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Farahbod F, Talebi-Boroujeni P, Sherwin CMT, Heidari-Soureshjani S. Effectiveness of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors on the treatment of thin endometrium and pregnancy outcomes: An systematic review. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/22840265221094405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are thought to play a role in increasing endometrial thickness and increasing the success rate of pregnancy outcomes. This study was done to investigate the effects of PDE5 inhibitors on infertile women with thin endometrium and pregnancy outcomes. In this systematic review, all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies were retrieved from databases including Institute for Scientific Information (ISI), PubMed, and Scopus by interesting keywords. A checklist was designed to collect necessary data and pregnancy outcomes, and the required items were recorded. PDE5 inhibitors through various mechanisms such as induction of vasodilatory effect through the effect on NO/cGMP signaling on vascular smooth muscle, through regulating cells proliferation and induction angiogenesis by increasing the expression of tumor suppressor factor (p53), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and downregulating inflammation by downregulating proinflammatory cytokines, affect endometrial thickness that eventually increases and pregnancy outcomes. Although PDE5s inhibitors increase endometrial thickness by different mechanisms, especially in women with thin endometrial, this does not necessarily mean that they induce a positive effect in all situations. However, their positive effects on pregnancy outcome may be affected by the time of administration, type of infertility treatment, underlying diseases such as pelvic disorders and inflammation. So in this regard, there are still ambiguous aspects that required further RCTs study in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Catherine MT Sherwin
- Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton Children’s Hospital, One Children’s Plaza, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Saeid Heidari-Soureshjani
- Department of Research and Technology, Modeling in Health Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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Hustvedt S. Umbilical phantoms. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOANALYSIS 2022; 103:368-380. [PMID: 35440273 DOI: 10.1080/00207578.2021.2014118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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53
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Black Elder and Its Constituents: Molecular Mechanisms of Action Associated with Female Reproduction. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020239. [PMID: 35215351 PMCID: PMC8877800 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review summarizes the current knowledge concerning provenance, properties, physiological and therapeutic actions of elderberry and the bioactive molecules present in the plant, with emphasis on their action on female reproduction. Elderberry or black elder (Sambucus nigra L.) attracts attention due to its easy cultivation and high availability of bioactive compounds. Most of the available data concerning black elder’s therapeutic action are focused on its effects such as activation of immune processes and anti-inflammatory processes (cytokine production, etc.) and regulation of hormones and their receptors in cancer cells. The effects of elderberry on reproduction have been poorly investigated so far. Nevertheless, conducted studies so far demonstrate the stimulatory influence of black elder extract and its constituents, such as rutin, anthocyanins and agglutinins, on the viability and steroidogenesis of healthy ovarian cells as well as their ability to promote apoptosis and reduce the viability and proliferation of ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, the action of black elder extract and its constituent biomolecules, such as anthocyanins and lectins, on embryogenesis and the embryonal estradiol-estradiol receptor system have also been reported. The available information, despite limitations, suggest the applicability of black elder constituents for improvement of reproductive processes in animal biotechnology, animal production and assisted reproduction, as well as for prevention and treatment of reproductive disorders (including cancer) in veterinary and human medicine.
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Pantos K, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Pistola K, Xystra P, Pantou A, Kokkali G, Pappas A, Lambropoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Interleukins in Recurrent Implantation Failure: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2198. [PMID: 35216313 PMCID: PMC8875813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a multifactorial condition affecting 10-15% of in vitro fertilization (IVF) couples. Data suggest that functional dysregulation of the endometrial immune system constitutes one of the main pathophysiological mechanisms leading to RIF. The aim of this article is to provide a thorough presentation and evaluation of the role of interleukins (ILs) in the pathogenesis of RIF. A comprehensive literature screening was performed summarizing current evidence. During implantation, several classes of ILs are secreted by epithelial and stromal endometrial cells, including IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-15, IL-18, and the leukemia inhibitory factor. These ILs create a perplexing network that orchestrates both proliferation and maturation of uterine natural killer cells, controls the function of regulatory T and B cells inhibiting the secretion of antifetal antibodies, and supports trophoblast invasion and decidua formation. The existing data indicate associations between ILs and RIF. The extensive analysis performed herein concludes that the dysregulation of the ILs network indeed jeopardizes implantation leading to RIF. This review further proposes a mapping of future research on how to move forward from mere associations to robust molecular data that will allow an accurate profiling of ILs in turn enabling evidence-based consultancy and decision making when addressing RIF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Kalliopi Pistola
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Georgia Kokkali
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
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Zhao Z, Chen L, Cao M, Chen T, Huang Y, Wang N, Zhang B, Li F, Chen K, Yuan C, Li C, Zhou X. Comparison of lncRNA Expression in the Uterus between Periods of Embryo Implantation and Labor in Mice. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030399. [PMID: 35158722 PMCID: PMC8833358 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Progesterone has been proven to play an important role in female mammals during pregnancy. In this study, the uteri of pregnant mice were collected to compare mRNA and lncRNA expression between periods of embryo implantation and labor. The results show that 19 known differentially expressed lncRNAs and 31 novel differentially lncRNAs were commonly expressed between the two stages, indicating that these lncRNAs’ function is related to progesterone. Abstract Uterine function during pregnancy is regulated mainly by progesterone (P4) and estrogen (E2). Serum P4 levels are known to fluctuate significantly over the course of pregnancy, especially during embryo implantation and labor. In this study, pregnant mice at E0.5, E4.5, E15.5, and E18.5 (n = 3/E) were used for an RNA-Seq-based analysis of mRNA and lncRNA expression. In this analysis, 1971 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs, 493 known DE lncRNAs, and 1041 novel DE lncRNAs were found between E0.5 and E4.5 at the embryo implantation stage, while 1149 DE mRNAs, 192 known DE lncRNAs, and 218 novel DE lncRNAs were found between E15.5 and E18.5 at the labor stage. The expression level of lncRNA-MMP11 was significantly downregulated by P4 treatment on MSM cells, while lncRNA-ANKRD37 was significantly upregulated. Notably, 117 DE mRNAs, 19 known DE lncRNAs, and 31 novel DE lncRNAs were commonly expressed between the two stages, indicating that these mRNAs and lncRNAs may be directly or indirectly regulated by P4.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xu Zhou
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (X.Z.)
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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.
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Talukdar KR, Saikia P, Sarma HN. Kruppel-like factor 5 (Klf5) in fetal-maternal tissue during periimplantation and effects of ovarian steroid hormone antagonist on its expression during uterine receptivity of albino mice. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-021-00092-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Embryo implantation is a tightly regulated sequence of events regulated by ovarian steroids, estrogen and progesterone, and their downstream targets. Ovarian steroids regulate most of the genes involved in embryo implantation and pregnancy. However, some factors are not regulated by ovarian steroids, estrogen, progesterone, or both. Kruppel-like factor 5 (Klf5) is an example of an ovarian steroid–independent factor having a role in cellular proliferation, differentiation. The detailed expression profile of Klf5 during uterine receptivity and periimplantation has not been studied till now. In the present research work, an attempt was made to investigate the expression pattern of Klf5 in mice fetal-maternal tissue during periimplantation (day 4–day 8). The expressional and functional independence of Klf5 on the ovarian steroids was studied using estrogen and progesterone antagonist. The study was carried out in female Swiss albino mice of LACA strain during the periimplantation period. KLF5 was localized in the fetal-maternal tissues using the immunofluorescence technique in paraffin-embedded tissues. Ovarian steroid antagonists were administered subcutaneously from day 1 to day 3 of gestation, and the uterus was collected on the morning of day 4. Klf5 protein and mRNA levels were studied by western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), respectively.
Results
KLF5 was localized in the embryo, uterine luminal epithelium, glandular epithelium, and proliferating stromal cells during periimplantation. In ovarian steroid antagonist–treated groups, KLF5 was localized in the luminal and glandular epithelium and stroma. Western blot and qPCR confirmed translation and transcription of KLF5 during the experimental period. The KLF5 protein level significantly increased on day 6, day 7, and day 8 when compared with day 4 (P < 0.05). The mRNA level of Klf5 increased significantly on day 7 and day 8 when compared with day 4 (P < 0.05). In ovarian steroid antagonist–treated groups, protein and mRNA corresponding to Klf5 were observed. From this finding, it can be assumed that Klf5 may be a steroid-independent factor expressed during uterine receptivity.
Conclusion
Spatiotemporal KLF5 expression in fetal-maternal tissue was observed during the experimental period. The results suggest that Klf5 is an ovarian steroid–independent factor that may play a pivotal role in implantation, decidualization, and embryogenesis.
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58
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Wang DH, Wu XM, Chen JS, Cai ZG, An JH, Zhang MY, Li Y, Li FP, Hou R, Liu YL. Isolation and characterization mesenchymal stem cells from red panda ( Ailurus fulgens styani) endometrium. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 10:coac004. [PMID: 35211318 PMCID: PMC8862722 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) are undifferentiated endometrial cells with self-renewal, multidirectional differentiation and high proliferation potential. Nowadays, eMSCs have been found in a few species, but it has never been reported in endangered wild animals, especially the red panda. In this study, we successfully isolated and characterized the eMSCs derived from red panda. Red panda eMSCs were fibroblast-like, had a strong proliferative potential and a stable chromosome number. Pluripotency genes including Klf4, Sox2 and Thy1 were highly expressed in eMSCs. Besides, cultured eMSCs were positive for MSC markers CD44, CD49f and CD105 and negative for endothelial cell marker CD31 and haematopoietic cell marker CD34. Moreover, no reference RNA-seq was used to analyse the eMSCs transcriptional expression profile and key pathways. Compared with skin fibroblast cell group, 9104 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, among which are 5034 genes upregulated, 4070 genes downregulated and the top 20 enrichment pathways of DEGs in Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes Genomes (KEGG) mainly associated with G-protein coupled receptor signalling pathway, carbohydrate derivative binding, nucleoside binding, ribosome biogenesis, cell cycle, DNA replication, Ras signalling pathway and purine metabolism. Among the DEGs, some representative genes about promoting MSCs differentiation and proliferation were upregulated and promoting fibroblasts proliferation were downregulated in eMSCs group. Red panda eMSCs also had multiple differentiation ability and could differentiate into adipocytes, chondrocytes and hepatocytes. In conclusion, we, for the first time, isolated and characterized the red panda eMSCs with ability of multiplication and multilineage differentiation in vitro. The new multipotential stem cell could be beneficial not only for the germ plasm resources conservation of red panda, but also for basic or pre-clinical studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Hui Wang
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xue-Mei Wu
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jia-Song Chen
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Cai
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jun-Hui An
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ming-Yue Zhang
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Fei-Ping Li
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Rong Hou
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yu-Liang Liu
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
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59
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The novel incorporation of aromatase inhibitor in hormonal replacement therapy cycles: A randomized clinical trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:641-649. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Fan Q, Chen F, Zhang W, Du E, Zhao N, Huang S, Guo W, Yan X, Chen M, Wei J. Maternal magnolol supplementation alters placental morphology, promotes placental angiogenesis during mid-gestation and improves offspring growth in a pregnant mouse model. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100567. [PMID: 34653815 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100567] [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: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is the organ that determines the growth of the fetus and the outcome of pregnancy. Magnolol is a multifunctional polyphenol with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and neuroprotective functions. However, there is less knowledge of the effects or complications in the placenta and the mechanism underlying the effect of magnolol when used during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of maternal magnolol supplementation on pregnancy outcomes and placental alterations in a pregnant mouse model. A total of 128 pregnant mice were randomly divided into 4 groups supplemented with 0, 40, 80 and 160 μM magnolol from gestational day 0 (GD0) to delivery. Our results revealed that the number of large-for-gestation-age fetuses on GD13 and the weaning weight of offspring were increased in the magnolol treatment groups. Moreover, maternal magnolol supplementation increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) in maternal serum, and promoted the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the placenta. Furthermore, magnolol significantly increased the area of the junctional zone and decidua in the placentas and increased the expression of interferon-γ (INF-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), chemokine (CC Motif) Ligand 3 (CCL3), chemokine (CXC motif) ligand 10 (CXCL10), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and T-box transcription factor 21 (T-bet) in the placenta during GD13 in pregnant mice, while suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) was reduced. Moreover, the ratio of blood space in the labyrinth area, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were all increased in the magnolol treatment groups on GD13. Taken together, these results indicate that magnolol can improve the growth of offspring, which might be due to the alteration of placental morphology and the promotion of placental angiogenesis during mid-gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwen Fan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China
| | - Encun Du
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China
| | - Na Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China
| | - Shaowen Huang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China
| | - Wanzheng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China
| | - Xianghua Yan
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Mingxin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China.
| | - Jintao Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control Agents for Animal Bacteriosis (Ministry of Agriculture), Wuhan, 430064, Hubei, China.
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Manzan-Martins C, Paulesu L. Impact of bisphenol A (BPA) on cells and tissues at the human materno-fetal interface. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101662. [PMID: 34628212 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor extensively used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins and a component of liquid and food containers. It is a hazard in the prenatal period because of its presence in the placenta, fetal membranes, amniotic fluid, maternal and fetal blood and its ability to cross the placenta and reach the fetus. Estimation of the risk of BPA exposure during in utero life is extremely important in order to prevent complications of pregnancy and fetal growth. This review describes in vitro models of the human materno-fetal interface. It also outlines the effects of BPA at doses indicated as "physiological", namely at the concentrations found in the general population, and at "supraphysiological" and "subphysiological" doses, i.e. above and below the physiological range. This work will help clarify the discrepancies observed in studies on the effects of BPA on human reproduction and pregnancy, and it will be useful for the choice of appropriate in vitro models for future studies aimed at identifying the potential impact of BPA on specific functional processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - L Paulesu
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
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62
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Lee I, Ahn SH, Kim HI, Baek HW, Park YJ, Kim H, Aljassim AI, Shin W, Ryu C, Yoon J, Lee JH, Yun BH, Seo SK, Park JH, Choi YS, Cho S, Lee BS. Cytokines in culture media of preimplantation embryos during in vitro fertilization: Impact on embryo quality. Cytokine 2021; 148:155714. [PMID: 34600304 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2021.155714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Cytokine support of embryonic development includes promotion of implantation and protection of blastomeres from cell stress and apoptosis. Correlations between embryo quality and concentrations of specific cytokines in culture media of human embryos have been investigated for many years. The aim of this study was to assess the concentrations of cytokines in preimplantation embryo culture media and to investigate their relationships with embryo quality and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. Seventy-two samples were obtained from 39 infertile couples undergoing IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment between October 2018 and May 2019. Each embryo was cultured separately, and the embryo culture medium was collected 72 h after fertilization. Before embryo transfer on day 3, a morphological evaluation of each embryo was performed. Cytokine concentrations of each culture medium were analyzed for 23 selected cytokines using the Multiplex Cytokine/Chemokine Panel II Assay (Merck Millipore®). The results were categorized into two groups (top-quality and non-top-quality embryos). The median age of the 39 patients was 34 years. Nine of 23 cytokines were quantified and compared between the top-quality embryo group and non-top-quality embryo group. Among the nine cytokines, CCL15, CCL27, and CXCL-12 were significantly elevated in the top-quality embryo group. These results suggested that specific cytokines measured in human embryo culture media can be used to predict embryo quality and IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inha Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - So Hyun Ahn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - Hye In Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - Hye Won Baek
- Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 211 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06273, South Korea
| | - Yun Jeong Park
- Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 211 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06273, South Korea
| | - Heeyon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - Aminah Ibrahim Aljassim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal General Hospital, Alahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Whan Shin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dankook University Hospital, Dankook University, 201 Manghyang-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan, Chung Nam 31116, South Korea
| | - Chungsoon Ryu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - Jeongmi Yoon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Lee
- Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 211 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06273, South Korea
| | - Bo Hyon Yun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - Seok Kyo Seo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
| | - Joo Hyun Park
- Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 363 Dongbaekjukjeon-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 16995, South Korea
| | - Young Sik Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea.
| | - SiHyun Cho
- Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 211 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06273, South Korea
| | - Byung Seok Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
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Circulating EGFL7 distinguishes between IUGR and PE: an observational case-control study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17919. [PMID: 34504270 PMCID: PMC8429426 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97482-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Isolated intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and preeclampsia (PE) share common placental pathogenesis. Differently from IUGR, PE is a systemic disorder which may also affect liver and brain. Early diagnosis of these conditions may optimize maternal and fetal management. Aim of this study was to assess whether Epidermal Growth Factor-Like domain 7 (EGFL7) dosage in maternal blood discriminates between isolated IUGR and PE. A total of 116 women were enrolled in this case–control study: 12 non-pregnant women, 34 healthy pregnant women, 34 women presenting with isolated IUGR and 36 presenting with PE. Levels of circulating EGFL7 and other known pro- and anti-angiogenic factors were measured by ELISA at different gestational ages (GA). Between 22–25 weeks of gestation, EGFL7 levels in early-onset PE (e-PE) plasma samples were significantly higher than those measured in controls or isolated IUGR samples (69.86 ± 6.17 vs. 19.8 ± 2.5 or 18.8 ± 2.8 µg/ml, respectively). Between 26–34 weeks, EGFL7 levels remained significantly higher in e-PE compared to IUGR. At term, circulating and placental EGFL7 levels were comparable between IUGR and late-onset PE (l-PE). In contrast, circulating levels of PlGF were decreased in both IUGR- and PE- complicated pregnancies, while levels of both sFLT-1 and sENDOGLIN were increased in both conditions. In conclusion, EGFL7 significantly discriminates between isolated IUGR and PE.
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Zhao Y, He D, Zeng H, Luo J, Yang S, Chen J, Abdullah RK, Liu N. Expression and significance of miR-30d-5p and SOCS1 in patients with recurrent implantation failure during implantation window. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:138. [PMID: 34496883 PMCID: PMC8425163 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00820-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor endometrial receptivity is a major factor that leads to recurrent implantation failure. However, the traditional method cannot accurately evaluate endometrial receptivity. Various studies have indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in multiple processes of embryo implantation, but the role of miRNAs in endometrial receptivity in patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) remains elusive. In the present study, we investigated the presence of pinopodes and the roles of miR-30d-5p, suppressor of cytokine signalling 1 (SOCS1) and the leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) pathway in women with a history of RIF during the implantation window. METHODS Endometrial tissue samples were collected between January 2018 to June 2019 from two groups of women who underwent in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) or frozen ET. The RIF group included 20 women who underwent ≥ 3 ETs, including a total of ≥ 4 good-quality embryos, without pregnancy, whereas the control group included 10 women who had given birth at least once in the past year. An endometrial biopsy was performed during the implantation window (LH + 7). The development of pinopodes in the endometrial biopsy samples from all groups was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were used to investigate the expression levels of miR-30d-5p, SOCS1, and the LIF pathway. RESULTS The presence of developed pinopodes decreased in patients with RIF on LH + 7. The expression level of miR-30d-5p decreased in the endometria during the implantation window of patients with RIF, whereas the mRNA and protein levels of SOCS1 were significantly higher in the RIF group than in the control group. Furthermore, a negative correlation was observed between the expression of miR-30d-5p and SOCS1 (r2 = 0.8362). In addition, a significant decrease in LIF and p-STAT3 expression was observed during the implantation window in patients with RIF. CONCLUSIONS MiR-30d-5p and SOCS1 may be potential biomarkers for endometrial receptivity. Changes in pinopode development and abnormal expression of miR-30d-5p, SOCS1 and LIF pathway in the endometrium could be the reasons for implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhao Zhao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Dongmei He
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Zeng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Jiefeng Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Shuang Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Jingjing Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Raed K Abdullah
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Nenghui Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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Bai X, Zheng L, Li D, Xu Y. Research progress of endometrial receptivity in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:122. [PMID: 34362377 PMCID: PMC8344130 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00802-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a neuroendocrine heterogeneous disease that frequently occurs in women of reproductive age, causing serious damage to the fertility, quality of life, and physical and mental health of patients. The current studies have proved that satisfactory endometrial receptivity is one of the conditions that must be met during the process of spermatovum position, adhesion and invasion, as well as the subsequent blastocyst division and embryo development. Women with PCOS may suffer a series of pathological processes such as changes in the expression levels of hormones and related receptors, imbalances in the proportion of miscellaneous cytokines, insulin resistance, low-grade chronic inflammation and endometrial morphological changes, which will damage endometrial receptivity from various aspects and obstruct fertilized egg nidation and embryonic development, thus causing adverse reproductive health events including infertility and abortion. This article reviews the research progress about characteristics and related influencing factors of endometrial receptivity in PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuechun Bai
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin Province Changchun City, China
| | - Lianwen Zheng
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin Province Changchun City, China
| | - Dandan Li
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin Province Changchun City, China
| | - Ying Xu
- The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin Province Changchun City, China
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Godakumara K, Ord J, Lättekivi F, Dissanayake K, Viil J, Boggavarapu NR, Faridani OR, Jääger K, Velthut-Meikas A, Jaakma Ü, Salumets A, Fazeli A. Trophoblast derived extracellular vesicles specifically alter the transcriptome of endometrial cells and may constitute a critical component of embryo-maternal communication. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:115. [PMID: 34289864 PMCID: PMC8293585 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00801-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The period of time when the embryo and the endometrium undergo significant morphological alterations to facilitate a successful implantation-known as "window of implantation"-is a critical moment in human reproduction. Embryo and the endometrium communicate extensively during this period, and lipid bilayer bound nanoscale extracellular vesicles (EVs) are purported to be integral to this communication. METHODS To investigate the nature of the EV-mediated embryo-maternal communication, we have supplemented trophoblast analogue spheroid (JAr) derived EVs to an endometrial analogue (RL 95-2) cell layer and characterized the transcriptomic alterations using RNA sequencing. EVs derived from non-trophoblast cells (HEK293) were used as a negative control. The cargo of the EVs were also investigated through mRNA and miRNA sequencing. RESULTS Trophoblast spheroid derived EVs induced drastic transcriptomic alterations in the endometrial cells while the non-trophoblast cell derived EVs failed to induce such changes demonstrating functional specificity in terms of EV origin. Through gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), we found that the response in endometrial cells was focused on extracellular matrix remodelling and G protein-coupled receptors' signalling, both of which are of known functional relevance to endometrial receptivity. Approximately 9% of genes downregulated in endometrial cells were high-confidence predicted targets of miRNAs detected exclusively in trophoblast analogue-derived EVs, suggesting that only a small proportion of reduced expression in endometrial cells can be attributed directly to gene silencing by miRNAs carried as cargo in the EVs. CONCLUSION Our study reveals that trophoblast derived EVs have the ability to modify the endometrial gene expression, potentially with functional importance for embryo-maternal communication during implantation, although the exact underlying signalling mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasun Godakumara
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - James Ord
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Freddy Lättekivi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Janeli Viil
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Nageswara Rao Boggavarapu
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Omid R Faridani
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Lowy Cancer Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kersti Jääger
- Competence Centre On Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Agne Velthut-Meikas
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Science, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ülle Jaakma
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre On Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Ticconi C, Di Simone N, Campagnolo L, Fazleabas A. Clinical consequences of defective decidualization. Tissue Cell 2021; 72:101586. [PMID: 34217128 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is characterized by a series of genetic, metabolic, morphological, biochemical, vascular and immune changes occurring in the endometrial stroma in response to the implanting embryo or even before conception and involves the stromal cells of the endometrium. It is a fundamental reproductive event occurring in mammalian species with hemochorial placentation. A growing body of experimental and clinical evidence strongly suggests that defective or disrupted decidualization contributes to the establishment of an inappropriate maternal-fetal interface. This has relevant clinical consequences, ranging from recurrent implantation failure and recurrent pregnancy loss in early pregnancy to several significant complications of advanced gestation. Moreover, recent evidence indicates that selected diseases of the endometrium, such as chronic endometritis and endometriosis, can have a detrimental impact on the decidualization response in the endometrium and may help explain some aspects of the reduced reproductive outcome associated with these conditions. Further research efforts are needed to fully understand the biomolecular mechanisms ans events underlying an abnormal decidualization response. This will permit the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies aimed to improve the likelihood of achieveing a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Ticconi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Nicoletta Di Simone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20072, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; IRCCS, Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Asgerally Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
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Molecular Characterisation of Uterine Endometrial Proteins during Early Stages of Pregnancy in Pigs by MALDI TOF/TOF. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136720. [PMID: 34201586 PMCID: PMC8267828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanism underlying embryonic implantation is vital to understand the correct communications between endometrium and developing conceptus during early stages of pregnancy. This study’s objective was to determine molecular changes in the uterine endometrial proteome during the preimplantation and peri-implantation between 9 days (9D), 12 days (12D), and 16 days (16D) of pregnant Polish Large White (PLW) gilts. 2DE-MALDI-TOF/TOF and ClueGOTM approaches were employed to analyse the biological networks and molecular changes in porcine endometrial proteome during maternal recognition of pregnancy. A total of sixteen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified using 2-DE gels and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. Comparison between 9D and 12D of pregnancy identified APOA1, CAPZB, LDHB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB, TTR upregulated DEPs, and ANXA5, SMS downregulated DEPs. Comparison between 9D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, APOA1, ACTB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB upregulated DEPs and ANXA5, SMS, LDHB, ACTR3, HP, ENO3, OAT downregulated DEPs. However, a comparison between 12D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, ACTB upregulated DEPs, and CRYM, ANXA4, ANXA5, CAPZB, LDHB, ACTR3, CCT5, ENO3, OAT, TTR down-regulated DEPs. Outcomes of this study revealed key proteins and their interactions with metabolic pathways involved in the recognition and establishment of early pregnancy in PLW gilts.
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The flip side of the coin: is the endometrium ready for IVM-derived embryo implantation? J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1289-1291. [PMID: 34152512 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02239-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Wang D, Li W, Yang C, Chen X, Liu X, He J, Tong C, Peng C, Ding Y, Geng Y, Cao X, Li F, Gao R, Wang Y. Exposure to ethylparaben and propylparaben interfere with embryo implantation by compromising endometrial decidualization in early pregnant mice. J Appl Toxicol 2021; 41:1732-1746. [PMID: 34101200 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4208] [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: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Ethylparaben (EtP) and propylparaben (PrP) are common preservatives and well-known endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Studies have demonstrated that they can reduce female fertility, but the underlying mechanism, especially that on embryo implantation, is still poorly understood. Endometrial decidualization is a critical event for embryo implantation. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of EtP/PrP on endometrial decidualization. Pregnant mice were dosed daily by oral gavage with EtP at 0, 400, 800 and 1600 mg/kg or with PrP at 0, 625, 1250 and 2500 mg/kg from Day 1 of pregnancy until sacrifice. The results showed that the rate of pregnant mice with impaired embryo implantation, whose number of implantation sites was less than 7, was significantly increased after exposure to 1600 mg/kg EtP or 2500 mg/kg PrP. Further study found that the expression of endometrial decidualization markers HOXA10, MMP9 and PR was significantly downregulated in 1600 mg/kg EtP group and 2500 mg/kg PrP group. Notably, serum oestrogen and progesterone levels were significantly increased, whereas the expression of uterine oestrogen receptor and progesterone receptor was decreased following 1600 mg/kg EtP or 2500 mg/kg PrP exposure. In the breeding test, fewer offspring were found after females were exposed to 1600 mg/kg EtP or 2500 mg/kg PrP in early pregnancy. This demonstrated that exposure to EtP/PrP interfered with embryo implantation by compromising endometrial decidualization in early-stage pregnant mice. Disorders of reproductive hormones and hormone receptor signals could be responsible for impaired decidualization. This study broadened the understanding on the biological safety of EtP and PrP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weike Li
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chengshun Yang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xueqing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junlin He
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chao Tong
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan Peng
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yubin Ding
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanqing Geng
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xianqing Cao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rufei Gao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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71
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Kim W, Choi J, Yoon H, Lee J, Jun JH. Detrimental effects of lipopolysaccharide on the attachment and outgrowth of various trophoblastic spheroids on human endometrial epithelial cells. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:132-141. [PMID: 34078006 PMCID: PMC8176151 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2021.04448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Gram-negative bacteria causes poor uterine receptivity by inducing excessive inflammation at the maternal-fetal interface. This study aimed to investigate the detrimental effects of LPS on the attachment and outgrowth of various types of trophoblastic spheroids on endometrial epithelial cells (ECC-1 cells) in an in vitro model of implantation. METHODS Three types of spheroids with JAr, JEG-3, and JAr mixed JEG-3 (JmJ) cells were used to evaluate the effect of LPS on early implantation events. ECC-1 cells were treated with LPS to mimic endometrial infection, and the expression of inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules was analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The attachment rates and outgrowth areas were evaluated in the various trophoblastic spheroids and ECC-1 cells treated with LPS. RESULTS LPS treatment significantly increased the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines (CXCL1, IL-8, and IL-33) and decreased the protein expression of adhesion molecules (ITGβ3 and ITGβ5) in ECC-1 cells. The attachment rates of JAr and JmJ spheroids on ECC-1 cells significantly decreased after treating the ECC-1 cells with 1 and 10 μg/mL LPS. In the outgrowth assay, JAr spheroids did not show any outgrowth areas. However, the outgrowth areas of JEG-3 spheroids were similar regardless of LPS treatment. LPS treatment of JmJ spheroids significantly decreased the outgrowth area after 72 hours of coincubation. CONCLUSION An in vitro implantation model using novel JmJ spheroids was established, and the inhibitory effects of LPS on ECC-1 endometrial epithelial cells were confirmed in the early implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wontae Kim
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Graduate School, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jungwon Choi
- Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Hyejin Yoon
- Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jaewang Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Graduate School, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jin Hyun Jun
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Graduate School, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea.,Department of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Eulji University, Seongnam, Korea
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72
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Lapshtaeva AV, Sychev IV, Goncharova LN. Laboratory predictors of pregnancy in vitro fertilization. Klin Lab Diagn 2021; 66:291-296. [PMID: 34047515 DOI: 10.51620/0869-2084-2021-66-5-291-296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Identification of factors determining both of favorable and unfavorable outcome of IVF will increase the effectiveness of this method and optimize infertility treatment. The aim of the research is to analyze the correlation between serum IL-1α concentration, its gene rs1800587 (C/T) genotype carrier and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4)), and evaluate the prognostic significance of their combinations in women with tube-peritoneal infertility under the IVF program. 120 patients with tube-peritoneal infertility who applied for an IVF program were examined. Depending on the outcome of the procedure, 2 groups of patients were allocated: 1 group - 40 women who had a pregnancy after IVF, 2 group - 80 patients who did not have a pregnancy. The content of IL-1α, TSH, T3, T4 was determined in blood by ELISA. Genotyping was performed on the rs1800587 (C/T) polymorphic marker of the IL-1α gene. TSH, T3, T4 were within the norm for both groups. In our study, women with a TSH concentration of 0.23 to 1.7 nmol/L had a chance of a favorable IVF outcome 1.4 times higher than with other TSH levels (p = 0.042901); with a T3 level of 1.0 to 1.8 nmol/L had a chance of becoming pregnant 5.7 times higher than with other levels of T3 (p = 0.00002). For T4 concentration, the confidence test was not achieved (p = 0.068505). The individual indicators of IL-1α, TSH, T3 and carrier of the genotype of the gene IL-1α at the preconceptive stage have lower diagnostic value than their combined combination. Three combinations have maximum predictive value: a combination of the T/T genotype of the IL-1α gene and the TSH level of 0.23 to 1.7 nmol/l - OR = 8.1 (p = 0.000048); combination of IL-1α of 28.7 to 85.1 pg/ml, T/T gene genotype IL-1α and TSH level of 0.23 to 1.7 nmol/l - OR = 8.1 (p = 0.000048); combination of IL-1α of 28.7 to 85.1 pg/ml, T/T gene genotype IL-1α, TSH level of 0.23 to 1.7 nmol/l and T3 level of 1.0 to 1.8 nmol/l - OR = 8.1 (p = 0.000146). Thus, proposed new prognostic markers of IVF program effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Lapshtaeva
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University»
| | - I V Sychev
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University»
| | - L N Goncharova
- Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University»
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73
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Positive Impact of Levothyroxine Treatment on Pregnancy Outcome in Euthyroid Women with Thyroid Autoimmunity Affected by Recurrent Miscarriage. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10102105. [PMID: 34068288 PMCID: PMC8153344 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10102105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Impaired thyroid hormone availability during early pregnancy is associated with recurrent miscarriage (RM) and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The main cause of thyroid dysfunction is thyroid-related autoimmunity (TAI), characterized by a significantly higher serum level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) compared to that of women without thyroid autoimmunity. TAI is associated with a significantly increased risk of miscarriage, and the incidence of TAI in women experiencing RM is higher compared to normal fertile women. In the present study, we have performed a retrospective analysis comparing the ability to conceive, the number of miscarriages and full-term pregnancies between 227 euthyroid women with autoimmune thyroid disease affected by RM and treated with levothyroxine (LT4) as adjuvant therapy, and a control group of 230 untreated women. We have observed a significant improvement of full-term pregnancies in treated women (59%) compared to untreated women (13%, p < 0.0001). Compared to the control group, treated women had a lower percentage of miscarriages (12% vs. 30%) and improved capacity to conceive (57% vs. 29%). Using age as a variable, the outcome in women younger than 35 years was not influenced by the LT4 therapy. Whereas, in women over 35 years, supplementation with LT4 significantly reduced the miscarriage rate (p < 0.05). We can conclude that a transient impairment of TH availability, not easily detectable before pregnancy, could be an important cause of RM in a subset of euthyroid women with autoimmune thyroid disease. This transient impairment may be reverted using adjuvant treatment with low doses of LT4.
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74
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Nikolakopoulou K, Turco MY. Investigation of infertility using endometrial organoids. Reproduction 2021; 161:R113-R127. [PMID: 33621191 PMCID: PMC8052517 DOI: 10.1530/rep-20-0428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a common problem in modern societies with significant socio-psychological implications for women. Therapeutic interventions are often needed which, depending on the cause, can either be medical treatment, surgical procedures or assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, the treatment of infertility is not always successful due to our limited understanding of the preparation of the lining of the uterus, the endometrium, for pregnancy. The endometrium is of central importance for successful reproduction as it is the site of placental implantation providing the interface between the mother and her baby. Due to the dynamic, structural and functional changes the endometrium undergoes throughout the menstrual cycle, it is challenging to study. A major advancement is the establishment of 3D organoid models of the human endometrium to study this dynamic tissue in health and disease. In this review, we describe the changes that the human endometrium undergoes through the different phases of the menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy. We discuss defects in the processes of endometrial repair, decidualization and acquisition of receptivity that are associated with infertility. Organoids could be utilized to investigate the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring in non-pregnant endometrium and early pregnancy. These studies may lead to therapeutic applications that could transform the treatment of reproductive failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Nikolakopoulou
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Margherita Y Turco
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
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75
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Li Q, Guo S, Yang C, Liu X, Chen X, He J, Tong C, Ding Y, Peng C, Geng Y, Mu X, Liu T, Li F, Wang Y, Gao R. High-fat diet-induced obesity primes fatty acid β-oxidation impairment and consequent ovarian dysfunction during early pregnancy. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:887. [PMID: 34164521 PMCID: PMC8184480 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-2027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Obesity is associated with many adverse effects on female fertility. Obese women have a higher likelihood of developing ovulatory dysfunction due to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. However, the effect of obesity on ovarian function during early pregnancy needs to be further assessed. Methods C57BL6/J mice were given a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks to induce obesity. An in vitro high-fat model was established by treating the human ovarian granulosa cell line KGN with oleic acid and palmitic acid. Ovarian morphology of obese mice in early pregnancy was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and ovarian function was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Oil Red O staining and transmission electron microscopy were used to detect fatty acid accumulation. Specific markers relating to the ovarian functional mechanism were assessed by real-time PCR, western blotting, lactate detection, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) detection, biochemical analyses, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The results of this study showed that during early pregnancy, the number of corpus lutea, serum estradiol and progesterone levels, and the expression of the steroid biosynthesis-related protein CYP19A1 (aromatase), CYP11A1 (cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme), and StAR (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein), were significantly increased in HFD mice. Mice fed an HFD also showed a significant increase in ovarian lipid accumulation on day 7 of pregnancy. Genes involved in fatty acid synthesis (Acsl4 and Elovl5), and fatty acid uptake and transport (Slc27a4), together with the β-oxidation rate-limiting enzyme Cpt1a, were significantly upregulated in HFD mice. Specifically, there was abnormal elevation of ATP and aberrant expression of tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA)- and electron transport chain (ETC)-related genes in the ovaries of pregnant HFD mice. KGN cells treated with etomoxir targeting β-oxidation of fatty acid showed decreased TCA cycle and ETC related gene expression. The elevation of ATP and estradiol and progesterone levels was reversed. Conclusions During early pregnancy, HFD-induced obesity increases fatty acid β-oxidation, which in turn increases TCA cycle and ETC related gene expression, leading to increased ATP production and ovarian dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingying Li
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Sujuan Guo
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chengshun Yang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xueqing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junlin He
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chao Tong
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yubin Ding
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan Peng
- The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanqing Geng
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyi Mu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Taihang Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rufei Gao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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76
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Jee B, Dhar R, Singh S, Karmakar S. Heat Shock Proteins and Their Role in Pregnancy: Redefining the Function of "Old Rum in a New Bottle". Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:648463. [PMID: 33996811 PMCID: PMC8116900 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.648463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy in humans is a multi-step complex physiological process comprising three discrete events, decidualization, implantation and placentation. Its overall success depends on the incremental advantage that each of the preceding stages passes on to the next. The success of these synchronized sequels of events is an outcome of timely coordination between them. The pregnancy events are coordinated and governed primarily by the ovarian steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone, which are essentially ligand-activated transcription factors. It's well known that intercellular signaling of steroid hormones engages a plethora of adapter proteins that participate in executing the biological functions. This involves binding of the hormone receptor complex to the DNA response elements in a sequence specific manner. Working with Drosophila melanogaster, the heat shock proteins (HSPs) were originally described by Ferruccio Ritossa back in the early 1960s. Over the years, there has been considerable advancement of our understanding of these conserved families of proteins, particularly in pregnancy. Accumulating evidence suggests that endometrial and uterine cells have an abundance of HSP27, HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90, implying their possible involvement during the pregnancy process. HSPs have been found to be associated with decidualization, implantation and placentation, with their dysregulation associated with implantation failure, pregnancy loss and other feto-maternal complications. Furthermore, HSP is also associated with stress response, specifically in modulating the ER stress, a critical determinant for reproductive success. Recent advances suggest a therapeutic role of HSPs proteins in improving the pregnancy outcome. In this review, we summarized our latest understanding of the role of different members of the HSP families during pregnancy and associated complications based on experimental and clinical evidences, thereby redefining and exploring their novel function with new perspective, beyond their prototype role as molecular chaperones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babban Jee
- Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | - Ruby Dhar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sunil Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Subhradip Karmakar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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77
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Xi J, Cheng J, Jin CC, Liu JY, Shen ZR, Xia LJ, Li Q, Shen J, Xia YB, Xu B. Electroacupuncture Improves Pregnancy Outcomes in Rats with Thin Endometrium by Promoting the Expression of Pinopode-Related Molecules. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6658321. [PMID: 33937407 PMCID: PMC8062184 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6658321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A thin endometrium affects the success of assisted reproduction due to low endometrial receptivity. Acupuncture improves endometrial receptivity and promotes the formation of pinopodes, the ultrastructure marker implantation window. However, the specific underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the efficacy of acupuncture treatment and its underlying mechanism were investigated by analyzing pregnancy rate, pinopode formation, and related molecular markers in thin endometrium model rats. Absolute ethanol (95%) was injected into the uteruses of female Sprague-Dawley rats to construct a thin endometrium model. In this model, acupuncture stimulation at EX-CA1, SP6, and CV4 ameliorated the pregnancy rate. Significantly increased embryo implantation, endometrial thickness, numbers of glands, and blood vessels were observed in the electroacupuncture (EA) group compared to the model group. The number of pinopodes in the EA group was abundant, with a shape similar to that of the control group. Additionally, significantly higher expression levels of pinopode-related markers, including integrin αvβ3, homeobox A10 (HOXA10), heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HBEGF), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), and progesterone receptor (PR), were observed in the EA group than those in the model group. In conclusion, EA had a positive effect on the endometrial receptivity of thin endometrium model rats by improving pinopode formation through multiple molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Xi
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Chun-chun Jin
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jing-yu Liu
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhen-ru Shen
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Liang-jun Xia
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qian Li
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - You-bing Xia
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Bin Xu
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
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Liao Q, Zhang Q, Feng X, Huang H, Xu H, Tian B, Liu J, Yu Q, Guo N, Liu Q, Huang B, Ma D, Ai J, Xu S, Li K. Development of deep learning algorithms for predicting blastocyst formation and quality by time-lapse monitoring. Commun Biol 2021; 4:415. [PMID: 33772211 PMCID: PMC7998018 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01937-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Approaches to reliably predict the developmental potential of embryos and select suitable embryos for blastocyst culture are needed. The development of time-lapse monitoring (TLM) and artificial intelligence (AI) may help solve this problem. Here, we report deep learning models that can accurately predict blastocyst formation and usable blastocysts using TLM videos of the embryo’s first three days. The DenseNet201 network, focal loss, long short-term memory (LSTM) network and gradient boosting classifier were mainly employed, and video preparation algorithms, spatial stream and temporal stream models were developed into ensemble prediction models called STEM and STEM+. STEM exhibited 78.2% accuracy and 0.82 AUC in predicting blastocyst formation, and STEM+ achieved 71.9% accuracy and 0.79 AUC in predicting usable blastocysts. We believe the models are beneficial for blastocyst formation prediction and embryo selection in clinical practice, and our modeling methods will provide valuable information for analyzing medical videos with continuous appearance variation. Liao et al. propose a deep learning model to predict blastocyst formation using TLM videos following the first three days of embryogenesis. The authors develop an ensemble prediction model, STEM and STEM+, which were found to exhibit 78.2% and 71.9% accuracy at predicting blastocyst formation and useable blastocysts respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyue Liao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Communication and Data Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Feng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Haibo Huang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Communication and Data Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haohao Xu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Communication and Data Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Baoyuan Tian
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Communication and Data Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihao Liu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Communication and Data Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qihui Yu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Communication and Data Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Guo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qun Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Bo Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ding Ma
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jihui Ai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Shugong Xu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Communication and Data Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Kezhen Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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79
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Timofeeva AV, Fedorov IS, Pirogova MM, Vasilchenko ON, Chagovets VV, Ezhova LS, Zabelina TM, Shmakov RG, Sukhikh GT. Clusterin and Its Potential Regulatory microRNAs as a Part of Secretome for the Diagnosis of Abnormally Invasive Placenta: Accreta, Increta, and Percreta Cases. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11040270. [PMID: 33805203 PMCID: PMC8064394 DOI: 10.3390/life11040270] [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: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound methods used for the diagnosis of an abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) have a wide range of sensitivity (Se, 33–93%) and specificity (Sp, 71–100%) levels, which results in a high risk of unfavorable maternal and perinatal outcomes. The relevance of optimizing the diagnosis of AIP is beyond doubt. Given the epigenetic nature of trophoblast invasion, we aimed to quantitate microRNAs and proteins of their target genes that are potentially associated with AIP in blood plasma samples from 64 pregnant women at gestation weeks 30–34 by reverse transcription coupled with polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Statistically significant increases in the expression levels of hsa-miR-17-5p, hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-25-3p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, and hsa-miR-320a-3p were revealed in the groups of women with AIP (accreta, increta, percreta) relative to the group of women with scars on the uterus or to the group with placenta previa. Opposite changes in the expression level of “gene–target protein/miRNA” pairs were found for the α-subunit of the clusterin secretory form and any of the hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-25-3p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-miR-320a-3p, and hsa-miR-17-5p in all cases of AIP. The developed logistic regression models to diagnose AIP cases of various severity gave Se values of 88.8–100% and Sp values of 91.6–100% using a combination of hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-miR-320a-3p, or clusterin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika V. Timofeeva
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +7-4955314444
| | - Ivan S. Fedorov
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Mariya M. Pirogova
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Oksana N. Vasilchenko
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Vitaliy V. Chagovets
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Larisa S. Ezhova
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Tatiana M. Zabelina
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Roman G. Shmakov
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
| | - Gennadiy T. Sukhikh
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (M.M.P.); (O.N.V.); (V.V.C.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (R.G.S.); (G.T.S.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology, First Moscow State Medical University Named after I.M. Sechenov, 119991 Moscow, Russia
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Liu DY, Li RY, Fu LJ, Adu-Gyamfi EA, Yang Y, Xu Y, Zhao LT, Zhang TF, Bao HQ, Xu XO, Gao XH, Yang XN, Ding YB. SNP rs12794714 of CYP2R1 is associated with serum vitamin D levels and recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA): a case-control study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 304:179-190. [PMID: 33625596 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06004-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vitamin D (VD) deficiency seems to be associated with the risk of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). Vitamin D receptor (VDR) and cytochrome P450 family 2 subfamily R member 1 (CYP2R1) are two genes which are vital for VD metabolism and actions. However, whether single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes are correlated with the risk of RSA are poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to characterize the relationships among VDR SNPs, CYP2R1 SNPs and RSA. METHODS This case-control study enrolled 75 RSA patients and 83 controls. Serum VD and some cytokines were detected with LC-MS/MS and flow cytometry, respectively. Genotyping for three SNPs of CYP2R1 (rs10741657, rs10766197 and rs12794714) and five SNPs of VDR (rs7975232, rs1544410, rs2189480, rs2228570 and rs2239179) was done with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and high-throughput sequencing. All the data were analyzed with appropriate methods and in different models. RESULTS The results revealed a significant correlation between the AG genotype of CYP2R1 rs12794714 and VD levels (OR 0.686; 95% CI 0.49-0.96; p = 0.028). Besides, the AG and GG genotypes of CYP2R1 rs12794714 were markedly related to the risk of RSA (OR 52.394, 59.497; 95% CI 2.683-1023.265, 3.110-1138.367; p = 0.009, 0.007, respectively). CONCLUSION Our results indicate that CYP2R1 rs12794714 might be a risk factor for RSA. Hence, early screening of pregnant women for CYP2R1 rs12794714 is necessary to warrant proactive counseling and treatment against RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding-Yuan Liu
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Ren-Yan Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing, 401120, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Juan Fu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yin Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China
| | - Le-Tian Zhao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing, 401120, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian-Feng Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing, 401120, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua-Qiong Bao
- Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Academy of Population and Family Planning, Chongqing, 400020, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Ou Xu
- Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Academy of Population and Family Planning, Chongqing, 400020, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Han Gao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing, 401120, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Niu Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Academy of Population and Family Planning, Chongqing, 400020, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People's Republic of China.
