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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: The Pregnancy Hormone and More. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18051059. [PMID: 28505106 PMCID: PMC5454971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18051059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Revised: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
To thoroughly review the uses of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) related to the process of reproduction and also assess new, non-traditional theories. Review of the international literature and research studies. hCG and its receptor, LH/CGR, are expressed in numerous sites of the reproductive tract, both in gonadal and extra-goanadal tissues, promoting oocyte maturation, fertilization, implantation and early embryo development. Moreover, hCG seems to have a potential role as an anti-rejection agent in solid organ transplantation. Future research needs to focus extensively on the functions of hCG and its receptor LH/CGR, in an effort to reveal known, as well as unknown clinical potentials.
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Abstract
A 35-year-old woman presented to our institution with tender, right knee swelling. Radiological and pathological work-up revealed metastatic osteosarcoma. Prior to the initiation of chemotherapy, she underwent a routine urine pregnancy test and was surprised with a positive result. Serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin (βhCG) levels were also consistently positive and rising. No gestational sac was seen at transvaginal ultrasound. The paraneoplastic ectopic secretion of βhCG has been well described in gestational trophoblastic and gonadal tumours but has very rarely been associated with other tumour types. This patient's βhCG level was reflective of osteosarcoma activity and normalised with response to chemotherapy. The prognostic implications of βhCG expression in more diverse tumours is unclear; however, where raised, it can be used to monitor disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Harrold
- Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eileen McMahon
- Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peadar McGing
- Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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153
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Low molecular weight hyaluronan induces migration of human choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells mediated by RHAMM as well as by PI3K and MAPK pathways. Histochem Cell Biol 2017; 148:173-187. [PMID: 28365860 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-017-1559-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hyaluronan (HA) is the major glycosaminoglycan present in the extracellular matrix. It is produced by some tumours and promotes proliferation, differentiation and migration among others cellular processes. Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is composed by non-tumour entities, such as hydatidiform mole (HM), which is the most common type of GTD and also malignant entities such as choriocarcinoma (CC) and placental site trophoblastic tumour (PSTT), being CC the most aggressive tumour. Although there is a growing understanding of GTD biology, the role of HA in the pathogenesis of this group of diseases remains largely unknown. The aim of this work was to study the role of HA in the pathogenesis of GTD by defining the expression pattern of HA and its receptors CD44 and RHAMM, as well as to determine if HA can modulate proliferation, differentiation and migration of CC cells. Receptors and signalling pathways involved were also analyzed. We demonstrated that HA and RHAMM are differently expressed among GTD entities and even among trophoblast subtypes. We also showed that HA is able to enhance the expression of extravillous trophoblast markers and also to induce migration of JEG-3 cells, the latter mediated by RHAMM as well as PI3K and MAPK pathways. These findings indicate a novel regulatory mechanism for CC cell biology and also contribute to the understanding of GTD pathophysiology.
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154
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Chauvigné F, Ollé J, González W, Duncan N, Giménez I, Cerdà J. Toward developing recombinant gonadotropin-based hormone therapies for increasing fertility in the flatfish Senegalese sole. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174387. [PMID: 28329024 PMCID: PMC5362233 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Captive flatfishes, such as the Senegalese sole, typically produce very low volumes of sperm. This situation is particularly prevalent in the first generation (F1) of reared sole males, which limits the development of artificial fertilization methods and the implementation of selective breeding programs. In this study, we investigated whether combined treatments with homologous recombinant follicle-stimulating (rFsh) and luteinizing (rLh) hormones, produced in a mammalian host system, could stimulate spermatogenesis and enhance sperm production in Senegalese sole F1 males. In an initial autumn/winter experiment, weekly intramuscular injections with increasing doses of rFsh over 9 weeks resulted in the stimulation of gonad weight, androgen release, germ cell proliferation and entry into meiosis, and the expression of different spermatogenesis-related genes, whereas a subsequent single rLh injection potentiated spermatozoa differentiation. In a second late winter/spring trial corresponding to the sole’s natural prespawning and spawning periods, we tested the effect of repeated rLh injections on the amount and quality of sperm produced by males previously treated with rFsh for 4, 6, 8 or 10 weeks. These latter results showed that the combination of rFsh and rLh treatments could increase sperm production up to 7 times, and slightly improve the motility of the spermatozoa, although a high variability in the response was found. However, sustained administration of rFsh during spawning markedly diminished Leydig cell survival and the steroidogenic potential of the testis. These data suggest that in vivo application of rFsh and rLh is effective at stimulating spermatogenesis and sperm production in Senegalese sole F1 males, setting the basis for the future establishment of recombinant gonadotropin-based hormone therapies to ameliorate reproductive dysfunctions of this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Chauvigné
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail: (FC); (IG); (JC)
| | - Judith Ollé
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Neil Duncan
- IRTA, Sant Carles de la Ràpita, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Giménez
- Rara Avis Biotec, S. L., Valencia, Spain
- * E-mail: (FC); (IG); (JC)
| | - Joan Cerdà
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail: (FC); (IG); (JC)
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155
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Borisova MA, Moiseenko DY, Smirnova OV. Human chorionic gonadotropin: Unknown about known. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s0362119716060050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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156
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157
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Li S, Roberson MS. Dlx3 and GCM-1 functionally coordinate the regulation of placental growth factor in human trophoblast-derived cells. J Cell Physiol 2017; 232:2900-2914. [PMID: 27996093 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PGF) is abundantly expressed by trophoblast cells within human placentae and is important for trophoblast development and placental vascularization. Circulating maternal serum levels of PGF are dynamically upregulated across gestation in normal pregnancies, whereas low circulating levels and placental production of PGF have been implicated in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and other gestational diseases. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of regulating PGF expression in the human placenta remains poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrated that transcription factors Distal-less 3 (DLX3) and Glial cell missing-1 (GCM1) were both sufficient and required for PGF expression in human trophoblast-derived cells by overexpression and knockdown approaches. Surprisingly, while DLX3 and GCM1 were both positive regulators of PGF, co-overexpression of DLX3 and GCM1 led to an antagonist effect on PGF expression on the endogenous gene and a luciferase reporter. Further, deletion and site-directed mutagenesis studies identified a novel regulatory element on the PGF promoter mediating both DLX3- and GCM1-dependent PGF expression. This regulatory region was also found to be essential for the basal activity of the PGF promoter. Finally, Chromatin-immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays revealed colocalization of DLX3 and GCM1 at the identified regulatory region on the PGF promoter. Taken together, our studies provide important insights into intrinsic regulation of human placental PGF expression through the functional coordination of DLX3 and GCM1, and are likely to further the understanding of pathogenesis of PGF dysregulation in preeclampsia and other disease conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Li
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Mark S Roberson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
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158
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Zhang YH, He M, Wang Y, Liao AH. Modulators of the Balance between M1 and M2 Macrophages during Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2017; 8:120. [PMID: 28232836 PMCID: PMC5299000 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are a subset of mononuclear phagocytes of the innate immune system with high plasticity and heterogeneity. At the maternal–fetal interface, macrophages are present in all stages of pregnancy and involved in a variety of activities, including regulation of immune cell activities, decidualization, placental cell invasion, angiogenesis, parturition, and postpartum uterine involution. The activation state and function of uterine–placental macrophages are largely dependent on the local tissue microenvironment. However, disruption of the uterine microenvironment can have profound effects on macrophage activity and subsequently impact pregnancy outcome. Thus, appropriately and timely regulated macrophage polarization has been considered a key determinant of successful pregnancy. Targeting macrophage polarization might be an efficient strategy for maintaining maternal–fetal immune homeostasis and a normal pregnancy. Here, we will review the latest findings regarding the modulators regulating macrophage polarization in healthy pregnancies and pregnancy complications, which might provide a basis for macrophage-centered therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Hong Zhang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan , P.R. China
| | - Ming He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province , Wuhan , P.R. China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province , Wuhan , P.R. China
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan , P.R. China
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159
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Nair RR, Verma P, Singh K. Immune-endocrine crosstalk during pregnancy. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2017; 242:18-23. [PMID: 26965955 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The success of pregnancy depends mostly on a synchronized immune-endocrine crosstalk at the maternal-fetal interface. Hormones are important in terms of maintaining the suitable environment and sufficient nutrition for the developing fetus. They also play a major role during the process of parturition and lactation. Maternal immunomodulation is important for the tolerance of semiallogeneic fetus. This is achieved in concert with a variety of endocrine stimulation. Estrogen, progesterone, and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin play a major role in immune modulation during pregnancy. Hormones modulate B cells, dendritic cells, uterine natural killer cells, macrophages, neutrophils to adopt fetal friendly immune phenotypes. Recently the use of hormones in assisted reproductive technology has been found to improve the pregnancy outcome. The present review focuses on the pregnancy-related hormones, their role in immunomodulation for successful pregnancy outcome. This also shed light on the immune-endocrine crosstalk at maternal-fetal interface during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini R Nair
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele University and Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Priyanka Verma
- Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Kiran Singh
- Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India.
