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Altmäe S, Esteban FJ, Stavreus-Evers A, Simón C, Giudice L, Lessey BA, Horcajadas JA, Macklon NS, D'Hooghe T, Campoy C, Fauser BC, Salamonsen LA, Salumets A. Guidelines for the design, analysis and interpretation of 'omics' data: focus on human endometrium. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:12-28. [PMID: 24082038 PMCID: PMC3845681 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 08/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 'Omics' high-throughput analyses, including genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, are widely applied in human endometrial studies. Analysis of endometrial transcriptome patterns in physiological and pathophysiological conditions has been to date the most commonly applied 'omics' technique in human endometrium. As the technologies improve, proteomics holds the next big promise for this field. The 'omics' technologies have undoubtedly advanced our knowledge of human endometrium in relation to fertility and different diseases. Nevertheless, the challenges arising from the vast amount of data generated and the broad variation of 'omics' profiling according to different environments and stimuli make it difficult to assess the validity, reproducibility and interpretation of such 'omics' data. With the expansion of 'omics' analyses in the study of the endometrium, there is a growing need to develop guidelines for the design of studies, and the analysis and interpretation of 'omics' data. METHODS Systematic review of the literature in PubMed, and references from relevant articles were investigated up to March 2013. RESULTS The current review aims to provide guidelines for future 'omics' studies on human endometrium, together with a summary of the status and trends, promise and shortcomings in the high-throughput technologies. In addition, the approaches presented here can be adapted to other areas of high-throughput 'omics' studies. CONCLUSION A highly rigorous approach to future studies, based on the guidelines provided here, is a prerequisite for obtaining data on biological systems which can be shared among researchers worldwide and will ultimately be of clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Altmäe
- Competence Centre on Reproductive Medicine and Biology, Tartu, Estonia
- School of Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Anneli Stavreus-Evers
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Akademiska Sjukhuset, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carlos Simón
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI) and Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia University, 46021 Valencia, Spain
| | - Linda Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143-0132, USA
| | - Bruce A. Lessey
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Group, Greenville Hospital System, Greenville, South Carolina, SC 29605, USA
| | - Jose A. Horcajadas
- Araid-Hospital Miguel Servet, 50004 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Nick S. Macklon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Developmental Origins of Adult Disease, University of Southampton, Princess Anne Hospital, SO16 5YA Southampton, UK
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Leuven University Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven (Leuven University), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cristina Campoy
- School of Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
| | - Bart C. Fauser
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lois A. Salamonsen
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Reproductive Medicine and Biology, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Tartu, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
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102
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Tumor necrosis factor α up-regulates endometrial milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor 8 protein production via nuclear factor κB activation, resulting in cell migration of epithelial cells. Fertil Steril 2013; 101:552-9. [PMID: 24262600 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, an early embryonic product, on endometrial epithelial cell migration and endometrial milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor 8 protein (MFG-E8) production. DESIGN In vitro study. SETTING Academic center. INTERVENTION(S) Ishikawa cells, used as surrogates for human epithelial cells, were treated with and without TNF-α. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Effect of TNF-α on intracellular MFG-E8 protein was evaluated with the use of ELISA, Western blot, and subcellular fractionation. Specific inhibitors were used to study TNF-α mechanism of action. Effect of TNF-α on cell migration was studied with the use of a wound healing assay and reorganization of E-cadherin. RESULT(S) TNF-α induced: 1) significant up-regulation of MFG-E8 intracellular protein, which was attenuated by pretreatment with a specific inhibitor of nuclear factor κB; 2) increased transcription of MFG-E8 and other proinflammatory factors, such as interleukins 6 and 8, which were suppressed by cotreatment with hCG; and 3) significant cell migration with E-cadherin remodeling, changes associated with subcellular MFG-E8 relocalization. CONCLUSION(S) TNF-α up-regulates endometrial epithelial cell migration and MFG-E8 production, which are critical steps required for the endometrial changes during menstrual cycle as well as during embryonic attachment and invasion.
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103
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Bauersachs S, Wolf E. Immune aspects of embryo-maternal cross-talk in the bovine uterus. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 97:20-6. [PMID: 23432868 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2012] [Revised: 11/14/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This mini-review summarizes the results of recent transcriptome studies of bovine endometrium during the estrous cycle and during the pre-implantation phase, with a focus on immune response genes. Gene expression changes in the bovine endometrium during the estrous cycle were compared to a similar study in equine endometrium. The results indicate species-specific expression patterns, particularly for genes with immune functions. These are presumably the consequence of adaptations to differences in the physiology of reproduction in each species, including development of the conceptus, hormone profiles during the estrous cycle, and insemination. The results from a number of transcriptome studies during the pre-implantation phase, as well as comparison to the effects of human interferon alpha on bovine endometrial gene expression, suggest that during pregnancy there is no general suppression of the maternal immune system, but rather a fine-tuned regulation of immune cells. This presumably facilitates tolerance to the immunologically 'foreign' conceptus and at the same time activation of the immune system to defend against microbial and viral infections. Furthermore, comparison of differentially expressed genes in bovine endometrium to similar studies in human endometrial samples reveals a number of similar changes, indicating the existence of shared mechanisms in preparation for embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bauersachs
- Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology and Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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104
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Vasquez YM, DeMayo FJ. Role of nuclear receptors in blastocyst implantation. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2013; 24:724-35. [PMID: 23994285 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2013.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The regulation of blastocyst implantation in the uterus is orchestrated by the ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones act via their nuclear receptors to direct the transcriptional activity of the endometrial compartments and create a defined period in which the uterus is permissive to embryo implantation termed the "window of receptivity". Additional members of the nuclear receptor family have also been described to have a potential role in endometrial function. Much of what we know about the function of these nuclear receptors during implantation we have learned from the use of mouse models. Transgenic murine models with targeted gene ablation have allowed us to identify a complex network of paracrine signaling between the endometrial epithelium and stroma. While some of the critical molecules have been identified, the mechanism underlying the intricate communication between endometrial compartments during the implantation window has not been fully elucidated. Defining this mechanism will help identify markers of a receptive uterine environment, ultimately providing a useful tool to help improve the fertility outlook for reproductively challenged couples. The aim of this review is to outline our current understanding of how nuclear receptors and their effector molecules regulate blastocyst implantation in the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y M Vasquez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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105
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Fatemi HM, Popovic-Todorovic B. Implantation in assisted reproduction: a look at endometrial receptivity. Reprod Biomed Online 2013; 27:530-8. [PMID: 23933035 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Implantation failure in assisted reproduction is thought to be mainly due to impaired uterine receptivity. With normal uterine anatomy, changes in endocrine profile during ovarian stimulation and medical conditions of the mother (i.e. thrombophilia and abnormal immunological response) could result in a non-receptive endometrium. High oestradiol concentrations during ovarian stimulation lead to premature progesterone elevation, causing endometrial advancement and hampering implantation, which can be overcome by a freeze-all approach and embryo transfer in natural cycles or by milder stimulation protocols. Patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) should be tested for inherited and acquired thrombophilias. Each patient should be individually assessed and counselled regarding therapy with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). Empirical treatment with LMWH, aspirin or corticosteroids is not effective for women with RIF who have negative thrombophilic tests. If thrombophilic tests are normal, patients should be tested for immunological causes. If human leukocyte antigen dissimilarity is proven, treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin might be beneficial. Preliminary observational studies using intralipid infusion in the presence of increased natural killer cytotoxic activity are interesting but the proposed rationale is controversial and randomized controlled trials are needed. Hysteroscopy and/or endometrial scratching in the cycle preceding ovarian stimulation should become standard for patients with RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Fatemi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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106
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Edgell TA, Rombauts LJF, Salamonsen LA. Assessing receptivity in the endometrium: the need for a rapid, non-invasive test. Reprod Biomed Online 2013; 27:486-96. [PMID: 23933033 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2012] [Revised: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Successful implantation of an embryo into the uterus requires synchrony between the blastocyst and the endometrium. Endometrial preparedness, or receptivity, occurs only for a very short time during the mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle in fertile women. Failure to achieve receptivity results in infertility and is a rate-limiting step for IVF success. Frozen embryo transfer in non-stimulation cycles is already improving live birth rates. However, an important tool that is missing in the armoury of reproductive specialists is a means to rapidly assess endometrial receptivity, either during initial assessment or immediately prior to embryo transfer. The development of a wealth of omics technologies now opens the way for identifying potential receptivity markers, although validation of these is still a major issue. This review assesses the current state of the field and the requirements to proceed to a valid clinical test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey A Edgell
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 5152, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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107
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Bhagwat SR, Chandrashekar DS, Kakar R, Davuluri S, Bajpai AK, Nayak S, Bhutada S, Acharya K, Sachdeva G. Endometrial receptivity: a revisit to functional genomics studies on human endometrium and creation of HGEx-ERdb. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58419. [PMID: 23555582 PMCID: PMC3608645 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometrium acquires structural and functional competence for embryo implantation only during the receptive phase of menstrual cycle in fertile women. Sizeable data are available to indicate that this ability is acquired by modulation in the expression of several genes/gene products. However, there exists little consensus on the identity, number of expressed/not-detected genes and their pattern of expression (up or down regulation). METHODS Literature search was carried out to retrieve the data on endometrial expression of genes/proteins in various conditions. Data were compiled to generate a comprehensive database, Human Gene Expression Endometrial Receptivity database (HGEx-ERdb). The database was used to identify the Receptivity Associated Genes (RAGs) which display the similar pattern of expression across different investigations. Transcript levels of select RAGs encoding cell adhesion proteins were compared between two human endometrial epithelial cell lines; RL95-2 and HEC-1-A by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (q-RT-PCR). Further select RAGs were investigated for their expression in pre-receptive (n = 4) and receptive phase (n = 4) human endometrial tissues by immunohistochemical studies. JAr spheroid attachment assays were carried out to assess the functional significance of two RAGs. RESULTS HGEx-ERdb (http://resource.ibab.ac.in/HGEx-ERdb/) helped identification of 179 RAGs, of which 151 genes were consistently expressed and upregulated and 28 consistently not-detected and downregulated in receptive phase as compared to pre-receptive phase. q-RT-PCR confirmed significantly higher (p<0.005) expression of Thrombospondin1 (THBS1), CD36 and Mucin 16 transcripts, in RL95-2 as compared to HEC-1-A. Further, the pretreatment with antibodies against CD36 and COMP led to a reduction in the percentage of JAr spheroids attached to RL95-2. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated significantly higher (p<0.05) expression of endometrial THBS1, Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP) and CD36 in the receptive phase as compared to pre-receptive phase human endometrial tissues. CONCLUSION HGEx-ERdb is a catalogue of 19,285 genes, reported for their expression in human endometrium. Further 179 genes were identified as the RAGs. Expression analysis of some RAGs validated the utility of approach employed in creation of HGEx-ERdb. Studies aimed towards defining the specific functions of RAGs and their potential networks may yield relevant information about the major 'nodes' which regulate endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali R. Bhagwat
- Primate Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | | | - Ruchi Kakar
- Primate Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sravanthi Davuluri
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Akhilesh K. Bajpai
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sumeet Nayak
- Primate Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sumit Bhutada
- Primate Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kshitish Acharya
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Geetanjali Sachdeva
- Primate Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- * E-mail:
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108
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Altmäe S, Martinez-Conejero JA, Esteban FJ, Ruiz-Alonso M, Stavreus-Evers A, Horcajadas JA, Salumets A. MicroRNAs miR-30b, miR-30d, and miR-494 regulate human endometrial receptivity. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:308-17. [PMID: 22902743 PMCID: PMC4077381 DOI: 10.1177/1933719112453507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as important epigenetic posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. We aimed to gain more understanding of the complex gene expression regulation of endometrial receptivity by analyzing miRNA signatures of fertile human endometria. We set up to analyze miRNA signatures of receptive (LH + 7, n = 4) versus prereceptive (LH + 2, n = 5) endometrium from healthy fertile women. We found hsa-miR-30b and hsa-miR-30d to be significantly upregulated, and hsa-miR-494 and hsa-miR-923 to be downregulated in receptive endometrium. Three algorithms (miRanda, PicTar, and TargetScan) were used for target gene prediction. Functional analyses of the targets using Ingenuity Pathways Analysis and The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery indicated roles in transcription, cell proliferation and apoptosis, and significant involvement in several relevant pathways, such as axon guidance, Wnt/β-catenin, ERK/MAPK, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), p53 and leukocyte extravasation. Comparison of predicted miRNA target genes and our previous messenger RNA microarray data resulted in a list of 12 genes, including CAST, CFTR, FGFR2, and LIF that could serve as a panel of genes important for endometrial receptivity. In conclusion, we suggest that a subset of miRNAs and their target genes may play important roles in endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Altmäe
- Competence Centre on Reproductive Medicine and Biology, Tartu, Estonia.
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109
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Profiling the gene signature of endometrial receptivity: clinical results. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1078-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Revised: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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110
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Díaz-Gimeno P, Ruiz-Alonso M, Blesa D, Bosch N, Martínez-Conejero JA, Alamá P, Garrido N, Pellicer A, Simón C. The accuracy and reproducibility of the endometrial receptivity array is superior to histology as a diagnostic method for endometrial receptivity. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:508-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.09.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2012] [Revised: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 09/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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111
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Di Pietro C, Cicinelli E, Guglielmino MR, Ragusa M, Farina M, Palumbo MA, Cianci A. Altered transcriptional regulation of cytokines, growth factors, and apoptotic proteins in the endometrium of infertile women with chronic endometritis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:509-17. [PMID: 23351011 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Chronic endometritis (CE) is a poorly investigated and probably underestimated pathology, which may cause abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), pain, and reproductive failures. Due to undefined symptoms and the normal presence of leukocytes in the endometrial mucosa, diagnosis may be missed. Fluid hysteroscopy is a reliable technique for diagnosing this pathology. Few data exist on the biochemical and paracrine alterations that occur in the endometrium of women diagnosed with CE. The aim of the study was to find molecular modification in endometrium related to CE. METHOD OF STUDY Sixteen women with hysteroscopic and histological diagnosis of CE and 10 healthy women as controls were enrolled. We compared the endometrial expression profile of 25 genes encoding proteins involved in the inflammatory response, proliferation, and apoptosis in endometrium during implantation window, using high-throughput real-time RT-PCR. RESULTS In women with CE, the endometrial expression of some genes was significantly altered. In particular, IGFBP1, BCL2, and BAX were up-regulated, while IL11, CCL4, IGF1, and CASP8 were down-regulated. CONCLUSION The altered gene endometrial expression may explain the impaired endometrial receptivity and the finding of endometrial hyperplastic lesions in women affected by CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Di Pietro
- Dipartimento G.F. Ingrassia, Biologia Generale, Biologia Cellulare, Genetica Molecolare G Sichel, Az. Policlinico, Università di Catania, Catania, Italy.
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112
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Zhang S, Lin H, Kong S, Wang S, Wang H, Wang H, Armant DR. Physiological and molecular determinants of embryo implantation. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:939-80. [PMID: 23290997 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 12/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation involves the intimate interaction between an implantation-competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus, which occurs in a limited time period known as the window of implantation. Emerging evidence shows that defects originating during embryo implantation induce ripple effects with adverse consequences on later gestation events, highlighting the significance of this event for pregnancy success. Although a multitude of cellular events and molecular pathways involved in embryo-uterine crosstalk during implantation have been identified through gene expression studies and genetically engineered mouse models, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of embryo implantation is still missing. This review focuses on recent progress with particular attention to physiological and molecular determinants of blastocyst activation, uterine receptivity, blastocyst attachment and uterine decidualization. A better understanding of underlying mechanisms governing embryo implantation should generate new strategies to rectify implantation failure and improve pregnancy rates in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
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113
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Sarhan A, Bocca S, Yu L, Anderson S, Jacot T, Burch T, Nyalwidhe JO, Sullivan C, Kaur M, Bajic VB, Oehninger S. Human endometrial milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor 8 (MFGE8) is up regulated by estradiol at the transcriptional level, and its secretion via microvesicles is stimulated by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.7243/2054-1481-1-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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114
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Riggs RM, Bocca S, Anderson S, Franchi A, Rhavi BS, Oehninger S. Epithelial cell protein milk fat globule–epidermal growth factor 8 and human chorionic gonadotropin regulate stromal cell apoptosis in the human endometrium. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:1549-56.e3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.07.1127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2011] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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115
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Zhang S, Kong S, Lu J, Wang Q, Chen Y, Wang W, Wang B, Wang H. Deciphering the molecular basis of uterine receptivity. Mol Reprod Dev 2012; 80:8-21. [PMID: 23070972 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Uterine receptivity is defined as a limited time period during which the uterus enters into an appropriately differentiated state that is ready for the initiation of implantation by competent blastocysts. Although various cellular aspects and molecular pathways involved in uterine receptivity have been identified by gene expression studies and genetically engineered mouse models, a comprehensive understanding of the window of uterine receptivity is still missing. This review focuses on the recent progress in this area, with particular focus on the molecular basis of stromal-epithelial dialogue and crosstalk between the blastocyst and the uterus during implantation. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing the window of uterine receptivity is hoped to generate new strategies to correct implantation failure and to improve pregnancy rates in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
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116
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Potdar N, Gelbaya T, Nardo LG. Endometrial injury to overcome recurrent embryo implantation failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2012; 25:561-71. [PMID: 23063812 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2012.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2012] [Revised: 08/20/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical endometrial injury (biopsy/scratch or hysteroscopy) in the cycle preceding ovarian stimulation for IVF has been proposed to improve implantation in women with unexplained recurrent implantation failure (RIF). This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the efficacy of endometrial injury versus no intervention in women with RIF undergoing IVF. All controlled studies of endometrial biopsy/scratch or hysteroscopy performed in the cycle preceding ovarian stimulation were included and the primary outcome measure was clinical pregnancy rate. Pooling of seven controlled studies (four randomized and three non-randomized), with 2062 participants, showed that local endometrial injury induced in the cycle preceding ovarian stimulation is 70% more likely to result in a clinical pregnancy as opposed to no intervention. There was no statistically significant heterogeneity in the methods used, clinical pregnancy rates being twice as high with biopsy/scratch (RR 2.32, 95% CI 1.72-3.13) as opposed to hysteroscopy (RR 1.51, 95% CI 1.30-1.75). The evidence is strongly in favour of inducing local endometrial injury in the preceding cycle of ovarian stimulation to improve pregnancy outcomes in women with unexplained RIF. However, large randomized studies are required before iatrogenic induction of local endometrial injury can be warranted in routine clinical practice. Some women undergoing IVF treatment fail to conceive despite several attempts with good-quality embryos and no identifiable reason. We call this 'recurrent implantation failure' (RIF) where the embryo fails to embed or implant within the lining of the womb. Studies have shown that inducing injury to the lining of the womb in the cycle before starting ovarian stimulation for IVF can help improve the chances of achieving pregnancy. Injury can be induced by either scratching the lining of the womb using a biopsy tube or by telescopic investigation of the womb using a camera. We performed a collective review of the available good-quality studies that used the above two methods in the cycle prior to starting ovarian stimulation for IVF. We pooled results from seven studies, which included 2062 women with RIF and assessed the difference in clinical pregnancy rates for those undergoing injury to the womb lining compared with no injury prior to IVF. The results suggest that inducing injury is 70% more likely to result in a clinical pregnancy as opposed to no treatment. Furthermore, scratching of the lining was 2-times more likely to result in a clinical pregnancy compared with telescopic evaluation of the lining of the womb. This study suggests that in women with RIF, inducing local injury to the womb lining in the cycle prior to starting ovarian stimulation for IVF can improve pregnancy outcomes. However, large studies are required before this can be warranted in routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Potdar
- Leicester Fertility Centre, University of Leicester and University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
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117
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Zhang D, Sun C, Ma C, Dai H, Zhang W. Data mining of spatial-temporal expression of genes in the human endometrium during the window of implantation. Reprod Sci 2012; 19:1085-98. [PMID: 22915151 DOI: 10.1177/1933719112442248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies of microarrays have produced mass data that are far from fully applied. To make full use of the available mass data and to avoid redundancy and unnecessary waste, we employed bioinformatics tools GeneSifter and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to mine and annotate 45 microarrays related to endometrium receptivity from GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database. In total, 1543 gene sets were found to express differentially, of which 148 highly regulated genes were listed as potential biomarkers of the receptive endometrium. The function and pathway analysis identified the differentially expressed genes primarily involved in immune response and cell cycle. Two networks related to the cardiovascular system and cancers were generated within the genes which changed more than 10-fold. Nine genes were validated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. It was a meaningful exploration of the existing data to acquire useful and reliable information, and our results undoubtedly provided valuable clues for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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118
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Allegra A, Marino A, Peregrin PC, Lama A, García-Segovia A, Forte GI, Núñez-Calonge R, Agueli C, Mazzola S, Volpes A. Endometrial expression of selected genes in patients achieving pregnancy spontaneously or after ICSI and patients failing at least two ICSI cycles. Reprod Biomed Online 2012; 25:481-91. [PMID: 22999554 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2012.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2012] [Revised: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify the endometrial gene expression profile in receptive phase, which could represent a useful prognostic tool for selecting IVF patients. Endometrial expression of 47 selected genes biopsied during the window of implantation in natural cycles was compared between patients who achieved a successful pregnancy spontaneously or after subsequent intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles and patients who did not achieve a pregnancy after at least two failed ICSI cycles. The comparative analysis showed significantly different levels of expression in 19 genes, five implicated in apoptosis (CASP8, FADD, CASP10, APAF1, ANXA4), three in immunity (LIF, SPP1, C4BPA), five in transcriptional activity (MSX1, HOXA10, MSX2, HOXA11, GATA2), two in lipid metabolism (LEPR, APOD) and four in oxidative metabolism (AOX1, ALDH1A3, GPX3, NNMT). The evidence for these genes being differently expressed could represent the starting point of identifying the ideal receptive endometrial gene expression profile, which could be used in the future as a prognostic tool for IVF patients. Gene expression analysis technology has opened new important perspectives on the study of the physiological processes of different tissues and organs. Specifically for the endometrium, it would be really interesting to find out an endometrial gene expression profile of receptive phase, which could be used in future as a useful prognostic tool for selecting IVF patients. To achieve this aim, the objective of the present paper was the comparison of endometrial expression in natural cycles of 47 selected genes between the biopsies of patients who achieved a successful pregnancy, either spontaneously or after subsequent ICSI cycles, and those of patients who did not achieve a pregnancy after at least two failed ICSI cycles. The comparative analysis showed a significant different expression in 19 genes: five implicated in programmed cell death, known as apoptosis (CASP8, FADD, CASP10, APAF1, ANXA4), three in immunity (LIF, SPP1, C4BPA), five in transcriptional activity (MSX1, HOXA10, MSX2, HOXA11, GATA2), two in lipid metabolism (LEPR, APOD) and four in oxidative metabolism (AOX1, ALDH1A3, GPX3, NNMT). The evidence of these genes being differently expressed could represent the starting point of identifying the ideal receptive endometrial gene expression profile which could be used in the future as a prognostic tool for IVF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Allegra
- Andros Day Surgery, Reproductive Medicine Unit, 90144 Palermo, Italy.
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119
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Turkyilmaz E, Guner H, Erdem M, Erdem A, Biri AA, Konac E, Alp E, Onen HI, Menevse S. NLF2 gene expression in the endometrium of patients with implantation failure after IVF treatment. Gene 2012; 508:140-3. [PMID: 22885067 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2012] [Revised: 06/20/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the expression of microfibril-associated protein 2 (MFAP2), microfibril-associated protein 5 (MFAP5) and nuclear localized factor 2 (NLF2) genes in patients with repeated IVF failure and compare with fertile population. Total RNA was isolated from 38 patients (repeated implantation failure, group 1, n=22; fertile patients, group 2, n=16). mRNA expression levels were measured quantitatively using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Our results showed that mRNA expression of NLF2 significantly decreased in the infertility group as compared to control group (P=0.023). In addition a marked decrease was observed in the expression of MFAP2 in women with repeated implantation failure. In conclusion, NLF2 gene expression levels and differences in MFAP2 and MFAP5 gene expressions (albeit being insignificant) between infertile group and control group draw attention to a genetic basis under implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esengul Turkyilmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, 06500 Besevler, Ankara, Turkey
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120
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Guo SW. The endometrial epigenome and its response to steroid hormones. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 358:185-96. [PMID: 22067514 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Revised: 10/21/2011] [Accepted: 10/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The human endometrium undergoes cyclic morphological and functional changes during the menstrual cycle. These changes are driven mainly by steroid hormones and orchestrated by a myriad of genes - many of which have been identified recently as being epigenetically regulated. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and histone acetylations, are shown recently to be involved in functional changes in endometrium and endometrial diseases. Since epigenetics itself is a rapidly evolving field, this review starts with an overview of epigenetics and its intrinsic connections with endometrial response to steroid hormones, highlighting its various levels of complexities. This is followed by a review of published and unpublished work on "writers", "erasers", and other players of endometrial epigenome. In the end, areas in need for future research in this area will be exposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetric and Gynecologic Hospital, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai College of Medicine, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China.
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121
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Milk fat globule epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8): a novel protein in the mammalian endometrium with putative roles in implantation and placentation. Placenta 2012; 33:795-802. [PMID: 22770563 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Revised: 05/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES MFG-E8 is a novel endometrial protein with conserved functions in tissue remodeling and angiogenesis in non-uterine tissues. Our aims were: 1. To examine the presence of MFG-E8 protein in the human endometrium during the window of implantation, in human endometrial cell lines, in human placental tissue at different gestational ages, and in murine implantation sites during early gestation; and 2. To study the regulation of MFG-E8 mRNA expression in mice implantation sites. STUDY DESIGN MFG-E8 protein and its receptor integrin αvβ3 were detected by immunostaining in human endometrial biopsies obtained from normal volunteers, in human endometrial cell lines (epithelial: Ishikawa and HEC-1A, stromal: HESC, and endothelial: HEEC), in human products of conception from all trimesters of gestation, and in murine implantation and inter-implantation sites dissected on days 5 and 8 post-coitus. MFG-E8 gene expression was assessed by RT-PCR. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Immunohistochemical determination of MFG-E8 in endometrium and products of conception as well as relative MFG-E8 mRNA expression in mice implantation sites. RESULTS MFG-E8 protein was present almost exclusively in the epithelial compartment of human endometrium. It was also expressed in the cytotrophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts outlining chorionic villi of the human placenta at all trimesters of gestation, and in murine implantation sites. MFG-E8 mRNA was significantly up-regulated in murine implantation sites and with increased gestational age. CONCLUSIONS MFG-E8 expression in the endometrial epithelium as well as in chorionic villi suggests its possible role in endometrial reorganization during the receptive phase and in events related to normal pregnancy in mammals.
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Molecular aspects of implantation failure. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2012; 1822:1943-50. [PMID: 22683339 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2012.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite expanding global experience with advanced reproductive technologies, the majority of IVF attempts do not result in a successful pregnancy, foremost as a result of implantation failure. The process of embryo implantation, a remarkably dynamic and precisely controlled molecular and cellular event, appears inefficient in humans and is poorly understood. However, insights gained from clinical implantation failure, early pregnancy loss, and emerging techologies that enable molecular interrogation of endometrial-embryo interactions are unravelling this major limiting step in human reproduction. We review current molecular concepts thought to underlie implantation failure, consider the contribution of embryonic and endometrial factors, and discuss the clinical value of putative markers of impaired endometrial receptivity. Finally we highlight the nature of the dialogue between the maternal endometrium and the implanting embryo and discuss the concept of natural embryo selection. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Molecular Genetics of Human Reproductive Failure.
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123
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Ruiz-Alonso M, Blesa D, Simón C. The genomics of the human endometrium. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2012; 1822:1931-42. [PMID: 22634130 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2012.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Revised: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The endometrium is a complex tissue that lines the inside of the endometrial cavity. The gene expression of the different endometrial cell types is regulated by ovarian steroids and paracrine-secreted molecules from neighbouring cells. Due to this regulation, the endometrium goes through cyclic modifications which can be divided simply into the proliferative phase, the secretory phase and the menstrual phase. Successful embryo implantation depends on three factors: embryo quality, the endometrium's state of receptivity, and a synchronised dialogue between the maternal tissue and the blastocyst. There is a need to characterise the endometrium's state of receptivity in order to prevent reproductive failure. No single molecular or histological marker for this status has yet been found. Here, we review the global transcriptomic analyses performed in the last decade on a normal human endometrium. These studies provide us with a clue about what global gene expression can be expected for a non-pathological endometrium. These studies have shown endometrial phase-specific transcriptomic profiles and common temporal gene expression patterns. We summarise the biological processes and genes regulated in the different phases of natural cycles and present other works on different conditions as well as a receptivity diagnostic tool based on a specific gene set profile. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Molecular Genetics of Human Reproductive Failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ruiz-Alonso
- Parc Cientific Universitat de Valencia, Calle Catedrático Agustín Escardino, Valencia, Spain.
