1
|
Eriksson ANM, Dubiel J, Alcaraz AJ, Doering JA, Wiseman S. Far from Their Origins: A Transcriptomic Investigation on How 2,4-Di-tert-butyl-6-(5-chloro-2H-benzotriazol-2-yl) Phenol Affects Rainbow Trout Alevins. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:2026-2038. [PMID: 38923588 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Benzotriazole ultraviolet stabilizers (BUVSs) are a group of widely used chemicals added to a variety of consumer (e.g., plastics) and industrial (e.g., metal coating) goods. Although detected globally as an environmentally persistent pollutant, BUVSs have received relatively little toxicological attention and only recently have been acknowledged to affect development and the endocrine system in vivo. In our previous study, altered behavior, indicative of potential neurotoxicity, was observed among rainbow trout alevins (day 14 posthatching) that were microinjected as embryos with a single environmentally relevant dose of 2,4-di-tert-butyl-6-(5-chloro-2H-benzotriazol-2-yl) phenol (UV-327). In the present follow-up study, we performed whole-transcriptome profiling (RNA sequencing) of newly hatched alevins from the same batch. The primary aim was to identify biomarkers related to behavior and neurology. Dose-specifically, 1 to 176 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. In the group presenting altered behavior (273.4 ng g-1), 176 DEGs were identified, yet only a fraction was related to neurological functions, including water, calcium, and potassium homeostasis; acetylcholine transmission and signaling; as well insulin and energy metabolism. The second objective was to estimate the transcriptomic point of departure (tPOD) and assess if point estimate(s) are protective of altered behavior. A tPOD was established at 35 to 94 ng UV-327 g-1 egg, making this tPOD protective of behavioral alterations. Holistically, these transcriptomic alterations provide a foundation for future research on how BUVSs can influence rainbow trout alevin development, while providing support to the hypothesis that UV-327 can influence neurogenesis and subsequent behavioral endpoints. The exact structural and functional changes caused by embryonic exposure to UV-327 remain enigmatic and will require extensive investigation before being deciphered and understood toxicologically. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2026-2038. © 2024 The Author(s). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas N M Eriksson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Justin Dubiel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alper James Alcaraz
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jon A Doering
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Steve Wiseman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shenoy US, Adiga D, Alhedyan F, Kabekkodu SP, Radhakrishnan R. HOXA9 transcription factor is a double-edged sword: from development to cancer progression. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:709-728. [PMID: 38062297 PMCID: PMC11156722 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10159-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The HOXA9 transcription factor serves as a molecular orchestrator in cancer stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and generation of the tumor microenvironment in hematological and solid malignancies. However, the multiple modes of regulation, multifaceted functions, and context-dependent interactions responsible for the dual role of HOXA9 as an oncogene or tumor suppressor in cancer remain obscure. Hence, unravelling its molecular complexities, binding partners, and interacting signaling molecules enables us to comprehend HOXA9-mediated transcriptional programs and molecular crosstalk. However, it is imperative to understand its central role in fundamental biological processes such as embryogenesis, foetus implantation, hematopoiesis, endothelial cell proliferation, and tissue homeostasis before designing targeted therapies. Indeed, it presents an enormous challenge for clinicians to selectively target its oncogenic functions or restore tumor-suppressive role without altering normal cellular functions. In addition to its implications in cancer, the present review also focuses on the clinical applications of HOXA9 in recurrence and drug resistance, which may provide a broader understanding beyond oncology, open new avenues for clinicians for accurate diagnoses, and develop personalized treatment strategies. Furthermore, we have also discussed the existing therapeutic options and accompanying challenges in HOXA9-targeted therapies in different cancer types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- U Sangeetha Shenoy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Divya Adiga
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Faisal Alhedyan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Clinical Dentistry, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Shama Prasada Kabekkodu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Raghu Radhakrishnan
- Department of Oral Pathology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India.
- Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Clinical Dentistry, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bracho GS, Acosta MV, Altamirano GA, Alcaraz MR, Montemurro M, Culzoni MJ, Rossetti MF, Kass L, Luque EH, Bosquiazzo VL. Uterine histopathology and steroid metabolism in a polycystic ovary syndrome rat model. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 585:112198. [PMID: 38467370 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate uterine lesions, uterine endocrine status and expression of genes involved in uterine differentiation in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The possible involvement of the androgen receptor (AR) was also investigated. PCOS rats showed an increased incidence of uterine epithelial and glandular lesions and elevated serum testosterone level, which was not detected in uterine tissue. Uterine 17β-estradiol, estrone and progesterone were detected in 100%, 75% and 50% of the animals, respectively. This was associated with a decrease in Star and an increase in Hsd17b2, Srd5a1 and Cyp19a1, suggesting that uterine steroids are not synthesized de novo in PCOS and that alterations in these enzymes may explain the absence of testosterone and low progesterone. In addition, ESR2 decreased and AR increased, suggesting possible steroid receptor crosstalk. Genes associated with uterine differentiation, PTEN and WNT5a, also showed reduced expression. PCOS rats treated with flutamide, an AR antagonist, were similar to PCOS rats in terms of uterine lesions, serum steroid levels, ESR2, PTEN and WNT5a expression. However, testosterone, AR and aromatase levels were similar to control rats, with decreased expression of ESR1 and HOXA10, suggesting that these expressions are AR dependent. Our results suggest that the primary cause of the observed uterine lesions in the PCOS rat model is the altered endocrine status and consequently changes in genes related to uterine differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Soledad Bracho
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Departamento de Química General e Inorgánica, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María Virginia Acosta
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Anahí Altamirano
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mirta Raquel Alcaraz
- Laboratorio de Desarrollo Analítico y Quimiometría (LADAQ), Cátedra de Química Analítica I, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Milagros Montemurro
- Laboratorio de Desarrollo Analítico y Quimiometría (LADAQ), Cátedra de Química Analítica I, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María Julia Culzoni
- Laboratorio de Desarrollo Analítico y Quimiometría (LADAQ), Cátedra de Química Analítica I, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María Florencia Rossetti
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Laura Kass
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique Hugo Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Verónica Lis Bosquiazzo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL, UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liao Z, Tang S, Nozawa K, Shimada K, Ikawa M, