feto-placental growth for the remainder of pregnancy. Dysregulation of these signaling cascades during this critical stage of pregnancy can lead to pregnancy loss, impaired growth and development of the conceptus, and alterations in the transplacental exchange of gasses and nutrients. While many of these processes are conserved across species, significant variations in the molecular mechanisms governing maternal recognition of pregnancy, conceptus implantation, and placentation exist. This review addresses the complexity of key mechanisms that are critical for the establishment and maintenance of a successful pregnancy in humans, rodents, sheep, and pigs. Improving understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing these processes is critical to enhancing the fertility and reproductive health of humans and livestock species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Stenhouse
- Department of Animal Science and Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Heewon Seo
- Department of Animal Science and Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Guoyao Wu
- Department of Animal Science and Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Gregory A Johnson
- Department of Animal Science and Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science and Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
66
|
Liu M, Wang Y, Ma Y, Zhang X, Zhang L, Nie L, Guo W, Zhao D, Zhang J, Yuan D, Yue L. Activation of SGLT3a in endometrial epithelial cells induces paracrine stromal cell decidualization. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:1532-1546. [PMID: 34755904 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) and stromal cells (ESCs) have a close functional association. During the peri-implantation period, EECs with enhanced functional activities secrete a variety of paracrine factors to promote the decidualization of ESCs. However, little is known about the specific process by which EECs secrete paracrine factors to induce the decidualization of ESCs. Some evidence suggests that the activation of sodium-glucose cotransporter 3a (SGLT3a) induces the depolarization of ESCs to affect their function. Therefore, SGLT3a acts as a sensor molecule in certain cell types. In this study, the expression of SGLT3a was investigated in EECs to determine whether its levels increased during the peri-implantation period in female mice. The activation of SGLT3a in mouse EECs induced Na+ -dependent depolarization of the cell membrane and an influx of extracellular Ca2+ , which further promoted the expression and release of the paracrine factors prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and F2-alpha (PGF2α) by upregulating the expression of cyclooxygenase-2. In turn, PGE2 and PGF2α induced the decidualization of ESCs. Importantly, we identified SGLT3a as a key molecule involved in the cross-talk between EECs and ESCs during the process of uterine decidualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yicheng Wang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongdan Ma
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xueqin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lixue Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Nie
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenjing Guo
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Zhao
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhu Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongzhi Yuan
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Limin Yue
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
Main actors behind the endometrial receptivity and successful implantation. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101656. [PMID: 34634636 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation occurs during a short period of time, the implantation window, in the mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. The cross-talk between the endometrium and the embryo, at the stage of blastocyst, is a necessary condition for successful implantation. Till now, no single molecule or receptor has been identified to play an essential role on embryo implantation but a huge number of mediators, including cytokines, lipids, adhesion molecules, growth factors, and others, are reported to support the establishment of pregnancy. Therefore, the aim of this review is not only to describe the different actors involved in the implantation process, but also to try to characterize the relationships between these factors as well as their time-regulated activation. Moreover, the availability of in vitro culture systems to study the interactions between embryo and endometrium as well as the paracrine communication regulated by exosomal vesicles will be investigated, as an innovative approach for a more precise characterization of the interactions between the different molecules involved in this process. The in-depth knowledge of all these complex mechanisms will allow to address the reasons of implantation failure and infertility, thus providing new avenues for promoting the successful establishment of a pregnancy.
Collapse
|
68
|
Li K, Li Q, Bashir ST, Bany BM, Nowak RA. Loss of basigin expression in uterine cells leads to subfertility in female mice†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:859-875. [PMID: 34106247 PMCID: PMC8511667 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Basigin (BSG) is a transmembrane glycoprotein involved in cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. BSG has been shown to be essential for male and female reproduction although little is known about its role in normal uterine function. To study the potential function of BSG in the female reproductive tract, we generated mice with conditional knockout of Bsg in uterine cells using progesterone receptor-Cre and hypothesized that BSG is required for normal pregnancy in mice. Fertility study data showed that the conditional knockout mice had significantly reduced fertility compared to controls. Ovarian function of the conditional knockout mice appeared normal with no difference in the number of superovulated oocytes collected or in serum progesterone levels between the conditional knockout and the control mice. Uterine tissues collected at various times of gestation showed increased abnormalities in implantation, decidualization, placentation, and parturition in the conditional knockout mice. Uterine cross sections on Day 5 of pregnancy showed implantation failure and abnormal uterine epithelial differentiation in a large proportion of the conditional knockout mice. There was a compromised decidual response to artificial decidualization stimuli and decreased mRNA and protein levels for decidualization genes in the uteri of the conditional knockout mice. We also observed altered protein expression of monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1), as well as impaired angiogenesis in the conditional knockout uteri compared to the controls. These results support that BSG is required for successful pregnancy through its functions in implantation and decidualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kailiang Li
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Quanxi Li
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Shah Tauseef Bashir
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Brent M Bany
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
69
|
Daneshvar M, Movahedin M, Salehi M, Noruzinia M. Alterations of miR-16, miR-let-7a and their target genes expression in human blastocysts following vitrification and re-vitrification. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:155. [PMID: 34627262 PMCID: PMC8501585 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00842-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo cryopreservation is a widely used technique in infertility management and today is an essential part of assisted reproductive technology (ART). In some cases, re-vitrification can be applied to good quality supernumerary warmed embryos that have not been transferred in the present cycle. However, there is no study about re-vitrification impact on microRNA and gene expression in human embryos. The purpose of this study is to evaluate miR-16, miR-let7a and target genes expression in in vitro produced human blastocysts following re-vitrification.Day3 embryos obtained from ICSI cycles of fertile couples referring for family balancing program were biopsied and cultured individually. On the fourth day (post-ICSI) male ones (choices of their parents) were transferred and the females (good quality embryos) were donated for research. Donated embryos were cultured to blastocyst stage and assigned to three groups: fresh, vitrified and re-vitrification. Embryos were vitrified on Cryotech carriers. Then blastocysts of three groups were individually assessed for expression of miR-16, miR-let7a and target genes.The results showed that re-vitrification of human blastocysts did not affect the ability to re-expand in culture. In addition, significant decrease was observed in miR-16 and miR-let7a expression in re-vitrified group compared to fresh (p < 0.05). A significant upregulation of the target genes ITGβ3 and BCL-2 in re-vitrified and vitrified embryos was observed compared to the fresh group (p < 0.05). The expression of BAX as a pro-apoptotic gene showed a significant decrease in re-vitrification group comparing with the fresh one (P < 0.05).The results of this research indicated that re-vitrification of embryos changes the expression of miR-16, miR-let-7a and their target genes. These alterations include increased expression of BCl-2 and ITGβ3 genes which play important roles in embryo survival and implantation, respectively. Clinical proof of these effects requires further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Daneshvar
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Salehi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Noruzinia
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
70
|