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160
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Büke B, Akkaya H, Demir S, Sağol S, Şimşek D, Başol G, Barutçuoğlu B. Relationship between first trimester aneuploidy screening test serum analytes and placenta accreta. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 31:59-62. [PMID: 28027672 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1275546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a relationship between first trimester serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and free beta human chorionic gonadotropin (fβhCG) MoM values and placenta accreta in women who had placenta previa. STUDY DESIGN A total of 88 patients with placenta previa who had first trimester aneuploidy screening test results were enrolled in the study. Nineteen of these patients were also diagnosed with placenta accreta. As probable markers of excessive placental invasion, serum PAPP-A and fβhCG MoM values were compared in two groups with and without placenta accreta. RESULTS Patients with placenta accreta had higher statistically significant serum PAPP-A (1.20 versus 0.865, respectively, p = 0.045) and fβhCG MoM (1.42 versus 0.93, respectively, p = 0.042) values than patients without accreta. CONCLUSIONS Higher first trimester serum PAPP-A and fβhCG MoM values seem to be associated with placenta accreta in women with placenta previa. Further studies are needed to use these promising additional tools for early detection of placenta accreta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barış Büke
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kayseri Training and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey
| | - Hatice Akkaya
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kayseri Training and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey
| | - Sibel Demir
- b Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Aksaray Ortaköy State Hospital , Aksaray , Turkey
| | - Sermet Sağol
- c Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic , Ege University Faculty of Medicine , İzmir , Turkey
| | - Deniz Şimşek
- c Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic , Ege University Faculty of Medicine , İzmir , Turkey
| | - Güneş Başol
- d Department of Biochemistry , Ege University Faculty of Medicine , İzmir , Turkey
| | - Burcu Barutçuoğlu
- d Department of Biochemistry , Ege University Faculty of Medicine , İzmir , Turkey
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161
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Riccetti L, De Pascali F, Gilioli L, Potì F, Giva LB, Marino M, Tagliavini S, Trenti T, Fanelli F, Mezzullo M, Pagotto U, Simoni M, Casarini L. Human LH and hCG stimulate differently the early signalling pathways but result in equal testosterone synthesis in mouse Leydig cells in vitro. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:2. [PMID: 28056997 PMCID: PMC5217336 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0224-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human luteinizing hormone (LH) and chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are glycoprotein hormones regulating development and reproductive functions by acting on the same receptor (LHCGR). We compared the LH and hCG activity in gonadal cells from male mouse in vitro, i.e. primary Leydig cells, which is a common tool used for gonadotropin bioassay. Murine Leydig cells are naturally expressing the murine LH receptor (mLhr), which binds human LH/hCG. METHODS Cultured Leydig cells were treated by increasing doses of recombinant LH and hCG, and cell signaling, gene expression and steroid synthesis were evaluated. RESULTS We found that hCG is about 10-fold more potent than LH in cAMP recruitment, and slightly but significantly more potent on cAMP-dependent Erk1/2 phosphorylation. However, no significant differences occur between LH and hCG treatments, measured as activation of downstream signals, such as Creb phosphorylation, Stard1 gene expression and testosterone synthesis. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that the responses to human LH/hCG are only quantitatively and not qualitatively different in murine cells, at least in terms of cAMP and Erk1/2 activation, and equal in activating downstream steroidogenic events. This is at odds with what we previously described in human primary granulosa cells, where LHCGR mediates a different pattern of signaling cascades, depending on the natural ligand. This finding is relevant for gonadotropin quantification used in the official pharmacopoeia, which are based on murine, in vivo bioassay and rely on the evaluation of long-term, testosterone-dependent effects mediated by rodent receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Riccetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco De Pascali
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Lisa Gilioli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Parma, via Voltuno 39/E, 43125 Parma, Italy
| | - Lavinia Beatrice Giva
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Marino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Simonetta Tagliavini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathological Anatomy, Azienda USL. NOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Trenti
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathological Anatomy, Azienda USL. NOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Flaminia Fanelli
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (C.R.B.A.), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital. Alma Mater University of Bologna, via G. Massarenti 9, I-40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Mezzullo
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (C.R.B.A.), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital. Alma Mater University of Bologna, via G. Massarenti 9, I-40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Uberto Pagotto
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research (C.R.B.A.), S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital. Alma Mater University of Bologna, via G. Massarenti 9, I-40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda USL. NOCSAE, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, NOCSAE, via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Abstract
Hyperthyroidism is a form of thyrotoxicosis in which there is excess thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. Multiple etiologies can lead to a common clinical state of "thyrotoxicosis," which is a consequence of the high thyroid hormone levels and their action on different tissues of the body. The most common cause of thyrotoxicosis is Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder in which stimulating thyrotropin receptor antibodies bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors on thyroid cells and cause overproduction of thyroid hormones. Other etiologies include: forms of thyroiditis in which inflammation causes release of preformed hormone, following thyroid gland insult that is autoimmune, infectious, mechanical or medication induced; secretion of human chorionic gonadotropin in the setting of transient gestational thyrotoxicosis and trophoblastic tumors; pituitary thyrotropin release, and exposure to extra-thyroidal sources of thyroid hormone that may be endogenous or exogenous. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 7:67-79, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Singh
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare Systems, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jerome M Hershman
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare Systems, Los Angeles, California, USA
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163
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Muoth C, Wichser A, Monopoli M, Correia M, Ehrlich N, Loeschner K, Gallud A, Kucki M, Diener L, Manser P, Jochum W, Wick P, Buerki-Thurnherr T. A 3D co-culture microtissue model of the human placenta for nanotoxicity assessment. NANOSCALE 2016; 8:17322-17332. [PMID: 27714104 DOI: 10.1039/c6nr06749b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that certain nanoparticles (NPs) can overcome the placental barrier, raising concerns on potential adverse effects on the growing fetus. But even in the absence of placental transfer, NPs may pose a risk to proper fetal development if they interfere with the viability and functionality of the placental tissue. The effects of NPs on the human placenta are not well studied or understood, and predictive in vitro placenta models to achieve mechanistic insights on NP-placenta interactions are essentially lacking. Using the scaffold-free hanging drop technology, we developed a well-organized and highly reproducible 3D co-culture microtissue (MT) model consisting of a core of placental fibroblasts surrounded by a trophoblast cell layer, which resembles the structure of the in vivo placental tissue. We could show that secretion levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) were significantly higher in 3D than in 2D cell cultures, which indicates an enhanced differentiation of trophoblasts grown on 3D MTs. NP toxicity assessment revealed that cadmium telluride (CdTe) and copper oxide (CuO) NPs but not titanium dioxide (TiO2) NPs decreased MT viability and reduced the release of hCG. NP acute toxicity was significantly reduced in 3D co-culture MTs compared to 2D monocultures. Taken together, 3D placental MTs provide a new and promising model for the fast generation of tissue-relevant acute NP toxicity data, which are indispensable for the safe development of NPs for industrial, commercial and medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Muoth
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
| | - Adrian Wichser
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
| | - Marco Monopoli
- Centre for BioNano Interactions, School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Manuel Correia
- Research Group for Nano-Bio Science, Division for Food Technology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Mørkhøj Bygade 19, DK-2860 Søborg, Denmark
| | - Nicky Ehrlich
- Research Group for Nano-Bio Science, Division for Food Technology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Mørkhøj Bygade 19, DK-2860 Søborg, Denmark
| | - Katrin Loeschner
- Research Group for Nano-Bio Science, Division for Food Technology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Mørkhøj Bygade 19, DK-2860 Søborg, Denmark
| | - Audrey Gallud
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 13, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Melanie Kucki
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
| | - Liliane Diener
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
| | - Pius Manser
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
| | - Wolfram Jochum
- Institute of Pathology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Rorschacherstrasse 95, 9007 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Peter Wick
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
| | - Tina Buerki-Thurnherr
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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164
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Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) concentrations during the late first trimester are associated with fetal growth in a fetal sex-specific manner. Eur J Epidemiol 2016; 32:135-144. [PMID: 27709449 PMCID: PMC5374189 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-016-0201-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a pregnancy-specific hormone that regulates placental development. hCG concentrations vary widely throughout gestation and differ based on fetal sex. Abnormal hCG concentrations are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including fetal growth restriction. We studied the association of hCG concentrations with fetal growth and birth weight. In addition, we investigated effect modification by gestational age of hCG measurement and fetal sex. Total serum hCG (median 14.4 weeks, 95 % range 10.1–26.2), estimated fetal weight (measured by ultrasound during 18–25th weeks and >25th weeks) and birth weight were measured in 7987 mother–child pairs from the Generation R cohort and used to establish fetal growth. Small for gestational age (SGA) was defined as a standardized birth weight lower than the 10th percentile of the study population. There was a non-linear association of hCG with birth weight (P = 0.009). However, only low hCG concentrations measured during the late first trimester (11th and 12th week) were associated with birth weight and SGA. Low hCG concentrations measured in the late first trimester were also associated with decreased fetal growth (P = 0.0002). This was the case for both male and female fetuses. In contrast, high hCG concentrations during the late first trimester were associated with increased fetal growth amongst female, but not male fetuses. Low hCG in the late first trimester is associated with lower birth weight due to a decrease in fetal growth. Fetal sex differences exist in the association of hCG concentrations with fetal growth.