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124
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Evans GE, Martínez-Conejero JA, Phillipson GTM, Simón C, McNoe LA, Sykes PH, Horcajadas JA, Lam EYN, Print CG, Sin IL, Evans JJ. Gene and protein expression signature of endometrial glandular and stromal compartments during the window of implantation. Fertil Steril 2012; 97:1365-73.e1-2. [PMID: 22480820 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Revised: 02/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To map the changes in messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein abundance during the window of implantation in specifically endometrial stromal and glandular epithelial cells obtained using laser microdissection microscopy (LDM). DESIGN Endometrial samples were collected from two menstrual cycles at 2 and 7 days after first significant rise in blood LH, and separate cell populations were obtained using LDM. A new generation linear polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplified the mRNA, which were hybridized to both Affymetrix U133 Plus2 and Agilent 4x44K microarrays followed by gene set analysis. Immunohistochemistry assessed protein expression between the two collection times. SETTING In vitro fertilization clinic. PATIENT(S) Nine Caucasian, fertile, cycling women. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Cycle dating using blood markers; microarrays on laser microdissected glands and stroma; dual platform microarray confirmation; immunohistochemical analysis of cell cycle proteins. RESULT(S) The two microarray platforms showed concordance. During the window of implantation, a statistically significant network of 22 mRNA associated with the cell cycle was down-regulated. Immunohistochemistry identified altered localization in stroma. CONCLUSION(S) Microarrays demonstrated glands and stroma have distinct mRNA signatures, each dependent on the day of the cycle. We characterized two compartments of the receptive endometrium with a transcriptomic signature identifying regulation of only the cell cycle. Immunohistochemical analysis of cell cycle proteins identified a signature staining pattern of nuclear relocalization of a group of cyclins of stromal cells, which may be clinically applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria E Evans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand.
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125
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Rubel CA, Franco HL, Jeong JW, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ. GATA2 is expressed at critical times in the mouse uterus during pregnancy. Gene Expr Patterns 2012; 12:196-203. [PMID: 22476030 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2012.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Revised: 02/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, such as mouse and human, timely production of the progesterone receptor (PR) in the proper uterine compartments is critical for preparing the uterus for the initiation and maintenance of pregnancy. Developmentally, the expression of GATA2, a member of the six member zinc-finger family of transcription factors, has been shown to be necessary for multiple non-related tissues, such as the hematopoietic system, adipose maturation and the urogential system. We recently identified Gata2 as a potential progesterone target gene in the mouse uterus; however, the expression of the GATA genes in the mouse uterus during pregnancy has not been demonstrated. In the present study, we examined the expression of GATA2 protein during the phases of pregnancy, including early pregnancy where progesterone (P4) signaling is critical in order to facilitate the window of receptivity for embryo implantation and during the decidualization of the uterine stroma, a process of cellular proliferation and differentiation which is necessary for maintenance of the invading embryo until placentation occurs. Here, we report that GATA2 protein is expressed in the uterine luminal and glandular epithelium pre-implantation, spatio-temporally co-localizing with that of the PR. Additionally, GATA2 continues to be expressed in the decidualized stroma throughout early pregnancy indicating a role in the maintenance of decidual cells. Based on these findings, we conclude that GATA2 is expressed during critical phases of early pregnancy, similar to that of the PR, and that it may play a major role in mediating P4 signaling in the mouse uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory A Rubel
- One Baylor Plaza, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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126
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Leach RE, Jessmon P, Coutifaris C, Kruger M, Myers ER, Ali-Fehmi R, Carson SA, Legro RS, Schlaff WD, Carr BR, Steinkampf MP, Silva S, Leppert PC, Giudice L, Diamond MP, Armant DR. High throughput, cell type-specific analysis of key proteins in human endometrial biopsies of women from fertile and infertile couples. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:814-28. [PMID: 22215622 PMCID: PMC3279126 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2011] [Revised: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 10/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although histological dating of endometrial biopsies provides little help for prediction or diagnosis of infertility, analysis of individual endometrial proteins, proteomic profiling and transcriptome analysis have suggested several biomarkers with altered expression arising from intrinsic abnormalities, inadequate stimulation by or in response to gonadal steroids or altered function due to systemic disorders. The objective of this study was to delineate the developmental dynamics of potentially important proteins in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, utilizing a collection of endometrial biopsies from women of fertile (n = 89) and infertile (n = 89) couples. METHODS AND RESULTS Progesterone receptor-B (PGR-B), leukemia inhibitory factor, glycodelin/progestagen-associated endometrial protein (PAEP), homeobox A10, heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor, calcitonin and chemokine ligand 14 (CXCL14) were measured using a high-throughput, quantitative immunohistochemical method. Significant cyclic and tissue-specific regulation was documented for each protein, as well as their dysregulation in women of infertile couples. Infertile patients demonstrated a delay early in the secretory phase in the decline of PGR-B (P < 0.05) and premature mid-secretory increases in PAEP (P < 0.05) and CXCL14 (P < 0.05), suggesting that the implantation interval could be closing early. Correlation analysis identified potential interactions among certain proteins that were disrupted by infertility. CONCLUSIONS This approach overcomes the limitations of a small sample number. Protein expression and localization provided important insights into the potential roles of these proteins in normal and pathological development of the endometrium that is not attainable from transcriptome analysis, establishing a basis for biomarker, diagnostic and targeted drug development for women with infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E. Leach
- Michigan State University-Spectrum Health Medical Group, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Philip Jessmon
- Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bruce R. Carr
- University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Susan Silva
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Linda Giudice
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - D. Randall Armant
- Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA
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127
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Kovacs P, Sajgo A, Kaali SG, Pal L. Detrimental effects of high-dose gonadotropin on outcome of IVF: making a case for gentle ovarian stimulation strategies. Reprod Sci 2012; 19:718-24. [PMID: 22378863 DOI: 10.1177/1933719111432859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Limited data identify detrimental influences of aggressive use of gonadotropins (G) for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH); the underlying mechanisms however remain unclear. We report on the relationship between G dose and in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle parameters (ovarian response, endometrial thickness [EMT]) and cycle outcome (implantation rate [IR] and clinical pregnancy [CP] rate) in a cohort of women undergoing IVF. METHODS Retrospective analysis of fresh embryo transfer (ET) cycles. Univariate and multivariable regression analyses assessed relationship between G dose and outcomes of interest. RESULTS Higher G dose related positively with advancing age (P < .001) and inversely with EMT (P < .001). The overall CP rate was 30%. Significantly lower IR (.003) and CP rate (.002) were observed across increasing tertiles of G dose. Increasing G dose was identified as an independent negative predictor of EMT after adjusting for age, COH protocol and duration, infertility diagnosis, and ovarian response (P = .016). Adjusting for age, suppression protocol (gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist vs antagonist), infertility diagnoses, EMT, quality, and cleavage of ET, lower G dose was an independent positive predictor of CP rate (odds ratio for CP rate was 1.57 for G dose in middle compared to the highest G dose quartile (95% confidence interval 1.09-2.24). Stratified analyses identified detrimental associations of higher G dose with CP rate to be relevant in women aged 35 years and younger. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses suggest detrimental influences of higher G dose on the endometrium and confirm the previously reported adverse association between higher G dose and IVF outcome. Gentler COH regimens may be of particular benefit in women aged ≤35 years.
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128
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Vargas MF, Tapia-Pizarro AA, Henríquez SP, Quezada M, Salvatierra AM, Noe G, Munroe DJ, Velasquez LA, Croxatto HB. Effect of single post-ovulatory administration of levonorgestrel on gene expression profile during the receptive period of the human endometrium. J Mol Endocrinol 2012; 48:25-36. [PMID: 22052941 DOI: 10.1530/jme-11-0094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The hypothesis that levonorgestrel (LNG) used as an emergency contraceptive interferes with endometrial receptivity remains unproven. We compared the endometrial gene expression profile during the receptive period after administering a single dose of LNG 1.5 mg or placebo on day 1 of the luteal phase. An endometrial biopsy was done on day LH+7 or LH+8 and samples were taken from seven volunteers, each one contributing with one cycle treated with placebo and another with LNG. The expression of 20 383 genes was determined using cDNA microarrays. Real-time RT-PCR was used 1) to confirm the differences found in DNA microarray analysis and 2) to determine the effect of LNG on transcript levels of C3, C4BPα, COX2, MAOA, S100A4, and SERPINB9, known to be upregulated during receptivity, and on cPLA2α, JAK1, JNK1, CTSL1, and GSTP1, known to respond to mifepristone. Additional endometrial biopsies were done during the pre-receptive (LH+3) and receptive (LH+7) period and samples were taken from eight untreated volunteers in order to determine the changes associated with acquisition of receptivity of 14 genes. Mean levels of PAEP, TGM2, CLU, IGF2, and IL6ST mRNAs increased after administering LNG while those of HGD, SAT1, EVA1, LOC90133, ANXA1, SLC25A29, CYB5A, CRIP1, and SLC39A14 decreased. Except for the level of ANXA1 transcript, all changes remained within the range observed in untreated controls, and none of the transcripts responding to mifepristone changed in response to LNG. Post-ovulatory administration of LNG caused minimal changes in gene expression profiling during the receptive period. Neither the magnitude nor the nature or direction of the changes endorses the hypothesis that LNG interferes with endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Vargas
- Universidad Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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129
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Casals G, Ordi J, Creus M, Fábregues F, Carmona F, Casamitjana R, Balasch J. Expression pattern of osteopontin and αvβ3 integrin during the implantation window in infertile patients with early stages of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:805-13. [PMID: 22215628 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To study endometrial receptivity in terms of osteopontin (OPN) and αvβ3 integrin expression and co-expression in infertile women with early stages of endometriosis. METHODS We investigated the immunohistochemical expression and co-expression of OPN and αvβ3 integrin in the endometrium of 20 infertile patients with Stage I or II endometriosis as the only detectable cause of infertility, 20 infertile patients with unexplained infertility and 20 fertile women undergoing tubal sterilization. Two endometrial biopsies were performed during a single menstrual cycle (postovulatory Day +7 to +8 and 4 days later) in each subject. RESULTS No statistically significant differences regarding OPN and αvβ3 integrin expression were found between infertile patients with endometriosis and the two control groups. There was no significant correlation between OPN and αvβ3 integrin staining intensity in the mid-luteal phase biopsies in any of the groups studied. CONCLUSIONS Endometrial OPN and αvβ3 integrin expression or co-expression is not impaired during the window of implantation in patients with Stage I-II endometriosis. Further studies are needed to determine whether these results imply normal endometrial receptivity in such patients or add to the increasing uncertainty about the clinical value of assessing the endometrium with these markers of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Casals
- Institut Clinic of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, c/Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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130
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Tsang H, Cheung TY, Kodithuwakku SP, Chai J, Yeung WS, Wong CK, Lee KF. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) suppresses spheroids attachment on endometrial epithelial cells through the down-regulation of the Wnt-signaling pathway. Reprod Toxicol 2012; 33:60-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2011.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Revised: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 11/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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131
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Haouzi D, Dechaud H, Assou S, De Vos J, Hamamah S. Insights into human endometrial receptivity from transcriptomic and proteomic data. Reprod Biomed Online 2012; 24:23-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2011.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Revised: 09/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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132
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Rashid NA, Lalitkumar S, Lalitkumar PG, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Endometrial receptivity and human embryo implantation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 66 Suppl 1:23-30. [PMID: 21726335 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.01048.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The pre-requisite of successful implantation involves an intricate cascade of molecular interactions which plays a crucial role in preparing receptive endometrium and implanting blastocyst. METHOD OF STUDY Data are hereby presented for a better understanding of endometrial receptivity in women, hoping to provide a comprehensive picture of the process and identify new areas of basic and translational research in the biology of blastocyst implantation. RESULTS Timely regulation of the expression of a number of complex molecules like hormones, cytokines and growth factors, and their crosstalk from embryonic and maternal endometrial side play a major role in determining the fate of the embryo. The molecular basis of endometrial receptivity and the mechanisms by which the blastocyst first adheres to the luminal epithelium and then penetrates into the stroma are only just beginning to be resolved. CONCLUSION Advances in the development of implantation models and 'omics' technologies, particularly proteomics and metabolomics, are set to have a major impact on the development of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najwa A Rashid
- Division of Genomics & Genetics, School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore city, Singapore
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Daikoku T, Cha J, Sun X, Tranguch S, Xie H, Fujita T, Hirota Y, Lydon J, DeMayo F, Maxson R, Dey SK. Conditional deletion of Msx homeobox genes in the uterus inhibits blastocyst implantation by altering uterine receptivity. Dev Cell 2011; 21:1014-25. [PMID: 22100262 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2011.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
An effective bidirectional communication between an implantation-competent blastocyst and the receptive uterus is a prerequisite for mammalian reproduction. The blastocyst will implant only when this molecular cross-talk is established. Here we show that the muscle segment homeobox gene (Msh) family members Msx1 and Msx2, which are two highly conserved genes critical for epithelial-mesenchymal interactions during development, also play crucial roles in embryo implantation. Loss of Msx1/Msx2 expression correlates with altered uterine luminal epithelial cell polarity and affects E-cadherin/β-catenin complex formation through the control of Wnt5a expression. Application of Wnt5a in vitro compromised blastocyst invasion and trophoblast outgrowth on cultured uterine epithelial cells. The finding that Msx1/Msx2 genes are critical for conferring uterine receptivity and readiness to implantation could have clinical significance, because compromised uterine receptivity is a major cause of pregnancy failure in IVF programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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Altmäe S, Reimand J, Hovatta O, Zhang P, Kere J, Laisk T, Saare M, Peters M, Vilo J, Stavreus-Evers A, Salumets A. Research resource: interactome of human embryo implantation: identification of gene expression pathways, regulation, and integrated regulatory networks. Mol Endocrinol 2011; 26:203-17. [PMID: 22074951 DOI: 10.1210/me.2011-1196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A prerequisite for successful embryo implantation is adequate preparation of receptive endometrium and the establishment and maintenance of a viable embryo. The success of implantation further relies upon a two-way dialogue between the embryo and uterus. However, molecular bases of these preimplantation and implantation processes in humans are not well known. We performed genome expression analyses of human embryos (n = 128) and human endometria (n = 8). We integrated these data with protein-protein interactions in order to identify molecular networks within the endometrium and the embryo, and potential embryo-endometrium interactions at the time of implantation. For that, we applied a novel network profiling algorithm HyperModules, which combines topological module identification and functional enrichment analysis. We found a major wave of transcriptional down-regulation in preimplantation embryos. In receptive-stage endometrium, several genes and signaling pathways were identified, including JAK-STAT signaling and inflammatory pathways. The main curated embryo-endometrium interaction network highlighted the importance of cell adhesion molecules in the implantation process. We also identified cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions involved in implantation, where osteopontin (SPP1), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and leptin (LEP) pathways were intertwining. Further, we identified a number of novel players in human embryo-endometrium interactions, such as apolipoprotein D (APOD), endothelin 1 (END1), fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7), gastrin (GAST), kringle containing trnasmembrane protein 1 (KREMEN1), neuropilin 1 (NRP1), serpin peptidase inhibitor clade A member 3 (SERPINA3), versican (VCAN), and others. Our findings provide a fundamental resource for better understanding of the genetic network that leads to successful embryo implantation. We demonstrate the first systems biology approach into the complex molecular network of the implantation process in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Altmäe
- Department of Clinical Science Intervention, and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Wang H, Pilla F, Anderson S, Martínez-Escribano S, Herrer I, Moreno-Moya JM, Musti S, Bocca S, Oehninger S, Horcajadas JA. A novel model of human implantation: 3D endometrium-like culture system to study attachment of human trophoblast (Jar) cell spheroids. Mol Hum Reprod 2011; 18:33-43. [PMID: 21989169 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need to develop optimized experimental models to examine human implantation. These studies aimed to (i) establish a human endometrium-like three-dimensional (3D) culture system, and (ii) examine the attachment of trophoblast-like Jar spheroids to the culture. In the present work, 3D endometrial cultures were constructed with fibrin-agarose as matrix scaffold, and using epithelial and stromal cells from both human primary cultures and established cell lines. An attachment assay between trophoblast cells and the 3D culture was developed. Epithelial cells (cytokeratin(+)) concentrated on top of the matrix forming a monolayer, and stromal cells (vimentin(+)) resided within the matrix, resembling the normal endometrial structure. The capability of primary epithelial cells to form glands spontaneously was observed. Human trophoblast cells (Jar cells) were hCG(+) by immunostaining, allowed to form spheroids, and confirmed to secrete hCG into the medium. Time-dependent experiments demonstrated a high rate of attachment of Jar spheroids to the epithelium, and adhesion was strongly related to the various cell types present in the 3D culture. An architecturally and functionally competent 3D endometrial culture system was established, that coupled with Jar spheroids mimicking trophoblast cells, provides a unique in vitro model for the study of certain aspects of human implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Wang