Jiang H, Li JX. Interaction networks between the Fallopian tubes and the embryo in human tubal pregnancy: Current knowledge and perspectives. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:4139-4147. [PMID: 34558156 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM More than 90% of ectopic pregnancies occur in the Fallopian tubes. As the pathogenesis of tubal pregnancy remains largely unclear, the development of strategies to prevent and treat tubal pregnancy still represents a major clinical challenge. This review thoroughly summarizes the current data, aiming to determine the genes and signaling pathways that are involved in the pathophysiology of human tubal pregnancy. METHODS An electronic search from databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Chinese databases was carried out using key words pertaining to the pathogenesis of tubal pregnancy from the perspectives of both the Fallopian tubes and the embryo. A review of the literatures including review articles, experimental, and observational studies and case reports published between 1999 and 2021 was conducted. RESULTS Tubal pregnancy results from the interaction networks between the Fallopian tube and the embryo rather than from simple tubal abnormality. Furthermore, the embryo-maternal communication is supposed to start from the preimplantation period to the implantation period. CONCLUSION A greater understanding of the interaction networks between the Fallopian tubes and the embryo is of great significance for the prevention and medical treatment of tubal pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Jiang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Longgang District Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City, Shenzhen City, China
| | - Jian-Xiong Li
- Department of Gynaecology, Longgang District Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City, Shenzhen City, China
| |
Collapse
|
71
|
Zhang X, Wei H. Role of Decidual Natural Killer Cells in Human Pregnancy and Related Pregnancy Complications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:728291. [PMID: 34512661 PMCID: PMC8426434 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.728291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a unique type of immunological process. Healthy pregnancy is associated with a series of inflammatory events: implantation (inflammation), gestation (anti-inflammation), and parturition (inflammation). As the most abundant leukocytes during pregnancy, natural killer (NK) cells are recruited and activated by ovarian hormones and have pivotal roles throughout pregnancy. During the first trimester, NK cells represent up to 50–70% of decidua lymphocytes. Differently from peripheral-blood NK cells, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are poorly cytolytic, and they release cytokines/chemokines that induce trophoblast invasion, tissue remodeling, embryonic development, and placentation. NK cells can also shift to a cytotoxic identity and carry out immune defense if infected in utero by pathogens. At late gestation, premature activation of NK cells can lead to a breakdown of tolerance of the maternal–fetal interface and, subsequently, can result in preterm birth. This review is focused on the role of dNK cells in normal pregnancy and pathological pregnancy, including preeclampsia, recurrent spontaneous abortion, endometriosis, and recurrent implantation failure. dNK cells could be targets for the treatment of pregnancy complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhong Zhang
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Division of Molecular Medicine, The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
72
|
Expression of SGLT1 in the Mouse Endometrial Epithelium and its Role in Early Embryonic Development and Implantation. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:3094-3108. [PMID: 34460091 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00480-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Many functional activities of endometrium epithelium are energy consuming which are very important for maintaining intrauterine environment needed by early embryonic development and establishment of implantation window. Glucose is a main energy supplier and one of the main components of intrauterine fluid. Obviously, glucose transports in endometrium epithelium involve in for these activities but their functions have not been elucidated. In this research, we observed a spatiotemporal pattern of sodium glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1) expression in the mouse endometrium. We also determined that progesterone can promote the expression of SGLT1 in the mouse endometrial epithelium in response to the action of oestrogen. Treatment with the SGLT1 inhibitor phlorizin or small interfering RNA specific for SGLT1 (SGLT1-siRNA) altered glucose uptake in primary cultured endometrial epithelial cells, which exhibited reduced ATP levels and AMPK activation. The injection of phlorizin or SGLT1-siRNA into one uterine horn of each mouse on day 2 of pregnancy led to an increased glucose concentration in the uterine fluid and decreased number of harvested normal blastocysts and decreased expression of integrin αVβ3 in endometrial epithelium and increased expression of mucin 1 and lactoferrin in endometrial epithelium and the uterine homogenates exhibited activated AMPK, a decreased ATP level on day 4, and a decreased number of implantation sites on day 5. In embryo transfer experiments, pre-treatment of the uterine horn with phlorizin or SGLT1-siRNA during the implantation window led to a decreased embryo implantation rate on day 5 of pregnancy, even when embryos from normal donor mice were used. In conclusion, SGLT1, which participates in glucose transport in the mouse endometrial epithelium, inhibition and/or reduced expression of SGLT1 affects early embryo development by altering the glucose concentration in the uterine fluid. Inhibition and/or reduced expression of SGLT1 also affects embryo implantation by influencing energy metabolism in epithelial cells, which consequently influences implantation-related functional activities.
Collapse
|
73
|
Long Y, Wang YC, Yuan DZ, Dai XH, Liao LC, Zhang XQ, Zhang LX, Ma YD, Lei Y, Cui ZH, Zhang JH, Nie L, Yue LM. GLUT4 in Mouse Endometrial Epithelium: Roles in Embryonic Development and Implantation. Front Physiol 2021; 12:674924. [PMID: 34248664 PMCID: PMC8267529 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.674924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
GLUT4 is involved in rapid glucose uptake among various kinds of cells to contribute to glucose homeostasis. Prior data have reported that aberrant glucose metabolism by GLUT4 dysfunction in the uterus could be responsible for infertility and increased miscarriage. However, the expression and precise functions of GLUT4 in the endometrium under physiological conditions remain unknown or controversial. In this study, we observed that GLUT4 exhibits a spatiotemporal expression in mouse uterus on pregnant days 1–4; its expression especially increased on pregnant day 4 during the window of implantation. We also determined that estrogen, in conjunction with progesterone, promotes the expression of GLUT4 in the endometrial epithelium in vivo or in vitro. GLUT4 is an important transporter that mediates glucose transport in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) in vitro or in vivo. In vitro, glucose uptake decreased in mouse EECs when the cells were treated with GLUT4 small interfering RNA (siRNA). In vivo, the injection of GLUT4-siRNA into one side of the mouse uterine horns resulted in an increased glucose concentration in the uterine fluid on pregnant day 4, although it was still lower than in blood, and impaired endometrial receptivity by inhibiting pinopode formation and the expressions of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and integrin ανβ3, finally affecting embryonic development and implantation. Overall, the obtained results indicate that GLUT4 in the endometrial epithelium affects embryo development by altering glucose concentration in the uterine fluid. It can also affect implantation by impairing endometrial receptivity due to dysfunction of GLUT4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Long
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Physiology, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi-Cheng Wang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dong-Zhi Yuan
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin-Hua Dai
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin-Chuan Liao
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xue-Qin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-Xue Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong-Dan Ma
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Lei
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhi-Hui Cui
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin-Hu Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Nie
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-Min Yue
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
74
|
Aplin JD, Jones CJP. Cell dynamics in human villous trophoblast. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:904-922. [PMID: 34125187 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Villous cytotrophoblast (vCTB) is a precursor cell population that supports the development of syncytiotrophoblast (vSTB), the high surface area barrier epithelium of the placental villus, and the primary interface between maternal and fetal tissue. In light of increasing evidence that the placenta can adapt to changing maternal environments or, under stress, can trigger maternal disease, we consider what properties of these cells empower them to exert a controlling influence on pregnancy progression and outcome. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE How are cytotrophoblast proliferation and differentiation regulated in the human placental villus to allow for the increasing demands of the fetal and environmental challenges and stresses that may arise during pregnancy? SEARCH METHODS PubMed was interrogated using relevant keywords and word roots combining trophoblast, villus/villous, syncytio/syncytium, placenta, stem, transcription factor (and the individual genes), signalling, apoptosis, autophagy (and the respective genes) from 1960 to the present. Since removal of trophoblast from its tissue environment is known to fundamentally change cell growth and differentiation kinetics, research that relied exclusively on cell culture has not been the main focus of this review, though it is mentioned where appropriate. Work on non-human placenta is not systematically covered, though mention is made where relevant hypotheses have emerged. OUTCOMES The synthesis of data from the literature has led to a new hypothesis for vCTB dynamics. We propose that a reversible transition can occur from a reserve population in G0 to a mitotically active state. Cells from the in-cycle population can then differentiate irreversibly to intermediate cells that leave the cycle and turn on genes that confer the capacity to fuse with the overlying vSTB as well as other functions associated with syncytial barrier and transport function. We speculate that alterations in the rate of entry to the cell cycle, or return of cells in the mitotic fraction to G0, can occur in response to environmental challenge. We also review evidence on the life cycle of trophoblast from the time that fusion occurs, and point to gaps in knowledge of how large quantities of fetal DNA arrive in maternal circulation. We critique historical methodology and make a case for research to re-address questions about trophoblast lifecycle and dynamics in normal pregnancy and the common diseases of pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction, where altered trophoblast kinetics have long been postulated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The hypothesis requires experimental testing, moving research away from currently accepted methodology towards a new standard that includes representative cell and tissue sampling, assessment of cell cycle and differentiation parameters, and robust classification of cell subpopulations in villous trophoblast, with due attention to gestational age, maternal and fetal phenotype, disease and outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Carolyn J P Jones
- Maternal and Fetal Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
Paule SG, Heng S, Samarajeewa N, Li Y, Mansilla M, Webb AI, Nebl T, Young SL, Lessey BA, Hull ML, Scelwyn M, Lim R, Vollenhoven B, Rombauts LJ, Nie G. Podocalyxin is a key negative regulator of human endometrial epithelial receptivity for embryo implantation. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1353-1366. [PMID: 33822049 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How is endometrial epithelial receptivity, particularly adhesiveness, regulated at the luminal epithelial surface for embryo implantation in the human? SUMMARY ANSWER Podocalyxin (PCX), a transmembrane protein, was identified as a key negative regulator of endometrial epithelial receptivity; specific downregulation of PCX in the luminal epithelium in the mid-secretory phase, likely mediated by progesterone, may act as a critical step in converting endometrial surface from a non-receptive to an implantation-permitting state. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The human endometrium must undergo major molecular and cellular changes to transform from a non-receptive to a receptive state to accommodate embryo implantation. However, the fundamental mechanisms governing receptivity, particularly at the luminal surface where the embryo first interacts with, are not well understood. A widely held view is that upregulation of adhesion-promoting molecules is important, but the details are not well characterized. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study first aimed to identify novel adhesion-related membrane proteins with potential roles in receptivity in primary human endometrial epithelial cells (HEECs). Further experiments were then conducted to determine candidates' in vivo expression pattern in the human endometrium across the menstrual cycle, regulation by progesterone using cell culture, and functional importance in receptivity using in vitro human embryo attachment and invasion models. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Primary HEECs (n = 9) were isolated from the proliferative phase endometrial tissue, combined into three pools, subjected to plasma membrane protein enrichment by ultracentrifugation followed by proteomics analysis, which led to the discovery of PCX as a novel candidate of interest. Immunohistochemical analysis determined the in vivo expression pattern and cellular localization of PCX in the human endometrium across the menstrual cycle (n = 23). To investigate whether PCX is regulated by progesterone, the master driver of endometrial differentiation, primary HEECs were treated in culture with estradiol and progesterone and analyzed by RT-PCR (n = 5) and western blot (n = 4). To demonstrate that PCX acts as a negative regulator of receptivity, PCX was overexpressed in Ishikawa cells (a receptive line) and the impact on receptivity was determined using in vitro attachment (n = 3-5) and invasion models (n = 4-6), in which an Ishikawa monolayer mimicked the endometrial surface and primary human trophoblast spheroids mimicked embryos. Mann-Whitney U-test and ANOVA analyses established statistical significance at *P ≤ 0.05 and **P ≤ 0.01. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE PCX was expressed on the apical surface of all epithelial and endothelial cells in the non-receptive endometrium, but selectively downregulated in the luminal epithelium from the mid-secretory phase coinciding with the establishment of receptivity. Progesterone was confirmed to be able to suppress PCX in primary HEECs, suggesting this hormone likely mediates the downregulation of luminal PCX in vivo for receptivity. Overexpression of PCX in Ishikawa monolayer inhibited not only the attachment but also the penetration of human embryo surrogates, demonstrating that PCX acts as an important negative regulator of epithelial receptivity for implantation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Primary HEECs isolated from the human endometrial tissue contained a mixture of luminal and glandular epithelial cells, as further purification into subtypes was not possible due to the lack of specific markers. Future study would need to investigate how progesterone differentially regulates PCX in endometrial epithelial subtypes. In addition, this study used primary human trophoblast spheroids as human embryo mimics and Ishikawa as endometrial epithelial cells in functional models, future studies with human blastocysts and primary epithelial cells would further validate the findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The findings of this study add important new knowledge to the understanding of human endometrial remodeling for receptivity. The identification of PCX as a negative regulator of epithelial receptivity and the knowledge that its specific downregulation in the luminal epithelium coincides with receptivity development may provide new avenues to assess endometrial receptivity and individualize endometrial preparation protocols in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The study also discovered PCX as progesterone target in HEECs, identifying a potentially useful functional biomarker to monitor progesterone action, such as in the optimization of progesterone type/dose/route of administration for luteal support. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Study funding was obtained from ESHRE, Monash IVF and NHMRC. LR reports potential conflict of interests (received grants from Ferring Australia; personal fees from Monash IVF Group and Ferring Australia; and non-financial support from Merck Serono, MSD, and Guerbet outside the submitted work. LR is also a minority shareholder and the Group Medical Director for Monash IVF Group, a provider of fertility preservation services). The remaining authors have no potential conflict of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah G Paule
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Sophea Heng
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, VIC, Australia
| | - Nirukshi Samarajeewa
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, VIC, Australia
| | - Ying Li
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, VIC, Australia
| | - Mary Mansilla
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew I Webb
- Advance Technology and Biology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Thomas Nebl
- Advance Technology and Biology Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Greenville Health System, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - M Louise Hull
- The Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Rebecca Lim
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Beverley Vollenhoven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Womens and Newborn Programme, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Luk J Rombauts
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Womens and Newborn Programme, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Guiying Nie
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
76
|
Rahimipour M, Jafarabadi M, Salehnia M. In Vitro Implantation Model Using Human Endometrial SUSD2+ Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Myometrial Smooth Muscle Cells. CELL JOURNAL 2021; 23:154-163. [PMID: 34096216 PMCID: PMC8181319 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2021.6979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study evaluated a novel in vitro implantation model using human endometrial mesenchymal stem cells
(EMSCs), SUSD2+, and myometrial smooth muscle cells (SMCs) that were co-cultured with mouse blastocysts as the
surrogate embryo.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, SUSD2+ MSCs were isolated from human endometrial cell
suspensions (ECS) at the fourth passage by magnetic-activated cell sorting. The ECS and SUSD2+ cells were
separately co-cultured with human myometrial muscle cells for five days. After collection of mouse blastocysts, the
embryos were placed on top of the co-cultured cells for 48 hours. The interaction between the embryo and the cultured
cells was assessed morphologically at the histological and ultrastructural levels, and by expression profiles of genes
related to implantation.
Results Photomicrographs showed that trophoblastic cells grew around the embryonic cells and attached to theECS
and SUSD2+ cells. Ultrastructural observations revealed pinopode and microvilli-like structures on the surfaces of both
the ECS and SUSD2+ cells. Morphologically, the embryos developed to the egg-cylinder stage in both groups. Gene
expression analysis showed no significant differences between the two groups in the presence of an embryo, but an
increased expression of αV was detected in SUSD2+ cells compared to ECS cells in the absence of an embryo.