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Navali N, Gassemzadeh A, Farzadi L, Abdollahi S, Nouri M, Hamdi K, Mallah F, Jalilvand F. Intrauterine administration of hCG immediately after oocyte retrieval and the outcome of ICSI: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2520-2526. [PMID: 27680029 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the intrauterine administration of hCG immediately after oocyte retrieval in antagonist cycles with ICSI and fresh embryo transfer (ET) influence the implantation rate or chemical and clinical pregnancy rates? SUMMARY ANSWER The intrauterine administration of hCG after oocyte retrieval increases the implantation rate and chemical and clinical pregnancy rates. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Over half of IVF/ICSI cycles fail due to implantation failure. Intrauterine administration of hCG, a few minutes before ET, increased the implantation and pregnancy rates in most but not in all studies. The effect of intrauterine administration of hCG, after oocyte retrieval, has not yet been studied. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The study was a parallel, triple-blind randomized clinical trial (RCT) performed from September 2015 to February 2016, in a university hospital. We recruited women undergoing antagonist ovarian stimulation, ICSI and ET. For an effect size of 0.2, power of 80% at a significance level of 0.05, we needed 150 participants. Accounting for a 7% dropout rate, a total of 160 women was considered appropriate. A computer-generated randomization list with a block size of 4, with 1:1 allocation was used. The treatment allocation was placed in a sealed, opaque, envelope and picked up consecutively. Immediately after oocyte retrieval, patients in the intervention and control groups were treated with intrauterine injection of hCG and saline, respectively. Participants underwent ET on Day 3. A beta-hCG test was done at 2 weeks. If positive, three transvaginal-ultrasonographies (TVSs) were done at 3, 4 and 10 weeks after ET. The participants were called up thereafter and questioned about the continuity of their pregnancy. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHOD Of 1990 women attending the infertility clinic of our university hospital, 508 were IVF/ICSI candidates during the study period, and 245 of the patients on an antagonist cycle met the criteria to be invited into our trial. Inclusion criteria were normal ovarian reserve, age ≤41, undergoing ICSI, and fresh ET and normal TSH and prolactin. Uncontrolled chronic disease, severe hydrosalpinx, severe endometriosis, morphologic embryo deficiencies, non-obstructive azospermia and high risk of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome were criteria for exclusion. After taking an informed consent, a total of 158 participants were recruited, of which 80 were randomly allocated to receive intrauterine 500 IU hCG in up to 0.5 ml normal saline and 78 to receive intrauterine 0.5 ml normal saline immediately after oocyte retrieval, during general anaesthesia. ICSI was performed conventionally. The 4-8 cell embryos were transferred on the third day after oocyte retrieval. Implantation rate, chemical and clinical pregnancy rates were analysed and compared between the two groups. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Patients' demographic and baseline characteristics were comparable. The clinical results showed statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding the biochemical pregnancy rate (59.2 versus 31.3%; P = 0.001; odds ratio (OR) = 1.88; 95% CI, 1.26-2.82; risk difference (RD) = 27.8; 95% CI, 11.2-42.3), implantation rate (37 versus 17%; P = 0.012; OR = 2.29; 95% CI, 1.02-5.14; RD = 20.2; 95% CI, 5.4-33.8), clinical pregnancy rate (50.7 versus 16.4%; P < 0.001; OR = 3.08; 95% CI, 1.71-5.55; RD = 34.3; 95% CI, 18.7-47.6) and ongoing pregnancy rate (40.1 versus 13.4%; P = 0.001; OR = 3.04; 95% CI, 1.55-5.93; RD = 27.4; 95% CI, 12.7-40.6). The abortion and ectopic pregnancy rates were not statistically different between the two groups. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The insertion of an intrauterine insemination catheter and the injection of a small amount of saline into the uterine cavity (without hCG) may also have some impact on implantation. This effect could be studied by comparing this intervention with another study group without any intrauterine injection.There are no specific side effects mentioned in the literature for the intrauterine administration of hCG, neither were any observed in our study, but it is best to be cautious about probable side effects, because this type of intervention is relatively new and experimental, and deserves more studies before being entered into routine clinical practice. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Intrauterine administration of hCG immediately after oocyte pick up increases its effectiveness; however, further investigations are required before this procedure can be recommended for clinical practice. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by the Women's Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. No external funds were used. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER IRCT201206165485N4. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 2 September 2015. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT 2 September 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Navali
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran .,Reproductive Medical Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
| | - A Gassemzadeh
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran.,Reproductive Medical Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
| | - L Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran.,Reproductive Medical Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
| | - S Abdollahi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran.,Reproductive Medical Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
| | - M Nouri
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran.,Reproductive Medical Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
| | - K Hamdi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran.,Reproductive Medical Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
| | - F Mallah
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran.,Reproductive Medical Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
| | - F Jalilvand
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra University Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Artesh Road, Tabriz 5138665793, Iran
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166
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Ulloa-Aguirre A, Lira-Albarrán S. Clinical Applications of Gonadotropins in the Male. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:121-174. [PMID: 27697201 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play a pivotal role in reproduction. The synthesis and secretion of gonadotropins are regulated by complex interactions among several endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors of diverse chemical structure. In men, LH regulates the synthesis of androgens by the Leydig cells, whereas FSH promotes Sertoli cell function and thereby influences spermatogenesis. Gonadotropins are complex molecules composed of two subunits, the α- and β-subunit, that are noncovalently associated. Gonadotropins are decorated with glycans that regulate several functions of the protein including folding, heterodimerization, stability, transport, conformational maturation, efficiency of heterodimer secretion, metabolic fate, interaction with their cognate receptor, and selective activation of signaling pathways. A number of congenital and acquired abnormalities lead to gonadotropin deficiency and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition amenable to treatment with exogenous gonadotropins. Several natural and recombinant preparations of gonadotropins are currently available for therapeutic purposes. The difference between natural and the currently available recombinant preparations (which are massively produced in Chinese hamster ovary cells for commercial purposes) mainly lies in the abundance of some of the carbohydrates that conform the complex glycans attached to the protein core. Whereas administration of exogenous gonadotropins in patients with isolated congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is a well recognized therapeutic approach, their role in treating men with normogonadotropic idiopathic infertility is still controversial. This chapter concentrates on the main structural and functional features of the gonadotropin hormones and how basic concepts have been translated into the clinical arena to guide therapy for gonadotropin deficit in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ulloa-Aguirre
- Research Support Network, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)-National Institutes of Health, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - S Lira-Albarrán
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
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167
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Thankamony A, Pasterski V, Ong KK, Acerini CL, Hughes IA. Anogenital distance as a marker of androgen exposure in humans. Andrology 2016; 4:616-25. [PMID: 26846869 PMCID: PMC6225986 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal foetal testis development has been proposed to underlie common disorders of the male reproductive system such as cryptorchidism, hypospadias, reduced semen quality and testicular germ cell tumour, which are regarded as components of a 'testicular dysgenesis syndrome'. The increasing trends and geographical variation in their incidence have been suggested to result from in utero exposure to environmental chemicals acting as endocrine disruptors. In rodents, the anogenital distance (AGD), measured from the anus to the base of genital tubercle, is a sensitive biomarker of androgen exposure during a critical embryonic window of testis development. In humans, several epidemiological studies have shown alterations in AGD associated with prenatal exposure to several chemicals with potential endocrine disrupting activity. However, the link between AGD and androgen exposure in humans is not well-defined. This review focuses on the current evidence for such a relationship. As in rodents, a clear gender difference is detected during foetal development of the AGD in humans which is maintained thereafter. Reduced AGD in association with clinically relevant outcomes of potential environmental exposures, such as cryptorchidism or hypospadias, is in keeping with AGD as a marker of foetal testicular function. Furthermore, AGD may reflect variations in prenatal androgen exposure in healthy children as shorter AGD at birth is associated with reduced masculine play behaviour in preschool boys. Several studies provide evidence linking shorter AGD with lower fertility, semen quality and testosterone levels in selected groups of adults attending andrology clinics. Overall, the observational data in humans are consistent with experimental studies in animals and support the use of AGD as a biomarker of foetal androgen exposure. Future studies evaluating AGD in relation to reproductive hormones in both infants and adults, and to gene polymorphisms, will help to further delineate the effect of prenatal and postnatal androgen exposures on AGD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Thankamony
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Vickie Pasterski
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3RQ, UK
| | - Ken K Ong
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Carlo L Acerini
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Ieuan A Hughes
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
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168
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Ratner LD, Stevens G, Bonaventura MM, Lux-Lantos VA, Poutanen M, Calandra RS, Huhtaniemi IT, Rulli SB. Hyperprolactinemia induced by hCG leads to metabolic disturbances in female mice. J Endocrinol 2016; 230:157-69. [PMID: 27154336 DOI: 10.1530/joe-15-0528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The metabolic syndrome is a growing epidemic; it increases the risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, and several cancers. Several reports have indicated a link between hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance or obesity. Transgenic (TG) female mice overexpressing the human chorionic gonadotropin β-subunit (hCGβ+ mice) exhibit constitutively elevated levels of hCG, increased production of testosterone, progesterone and prolactin, and obesity. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of hCG hypersecretion on possible alterations in the glucose and lipid metabolism of adult TG females. We evaluated fasting serum insulin, glucose, and triglyceride levels in adult hCGβ+ females and conducted intraperitoneal glucose and insulin tolerance tests at different ages. TG female mice showed hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and dyslipidemia, as well as glucose intolerance and insulin resistance at 6 months of age. A 1-week treatment with the dopamine agonist cabergoline applied on 5-week-old hCGβ+ mice, which corrected hyperprolactinemia, hyperandrogenism, and hyperprogesteronemia, effectively prevented the metabolic alterations. These data indicate a key role of the hyperprolactinemia-induced gonadal dysfunction in the metabolic disturbances of hCGβ+ female mice. The findings prompt further studies on the involvement of gonadotropins and prolactin on metabolic disorders and might pave the way for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D Ratner
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermina Stevens
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina Hospital General de Agudos J. M. Ramos MejíaBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maria Marta Bonaventura
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Victoria A Lux-Lantos
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Department of PhysiologyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland Turku Center for Disease ModelingUniversity of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ricardo S Calandra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ilpo T Huhtaniemi
- Department of PhysiologyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College London, London, UK
| | - Susana B Rulli
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
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169
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Craciunas L, Tsampras N, Coomarasamy A, Raine-Fenning N. Intrauterine administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for subfertile women undergoing assisted reproduction. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016:CD011537. [PMID: 27195724 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011537.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subfertility affects 15% of couples and represents the inability to conceive naturally following 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Assisted reproduction refers to procedures involving the in vitro handling of both human gametes and represents a key option for many subfertile couples. Most women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment will reach the stage of embryo transfer (ET) but the proportion of embryos that successfully implant following ET has remained small since the mid-1990s. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone synthesised and released by the syncytiotrophoblast and has a fundamental role in embryo implantation and the early stages of pregnancy. Intrauterine administration of synthetic or natural hCG via an ET catheter during a mock procedure around the time of ET is a novel approach that has recently been suggested to improve the outcomes of assisted reproduction. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether the intrauterine administration of hCG around the time of ET improves the clinical outcomes in subfertile women undergoing assisted reproduction. SEARCH METHODS We performed a comprehensive literature search of the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialised Register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, registers of ongoing trials andreference lists of all included studies and relevant reviews (from inception to 10 November 2015), in consultation with the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Trials Search Co-ordinator. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating intrauterine administration of hCG around the time of ET in this review irrespective of language and country of origin. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently selected studies, assessed risk of bias, extracted data from studies and attempted to contact the authors where data were missing. We performed statistical analysis using Review Manager 5 in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We assessed evidence quality using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS Twelve RCTs investigated the effect of intrauterine administration of hCG for 4038 subfertile women undergoing assisted reproduction. The intra-cavity hCG (IC-hCG) was administered in variable doses at different timings before the ET. The source of hCG was from the urine of pregnant women or from cell cultures using recombinant DNA technology.Most of the studies (9/12) were at high risk of bias in at least one of the seven domains assessed. Common problems were unclear reporting of study methods and lack of blinding. The main limitations in the overall quality of the evidence were high risk of bias and serious imprecision.For the analyses of live birth and clinical pregnancy, there was considerable heterogeneity (I(2) greater than 75%) and we did not undertake a meta-analysis. Exploration for the sources of heterogeneity identified two key pre-specified variables as important determinants: stage of ET (cleavage versus blastocyst stage) and dose of IC-hCG (less than 500 international units (IU) versus 500 IU or greater). We then performed meta-analysis for these analyses within the subgroups defined by stage of embryo and dose of IC-hCG.There was an increase in live birth rate in the subgroup of women having cleavage-stage ETs with an IC-hCG dose of 500 IU or greater compared to women having cleavage-stage ETs with no IC-hCG (risk ratio (RR) 1.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.32 to 1.87, three RCTs, n = 914, I(2) = 0%, moderate quality evidence). In a clinic with a live birth rate of 25% per cycle then the use of IC-hCG -500 IU or greater would be associated with a live birth rate that varies from 33% to 46%. We did not observe a significant effect on live birth in any of the other subgroups.The was an increase in clinical pregnancy rate in the subgroup of women having cleavage-stage ETs with an IC-hCG dose of 500 IU or greater compared to women having cleavage-stage ETs with no IC-hCG (RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.25 to 1.58, seven RCTs, n = 1414, I(2) = 0%, moderate quality evidence). We did not observe a significant effect on clinical pregnancy in either of the other subgroups.There was no evidence that miscarriage was influenced by intrauterine hCG administration (RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.43, seven RCTs, n = 3395, I(2) = 0%, very low quality evidence).Other complications reported in the included studies were ectopic pregnancy (three RCTs, n = 915, three events overall), heterotopic pregnancy (one RCT, n = 495, one event), intrauterine death (two RCTs, n = 978, 21 events) and triplets (one RCT, n = 48, three events). There was no evidence of a difference between the groups, but there were too few events to allow any conclusions to be drawn and the evidence was very low quality. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The pregnancy outcome for cleavage-stage ETs using an IC-hCG dose of 500 IU or greater is promising. However, given the small size and the variable quality of the trials and the fact that the positive finding was from a subgroup analysis, the current evidence for IC-hCG treatment does not support its use in assisted reproduction cycles. A definitive large clinical trial with live birth as the primary outcome is recommended. There was no evidence that miscarriage was influenced by intrauterine hCG administration, irrespective of embryo stage at transfer or dose of IC-hCG. There were too few events to allow any conclusions to be drawn with regard to other complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurentiu Craciunas
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, NE1 7RU
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170
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Eskild A, Strøm‐Roum EM, Haavaldsen C. Does the Biological Response to Fetal Hypoxia Involve Angiogenesis, Placental Enlargement and Preeclampsia? Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2016; 30:305-9. [PMID: 27038011 PMCID: PMC4825407 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Eskild
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyAkershus University HospitalLørenskogNorway,Institute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of OsloOsloNorway
| | - Ellen Marie Strøm‐Roum
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyAkershus University HospitalLørenskogNorway,Institute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of OsloOsloNorway
| | - Camilla Haavaldsen
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyAkershus University HospitalLørenskogNorway
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171
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Godbole K, Kulkarni A, Kanade A, Kulkarni S, Godbole G, Wakankar A. Maternal Serum Aneuploidy Screen and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2016; 66:141-8. [PMID: 27651593 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-015-0826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To find out whether maternal serum screening for fetal chromosomal aneuploidy predicts adverse pregnancy outcomes. METHODS A two-year retrospective case-control study was conducted at a tertiary hospital. Pregnant women with a high-risk serum screen but with chromosomally normal fetuses (n = 189) were compared to those with low-risk screen (controls, n = 157) for adverse pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS Women with high-risk double marker or combined screen were found to have higher prevalence of LBW [OR 2.56; 95 % CI (1.01-6.53), p < 0.05] and PT [OR 2.93; 95 % CI (1.11-7.65), p < 0.05], while women with high-risk triple screen had higher prevalence of PIH [OR 3.72; 95 % CI (1.23-11.18); p < 0.05], Oligo [OR 4.50; 95 % CI (1.30-15.64); p < 0.05], delivery by C-section [OR 2.51; 95 % CI (1.41-4.47); p < 0.005] as compared to low-risk women. PAPP-A was found to be a significant predictor of birth weight (R (2) = 12.2 %, β ± SE = 0.224 ± 0.069; p < 0.005) and gestational age (R (2) = 4.9 %, β ± SE = 0.613 ± 0.296; p < 0.05). Beta hCG in first and hCG in second trimester predicted oligohydramnios (R (2) = 9.2 %, β ± SE = -0.077 ± 0.025; p < 0.005). The areas under the ROC curves of PAPP-A for LBW and PT were 0.70(p < 0.01) and 0.684 (p < 0.05), respectively. CONCLUSION A "high-risk" maternal serum screen with abnormal PAPP-A and/or beta hCG/HCG is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and may help identifying women requiring additional fetal surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koumudi Godbole
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Erandawane, Pune, 411004 India
| | - Aparna Kulkarni
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, India
| | - Asawari Kanade
- Department of Research, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, India
| | - Shilpa Kulkarni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, India
| | - Girish Godbole
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, India
| | - Anuradha Wakankar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune, India
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172
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Casarini L, Riccetti L, De Pascali F, Nicoli A, Tagliavini S, Trenti T, La Sala GB, Simoni M. Follicle-stimulating hormone potentiates the steroidogenic activity of chorionic gonadotropin and the anti-apoptotic activity of luteinizing hormone in human granulosa-lutein cells in vitro. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 422:103-114. [PMID: 26690776 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and choriogonadotropin (hCG) are glycoprotein hormones regulating ovarian function and pregnancy, respectively. Since these molecules act on the same receptor (LHCGR), they were traditionally assumed as equivalent in assisted reproduction techniques (ART), although differences between LH and hCG were demonstrated at molecular and physiological level. In this study, we demonstrated for the first time that co-treatment with a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) dose in the ART therapeutic range potentiates different LH- and hCG-dependent responses in vitro, measured in terms of cAMP, phospho-CREB, -ERK1/2 and -AKT activation, gene expression, progesterone and estradiol production in human granulosa-lutein cells (hGLC). We show that in the presence of FSH, hCG biopotency is about 5-fold increased, in the presence of FSH, in terms of cAMP activation. Accordingly, CREB phosphorylation and steroid production is increased under hCG and FSH co-treatment. LH effects, evaluated as steroidogenic cAMP/PKA pathway activation, do not change in the presence of FSH, which, however, increases LH-dependent ERK1/2 and AKT, but not CREB phosphorylation, resulting in anti-apoptotic effects. The different modulatory activity of FSH on LH and hCG action in vitro corresponds to their different physiological functions, reflecting proliferative effects exerted by LH during the follicular phase and before trophoblast development, and the high steroidogenic potential of hCG requested to sustain pregnancy from the luteal phase onwards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for the Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Laura Riccetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco De Pascali
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessia Nicoli
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | | | - Giovanni Battista La Sala
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Dept. of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for the Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Dept. of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda USL, Modena, Italy
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173
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Abstract
Pregnancy is an immunological paradox that implies that a semi-allogeneic fetus is not rejected by the maternal immune system, from implantation of the embryo to delivery. Progesterone (P4), estradiol (E2) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), contribute to the transformation of immune cells in a transient tolerance state, necessary to the maintenance of pregnancy. The effects of pregnancy hormones depend probably of their maternal plasma level. hCG is dangerous at high concentrations because it can stimulate autoantibodies production, whereas in physiological concentrations, hCG, P4 and E2 upregulate immune response expanding regulatory T and B cells, allowing the fetus to grow within the maternal uterus in a protective environment. A second example of fetal-maternal relation found recently is the role of maternal nutrition on development of the fetal hypothalamic neurons. Experiments in mice fed on a high fat diet reveal a critical timing when altered maternal metabolism affect formation of hypothalamic neurocircuits of the offspring and predispose him to long-term metabolic disorders.
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174
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Zheng Q, Deng Y, Zhong S, Shi Y. Human chorionic gonadotropin, fetal sex and risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: A nested case-control study. Pregnancy Hypertens 2016; 6:17-21. [PMID: 26955766 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess whether human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and fetal sex are two independent risk factors for hypertensive pregnancy in the early second-trimester of pregnancy. METHODS This was a retrospective nested case-control study based on a cohort of 2521 singleton pregnancies, among whom we recruited 98 hypertensive pregnancies (subdivided into severe preeclampsia, n=34; mild preeclampsia, n=29 and gestational hypertension, n=35) and 196 normotensive pregnancies. Maternal serum HCG levels were measured at 15-20 weeks of gestation and fetal sex was determined from the neonatal record. Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests were performed to assess differences of HCG levels and fetal sex between groups. Logistic regressions were performed to evaluate the effect of HCG and fetal sex on hypertensive pregnancy. RESULTS There were 35 male and 63 female fetuses in the hypertensive group, and 102 male and 94 female fetuses in the normotensive group (p=0.008). HCG (MoM) levels were significantly higher in only severe preeclamptic pregnancies (n=34) (p=0.013). There were no significant differences of the HCG (MoM) levels between male and female fetuses in each sub-group. aOR for increased maternal HCG levels and female fetus were 2.4 (95% CI: 1.434-3.954) and 2.9 (95% CI: 1.227-6.661) respectively in severe preeclamptic pregnancies compared with normotensive pregnancies. CONCLUSIONS There is a female preponderance in hypertensive pregnancies. Increased HCG levels and female fetus are two independent risk factors for severe preeclampsia in the early second-trimester of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qizhen Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Yuqing Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gynaecology Diagnostic Technology Research, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Shilin Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China
| | - Yu Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China
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175
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Sarin H. Pressuromodulation at the cell membrane as the basis for small molecule hormone and peptide regulation of cellular and nuclear function. J Transl Med 2015; 13:372. [PMID: 26610602 PMCID: PMC4660824 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0707-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Building on recent knowledge that the specificity of the biological interactions of small molecule hydrophiles and lipophiles across microvascular and epithelial barriers, and with cells, can be predicted on the basis of their conserved biophysical properties, and the knowledge that biological peptides are cell membrane impermeant, it has been further discussed herein that cellular, and thus, nuclear function, are primarily regulated by small molecule hormone and peptide/factor interactions at the cell membrane (CM) receptors. The means of regulating cellular, and thus, nuclear function, are the various forms of CM Pressuromodulation that exist, which include Direct CM Receptor-Mediated Stabilizing Pressuromodulation, sub-classified as Direct CM Receptor-Mediated Stabilizing Shift Pressuromodulation (Single, Dual or Tri) or Direct CM Receptor-Mediated Stabilizing Shift Pressuromodulation (Single, Dual or Tri) cum External Cationomodulation (≥3+ → 1+); which are with respect to acute CM receptor-stabilizing effects of small biomolecule hormones, growth factors or cytokines, and also include Indirect CM- or CM Receptor-Mediated Pressuromodulation, sub-classified as Indirect 1ary CM-Mediated Shift Pressuromodulation (Perturbomodulation), Indirect 2ary CM Receptor-Mediated Shift Pressuromodulation (Tri or Quad Receptor Internal Pseudo-Cationomodulation: SS 1+), Indirect 3ary CM Receptor-Mediated Shift Pressuromodulation (Single or Dual Receptor Endocytic External Cationomodulation: 2+) or Indirect (Pseudo) 3ary CM Receptor-Mediated Shift Pressuromodulation (Receptor Endocytic Hydroxylocarbonyloetheroylomodulation: 0), which are with respect to sub-acute CM receptor-stabilizing effects of small biomolecules, growth factors or cytokines. As a generalization, all forms of CM pressuromodulation decrease CM and nuclear membrane (NM) compliance (whole cell compliance), due to pressuromodulation of the intracellular microtubule network and increases the exocytosis of pre-synthesized vesicular endogolgi peptides and small molecules as well as nuclear-to-rough endoplasmic reticulum membrane proteins to the CM, with the potential to simultaneously increase the NM-associated chromatin DNA transcription of higher molecular weight protein forms, secretory and CM-destined, mitochondrial and nuclear, including the highest molecular weight nuclear proteins, Ki67 (359 kDa) and Separase (230 kDa), with the latter leading to mitogenesis and cell division; while, in the case of growth factors or cytokines with external cationomodulation capability, CM Receptor External Cationomodulation of CM receptors (≥3+ → 1+) results in cationic extracellular interaction (≥3+) with extracellular matrix heparan sulfates (≥3+ → 1+) concomitant with lamellopodesis and cell migration. It can be surmised that the modulation of cellular, and nuclear, function is mostly a reactive process, governed, primarily, by small molecule hormone and peptide interactions at the cell membrane, with CM receptors and the CM itself. These insights taken together, provide valuable translationally applicable knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Sarin
- Freelance Investigator in Translational Science and Medicine, Charleston, WV, USA.
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176
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Caldeira J, Bustos J, Peabody J, Chackerian B, Peabody DS. Epitope-Specific Anti-hCG Vaccines on a Virus Like Particle Platform. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0141407. [PMID: 26516771 PMCID: PMC4627648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0141407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The possibility of a contraceptive vaccine targeting human chorionic gonadotropin has long been recognized, but never fully realized. Here we describe an epitope-specific approach based on immunogenic display of hCG-derived peptides on virus-like particles of RNA bacteriophage. A number of recombinant VLPs were constructed, each displaying a different hCG-derived peptide. Some were taken from the disordered C-terminal tail of the hormone, another came from an internal loop, and yet another was an epitope mimic produced by affinity-selection on an hCG-neutralizing antibody target. Immunization of mice with some VLPs yielded antisera that bound the hormone and neutralized hCG biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerri Caldeira
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - Jeremiah Bustos
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - Julianne Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - David S. Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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177
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Tanbo TG, Eskild A. Maternal hCG concentrations in early IVF pregnancies: associations with number of cells in the Day 2 embryo and oocytes retrieved. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2758-63. [PMID: 26508733 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do number of cells in the transferred cleavage stage embryo and number of oocytes retrieved for IVF influence maternal hCG concentrations in early pregnancies? SUMMARY ANSWER Compared with transfer of a 2-cell embryo, transfer of a 4-cell embryo results in higher hCG concentrations on Day 12 after transfer, and more than 20 oocytes retrieved were associated with low hCG concentrations. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Maternal hCG concentration in very early pregnancy varies considerably among women, but is likely to be an indicator of time since implantation of the embryo into the endometrium, in addition to number and function of trophoblast cells. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We followed 1047 pregnancies after IVF/ICSI from oocyte retrieval until Day 12 after embryo transfer. Women were recruited in Norway during the years 2005-2013. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Successful pregnancies after transfer of one single embryo that had been cultured for 2 days were included. Maternal hCG was quantified on Day 12 after embryo transfer by chemiluminescence immunoassay, which measures intact hCG and the free β-hCG chain. Information on a successful pregnancy, defined as birth after >16 weeks, was obtained by linkage to the Medical Birth Registry of Norway. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Transfer of a 4-cell embryo resulted in higher maternal hCG concentrations compared with transfer of a 2-cell embryo (134.8 versus 87.8 IU/l, P < 0.05). A high number of oocytes retrieved (>20) was associated with low hCG concentrations (P < 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The factors studied explain a limited part of the total variation of hCG concentrations in early pregnancy. Although embryo transfer was performed at the same time after fertilization, we do not know the exact time of implantation. A further limitation to our study is that the number of pregnancies after transfer of a 2-cell embryo was small (27 cases). WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Number of cells in the transferred embryo and number of oocytes retrieved may influence the conditions and timing for embryo implantation in different ways and thereby influence maternal hCG concentrations. Such knowledge may be important for interpretation of hCG concentrations in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T G Tanbo
- Department of Gynecology, Division of Women and Children, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, 0424 Oslo, Norway Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - A Eskild
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akershus University Hospital, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway
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178
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Baer RJ, Currier RJ, Norton ME, Flessel MC, Goldman S, Towner D, Jelliffe-Pawlowski LL. Outcomes of pregnancies with more than one positive prenatal screening result in the first or second trimester. Prenat Diagn 2015; 35:1223-31. [PMID: 26288069 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe adverse outcomes and fetal abnormalities in women with a positive prenatal screening result for more than one disorder. STUDY DESIGN Study participants were drawn from a population of 452 901 women pregnant with singletons entering the California Prenatal Screening Program in their first-trimester. Risk assessment was provided for trisomy 21 and trisomy 18 in the first-trimester and trisomy 21, trisomy 18, neural tube defects, and Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome in the second-trimester. Inclusion in this study required positive screening for more than one of the screened conditions and a completed outcome of pregnancy survey. RESULTS A total of 874 women met our study inclusion criteria. Over 25% of these pregnancies had a fetus with a chromosomal abnormality. Of the euploid pregnancies, 6.9% had a fetus with a major birth defect. Of the pregnancies with a fetus with neither a chromosomal abnormality nor a major birth defect, 9.3% ended in fetal demise. Overall, more than 50% of women with multiple positive screening results had either a fetus with a birth defect or a poor pregnancy outcome. CONCLUSION Although it is rare to screen positive for more than one condition, such results indicate a very high risk for chromosomal abnormality, fetal demise, or structural abnormality.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Baer
- Genetic Disease Screening Program, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - R J Currier
- Genetic Disease Screening Program, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA
| | - M E Norton
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M C Flessel
- Genetic Disease Screening Program, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA
| | - S Goldman
- Genetic Disease Screening Program, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA
| | - D Towner
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - L L Jelliffe-Pawlowski
- Genetic Disease Screening Program, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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179
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Li D, Zhang P, Li F, Chi L, Zhu D, Zhang Q, Chi L. Recognition of N-glycoforms in human chorionic gonadotropin by monoclonal antibodies and their interaction motifs. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:22715-23. [PMID: 26240146 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.657072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The glycosylation of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) plays an important role in reproductive tumors. Detecting hCG N-glycosylation alteration may significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity of related cancers. However, developing an immunoassay directly against the N-linked oligosaccharides is unlikely because of the heterogeneity and low immunogenicity of carbohydrates. Here, we report a hydrogen/deuterium exchange and MS approach to investigate the effect of N-glycosylation on the binding of antibodies against different hCG glycoforms. Hyperglycosylated hCG was purified from the urine of invasive mole patients, and the structure of its N-linked oligosaccharides was confirmed to be more branched by MS. The binding kinetics of the anti-hCG antibodies MCA329 and MCA1024 against hCG and hyperglycosylated hCG were compared using biolayer interferometry. The binding affinity of MCA1024 changed significantly in response to the alteration of hCG N-linked oligosaccharides. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange-MS reveals that the peptide β65-83 of the hCG β subunit is the epitope for MCA1024. Site-specific N-glycosylation analysis suggests that N-linked oligosaccharides at Asn-13 and Asn-30 on the β subunit affect the binding affinity of MCA1024. These results prove that some antibodies are sensitive to the structural change of N-linked oligosaccharides, whereas others are not affected by N-glycosylation. It is promising to improve glycoprotein biomarker-based cancer diagnostics by developing combined immunoassays that can determine the level of protein and measure the degree of N-glycosylation simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daoyuan Li
- From the National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China, the State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250033, China
| | - Fei Li
- From the National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Lequan Chi
- the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11794, and
| | - Deyu Zhu
- the State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Qunye Zhang
- the Central Research Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250100 China
| | - Lianli Chi
- From the National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China, the State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China,
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180
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Soliman A, Lacasse AA, Lanoix D, Sagrillo-Fagundes L, Boulard V, Vaillancourt C. Placental melatonin system is present throughout pregnancy and regulates villous trophoblast differentiation. J Pineal Res 2015; 59:38-46. [PMID: 25833399 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is highly produced in the placenta where it protects against molecular damage and cellular dysfunction arising from hypoxia/re-oxygenation-induced oxidative stress as observed in primary cultures of syncytiotrophoblast. However, little is known about melatonin and its receptors in the human placenta throughout pregnancy and their role in villous trophoblast development. The purpose of this study was to determine melatonin-synthesizing enzymes, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT) and hydroxyindole O-methyltransferase (HIOMT), and melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) expression throughout pregnancy as well as the role of melatonin and its receptors in villous trophoblast syncytialization. Our data show that the melatonin generating system is expressed throughout pregnancy (from week 7 to term) in placental tissues. AANAT and HIOMT show maximal expression at the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. MT1 receptor expression is maximal at the 1st trimester compared to the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, while MT2 receptor expression does not change significantly during pregnancy. Moreover, during primary villous cytotrophoblast syncytialization, MT1 receptor expression increases, while MT2 receptor expression decreases. Treatment of primary villous cytotrophoblast with an increasing concentration of melatonin (10 pM-1 mM) increases the fusion index (syncytium formation; 21% augmentation at 1 mM melatonin vs. vehicle) and β-hCG secretion (121% augmentation at 1 mM melatonin vs. vehicle). This effect of melatonin appears to be mediated via its MT1 and MT2 receptors. In sum, melatonin machinery (synthetizing enzymes and receptors) is expressed in human placenta throughout pregnancy and promotes syncytium formation, suggesting an essential role of this indolamine in placental function and pregnancy well-being.
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MESH Headings
- Acetylserotonin O-Methyltransferase/genetics
- Acetylserotonin O-Methyltransferase/metabolism
- Arylalkylamine N-Acetyltransferase/genetics
- Arylalkylamine N-Acetyltransferase/metabolism
- Cell Differentiation/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Chorionic Villi/metabolism
- Female
- Humans
- In Vitro Techniques
- Melatonin/pharmacology
- Pregnancy
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT1/genetics
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT1/metabolism
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT2/genetics
- Receptor, Melatonin, MT2/metabolism
- Trophoblasts/cytology
- Trophoblasts/drug effects
- Trophoblasts/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Soliman
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed research Center, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Andrée-Anne Lacasse
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed research Center, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Dave Lanoix
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed research Center, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Lucas Sagrillo-Fagundes
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed research Center, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Véronique Boulard
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed research Center, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier and BioMed research Center, Université du Québec, Laval, QC, Canada
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181
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Malinowski AK, Sen J, Sermer M. Hyperreactio Luteinalis: Maternal and Fetal Effects. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2015; 37:715-723. [DOI: 10.1016/s1701-2163(15)30176-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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182
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Broere-Brown ZA, Schalekamp-Timmermans S, Hofman A, Jaddoe V, Steegers E. Fetal sex dependency of maternal vascular adaptation to pregnancy: a prospective population-based cohort study. BJOG 2015; 123:1087-95. [PMID: 26179828 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.13519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate fetal sex dependency of maternal vascular adaptation to pregnancy as assessed by uteroplacental vascular resistance and maternal blood pressure. DESIGN Prospective population-based cohort study. SETTING Rotterdam, the Netherlands. POPULATION In total, 8224 liveborn singleton pregnancies were included. METHODS Maternal vascular adaptation was assessed in all trimesters of pregnancy. Pregnancies were stratified into being either complicated by the placental syndrome (i.e. pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction or preterm birth, n = 1229) or uncomplicated (n = 6995). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES First trimester: blood pressures. Second trimester: blood pressures, pulsatility index of the uterine artery (PI-UtA). Third trimester: blood pressures, PI-UtA, presence of notching in the uterine artery. RESULTS In women carrying a male fetus PI-UtA was higher than in women with a female fetus in the total group (second trimester P < 0.001, third trimester P = 0.005). Effect estimates differed between women with or without the placental syndrome. In the total group, women with a male fetus more often showed notching in the Doppler resistance pattern (odds ratio 1.42, 95% confidence interval 1.17-1.72). Different blood pressure patterns were observed between pregnant women with a male fetus and pregnant women with a female fetus and between complicated pregnancies and uncomplicated pregnancies. CONCLUSION Fetal sex is significantly associated with maternal vascular adaptation to pregnancy with differential effects in uncomplicated pregnancies and in pregnancies complicated by the placental syndrome. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Fetal sex is significantly associated with maternal vascular adaptation to pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z A Broere-Brown
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S Schalekamp-Timmermans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A Hofman
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Vwv Jaddoe
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Paediatrics, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eap Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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183
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Wirleitner B, Schuff M, Vanderzwalmen P, Stecher A, Okhowat J, Hradecký L, Kohoutek T, Králícková M, Spitzer D, Zech NH. Intrauterine administration of human chorionic gonadotropin does not improve pregnancy and life birth rates independently of blastocyst quality: a randomised prospective study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:70. [PMID: 26141379 PMCID: PMC4491277 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful embryo implantation depends on a well-timed maternal-embryonic crosstalk. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) secreted by the embryo is known to play a key role in this process and to trigger a complex signal transduction cascade allowing the apposition, attachment, and invasion of the embryo into the decidualized uterus. Production of hCG was reported to be dependent on blastocyst quality and several articles suggested that intrauterine hCG injection increases pregnancy and implantation rates in IVF patients. However, no study has as yet analysed birth rates as final outcome. Our objective was to determine whether clinical outcome after blastocyst transfer can be improved by intrauterine injection of hCG and whether this is dependent on blastocyst quality. METHODS A prospective randomised study was conducted in two settings. In cohort A, hCG application was performed two days before blastocyst transfer. In cohort B, the administration of hCG occurred just prior to embryo transfer on day 5. For both cohorts, patients were randomised to either intrauterine hCG application or to the control group that received culture medium. Clinical outcome was analysed according to blastocyst quality of transferred embryos. RESULTS The outcome of 182 IVF-cycles (cohort A) and 1004 IVF-cycles (cohort B) was analysed. All patients received a fresh autologous blastocyst transfer on day five. Primary outcomes were pregnancy rates (PR), clinical pregnancy rates (cPR), miscarriage rates (MR), and live birth rates (LBR). No improvement of clinical outcome after intrauterine hCG administration on day 3 (cohort A) or day 5 (cohort B) was found, independently of blastocyst quality transferred. The final outcome in cohort A: LBR after transfer of top blastocysts was 50.0 % with hCG and 53.3 % in the control group. With non-top blastocysts, LBR of 17.1 % (hCG) and 18.2 % (control) were observed (n.s.). In cohort B, LBR with top blastocysts was 53.3 % (hCG) and 48.4 % (control), with non-top blastocysts it came to 28.7 % (hCG) and 35.0 % (control). The differences between the groups were statistically not significant. Furthermore, we investigated a possible benefit of hCG administration in correlation with female age. In both age groups (<38 years and ≥ 38 years) we found similar LBR after treatment with hCG vs. medium. A LBR of 47.1 % vs. 48.7 % was obtained in the younger group and 26.6 % vs. 30.8 % in the older group. CONCLUSIONS In contrast to previous studies indicating a substantial benefit from intrauterine hCG application in cleavage stage embryo transfers, in our study we could not find any evidence for improvement of clinical outcome in blastocyst transfer cycles, neither with top nor with non-top quality morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pierre Vanderzwalmen
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria.
- Centre Hospitalier Inter Régional Edith Cavell (CHIREC), Braine-l'Alleud, Bruxelles, Belgium.
| | - Astrid Stecher
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria.
| | - Jasmin Okhowat
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria.
| | - Libor Hradecký
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech, B. Smetany 2, 30100, Pilsen, Czech Republic.
| | - Tomáš Kohoutek
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech, B. Smetany 2, 30100, Pilsen, Czech Republic.
| | - Milena Králícková
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Charles University in Prague - Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Karlovarská 48, 30166, Pilsen, Czech Republic.
| | - Dietmar Spitzer
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech, Innsbrucker Bundesstr. 35, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Nicolas H Zech
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria.
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184
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Human chorionic gonadotropin is expressed virtually in all intracranial germ cell tumors. J Neurooncol 2015; 124:23-32. [PMID: 25994796 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-015-1809-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) production has been utilized as a diagnostic marker for germinoma with syncytiotrophoblastic giant cells (STGC) and choriocarcinoma. Elevated hCG in germinoma is considered to predict less favorable prognosis, and an intensive treatment strategy may accordingly be applied. However, there is some evidence that any germinoma may produce hCG to varying extent. We investigated mRNA expression of the hCG β subunit (hCGβ) using real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in 94 germ cell tumors (GCTs). Most (93.3 %) GCTs showed higher expression levels compared with that of normal brain tissue (1.09 × 10(0)-1.40 × 10(5) fold). The expression was the highest in GCTs which harbor choriocarcinoma or STGC components. The expression level of hCGβ in germinoma was highly variable (1.09 × 10(0)-5.88 × 10(4) fold) in linear but not bimodal distribution. hCG concentrations in serum and CSF correlated with gene expression, especially when GCTs with single histological component were analyzed separately. The expression was not significantly associated with recurrence in pure germinoma. These results suggest that the serum/CSF hCG levels may need to be interpreted with caution as most GCTs appear to have the capacity of producing hCG irrespective of their histology. The clinical significance of ubiquitous hCG expression in GCTs needs further investigation.
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185
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Reference ranges and determinants of total hCG levels during pregnancy: the Generation R Study. Eur J Epidemiol 2015; 30:1057-66. [PMID: 25963653 PMCID: PMC4584104 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-015-0039-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a pregnancy hormone secreted by the placental synctiotrophoblast cell layer that has been linked to fetal growth and various placental, uterine and fetal functions. In order to investigate the effects of hCG on clinical endpoints, knowledge on reference range (RR) methodology and determinants of gestational hCG levels is crucial. Moreover, a better understanding of gestational hCG physiology can improve current screening programs and future clinical management. Serum total hCG levels were determined in 8195 women participating in the Generation R Study. Gestational age specific RRs using ‘ultrasound derived gestational age’ (US RRs) were calculated and compared with ‘last menstrual period derived gestational age’ (LMP RRs) and a model-based RR. We also investigated which pregnancy characteristics were associated with hCG levels. Compared to the US RRs, the LMP RRs were lower, most notably for the median and lower limit levels. No considerable differences were found between RRs calculated in the general population or in uncomplicated pregnancies only. Maternal smoking, BMI, parity, ethnicity, fetal gender, placental weight and hyperemesis gravidarum symptoms were associated with total hCG. We provide gestational RRs for total hCG and show that total hCG values and RR cut-offs during pregnancy vary depending on pregnancy dating methodology. This is likely due to the influence of hCG on embryonic growth, suggesting that ultrasound based pregnancy dating might be less reliable in women with high/low hCG levels. Furthermore, we identify different pregnancy characteristics that influence total hCG levels considerably and should therefore be accounted for in clinical studies.
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186
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Tabata T, Petitt M, Zydek M, Fang-Hoover J, Larocque N, Tsuge M, Gormley M, Kauvar LM, Pereira L. Human cytomegalovirus infection interferes with the maintenance and differentiation of trophoblast progenitor cells of the human placenta. J Virol 2015; 89:5134-47. [PMID: 25741001 PMCID: PMC4403461 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.03674-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a major cause of birth defects that include severe neurological deficits, hearing and vision loss, and intrauterine growth restriction. Viral infection of the placenta leads to development of avascular villi, edema, and hypoxia associated with symptomatic congenital infection. Studies of primary cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) revealed that HCMV infection impedes terminal stages of differentiation and invasion by various molecular mechanisms. We recently discovered that HCMV arrests earlier stages involving development of human trophoblast progenitor cells (TBPCs), which give rise to the mature cell types of chorionic villi-syncytiotrophoblasts on the surfaces of floating villi and invasive CTBs that remodel the uterine vasculature. Here, we show that viral proteins are present in TBPCs of the chorion in cases of symptomatic congenital infection. In vitro studies revealed that HCMV replicates in continuously self-renewing TBPC lines derived from the chorion and alters expression and subcellular localization of proteins required for cell cycle progression, pluripotency, and early differentiation. In addition, treatment with a human monoclonal antibody to HCMV glycoprotein B rescues differentiation capacity, and thus, TBPCs have potential utility for evaluation of the efficacies of novel antiviral antibodies in protecting and restoring placental development. Our results suggest that HCMV replicates in TBPCs in the chorion in vivo, interfering with the earliest steps in the growth of new villi, contributing to virus transmission and impairing compensatory development. In cases of congenital infection, reduced responsiveness of the placenta to hypoxia limits the transport of substances from maternal blood and contributes to fetal growth restriction. IMPORTANCE Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a leading cause of birth defects in the United States. Congenital infection can result in permanent neurological defects, mental retardation, hearing loss, visual impairment, and pregnancy complications, including intrauterine growth restriction, preterm delivery, and stillbirth. Currently, there is neither a vaccine nor any approved treatment for congenital HCMV infection during gestation. The molecular mechanisms underlying structural deficiencies in the placenta that undermine fetal development are poorly understood. Here we report that HCMV replicates in trophoblast progenitor cells (TBPCs)-precursors of the mature placental cells, syncytiotrophoblasts and cytotrophoblasts, in chorionic villi-in clinical cases of congenital infection. Virus replication in TBPCs in vitro dysregulates key proteins required for self-renewal and differentiation and inhibits normal division and development into mature placental cells. Our findings provide insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms by which HCMV replication interferes with placental maturation and transport functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takako Tabata
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Matthew Petitt
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Martin Zydek
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - June Fang-Hoover
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Nicholas Larocque
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mitsuru Tsuge
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Matthew Gormley
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA The Eli & Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Lenore Pereira
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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187
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Ma Q, Fan J, Wang J, Yang S, Cong Q, Wang R, Lv Q, Liu R, Ning G. High levels of chorionic gonadotrophin attenuate insulin sensitivity and promote inflammation in adipocytes. J Mol Endocrinol 2015; 54:161-70. [PMID: 25691497 DOI: 10.1530/jme-14-0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) presents with moderate inflammation, insulin resistance and impaired glucose uptake, which may result from increased maternal fat mass and increased circulation of placental hormones and adipokines. In this study, we set out to test whether the surge in chorionic gonadotrophin (CG) secretion is a cause of inflammation and impaired insulin sensitivity in GDM. We first found that LH/chorionic gonadotrophin receptors (CG/LHR) were expressed at low levels in insulin-sensitive murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes and murine C2C12 myocytes. CG treatment not only directly reduced insulin-responsive gene expression, including that of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), but also impaired insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 cells. Moreover, CG treatment increased the expression of the proinflammatory cytokine monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1) and upregulated nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activity in 3T3-L1 cells. Clinically, pregnant women who had higher CG levels and elevated MCP1 developed GDM. Above all, apart from prepregnancy BMI and MCP1 level, CG level was associated with abnormal glucose tolerance. In summary, our findings confirmed that higher CG levels in pregnancy possibly played a role in GDM development partly by impairing the functions of insulin, such those involved in as glucose uptake, while promoting inflammation in adipocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinyun Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jianxia Fan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jiqiu Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Shuai Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Qing Cong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Qianqian Lv
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Ruixin Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Guang Ning
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
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188
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Rajakumar C, Guan H, Langlois D, Cernea M, Yang K. Bisphenol A disrupts gene expression in human placental trophoblast cells. Reprod Toxicol 2015; 53:39-44. [PMID: 25784278 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the effect of bisphenol A (BPA) on human placental gene expression using primary trophoblast cells as an in vitro model system. Trophoblast cells were isolated from human placentas at term, cultured and then exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of BPA (0.1-2 μg/ml) for up to 24h, after which levels of 11β-HSD2 mRNA, protein and activity were determined by standard radiometric conversion assay, western blotting, and qRT-PCR, respectively. The mRNA levels of several other prominent placental hormones/factors were also assessed by qRT-PCR. BPA dramatically increased levels of 11β-HSD2 activity, protein and mRNA in a time- and concentration-dependent manner (> 4-fold). BPA also augmented aromatase, glucose transporter-1, CRH, and hCG mRNA levels while reducing the level of leptin mRNA. These findings demonstrate that BPA severely disrupts human placental gene expression in vitro, which suggests that exposure to BPA may contribute to altered placental function and consequent pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandrew Rajakumar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5
| | - Haiyan Guan
- Children's Health Research Institute & Lawson Health Research Institute, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5
| | - David Langlois
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5
| | - Maria Cernea
- Children's Health Research Institute & Lawson Health Research Institute, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5
| | - Kaiping Yang
- Children's Health Research Institute & Lawson Health Research Institute, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5; Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, The University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada N6C 2V5.
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189
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Evans J, Salamonsen LA, Menkhorst E, Dimitriadis E. Dynamic changes in hyperglycosylated human chorionic gonadotrophin throughout the first trimester of pregnancy and its role in early placentation. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1029-38. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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190
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Yuri T, Tsubura A. Relation between parity and pregnancy-related hormones and breast cancer control. BREAST CANCER MANAGEMENT 2015. [DOI: 10.2217/bmt.14.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY Epidemiological research has indicated the beneficial effects of full-term pregnancy at an early age for a reduction in breast cancer risk. Experimental data have shown that pregnancy and pregnancy-related hormones, such as estrogen plus progesterone, estrogen alone and human chorionic gonadotropin, are involved in parity-induced protection. Pregnancy and short-duration treatment of a young host with pregnancy-related hormones to mimic the pregnancy environment provide mammary cancer protection by making cells refractory to carcinogenic stimuli and causing growth arrest and programmed cell death. Experimental data concerning pregnancy and pregnancy-related hormones are reviewed in relation to intrinsic subtypes of mammary cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yuri
- Department of Pathology II, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Airo Tsubura
- Department of Pathology II, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
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191
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Craciunas L, Tsampras N, Coomarasamy A, Raine-Fenning N. Intrauterine administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for subfertile women undergoing assisted reproduction. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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192
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Taylor N. Transient false-positive urine human chorionic gonadotropin in septic shock. Am J Emerg Med 2015; 33:864.e1-2. [PMID: 25616588 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2014.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/14/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Point-of-care testing for urine human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) allows rapid diagnosis of pregnancy and pregnancy-related disorders at the bedside. Urine hCG test kits use enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technology and incorporate 2 types of monoclonal antibody in a sandwich structure. There have been case reports in a variety of disease states reporting interference with this method leading to false-positive results. We describe the case of a nonpregnant female presenting to the emergency department with septic shock secondary to severe colitis. Three sequential urine tests using the Clearview hCG test kit (Alere Limited, Stockport, United Kingdom) yielded positive results, whereas quantitative serum analysis was negative for hCG. This initial test result reverted to a true-negative result after 48 hours, suggesting the transient passage of an interferent into the urine at the time of initial testing. This may have been a molecule produced as part of the host inflammatory response or from bacterial synthesis of an interferent with hCG-like antigenic structure. It is important that clinicians are aware of the mechanisms and limitations of urine hCG testing and maintain a low threshold to undertake early serum hCG testing to confirm diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Taylor
- Milton Keynes NHS Foundation Trust, Standing Way, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom.