- The Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
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136
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Martínez-Conejero JA, Morgan M, Montesinos M, Fortuño S, Meseguer M, Simón C, Horcajadas JA, Pellicer A. Adenomyosis does not affect implantation, but is associated with miscarriage in patients undergoing oocyte donation. Fertil Steril 2011; 96:943-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.07.1088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2011] [Revised: 07/04/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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137
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Genome-wide identification of micro-ribonucleic acids associated with human endometrial receptivity in natural and stimulated cycles by deep sequencing. Fertil Steril 2011; 96:150-155.e5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.04.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2011] [Revised: 04/13/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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138
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Haouzi D, Dechaud H, Assou S, Monzo C, de Vos J, Hamamah S. Transcriptome analysis reveals dialogues between human trophectoderm and endometrial cells during the implantation period. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1440-9. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
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139
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Rybak EA, Szmyga M, Zapantis G, Rausch M, Beshay VE, Polotsky AJ, Coutifaris C, Carr BR, Santoro N, Meier UT. The nucleolar channel system reliably marks the midluteal endometrium regardless of fertility status: a fresh look at an old organelle. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:1385-9.e1. [PMID: 21067716 PMCID: PMC3347775 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2010] [Revised: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 10/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether nucleolar channel systems (NCSs) in the midluteal endometrium are associated with overall fertility status and/or with unexplained infertility. DESIGN Retrospective and prospective clinical studies. SETTING Repository of stored specimens from prior multicenter study and private infertility center. PATIENT(S) Retrospective study that included 97 women (49 fertile couples, 48 infertile couples) who had been randomized for endometrial biopsy during the midluteal or late luteal phase. The prospective study included 78 women with a variety of infertility diagnoses. INTERVENTION(S) Endometrial biopsies were obtained and assessed for the presence of NCSs by indirect immunofluorescence. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The presence of NCS was graded semiquantitatively and dichotomized as normal versus low or absent. RESULT(S) Normal presence of NCS was significantly associated with the midluteal phase compared with the late luteal phase (80% vs. 29%). However, there was no association between presence of NCS and fertility status or between presence of NCS and unexplained infertility. CONCLUSION(S) Midluteal phase endometrium consistently forms NCSs regardless of fertility status, including unexplained infertility. This indicates a possible role for the NCS in initiating the window of endometrial receptivity. However, the consistent presence of NCSs across several different types of infertility challenges the likelihood that inadequate secretory transformation is a cause of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli A. Rybak
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Michael Szmyga
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY
| | - Gregory Zapantis
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
- East Coast Fertility, Plainview, New York
| | - Mary Rausch
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Victor E. Beshay
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas – Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Alex J. Polotsky
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Christos Coutifaris
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Bruce R. Carr
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas – Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - U. Thomas Meier
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY
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140
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Li J, Tan Z, Li M, Xia T, Liu P, Yu W. Proteomic analysis of endometrium in fertile women during the prereceptive and receptive phases after luteinizing hormone surge. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:1161-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Revised: 08/07/2010] [Accepted: 09/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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141
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Tapia A, Vilos C, Marín JC, Croxatto HB, Devoto L. Bioinformatic detection of E47, E2F1 and SREBP1 transcription factors as potential regulators of genes associated to acquisition of endometrial receptivity. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:14. [PMID: 21272326 PMCID: PMC3040129 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Accepted: 01/27/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endometrium is a dynamic tissue whose changes are driven by the ovarian steroidal hormones. Its main function is to provide an adequate substrate for embryo implantation. Using microarray technology, several reports have provided the gene expression patterns of human endometrial tissue during the window of implantation. However it is required that biological connections be made across these genomic datasets to take full advantage of them. The objective of this work was to perform a research synthesis of available gene expression profiles related to acquisition of endometrial receptivity for embryo implantation, in order to gain insights into its molecular basis and regulation. METHODS Gene expression datasets were intersected to determine a consensus endometrial receptivity transcript list (CERTL). For this cluster of genes we determined their functional annotations using available web-based databases. In addition, promoter sequences were analyzed to identify putative transcription factor binding sites using bioinformatics tools and determined over-represented features. RESULTS We found 40 up- and 21 down-regulated transcripts in the CERTL. Those more consistently increased were C4BPA, SPP1, APOD, CD55, CFD, CLDN4, DKK1, ID4, IL15 and MAP3K5 whereas the more consistently decreased were OLFM1, CCNB1, CRABP2, EDN3, FGFR1, MSX1 and MSX2. Functional annotation of CERTL showed it was enriched with transcripts related to the immune response, complement activation and cell cycle regulation. Promoter sequence analysis of genes revealed that DNA binding sites for E47, E2F1 and SREBP1 transcription factors were the most consistently over-represented and in both up- and down-regulated genes during the window of implantation. CONCLUSIONS Our research synthesis allowed organizing and mining high throughput data to explore endometrial receptivity and focus future research efforts on specific genes and pathways. The discovery of possible new transcription factors orchestrating the CERTL opens new alternatives for understanding gene expression regulation in uterine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Tapia
- Instituto de Investigaciones Materno Infantil (IDIMI), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Vilos
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Horacio B Croxatto
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro para el Desarrollo de la Nanociencia y la Nanotecnología (CEDENNA), Santiago, Chile
| | - Luigi Devoto
- Instituto de Investigaciones Materno Infantil (IDIMI), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro FONDAP de Estudios Moleculares de la Célula (CEMC), Santiago, Chile
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142
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Van Vaerenbergh I, Blockeel C, Van Lommel L, Ghislain V, In't Veld P, Schuit F, Fatemi HM, Devroey P, Bourgain C. Cyclooxygenase-2 network as predictive molecular marker for clinical pregnancy in in vitro fertilization. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:448-51, 451.e1-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.07.1061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2010] [Revised: 07/01/2010] [Accepted: 07/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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143
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Díaz-Gimeno P, Horcajadas JA, Martínez-Conejero JA, Esteban FJ, Alamá P, Pellicer A, Simón C. A genomic diagnostic tool for human endometrial receptivity based on the transcriptomic signature. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:50-60, 60.e1-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.04.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 354] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2009] [Revised: 04/19/2010] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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144
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Franchi A, Bocca S, Anderson S, Riggs R, Oehninger S. Expression of milk fat globule EGF-factor 8 (MFG-E8) mRNA and protein in the human endometrium and its regulation by prolactin. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 17:360-71. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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145
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Up-regulated monoamine oxidase in the mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2010; 284:861-6. [PMID: 21107590 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-010-1765-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2010] [Accepted: 11/04/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Monoamine oxidases (MAO), functioning as the metabolism of neuroamines, have been reported to be required for endometrial receptivity recently. The aim of this study was to examine the expression patterns of the two subtypes, MAOA and MAOB, during the peri-implantation period and to investigate whether MAOA or MAOB is a useful marker for receptivity. METHODS A total of 30 uteri were collected from females of gestational day 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and mRNA and protein expression of MAOA/B were examined by real-time PCR, Western blot analysis and Immunohistochemistry analysis, respectively. RESULTS We found that the mRNA of MAOA expressed in the uteri at all stages of peri-implantation and began to rise on day 4 with a continuous increase up to day 8 of pregnancy, consistent with the changes of MAOA protein expression. The summit of MAOB mRNA and protein level was observed on day 4. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that both of MAOA and MAOB were mainly localized in the glandular and luminal epithelium cells, as well as their intense staining signals observed in the trophoblast cells on day 6 and 8. CONCLUSIONS Both MAOA and MAOB were up-regulated in the uteri during the peri-implantation period, which could play a role in mouse embryo implantation and endometrial receptivity; the temporal and spatial marked increase of MAOs may be traced as a useful marker for mouse endometrial receptivity; the expression mode of mouse MAOs should pave a way for further study.