Conclusion This study showed that SUSD2+ cells co-cultured with SMCs could interact with mouse embryos. The
co-cultured cells could potentially be used as an implantation model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Rahimipour
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Jafarabadi
- Reproductive Health Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
Meistermann D, Bruneau A, Loubersac S, Reignier A, Firmin J, François-Campion V, Kilens S, Lelièvre Y, Lammers J, Feyeux M, Hulin P, Nedellec S, Bretin B, Castel G, Allègre N, Covin S, Bihouée A, Soumillon M, Mikkelsen T, Barrière P, Chazaud C, Chappell J, Pasque V, Bourdon J, Fréour T, David L. Integrated pseudotime analysis of human pre-implantation embryo single-cell transcriptomes reveals the dynamics of lineage specification. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:1625-1640.e6. [PMID: 34004179 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Understanding lineage specification during human pre-implantation development is a gateway to improving assisted reproductive technologies and stem cell research. Here we employ pseudotime analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data to reconstruct early mouse and human embryo development. Using time-lapse imaging of annotated embryos, we provide an integrated, ordered, and continuous analysis of transcriptomics changes throughout human development. We reveal that human trophectoderm/inner cell mass transcriptomes diverge at the transition from the B2 to the B3 blastocyst stage, just before blastocyst expansion. We explore the dynamics of the fate markers IFI16 and GATA4 and show that they gradually become mutually exclusive upon establishment of epiblast and primitive endoderm fates, respectively. We also provide evidence that NR2F2 marks trophectoderm maturation, initiating from the polar side, and subsequently spreads to all cells after implantation. Our study pinpoints the precise timing of lineage specification events in the human embryo and identifies transcriptomics hallmarks and cell fate markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Meistermann
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; LS2N, UNIV Nantes, CNRS, Nantes, France
| | - Alexandre Bruneau
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Sophie Loubersac
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Arnaud Reignier
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Julie Firmin
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Valentin François-Campion
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Stéphanie Kilens
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France
| | | | - Jenna Lammers
- CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Magalie Feyeux
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CNRS, SFR Santé, FED 4203, INSERM UMS 016, CNRS UMS 3556, Nantes, France
| | - Phillipe Hulin
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CNRS, SFR Santé, FED 4203, INSERM UMS 016, CNRS UMS 3556, Nantes, France
| | - Steven Nedellec
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CNRS, SFR Santé, FED 4203, INSERM UMS 016, CNRS UMS 3556, Nantes, France
| | - Betty Bretin
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Gaël Castel
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Nicolas Allègre
- GReD Laboratory, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Faculté de Médecine, CRBC, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Simon Covin
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Audrey Bihouée
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CNRS, SFR Santé, FED 4203, INSERM UMS 016, CNRS UMS 3556, Nantes, France; Institut du Thorax, UNIV Nantes, INSERM, CNRS, Nantes, France
| | - Magali Soumillon
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Tarjei Mikkelsen
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Paul Barrière
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Claire Chazaud
- GReD Laboratory, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Faculté de Médecine, CRBC, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Joel Chappell
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Development and Regeneration, Institute for Single Cell Omics, Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Vincent Pasque
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Development and Regeneration, Institute for Single Cell Omics, Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Thomas Fréour
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; CHU Nantes, Université de Nantes, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, 44000 Nantes, France.
| | - Laurent David
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, 44000 Nantes, France; Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CNRS, SFR Santé, FED 4203, INSERM UMS 016, CNRS UMS 3556, Nantes, France.
| |
Collapse
|
78
|
Ziganshina MM, Dolgushina NV, Kulikova GV, Fayzullina NM, Yarotskaya EL, Khasbiullina NR, Abdurakhmanova NF, Asaturova AV, Shchegolev AI, Dovgan AA, Sukhikh GT. Epithelial apical glycosylation changes associated with thin endometrium in women with infertility - a pilot observational study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:73. [PMID: 33992099 PMCID: PMC8122553 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00750-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low endometrial receptivity is one of the major factors affecting successful implantation in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Infertile patients with thin endometrium have a significantly lower cumulative clinical pregnancy rate than patients with normal endometrium. Molecular pathophysiology of low receptivity of thin endometrium remains understudied. We have investigated composition of glycocalyx of the apical surface of luminal and glandular epithelial cells in thin endometrium of infertile women. METHODS Thirty-two patients with tubal-peritoneal infertility undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) were included in the study. Endometrial samples were obtained in a natural menstrual cycle. Patients were divided into two groups: patients with normal endometrium (≥8 mm) and with thin endometrium (< 8 mm). Histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of paraffin-embedded endometrial samples was performed using six biotinylated lectins (UEA-I, MAL-II, SNA, VVL, ECL, Con A) and anti-LeY and MECA-79 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). RESULTS Complex glycans analysis taking into account the adjusted specificity of glycan-binding MAbs revealed 1.3 times less expression of MECA-79 glycans on the apical surface of the luminal epithelial cells of thin endometrium compared to normal endometrium; this deficiency may adversely affect implantation, since MECA-79 glycans are a ligand of L-selectin and mediate intercellular interactions. The glycans containing a type-2 unit Galβ1-4GlcNAcβ (LacNAc) but lacking sulfo-residues at 6-OH of GlcNAcβ, and binding to MECA-79 MAbs were found; they can be considered as potential markers of endometrium receptivity. Expression of the lectins-stained glycans on the apical surfaces of the luminal and glandular epithelial cells did not differ significantly. Correlation between the expression of difucosylated oligosaccharide LeY on the apical surfaces of the luminal and glandular epithelial cells was found in patients with thin endometrium and recurrent implantation failure. A similar relationship was shown for mannose-rich glycans. CONCLUSIONS Specific features of key glycans expression in epithelial compartments of thin endometrium may be essential for morphogenesis of the endometrial functional layer and explain its low receptivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina M Ziganshina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997.
| | - Nataliya V Dolgushina
- R&D Department, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov, Trubetskaya str. 8-2, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Galina V Kulikova
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Nafisa M Fayzullina
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Ekaterina L Yarotskaya
- Department of International Cooperation, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Nailia R Khasbiullina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
| | - Nigora F Abdurakhmanova
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Aleksandra V Asaturova
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Alexander I Shchegolev
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Alina A Dovgan
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Gennady T Sukhikh
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
- First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov, Trubetskaya str. 8-2, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
79
|
Poh QH, Rai A, Carmichael II, Salamonsen LA, Greening DW. Proteome reprogramming of endometrial epithelial cells by human trophectodermal small extracellular vesicles reveals key insights into embryo implantation. Proteomics 2021; 21:e2000210. [PMID: 33860638 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202000210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation into the receptive endometrium is critical in pregnancy establishment, initially requiring reciprocal signalling between outer layer of the blastocyst (trophectoderm cells) and endometrial epithelium; however, factors regulating this crosstalk remain poorly understood. Although endometrial extracellular vesicles (EVs) are known to signal to the embryo during implantation, the role of embryo-derived EVs remains largely unknown. Here, we provide a comprehensive proteomic characterisation of a major class of EVs, termed small EVs (sEVs), released by human trophectoderm cells (Tsc-sEVs) and their capacity to reprogram protein landscape of endometrial epithelium in vitro. Highly purified Tsc-sEVs (30-200 nm, ALIX+ , TSG101+ , CD9/63/81+ ) were enriched in known players of implantation (LIFR, ICAM1, TAGLN2, WNT5A, FZD7, ROR2, PRICKLE2), antioxidant activity (SOD1, PRDX1/4/6), tissue integrity (EZR, RAC1, RHOA, TNC), and focal adhesions (FAK, ITGA2/V, ITGB1/3). Functionally, Tsc-sEVs were taken up by endometrial cells, altered transepithelial electrical resistance, and upregulated proteins implicated in embryo attachment (ITGA2/V, ITGB1/3), immune regulation (CD59, CD276, LGALS3), and antioxidant activity (GPX1/3/4, PRDX1/2/4/5/6): processes that are critical for successful implantation. Collectively, we provide critical insights into Tsc-sEV-mediated regulation of endometrial function that contributes to our understanding of the molecular basis of implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Hui Poh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alin Rai
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Irena Iśka Carmichael
- Monash Micro Imaging, Monash, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - David W Greening
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
80
|
Kazemi M, Jajarmi V, Nazarian H, Ghaffari Novin M, Salehpour S, Piryaei A, Heidari Khoei H, Choobineh H, Abdollahifar MA, Haji Molla Hoseini M, Heidari MH. Culture strategy as a modulator of target assessments: Functionality of suspension versus hanging drop-derived choriocarcinoma spheroids as in vitro model of embryo implantation. J Cell Biochem 2021; 122:1192-1206. [PMID: 33900644 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The choriocarcinoma spheroid model has been amply applied to study the underlying molecular mechanism of implantation. Reproducibility and functionality of spheroid tumor models were addressed precisely. To mimic embryo-endometrium crosstalk, no functional characteristics of spheroids have been provided based on culture strategies. In this study, choriocarcinoma spheroids were provided as suspension culture (SC) or hanging drop culture (HDC). Primary assessments were performed based on morphology, cellular density, and hormonal secretion. Spheroid-endometrial cross talk was assessed as coculture procedures. Further, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and expression of genes involved in attachment, invasion, and inducing migration were quantified. We found HDC spheroids provided a homogenous-shaped aggregate with a high grade of viability, cellular integration, hormonal secretion, and the dominant role of WNTs expression in their microarchitecture. SC spheroids showed a higher level of ALP activity and the expression of integrated genes in modulating attachment, invasion, and migration abilities. Spheroid confrontation assays clearly clarified the superiority of SC spheroids to crosstalk with epithelial and stromal cells of endometrium in addition to motivating an ideal endometrial response. Conclusively, culture strategies by affecting various molecular signaling pathways should be chosen precisely according to specific target assessments. Specifically, SC assumed as an ideal model in spheroid-endometrial cross talk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Kazemi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Jajarmi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saghar Salehpour
- Department of Obstetrics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Piryaei
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
| | - Heidar Heidari Khoei
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Choobineh
- School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Abdollahifar
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Haji Molla Hoseini
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Heidari
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
81
|
Klisch K, Schraner EM. Intermembrane distances at the feto-maternal interface in epitheliochorial placentation. Placenta 2021; 109:37-42. [PMID: 33965813 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In an epitheliochorial placenta, the apical membranes of trophoblast cells and of uterine epithelial cells are in contact to each other (feto-maternal contact). In addition, there are also folds in which the trophoblast membrane is in contact with itself (feto-fetal contact) and areas where apical uterine epithelial membrane is in contact with itself (materno-maternal contact). METHODS We use transmission electron microscopy of placental samples from pigs. (n = 3), cows (n = 2), sheep (n = 2), goat (n = 2) and roe deer (n = 1) to study the intermembrane distance in these three contact types. RESULTS The measured intermembrane distances vary between 8 and 25 nm. One common feature is that the distance at feto-fetal contact sites is about 6-10 nm wider than at materno-maternal sites and feto-maternal sites show intermediate values. DISCUSSION This finding suggests that the membrane distance at feto-maternal contact sites is determined by heterophilic binding of larger fetal to smaller maternal binding molecules. Homophilic binding of smaller maternal or larger fetal molecules lead to the smaller or wider intermembrane distances at materno-maternal or feto-fetal contact sites respectively. The observation that this similar pattern of membrane distances is present in pigs and in ruminants suggest that an evolutionary mechanism is involved in determining the intermembrane distance in epitheliochorial placentas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karl Klisch
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Elisabeth M Schraner
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Virology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
82
|
Aljubran F, Nothnick WB. Long non-coding RNAs in endometrial physiology and pathophysiology. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 525:111190. [PMID: 33549604 PMCID: PMC7946759 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The endometrium is an essential component of the female uterus which provides the environment for pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Abnormalities of the endometrium not only lead to difficulties in establishing and maintaining pregnancy but also play a causative role in diseases of endometrial origin including endometriosis and endometrial cancer. Non-coding RNAs are proposed to play a role in regulating the genome in both normal endometrial physiology and pathophysiology. In this review, we first provide a general overview of non-coding RNAs and reproductive physiology of the endometrium. We then discuss the role on non-coding RNAs in normal endometrial physiology and pathophysiology of endometrial infertility. We then conclude with non-coding RNAs in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and endometrial cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah Aljubran
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Warren B Nothnick
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA; Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
83
|
Koo HS, Yoon MJ, Hong SH, Ahn J, Cha H, Lee D, Ko JE, Kwon H, Choi DH, Lee KA, Ko JJ, Kang YJ. CXCL12 enhances pregnancy outcome via improvement of endometrial receptivity in mice. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7397. [PMID: 33795831 PMCID: PMC8016928 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86956-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy inevitably depends on the implantation of a competent embryo into a receptive endometrium. Although many substances have been suggested to improve the rate of embryo implantation targeting enhancement of endometrial receptivity, currently there rarely are effective evidence-based treatments to prevent or cure this condition. Here we strongly suggest minimally-invasive intra-uterine administration of embryo-secreted chemokine CXCL12 as an effective therapeutic intervention. Chemokine CXCL12 derived from pre- and peri-implanting embryos significantly enhances the rates of embryo attachment and promoted endothelial vessel formation and sprouting in vitro. Consistently, intra-uterine CXCL12 administration in C57BL/6 mice improved endometrial receptivity showing increased integrin β3 and its ligand osteopontin, and induced endometrial angiogenesis displaying increased numbers of vessel formation near the lining of endometrial epithelial layer with higher CD31 and CD34 expression. Furthermore, intra-uterine CXCL12 application dramatically promoted the rates of embryo implantation with no morphologically retarded embryos. Thus, our present study provides a novel evidence that improved uterine endometrial receptivity and enhanced angiogenesis induced by embryo-derived chemokine CXCL12 may aid to develop a minimally-invasive therapeutic strategy for clinical treatment or supplement for the patients with repeated implantation failure with less risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwa Seon Koo
- CHA Fertility Center Bundang, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Min-Ji Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Seon-Hwa Hong
- CHA Fertility Center Bundang, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Jungho Ahn
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Hwijae Cha
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Danbi Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Ko
- CHA Fertility Center Bundang, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Hwang Kwon
- CHA Fertility Center Bundang, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Dong Hee Choi
- CHA Fertility Center Bundang, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Ah Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Jung-Jae Ko
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea
| | - Youn-Jung Kang
- CHA Fertility Center Bundang, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Science, School of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea. .,Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
84
|
Chumduri C, Turco MY. Organoids of the female reproductive tract. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:531-553. [PMID: 33580825 PMCID: PMC8026429 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-02028-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Healthy functioning of the female reproductive tract (FRT) depends on balanced and dynamic regulation by hormones during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and childbirth. The mucosal epithelial lining of different regions of the FRT-ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix and vagina-facilitates the selective transport of gametes and successful transfer of the zygote to the uterus where it implants and pregnancy takes place. It also prevents pathogen entry. Recent developments in three-dimensional (3D) organoid systems from the FRT now provide crucial experimental models that recapitulate the cellular heterogeneity and physiological, anatomical and functional properties of the organ in vitro. In this review, we summarise the state of the art on organoids generated from different regions of the FRT. We discuss the potential applications of these powerful in vitro models to study normal physiology, fertility, infections, diseases, drug discovery and personalised medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cindrilla Chumduri
- Department of Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Biocenter, Würzburg, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Margherita Y Turco
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
85
|
Molè MA, Weberling A, Fässler R, Campbell A, Fishel S, Zernicka-Goetz M. Integrin β1 coordinates survival and morphogenesis of the embryonic lineage upon implantation and pluripotency transition. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108834. [PMID: 33691117 PMCID: PMC7966855 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At implantation, the embryo establishes contacts with the maternal endometrium. This stage is associated with a high incidence of preclinical pregnancy losses. While the maternal factors underlying uterine receptivity have been investigated, the signals required by the embryo for successful peri-implantation development remain elusive. To explore these, we studied integrin β1 signaling, as embryos deficient for this receptor degenerate at implantation. We demonstrate that the coordinated action of pro-survival signals and localized actomyosin suppression via integrin β1 permits the development of the embryo beyond implantation. Failure of either process leads to developmental arrest and apoptosis. Pharmacological stimulation through fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), coupled with ROCK-mediated actomyosin inhibition, rescues the deficiency of integrin β1, promoting progression to post-implantation stages. Mutual exclusion between integrin β1 and actomyosin seems to be conserved in the human embryo, suggesting the possibility that these mechanisms could also underlie the transition of the human epiblast from pre- to post-implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Amitaba Molè
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Antonia Weberling
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Reinhard Fässler
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Alison Campbell
- CARE Fertility Group, John Webster House, 6 Lawrence Drive, Nottingham Business Park, Nottingham NG8 6PZ, UK
| | - Simon Fishel
- CARE Fertility Group, John Webster House, 6 Lawrence Drive, Nottingham Business Park, Nottingham NG8 6PZ, UK; School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK; Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
86
|
Non-invasive Intrauterine Administration of Botulinum Toxin A Enhances Endometrial Angiogenesis and Improves the Rates of Embryo Implantation. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1671-1687. [PMID: 33650094 PMCID: PMC8144131 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00496-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial angiogenesis plays crucial roles in determining the endometrial receptivity. Defects in endometrial receptivity often cause repeated implantation failure, which is one of the major unmet needs for infertility and contributes a major barrier to the assisted reproductive technology. Despite the numerous extensive research work, there are currently no effective evidence-based treatments to prevent or cure this condition. As a non-invasive treatment strategy, botulinum toxin A (BoTA) was administered into one side of mouse uterine horns, and saline was infused into the other side of horns for the control. Impact of BoTA was assessed in the endometrium at 3 or 8 days after infusion. We demonstrated that BoTA administration enhances the capacity of endothelial cell tube formation and sprouting. The intrauterine BoTA administration significantly induced endometrial angiogenesis displaying increased numbers of vessel formation and expression levels of related marker genes. Moreover, BoTA intrauterine application promoted the endometrial receptivity, and the rates of embryo implantation were improved with BoTA treatment with no morphologically retarded embryos. Intrauterine BoTA treatment has a beneficial effect on vascular reconstruction of functional endometrium prior to embryo implantation by increasing endometrial blood flow near the uterine cavity suggesting BoTA treatment as a potential therapeutic strategy for patients who are suffering from repeated implantation failure with the problems with endometrial receptivity.
Collapse
|
87
|
Wei Y, Zhang C, Fan G, Meng L. Organoids as Novel Models for Embryo Implantation Study. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1637-1643. [PMID: 33650092 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00501-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In the last decade, organoids have become emerging novel models for biomedical research. Organoids are small, self-organized three-dimensional (3D) tissue cultures derived from stem cells that mimic certain tissues or organs. In reproductive medicine, researchers have generated numerous organoids including blastoid (blastocyst organoid), endometrial organoid, and trophoblast organoid. These organdies provide useful models for studying the embryo implantation mechanism through observation of cell differentiation, gene expression, and epigenetic profiles at the implantation stage. As in vitro tissue models, organoids could be coupled with many other frontier technologies such as gene editing and genomic sequencing. However, the main drawback of organoids is that they do not fully mimic their counterparts in vivo tissues. Furthermore, there is a consensus of research ethics on organoids that may limit the types of studies that scientists perform with. Nevertheless, all discoveries and efforts surrounding organoids still greatly benefit therapy development for reproductive clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yubao Wei
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
| | - Guoping Fan
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Li Meng
- Incinta Fertility Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90503, USA
| |
Collapse
|
88
|
Elad D, Jaffa AJ, Grisaru D. Biomechanics of Early Life in the Female Reproductive Tract. Physiology (Bethesda) 2021; 35:134-143. [PMID: 32027564 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00028.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Early human life that starts at the onset of fertilization and ends with implantation of the embryo in the uterine wall is the foundation for a successful pregnancy. The different stages during this period require biomechanical mechanisms, which are mostly unknown due to difficulties to conduct in vivo studies in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Elad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel J Jaffa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dan Grisaru
- Gynecological Oncology Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
89
|
Francis LW, Yao SN, Powell LC, Griffiths S, Berquand A, Piasecki T, Howe W, Gazze AS, Farach-Carson MC, Constantinou P, Carson D, Margarit L, Gonzalez D, Conlan RS. Highly glycosylated MUC1 mediates high affinity L-selectin binding at the human endometrial surface. J Nanobiotechnology 2021; 19:50. [PMID: 33596915 PMCID: PMC7890821 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-00793-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sialyl-Lewis X/L-selectin high affinity binding interactions between transmembrane O-glycosylated mucins proteins and the embryo have been implicated in implantation processes within the human reproductive system. However, the adhesive properties of these mucins at the endometrial cell surface are difficult to resolve due to known discrepancies between in vivo models and the human reproductive system and a lack of sensitivity in current in vitro models. To overcome these limitations, an in vitro model of the human endometrial epithelial was interrogated with single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) to delineate the molecular configurations of mucin proteins that mediate the high affinity L-selectin binding required for human embryo implantation. Results This study reveals that MUC1 contributes to both the intrinsic and extrinsic adhesive properties of the HEC-1 cellular surface. High expression of MUC1 on the cell surface led to a significantly increased intrinsic adhesion force (148 pN vs. 271 pN, p < 0.001), whereas this adhesion force was significantly reduced (271 pN vs. 118 pN, p < 0.001) following siRNA mediated MUC1 ablation. Whilst high expression of MUC1 displaying elevated glycosylation led to strong extrinsic (> 400 pN) L-selectin binding at the cell surface, low expression of MUC1 with reduced glycosylation resulted in significantly less (≤200 pN) binding events. Conclusions An optimal level of MUC1 together with highly glycosylated decoration of the protein is critical for high affinity L-selectin binding. This study demonstrates that MUC1 contributes to cellular adhesive properties which may function to facilitate trophoblast binding to the endometrial cell surface through the L-selectin/sialyl-Lewis x adhesion system subsequent to implantation.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lewis W Francis
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Seydou N Yao
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Lydia C Powell
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Sean Griffiths
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | | | - Thomas Piasecki
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - William Howe
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Andrea S Gazze
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Mary C Farach-Carson
- School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, 77054, Texas, USA
| | - Pamela Constantinou
- Department of Biosciences, Wiess School of Natural Science, Rice University, Houston, Texas, 77251, USA
| | - Daniel Carson
- Department of Biosciences, Wiess School of Natural Science, Rice University, Houston, Texas, 77251, USA
| | - Lavinia Margarit
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Princess of Wales Hospital, Bridgend, CF31 1RQ, UK
| | - Deya Gonzalez
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - R Steven Conlan
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
90
|
Mishra A, Ashary N, Sharma R, Modi D. Extracellular vesicles in embryo implantation and disorders of the endometrium. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 85:e13360. [PMID: 33064348 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation of the embryo is a rate-limiting step for a successful pregnancy, and it requires an intricate crosstalk between the embryo and the endometrium. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-enclosed, nano-sized structures produced by cells to mediate cell to cell communication and modulate a diverse set of biological processes. Herein, we review the involvement of EVs in the process of embryo implantation and endometrial diseases. EVs have been isolated from uterine fluid, cultured endometrial epithelial/stromal cells and trophectodermal cells. The endometrial epithelial and stromal/decidual cell-derived EVs and its cargo are internalized bythe trophoblast cells, and they regulate a diverse set of genes involved in adhesion, invasion and migration. Conversely, the embryo-derived EVs and its cargo are internalized by epithelial and immune cells of the endometrium for biosensing and immunomodulation required for successful implantation. EVs have also been shown to play a role in infertility, recurrent implantation failure, endometriosis, endometritis and endometrial cancer. Further research should set a stage for EVs as non-invasive "liquid biopsy" tools for assessment of endometrial health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Mishra
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Nancy Ashary
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Richa Sharma
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
91
|
Wang F, Zhao S, Deng D, Wang W, Xu X, Liu X, Zhao S, Yu M. Integrating LCM-Based Spatio-Temporal Transcriptomics Uncovers Conceptus and Endometrial Luminal Epithelium Communication that Coordinates the Conceptus Attachment in Pigs. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031248. [PMID: 33513863 PMCID: PMC7866100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Attachment of conceptus to the endometrial luminal epithelium (LE) is a critical event for early placentation in Eutheria. Since the attachment occurs at a particular site within the uterus, a coordinated communication between three spatially distinct compartments (conceptus and endometrial LE from two anatomical regions of the uterus to which conceptus attaches and does not attach) is essential but remains to be fully characterized. Using the laser capture microdissection (LCM) technique, we firstly developed an approach that can allow us to pair the pig conceptus sample with its nearby endometrial epithelium sample without losing the native spatial information. Then, a comprehensive spatio-temporal transcriptomic profile without losing the original conceptus-endometrium coordinates was constructed. The analysis shows that an apparent difference in transcriptional responses to the conceptus exists between the endometrial LE from the two anatomically distinct regions in the uterus. In addition, we identified the communication pathways that link the conceptus and endometrial LE and found that these pathways have important roles in conceptus attachment. Furthermore, a number of genes whose expression is spatially restricted in the two different anatomical regions within the uterus were characterized for the first time and two of them (SULT2A1 and MEP1B) may cooperatively contribute to establish conceptus attachment in pigs. The results from our study have implications in understanding of conceptus/embryo attachment in pigs and other large polytocous species.