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Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Human Embryo Implantation: Clinical Implications. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020253. [PMID: 33578823 PMCID: PMC7916576 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well-known angiogenic factor that plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes. VEGF also contributes to the process of embryo implantation by enhancing embryo development, improving endometrial receptivity, and facilitating the interactions between the developing embryo and the endometrium. There is a correlation between the alteration of VEGF expression and reproductive failure, including recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriage (RM). In order to clarify the role of VEGF in embryo implantation, we reviewed recent literature concerning the expression and function of VEGF in the reproductive system around the time of embryo implantation and we provide a summary of the findings reported so far. We also explored the effects and the possible underlying mechanisms of action of VEGF in embryo implantation.
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Massimiani M, Tiralongo GM, Salvi S, Fruci S, Lacconi V, La Civita F, Mancini M, Stuhlmann H, Valensise H, Campagnolo L. Treatment of pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction with nitric oxide donors increases placental expression of Epidermal Growth Factor-Like Domain 7 and improves fetal growth: A pilot study. Transl Res 2021; 228:28-41. [PMID: 32784003 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2020.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a pathological condition of pregnancy with high perinatal mortality and morbidity, characterized by inadequate fetal growth associated to altered maternal hemodynamics with impaired uteroplacental blood flow and placental insufficiency. To date, iatrogenic premature delivery remains the elective therapeutic strategy. However, in recent years the possibility of a therapeutic approach with vasodilators and myorelaxants, such as nitric oxide (NO) donors, has gained interest. NO controls many endothelial cell functions, including angiogenesis and vascular permeability, by regulating the expression of angiogenic factors, such as Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor. In the present study, we investigated if treatment of pregnancies complicated by IUGR with NO donors affects the expression of Epidermal Growth Factor-Like Domain 7 (EGFL7), a secreted endothelial factor, previously demonstrated to be expressed by both endothelial and trophoblast cells and involved in proper placental development. NO donor treatment induced placental levels of EGFL7 and, in association with oral fluids, significantly improved fetal growth. Ex vivo experiments confirmed that NO donors increased expression and secretion of EGFL7 by villous explants. To specifically investigate the potential response of trophoblast cells to NO, we treated HTR8-sVneo cells with NO donors and observed induction of EGFL7 expression. Altogether, our findings indicate that NO induces endothelial and trophoblast expression of EGFL7 in the placenta and improves fetal growth, suggesting a correlation between placental levels of EGFL7 and pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micol Massimiani
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia M Tiralongo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Casilino General Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Salvi
- Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, UOC di Patologia Ostetrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Lacconi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio La Civita
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Mancini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Casilino General Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Heidi Stuhlmann
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Herbert Valensise
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Casilino General Hospital, Rome, Italy; Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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83
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Liu L, Wu B, Li Z, Lin H. The influence of processed total non-forward and non-motile sperm count on the outcome of artificial insemination with the husband's semen. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 9:2730-2736. [PMID: 33457245 PMCID: PMC7807380 DOI: 10.21037/tau-20-1385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Artificial insemination with the husband’s semen (AIH) is an economical and noninvasive method of infertility treatment. However, AIH’s pregnancy rate is much lower than in vitro fertilization (IVF) as its multiple and complex uncertainty factors. Semen quality has been one of the main factors which affect the pregnancy outcome of AIH. Methods The relevant parameters of 1,142 AIH cycles were retrospectively studied, including the general parameters and the semen quality parameters among clinical pregnancy, biochemical pregnancy, non-pregnancy group, age, infertility duration, infertility type, body mass index (BMI), cycle count, morphology in previously semen examination, and semen quality parameters on the day of AIH. Results The statistically significant difference was only found on processed total non-forward and non-motile sperm count (N-TFMSC). The mean processed N-TFMSC in the biochemical pregnancy group was 6.37±4.27 million, significantly higher than the other two groups (vs. 4.40±3.15 million or vs. 4.48±3.60 million, P<0.05). The study was then divided into two groups according to processed N-TFMSC, Group 1 ≤5.0 million, and Group 2 >5.0 million. A statistical increase in biochemical pregnancy rate was observed when the processed N-TFMSC was >5.0 million (2.72% vs. 0.90%). Conclusions Processed N-TFMSC may be one of the independent factors on AIH’s outcome; it should be given equal attention the same as processed total forward motile sperm count (TFMSC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital (Group) of Putian University, Fujian, China
| | - Bingping Wu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital (Group) of Putian University, Fujian, China
| | - Zhimin Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital (Group) of Putian University, Fujian, China
| | - Hua Lin
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital (Group) of Putian University, Fujian, China
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84
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Song Y, Zhou F, Tan X, Liu X, Ding J, Zhang C, Li F, Zhu W, Ma W, Hu R, Zhang M. Bushen Huoxue recipe attenuates early pregnancy loss via activating endometrial COX2-PGE2 angiogenic signaling in mice. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:36. [PMID: 33446182 PMCID: PMC7809844 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the fresh cycles of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, a disturbance in the reproductive endocrine environment following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is closely related to compromised endometrial receptivity. This is a major disadvantage for women during pregnancy. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, Bushen Huoxue recipe (BSHXR) has been indicated to facilitate embryo implantation. METHODS The COH model (Kunming breed) was induced by injecting mice with pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (0.4 IU/g) and human chorionic gonadotropin (1 IU/g), followed by treatment with BSHXR at three different concentrations (5.7, 11.4, and 22.8 g/kg), Bushen recipe (BSR) (5.7 g/kg), and Huoxue recipe (HXR) (5.7 g/kg). After successful mating, the pregnancy rate and implantation sites were examined on embryo day 8 (ED8), and the weight ratio of endometrium was calculated on ED4 midnight. Serum estrogen, progesterone, and endometrial PGE2 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The endometrial microvasculature was evaluated using CD31 immunostaining. The protein and mRNA levels of the angiogenic factors in the endometrium were evaluated using western blot, immunohistochemistry, and polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS In the COH group, the pregnancy rate and implantation sites were significantly decreased, and abnormal serum hormone levels and impaired endometrial vascular development were observed. After BSHXR treatment, the supraphysiological serum progesterone level in COH mice was restored to normalcy. Moreover, the abnormal expression of the endometrial pro-angiogenic factors, including HIF1α, COX2-PGE2 pathway, and the down-stream factors, namely, MMP2, MMP9, TIMP2, and FGF2 after subjecting mice to COH was significantly improved after BSHXR treatment. CONCLUSION BSHXR could improve embryo implantation by regulating hormonal balance and modulating endometrial angiogenesis in mice, without inducing any side effects in normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Fanru Zhou
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiujuan Tan
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahui Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chu Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenxin Zhu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
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Li L, Zhang W, Tong C(L, Yan H, Yin P, Li K, Heng BC, Tong G. Differential cytokines expression in cervical exfoliated cells of women with implantation after in vitro fertilization. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2020; 52:1281-1284. [PMID: 33175952 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmaa103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | | | - Christina (Ling) Tong
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Hua Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ping Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kai Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Boon Chin Heng
- School of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Guoqing Tong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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Tesarik J, Conde-López C, Galán-Lázaro M, Mendoza-Tesarik R. Luteal Phase in Assisted Reproductive Technology. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 2:595183. [PMID: 36304702 PMCID: PMC9580649 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2020.595183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Luteal phase (LP) is the period of time beginning shortly after ovulation and ending either with luteolysis, shortly before menstrual bleeding, or with the establishment of pregnancy. During the LP, the corpus luteum (CL) secretes progesterone and some other hormones that are essential to prepare the uterus for implantation and further development of the embryo, the function known as uterine receptivity. LP deficiency (LPD) can occur when the secretory activity of the CL is deficient, but also in cases of normal CL function, where it is caused by a defective endometrial response to normal levels of progesterone. LPD is particularly frequent in treatments using assisted reproductive technology (ART). Controlled ovarian stimulation usually aims to obtain the highest number possible of good-quality oocytes and requires the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs, to prevent premature ovulation, as well as an ovulation trigger to achieve timed final oocyte maturation. Altogether, these treatments suppress pituitary secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH), required for the formation and early activity of the CL. In addition to problems of endometrial receptivity for embryos, LPD also leads to dysfunction of the local uterine immune system, with an increased risk of embryo rejection, abnormally high uterine contractility, and restriction of uterine blood flow. There are two alternatives of LPD prevention: a direct administration of exogenous progesterone to restore the physiological progesterone serum concentration independently of the CL function, on the one hand, and treatments aimed to stimulate the CL activity so as to increase endogenous progesterone production, on the other hand. In case of pregnancy, some kind of LP support is often needed until the luteal-placental shift occurs. If LPD is caused by defective response of the endometrium and uterine immune cells to normal concentrations of progesterone, a still poorly defined condition, symptomatic treatments are the only available solution currently available.