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146
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Nitsch D, Gonçalves JP, Ojeda F, de Moor B, Moreau Y. Candidate gene prioritization by network analysis of differential expression using machine learning approaches. BMC Bioinformatics 2010; 11:460. [PMID: 20840752 PMCID: PMC2945940 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2105-11-460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Discovering novel disease genes is still challenging for diseases for which no prior knowledge - such as known disease genes or disease-related pathways - is available. Performing genetic studies frequently results in large lists of candidate genes of which only few can be followed up for further investigation. We have recently developed a computational method for constitutional genetic disorders that identifies the most promising candidate genes by replacing prior knowledge by experimental data of differential gene expression between affected and healthy individuals. To improve the performance of our prioritization strategy, we have extended our previous work by applying different machine learning approaches that identify promising candidate genes by determining whether a gene is surrounded by highly differentially expressed genes in a functional association or protein-protein interaction network. Results We have proposed three strategies scoring disease candidate genes relying on network-based machine learning approaches, such as kernel ridge regression, heat kernel, and Arnoldi kernel approximation. For comparison purposes, a local measure based on the expression of the direct neighbors is also computed. We have benchmarked these strategies on 40 publicly available knockout experiments in mice, and performance was assessed against results obtained using a standard procedure in genetics that ranks candidate genes based solely on their differential expression levels (Simple Expression Ranking). Our results showed that our four strategies could outperform this standard procedure and that the best results were obtained using the Heat Kernel Diffusion Ranking leading to an average ranking position of 8 out of 100 genes, an AUC value of 92.3% and an error reduction of 52.8% relative to the standard procedure approach which ranked the knockout gene on average at position 17 with an AUC value of 83.7%. Conclusion In this study we could identify promising candidate genes using network based machine learning approaches even if no knowledge is available about the disease or phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Nitsch
- Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT-SCD) Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
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147
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Merkl M, Ulbrich SE, Otzdorff C, Herbach N, Wanke R, Wolf E, Handler J, Bauersachs S. Microarray analysis of equine endometrium at days 8 and 12 of pregnancy. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:874-86. [PMID: 20631402 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.085233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in equids is only partially understood. To provide new insights into early events of this process, we performed a systematic analysis of transcriptome changes in the endometrium at Days 8 and 12 of pregnancy. Endometrial biopsy samples from pregnant and nonpregnant stages were taken from the same mares. Composition of the collected biopsy samples was analyzed using quantitative stereological techniques to determine proportions of surface and glandular epithelium and blood vessels. Microarray analysis did not reveal detectable changes in gene expression at Day 8, whereas at Day 12 of pregnancy 374 differentially expressed genes were identified, 332 with higher and 42 with lower transcript levels in pregnant endometrium. Expression of selected genes was validated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Gene set enrichment analysis, functional annotation clustering, and cocitation analysis were performed to characterize the genes differentially expressed in Day 12 pregnant endometrium. Many known estrogen-induced genes and genes involved in regulation of estrogen signaling were found, but also genes known to be regulated by progesterone and prostaglandin E2. Additionally, differential expression of a number of genes related to angiogenesis and vascular remodeling suggests an important role of this process. Furthermore, genes that probably have conserved functions across species, such as CRYAB, ERRFI1, FGF9, IGFBP2, NR2F2, STC1, and TNFSF10, were identified. This study revealed the potential target genes and pathways of conceptus-derived estrogens, progesterone, and prostaglandin E2 in the equine endometrium probably involved in the early events of establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in the mare.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Merkl
- Clinic for Horses, Center for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, and Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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148
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Zhang X, Bocca S, Franchi A, Anderson S, Kaur M, Bajic VB, Oehninger S. Do GnRH analogues directly affect human endometrial epithelial cell gene expression? Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 16:347-60. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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149
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Almog B, Shalom-Paz E, Dufort D, Tulandi T. Promoting implantation by local injury to the endometrium. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:2026-9. [PMID: 20171615 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.12.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2009] [Revised: 12/27/2009] [Accepted: 12/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between endometrial injury, implantation and pregnancy rate. DESIGN We performed a literature search using the keywords endometrial injury, local endometrial injury, endometrial biopsy, endometrial receptivity, implantation, in vitro fertilization, and implantation failure and conducted the search in Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of systematic reviews. SETTING None. PATIENT(S) None. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) None. RESULT(S) Clinical and basic science data regarding the association between endometrial injury and improved implantation rate are limited. However, current evidence suggests that endometrial injury before IVF among women with previous repeated IVF failure is associated with increased rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. CONCLUSION(S) Endometrial injury may have a beneficial role in implantation and improve the pregnancy rate. However, there are still many unanswered question including patients selection, timing, technique and number of endometrial biopsies needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Almog
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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150
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Munro SK, Farquhar CM, Mitchell MD, Ponnampalam AP. Epigenetic regulation of endometrium during the menstrual cycle. Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 16:297-310. [PMID: 20139117 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium undergoes morphological and functional changes during the menstrual cycle which are essential for uterine receptivity. These changes are driven by estrogen and progesterone and involve the fine control of many different genes-several of which have been identified as being epigenetically regulated. Epigenetic modification may therefore influence the functional changes in the endometrium required for successful implantation. There is, however, only limited information on epigenetic regulation in endometrium. We review the potential role of epigenetic regulation of key processes during the menstrual cycle and present our own findings following a preliminary study into global acetylation levels in the human endometrium. A changing epigenetic state is associated with the differentiation of stem cells into different lineages and thus may be involved in endometrial regeneration. Histone acetylation is implicated in the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway during angiogenesis, and studies using histone deacetylase inhibitors suggest an involvement in endometrial proliferation and differentiation. The processes of decidualization and implantation are also associated with epigenetic change and epigenetic modulators show variable expression across the menstrual cycle. Our own studies found that endometrial global histone acetylation, as determined by western blotting, changed throughout the menstrual cycle and correlated well with expected transcription activity during the different phases. This suggests that epigenetics may be involved in the regulation of endometrial gene expression during the menstrual cycle and that abnormal epigenetic modifications may therefore be associated with implantation failure and early pregnancy loss as well as with other endometrial pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Munro
- The Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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