Collapse
|
92
|
Ojosnegros S, Seriola A, Godeau AL, Veiga A. Embryo implantation in the laboratory: an update on current techniques. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:501-530. [PMID: 33410481 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The embryo implantation process is crucial for the correct establishment and progress of pregnancy. During implantation, the blastocyst trophectoderm cells attach to the epithelium of the endometrium, triggering intense cell-to-cell crosstalk that leads to trophoblast outgrowth, invasion of the endometrial tissue, and formation of the placenta. However, this process, which is vital for embryo and foetal development in utero, is still elusive to experimentation because of its inaccessibility. Experimental implantation is cumbersome and impractical in adult animal models and is inconceivable in humans. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A number of custom experimental solutions have been proposed to recreate different stages of the implantation process in vitro, by combining a human embryo (or a human embryo surrogate) and endometrial cells (or a surrogate for the endometrial tissue). In vitro models allow rapid high-throughput interrogation of embryos and cells, and efficient screening of molecules, such as cytokines, drugs, or transcription factors, that control embryo implantation and the receptivity of the endometrium. However, the broad selection of available in vitro systems makes it complicated to decide which system best fits the needs of a specific experiment or scientific question. To orient the reader, this review will explore the experimental options proposed in the literature, and classify them into amenable categories based on the embryo/cell pairs employed.The goal is to give an overview of the tools available to study the complex process of human embryo implantation, and explain the differences between them, including the advantages and disadvantages of each system. SEARCH METHODS We performed a comprehensive review of the literature to come up with different categories that mimic the different stages of embryo implantation in vitro, ranging from initial blastocyst apposition to later stages of trophoblast invasion or gastrulation. We will also review recent breakthrough advances on stem cells and organoids, assembling embryo-like structures and endometrial tissues. OUTCOMES We highlight the most relevant systems and describe the most significant experiments. We focus on in vitro systems that have contributed to the study of human reproduction by discovering molecules that control implantation, including hormones, signalling molecules, transcription factors and cytokines. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The momentum of this field is growing thanks to the use of stem cells to build embryo-like structures and endometrial tissues, and the use of bioengineering to extend the life of embryos in culture. We propose to merge bioengineering methods derived from the fields of stem cells and reproduction to develop new systems covering a wider window of the implantation process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Ojosnegros
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Seriola
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amélie L Godeau
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Veiga
- B arcelona Stem Cell Bank, Regenerative Medicine Programme, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Hospital Duran i Reynals, Barcelona, Spain.,Reproductive Medicine Service, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
93
|
Jiang NX, Li XL. The Complicated Effects of Extracellular Vesicles and Their Cargos on Embryo Implantation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:681266. [PMID: 34149619 PMCID: PMC8213030 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.681266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As a rate-limiting step in pregnancy, embryo implantation is highly dependent on intercellular communication. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are newly identified to be important in the course of intercellular communication. EVs have been isolated from a wide variety of biofluids and tissues, including plasma, liver, uterine, semen, embryo, etc. The present and future use of EVs not only as biomarkers, but also as targeting drug delivery system, is promisingly pave the way for advanced comprehension of implantation failure in reproductive diseases. However, as the precise mechanisms of EVs in embryo implantation has not been elucidated yet. Herein, we summarize the current knowledge on the diverse effects of EVs from various sources and their cargos such as microRNA, long non-coding RNA, protein, etc. on embryo implantation, and the potential mechanisms of EVs in reproductive diseases such as recurrent implantation failure, polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis. It is essential to note that many of the biologically plausible functions of EVs in embryo implantation discussed in present literatures still need further research in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan-Xing Jiang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Lian Li
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xue-Lian Li,
| |
Collapse
|
94
|
Proteome analysis of endometrial tissue from patients with PCOS reveals proteins predicted to impact the disease. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:8763-8774. [PMID: 33098551 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05924-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disease that causes an ovulatory infertility in approximately 10% of reproductive-age women. We searched for candidate proteins that might contribute to endometrial receptivity defects in PCOS patients, and result in adverse reproductive outcomes. Shotgun proteomics approach was used to investigate the proteome profile of the endometrium at the luteal phase in PCOS patients compared to healthy fertile individuals. Biological process and pathway analyses were conducted to categorize the proteins with differential expressions. Confirmation was performed for a number of proteins via immunoblotting in new samples. 150 proteins with higher abundance, and 46 proteins with lower abundance were identified in the endometrial tissue from PCOS patients compared to healthy fertile individuals. The proteins with higher abundance were enriched in protein degradation, cell cycle, and signaling cascades. Proteins with lower abundance in PCOS patients were enriched in extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and function, as well as the salvage pathway of purine biosynthesis. Metabolism was the most affected biological process with over 100 up-regulated, and approximately 30 down-regulated proteins. Our results indicate significant imbalances in metabolism, proteasome, cell cycle, ECM related proteins, and signaling cascades in endometrial tissue of PCOS, which may contribute to poor reproductive outcomes in these patients. We postulate that the endometria in PCOS patients may not be well-differentiated and synchronized for implantation. Possible roles of the above-mentioned pathways that underlie implantation failure in PCOS will be discussed. Our findings need to be confirmed in larger populations.
Collapse
|
95
|
Protein O-GlcNAcylation Promotes Trophoblast Differentiation at Implantation. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102246. [PMID: 33036308 PMCID: PMC7599815 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation begins with blastocyst trophectoderm (TE) attachment to the endometrial epithelium, followed by the breaching of this barrier by TE-derived trophoblast. Dynamic protein modification with O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAcylation) is mediated by O-GlcNAc transferase and O-GlcNAcase (OGA), and couples cellular metabolism to stress adaptation. O-GlcNAcylation is essential for blastocyst formation, but whether there is a role for this system at implantation remains unexplored. Here, we used OGA inhibitor thiamet g (TMG) to induce raised levels of O-GlcNAcylation in mouse blastocysts and human trophoblast cells. In an in vitro embryo implantation model, TMG promoted mouse blastocyst breaching of the endometrial epithelium. TMG reduced expression of TE transcription factors Cdx2, Gata2 and Gata3, suggesting that O-GlcNAcylation stimulated TE differentiation to invasive trophoblast. TMG upregulated transcription factors OVOL1 and GCM1, and cell fusion gene ERVFRD1, in a cell line model of syncytiotrophoblast differentiation from human TE at implantation. Therefore O-GlcNAcylation is a conserved pathway capable of driving trophoblast differentiation. TE and trophoblast are sensitive to physical, chemical and nutritive stress, which can occur as a consequence of maternal pathophysiology or during assisted reproduction, and may lead to adverse neonatal outcomes and associated adult health risks. Further investigation of how O-GlcNAcylation regulates trophoblast populations arising at implantation is required to understand how peri-implantation stress affects reproductive outcomes.