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Histochemical Study of the Rat Uterine Glycoconjugate Alteration following Treatment with Exogenous Gonadotropic Hormones during the Implantation Period. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:3967427. [PMID: 33376720 PMCID: PMC7738779 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3967427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
One of the female causes of infertility is anovulation which is treatable with gonadotropin hormones. These hormones affect the molecular organization of the uterus such as glycoconjugates that are the first site of contact between the blastocyst and the uterus. The objective of this project was to study the alteration of glycoconjugates on the uterine apical, Golgi zone, and basement membrane of epithelial cells and the uterine gland after hyperstimulation with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) (4, 8, 16, 24, and 40 IU), during the implantation period. Injection of PMSG (in experimental groups) and injection of distilled water (in the control group) were followed by HCG administration (10 IU), mating, isolation of positive vaginal plug rats, and killing at 5.5 days of pregnancy. Histochemistry was done on the pregnant uterine horns with the use of WGA, DBA, PNA, ConA, SBA, and UEA lectins. The intensity of the immunohistochemical staining was scored, and quantitative data were generated. 4 IU did not show any significant differences with the control, 8 IU had less effect on the alteration of the Golgi zone, and apical and basement membrane glycoconjugates and 40 IU had the least effects on the alteration of uterine gland glycoconjugates. Also, 24 IU had the most effect on the alteration of uterine glycoconjugates. Understanding of the effects of gonadotropin hormones at the uterine level in implantation time helps to optimize hormonal manipulation for improving the outcome of assisted reproductive procedures. It seems that the optimal dose for superovulation and less alteration in uterine glycoconjugates of rats at implantation time were induced by the administration of 8 IU PMSG.
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Zare F, Amiri MM, Hadinedoushan H, Dehghan-Manshadi M, Mansouri F, Fesahat F, Saboor-Yaraghi AA. Contraceptive and molecular function of a novel recombinant vaccine based human leukemia inhibitory factor on Balb/c mice: An experimental in vivo study. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 142:103195. [PMID: 32927320 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103195] [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: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The functional competence of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), as immunocontraceptive vaccine in mice, was investigated. Balb/c mice were divided into two groups of vaccinated and controls. The recombinant human LIF (rhLIF) protein and phosphate buffer saline was emulsified with Freund's adjuvant and injected into vaccinated and control groups, respectively. Theinhibition of implantation was evaluated in mice uterine. The concentration of secreted interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and interleukin (IL)-4 were measured in cultured splenocyte of mice stimulated by rhLIF. The expressions of immune responsive gene 1 (IRG-1), cochlin (COCH), amphiregulin(Ar), and heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) genes were determined. Mice were assessed for inhibition of fertility after delivery, reversibility of immune response against rhLIF, and survival rate. Active immunization of mice with rhLIF resulted in reduction of the implantation and fertility rate up to 80.49% and 75%, respectively. All mice produced a high titer of anti-rhLIF antibodies in serums and vaginal fluids washes after 16 weeks; however, these antibodies were cleared from vaginal fluid washes after six months. A significant down-regulation in mRNA levels of IRG-1, Ar and HB-EGF was observed in vaccinated group compared to controls; however, no significant change in the expression profile of cochlin gene was detected. The results showed that rhLIF prevented pregnancy in a high percentage of female mice. Although the immunization of female Balb/c mice with rhLIF inhibited fertility and expression of genes associated with this molecule, further studies are needed to support this protein as a suitable candidate for contraceptive vaccine in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fateme Zare
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Amiri
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hossein Hadinedoushan
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mahdi Dehghan-Manshadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mansouri
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Saboor-Yaraghi
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Denker HW. Rise of the rabbit model for implantation research. A commemoration of the scientific work of Bent G. Boving (1920-2019). Biol Reprod 2020; 102:1170-1176. [PMID: 32219333 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa038] [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: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bent G. Boving, a remarkable pioneer of research on mechanistic aspects of embryo implantation and specifically of using the rabbit model for this purpose, passed away peacefully on 15 November 2019, not long before he would have been able to celebrate his 100th birthday on 23 February 2020. His work has been very stimulating for other researchers, in part possibly because it elicited controversial discussions. This article attempts to give an overview of his scientific contributions, which still harbor some treasures, including potentially stimulating ideas for future research on implantation.
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Fractalkine Regulates HEC-1A/JEG-3 Interaction by Influencing the Expression of Implantation-Related Genes in an In Vitro Co-Culture Model. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093175. [PMID: 32365902 PMCID: PMC7246682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation is a complex process regulated by a network of biological molecules. Recently, it has been described that fractalkine (CX3CL1, FKN) might have an important role in the feto-maternal interaction during gestation since the trophoblast cells express fractalkine receptor (CX3CR1) and the endometrium cells secrete fractalkine. CX3CR1 controls three major signalling pathways, PLC-PKC pathway, PI3K/AKT/NFκB pathway and Ras-mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathways regulating proliferation, growth, migration and apoptosis. In this study, we focused on the molecular mechanisms of FKN treatment influencing the expression of implantation-related genes in trophoblast cells (JEG-3) both in mono-and in co-culture models. Our results reveal that FKN acted in a concentration and time dependent manner on JEG-3 cells. FKN seemed to operate as a positive regulator of implantation via changing the action of progesterone receptor (PR), activin receptor and bone morphogenetic protein receptor (BMPR). FKN modified also the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 controlling invasion. The presence of HEC-1A endometrial cells in the co-culture contributed to the effect of fractalkine on JEG-3 cells regulating implantation. The results suggest that FKN may contribute to the successful attachment and implantation of embryo.
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Claus C, Jung M, Hübschen JM. Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Models: A Peephole into Virus Infections during Early Pregnancy. Cells 2020; 9:E542. [PMID: 32110999 PMCID: PMC7140399 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The rubella virus (RV) was the first virus shown to be teratogenic in humans. The wealth of data on the clinical symptoms associated with congenital rubella syndrome is in stark contrast to an incomplete understanding of the forces leading to the teratogenic alterations in humans. This applies not only to RV, but also to congenital viral infections in general and includes (1) the mode of vertical transmission, even at early gestation, (2) the possible involvement of inflammation as a consequence of an activated innate immune response, and (3) the underlying molecular and cellular alterations. With the progress made in the development of pluripotent stem cell-based models including organoids and embryoids, it is now possible to assess congenital virus infections on a mechanistic level. Moreover, antiviral treatment options can be validated, and newly emerging viruses with a potential impact on human embryonal development, such as that recently reflected by the Zika virus (ZIKV), can be characterized. Here, we discuss human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and ZIKV in comparison to RV as viruses with well-known congenital pathologies and highlight their analysis on current models for the early phase of human development. This includes the implications of their genetic variability and, as such, virus strain-specific properties for their use as archetype models for congenital virus infections. In this review, we will discuss the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and derived organoid systems for the study of congenital virus infections with a focus on their prominent aetiologies, HCMV, ZIKV, and RV. Their assessment on these models will provide valuable information on how human development is impaired by virus infections; it will also add new insights into the normal progression of human development through the analysis of developmental pathways in the context of virus-induced alterations. These are exciting perspectives for both developmental biology and congenital virology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Claus
- Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Johannisallee 30, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Matthias Jung
- University Clinic and Outpatient Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatic Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Judith M Hübschen
- Infectious Diseases Research Unit, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, 4354 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
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