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193
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Stein DG, Geddes RI, Sribnick EA. Recent developments in clinical trials for the treatment of traumatic brain injury. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2015; 127:433-51. [PMID: 25702233 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52892-6.00028-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The clinical understanding of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and its manifestations is beginning to change. Both clinicians and research scientists are recognizing that TBI and related disorders such as stroke are complex, systemic inflammatory and degenerative diseases that require an approach to treatment more sophisticated than targeting a single gene, receptor, or signaling pathway. It is becoming increasingly clear that TBI is a form of degenerative disorder affecting the brain and other organs, and that its manifestations can unfold days, weeks, and years after the initial damage. Until recently, and despite numerous industry- and government-sponsored clinical trials, attempts to find a safe and effective neuroprotective agent have all failed - probably because the research and development strategies have been based on an outdated early 20th century paradigm seeking a magic bullet that will affect a narrowly circumscribed target. We propose that more attention be given to the development of drugs, given alone or in combination, that are pleiotropic in their actions and that have systemic as well as central nervous system effects. We review current Phase II and Phase III trials for acute pharmacologic treatments for TBI and report on their aims, methods, status, and important associated research issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald G Stein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Rastafa I Geddes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Eric A Sribnick
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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194
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Sisinni L, Landriscina M. The Role of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin as Tumor Marker: Biochemical and Clinical Aspects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2015; 867:159-76. [PMID: 26530366 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-7215-0_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Tumor markers are biological substances that are produced/released mainly by malignant tumor cells, enter the circulation in detectable amounts and are potential indicators of the presence of a tumor. The most useful biochemical markers are the tumor-specific molecules, i.e., receptors, enzymes, hormones, growth factors or biological response modifiers that are specifically produced by tumor cells and not, or minimally, by the normal counterpart (Richard et al. Principles and practice of gynecologic oncology. Wolters Kluwer Health, Philadelphia, 2009). Based on their specificity and sensitivity in each malignancy, biomarkers are used for screening, diagnosis, disease monitoring and therapeutic response assessment in clinical management of cancer patients.This chapter is focused on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone with a variety of functions and widely used as a tumor biomarker in selected tumors. Indeed, hCG is expressed by both trophoblastic and non-trophoblastic human malignancies and plays a role in cell transformation, angiogenesis, metastatization, and immune escape, all process central to cancer progression. Of note, hCG testing is crucial for the clinical management of placental trophoblastic malignancies and germ cell tumors of the testis and the ovary. Furthermore, the production of hCG by tumor cells is accompanied by varying degrees of release of the free subunits into the circulation, and this is relevant for the management of cancer patients (Triozzi PL, Stevens VC, Oncol Rep 6(1):7-17, 1999).The name chorionic gonadotropin was conceived: chorion derives from the latin chordate meaning afterbirth, gonadotropin indicates that the hormone is a gonadotropic molecule, acting on the ovaries and promoting steroid production (Cole LA, Int J Endocrinol Metab 9(2):335-352, 2011). The function, the mechanism of action and the interaction between hCG and its receptor continue to be the subject of intensive investigation, even though many issues about hCG have been well documented (Tegoni M et al., J Mol Biol 289(5):1375-1385, 1999).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza Sisinni
- Laboratory of Pre-Clinical and Translational Research, IRCCS, Referral Cancer Center of Basilicata, Rionero in Vulture, PZ, Italy
| | - Matteo Landriscina
- Clinical Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto, 1, 71100, Foggia, Italy.
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195
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Choi J, Smitz J. Luteinizing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin: a review of their varied clinical applications in assisted reproductive technology. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2015; 10:87-100. [PMID: 30289044 DOI: 10.1586/17446651.2015.969711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are often viewed as interchangeable from a functional standpoint because they are highly homologous members of the same glycoprotein hormone family that share a common α-subunit and receptor. However, technological advances yielding highly purified and recombinant gonadotropin preparations have revealed that LH and hCG fulfill different roles, both endogenously and when administered exogenously. These differences are becoming more apparent as the individual hormones are incorporated into the treatment of infertility - a therapeutic area that is continually advancing with the introduction of new agents and emerging clinical trial data. This review examines the unique attributes of LH and hCG that drive their distinctive applications in the treatment of female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Choi
- a 1 The Center for Women's Reproductive Care at Columbia University, 1790 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10019, USA
| | - Johan Smitz
- b 2 Laboratory Hormonology and Tumormarkers, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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196
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Aaleyasin A, Aghahosseini M, Rashidi M, Safdarian L, Sarvi F, Najmi Z, Mobasseri A, Amoozgar B. In vitro fertilization outcome following embryo transfer with or without preinstillation of human chorionic gonadotropin into the uterine cavity: a randomized controlled trial. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2014; 79:201-5. [PMID: 25531413 DOI: 10.1159/000363235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) at embryo transfer (ET) has been shown to improve the outcome of assisted reproductive techniques. The aim of this study was to confirm previous findings. METHODS In this randomized controlled trial, 483 infertile women who were candidates for in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) for the first time were randomly assigned to receive an intrauterine injection of 500 IU hCG or placebo (tissue culture media) before ET. The main outcome measures were implantation and clinical pregnancy rates. RESULTS Both the hCG-treated group (n = 240) and control group (n = 243) were similar at baseline in terms of demographic and obstetrical characteristics. There were significant differences between the two groups regarding the implantation rate (23.6 vs. 12.2%, p < 0.001), pregnancy rate (54.6 vs. 35.8%, p < 0.001), clinical pregnancy rate (50 vs. 32.1%, p < 0.001), ongoing pregnancy rate (15.3 vs. 9.2%, p < 0.001) and live delivery rate (14.3 vs. 8.4%, p < 0.001). The rate of fertilization and abortion rates were not statistically different. CONCLUSION Intrauterine injection of hCG before ET improves implantation and pregnancy rates and may be considered an adjuvant in IVF/ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Aaleyasin
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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197
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Vandersmissen HP, Van Hiel MB, Van Loy T, Vleugels R, Vanden Broeck J. Silencing D. melanogaster lgr1 impairs transition from larval to pupal stage. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 209:135-47. [PMID: 25157788 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play key roles in a wide diversity of physiological processes and signalling pathways. The leucine-rich repeats containing GPCRs (LGRs) are a subfamily that is well-conserved throughout most metazoan phyla and have important regulatory roles in vertebrates. Here, we report on the critical role of Drosophila melanogaster LGR1, the fruit fly homologue of the vertebrate glycoprotein hormone receptors, in development as a factor involved in the regulation of pupariation. Transcript profiling revealed that lgr1 transcripts are most abundant in third instar larvae and adult flies. The tissues displaying the highest transcript levels were the hindgut, the rectum and the salivary glands. Knockdown using RNA interference (RNAi) demonstrated that white pupa formation was severely suppressed in D. melanogaster lgr1 RNAi larvae. Associated with this developmental defect was a reduced ecdysteroid titer, which is in line with significantly reduced transcript levels detected for the Halloween genes shadow (sad) and spookier (spok) in the third instar lgr1 RNAi larvae compared to the control condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthias Boris Van Hiel
- KU Leuven, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Naamsestraat 59, PO Box 2465, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Tom Van Loy
- KU Leuven, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Naamsestraat 59, PO Box 2465, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Rut Vleugels
- KU Leuven, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Naamsestraat 59, PO Box 2465, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Jozef Vanden Broeck
- KU Leuven, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Naamsestraat 59, PO Box 2465, Leuven, Belgium.
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198
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Catalano R, Currier R, Steinsaltz D. Hormonal evidence of selection
in utero
revisited. Am J Hum Biol 2014; 27:426-31. [DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.22655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Revised: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- R.A. Catalano
- School of Public Health, University of California BerkeleyBerkeley California94720‐7360
| | - R.J. Currier
- Genetic Disease Screening Program, California Department of Public HealthRichmond California94804
| | - D. Steinsaltz
- Department of StatisticsUniversity of Oxford1 South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3TG United Kingdom
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199
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Liempi A, Castillo C, Duaso J, Droguett D, Sandoval A, Barahona K, Hernández A, Galanti N, Maya JD, Kemmerling U. Trypanosoma cruzi induces trophoblast differentiation: a potential local antiparasitic mechanism of the human placenta? Placenta 2014; 35:1035-42. [PMID: 25315217 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The congenital transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) is responsible for one-third of new Chagas disease cases each year. During congenital transmission, the parasite breaks down the placental barrier formed by the trophoblast, basal laminae and villous stroma. The observation that only 5% of infected mothers transmit the parasite to the fetus implies that the placenta may impair parasite transmission. The trophoblast undergoes continuous epithelial turnover, which is considered part of innate immunity. Therefore, we propose that T. cruzi induces differentiation in the trophoblast as part of a local antiparasitic mechanism of the placenta. METHODS We analyzed β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and syncytin protein expression in HPCVE and BeWo cells using immunofluorescence and western blotting. Additionally, β-hCG secretion into the culture medium was measured by ELISA. We assessed the differentiation of trophoblastic cells in BeWo cells using the two-color fusion assay and by determining desmoplakin re-distribution. RESULTS T. cruzi trypomastigotes induce β-hCG secretion and protein expression as well as syncytin protein expression in HPCVE and BeWo cells. Additionally, the parasite induces the trophoblast fusion of BeWo cells. DISCUSSION T. cruzi induces differentiation of the trophoblast, which may contribute to increase the trophoblast turnover. The turnover could be a component of local antiparasitic mechanisms in the human placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Liempi
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - C Castillo
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - J Duaso
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - D Droguett
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Departamento de Estomatología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Talca, Chile
| | - A Sandoval
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - K Barahona
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - A Hernández
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - N Galanti
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - J D Maya
- Programa de Farmacología Molecular y Clínica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - U Kemmerling
- Programa de Anatomía y Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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200
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Ezcurra D, Humaidan P. A review of luteinising hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin when used in assisted reproductive technology. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:95. [PMID: 25280580 PMCID: PMC4287577 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropins extracted from the urine of post-menopausal women have traditionally been used to stimulate folliculogenesis in the treatment of infertility and in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Products, such as human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG), consist not only of a mixture of the hormones, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), but also other biologically active contaminants, such as growth factors, binding proteins and prion proteins. The actual amount of molecular LH in hMG preparations varies considerably due to the purification process, thus hCG, mimicking LH action, is added to standardise the product. However, unlike LH, hCG plays a different role during the natural human menstrual cycle. It is secreted by the embryo and placenta, and its main role is to support implantation and pregnancy. More recently, recombinant gonadotropins (r-hFSH and r-hLH) have become available for ART therapies. Recombinant LH contains only LH molecules. In the field of reproduction there has been controversy in recent years over whether r-hLH or hCG should be used for ART. This review examines the existing evidence for molecular and functional differences between LH and hCG and assesses the clinical implications of hCG-supplemented urinary therapy compared with recombinant therapies used for ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Ezcurra
- EMD/Merck Serono, One Technology Place, Rockland, MA 02370 USA
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Skive Regional Hospital and Faculty of Health, Aarhus University and Odense University, Resenvej 25, Skive, 7800 Denmark
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