Collapse
|
96
|
Wilsterman K, Bao X, Estrada AD, Comizzoli P, Bentley GE. Sex steroids influence organizational but not functional decidualization of feline endometrial cells in a 3D culture system†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:906-915. [PMID: 31359037 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful implantation requires complex signaling between the uterine endometrium and the blastocyst. Prior to the blastocyst reaching the uterus, the endometrium is remodeled by sex steroids and other signals to render the endometrium receptive. In vitro models have facilitated major advances in our understanding of endometrium preparation and endometrial-blastocyst communication in mice and humans, but these systems have not been widely adapted for use in other models which might generate a deeper understanding of these processes. The objective of our study was to use a recently developed, three-dimensional culture system to identify specific roles of female sex steroids in remodeling the organization and function of feline endometrial cells. We treated endometrial cells with physiologically relevant concentrations of estradiol and progesterone, either in isolation or in combination, for 1 week. We then examined size and density of three-dimensional structures, and quantified expression of candidate genes known to vary in response to sex steroid treatments and that have functional relevance to the decidualization process. Combined sex steroid treatments recapitulated organizational patterns seen in vivo; however, sex steroid manipulations did not induce expected changes to expression of decidualization-related genes. Our results demonstrate that sex steroids may not be sufficient for complete decidualization and preparation of the feline endometrium, thereby highlighting key areas of opportunity for further study and suggesting some unique functions of felid uterine tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Wilsterman
- Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Xinmiao Bao
- Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Allegra D Estrada
- Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington DC, USA
| | - George E Bentley
- Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA.,Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
97
|
Extracellular vesicles: Mediators of embryo-maternal crosstalk during pregnancy and a new weapon to fight against infertility. Eur J Cell Biol 2020; 99:151125. [PMID: 33059931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2020.151125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In modern-day life, infertility is one of the major issues that can affect an individual, both physically and psychologically. Several anatomical, physiological, and genetic factors might contribute to the infertility of an individual. Intercellular communication between trophectoderm and endometrial epithelium triggers successful embryo implantation and thereby establishes pregnancy. Recent studies demonstrate that Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as one of the crucial components that are involved in embryo-maternal communication and promote pregnancy. Membrane-bound EVs release several secreted factors within the uterine fluid, which mediates an intermolecular transfer of EVs' cargos between blastocysts and endometrium. Emerging evidences indicate that several events like imbalance in the release of endometrial or placenta-derived EVs (exosomes/MVs), uptake of their content, failure of embryo selection might lead to implantation failure. Here in this review, we have discussed the current knowledge of the involvement of EVs in maternal-fetal communications during implantation and also highlighted the EVs' rejuvenating ability to overcome infertility-related issues. We also discussed the alteration of the EVs' cargo in different pathological conditions that lead to infertility. Therefore, this review would give a better understanding of EVs' contribution in successful embryo implantation, which could help in the development of new diagnostic tools and cell-free biologics to improve the in vivo reproductive process and to treat infertility by restoring normal reproductive functions.
Collapse
|
98
|
Aplin JD, Myers JE, Timms K, Westwood M. Tracking placental development in health and disease. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2020; 16:479-494. [PMID: 32601352 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-020-0372-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction arise from disorders of placental development and have some shared mechanistic features. Initiation is often rooted in the maldevelopment of a maternal-placental blood supply capable of providing for the growth requirements of the fetus in later pregnancy, without exerting undue stress on maternal body systems. Here, we review normal development of a placental bed with a safe and adequate blood supply and a villous placenta-blood interface from which nutrients and oxygen can be extracted for the growing fetus. We consider disease mechanisms that are intrinsic to the maternal environment, the placenta or the interaction between the two. Systemic signalling from the endocrine placenta targets the maternal endothelium and multiple organs to adjust metabolism for an optimal pregnancy and later lactation. This signalling capacity is skewed when placental damage occurs and can deliver a dangerous pathogenic stimulus. We discuss the placental secretome including glycoproteins, microRNAs and extracellular vesicles as potential biomarkers of disease. Angiomodulatory mediators, currently the only effective biomarkers, are discussed alongside non-invasive imaging approaches to the prediction of disease risk. Identifying the signs of impending pathology early enough to intervene and ameliorate disease in later pregnancy remains a complex and challenging objective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Group, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK.
| | - Jenny E Myers
- Maternal and Fetal Health Group, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Kate Timms
- Lydia Becker Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Group, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
99
|
Płusa B, Piliszek A. Common principles of early mammalian embryo self-organisation. Development 2020; 147:147/14/dev183079. [PMID: 32699138 DOI: 10.1242/dev.183079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pre-implantation mammalian development unites extreme plasticity with a robust outcome: the formation of a blastocyst, an organised multi-layered structure ready for implantation. The process of blastocyst formation is one of the best-known examples of self-organisation. The first three cell lineages in mammalian development specify and arrange themselves during the morphogenic process based on cell-cell interactions. Despite decades of research, the unifying principles driving early mammalian development are still not fully defined. Here, we discuss the role of physical forces, and molecular and cellular mechanisms, in driving self-organisation and lineage formation that are shared between eutherian mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Berenika Płusa
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health (FBMH), Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Anna Piliszek
- Department of Experimental Embryology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec, Postepu 36A, 05-552 Magdalenka, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
100
|
Kakar-Bhanot R, Brahmbhatt K, Chauhan B, Katkam RR, Bashir T, Gawde H, Mayadeo N, Chaudhari UK, Sachdeva G. Rab11a drives adhesion molecules to the surface of endometrial epithelial cells. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:519-529. [PMID: 30597006 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is Rab11a GTPase, a regulator of intracellular trafficking, of significance in endometrial functions? SUMMARY ANSWER Rab11a is an important component of the cascades involved in equipping the endometrial epithelium (EE) with 'adhesiveness' and 'cohesiveness'. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) have been investigated extensively for modulation in their endometrial expression during the peri-implantation phase. However, the mechanisms by which CAMs are transported to the EE surface have not received the same attention. Rab11a facilitates transport of specific proteins to the plasma membrane in endothelial cells, fibroblasts, embryonic ectodermal cells, etc. However, its role in the transport of CAMs in EE remains unexplored. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In-vitro investigations were directed towards deciphering the role of Rab11a in trafficking of CAMs (integrins and E-cadherin) to the cell surface of Ishikawa, an EE cell line. Towards this, Rab11a stable knockdown (Rab-kd) and control clones of Ishikawa were generated. JAr (human trophoblastic cell line) cells were used to form multicellular spheroids. Pre-receptive (n = 6) and receptive (n = 6) phase endometrial tissues from women with proven fertility and receptive phase (n = 6) endometrial tissues from women with unexplained infertility were used. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Rab-kd and control clones were used for in-vitro assays. Live cells were used for biotinylation, JAr spheroid assays, flow cytometry, trans-epithelial electrical resistance assays and wound-healing assays. Lysosome and Golgi membranes were isolated by ultracentrifugation. Confocal microscopy, immunoblotting, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry were employed for assessing the expression of Rab11a, integrins and E-cadherin. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE shRNA-mediated attenuation of Rab11a expression led to a significant (P < 0.01) decline in the surface localization of αVβ3 integrin. Cell surface protein extracts of Rab-kd clones showed a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the levels of αV integrin. Further, a significant (P < 0.01) decrease was observed in the percent JAr spheroids attached to Rab-kd clones, compared to control clones. Rab-kd clones also showed a significant (P < 0.001) decline in the total levels of E-cadherin. This was caused neither by reduced transcription nor by increased lysosomal degradation. The role of Rab11a in maintaining the epithelial nature of the cells was evident by a significant increase in the migratory potential, presence of stress-fibres and a decrease in the trans-epithelial resistance in Rab-kd monolayers. Further, the levels of endometrial Rab11a and E-cadherin in the receptive phase were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) lower in women with unexplained infertility compared to that in fertile women. Taken together, these observations hint at a key role of Rab11a in the trafficking of αVβ3 integrin and maintenance of E-cadherin levels at the surface of EE cells. LARGE-SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The in-vitro setting of the study is a limitation. Further immunohistochemical localizations of Rab11a and CAMs were conducted on a limited number of human endometrial samples. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Rab11a-mediated trafficking of endometrial CAMs in EE cells can be explored further for its potential as a target for fertility regulation or infertility management. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India. No competing interests are declared.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Kakar-Bhanot
- Primate Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| | - Krupanshi Brahmbhatt
- Primate Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| | - Bhagyashree Chauhan
- Primate Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| | - R R Katkam
- Primate Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| | - T Bashir
- Molecular Immunology and Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-NIRRH, Mumbai, India
| | - H Gawde
- Genetic Research Centre, ICMR-NIRRH, Mumbai, India
| | - N Mayadeo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Seth G.S. Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - U K Chaudhari
- Primate Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| | - Geetanjali Sachdeva
- Primate Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR-NIRRH), Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|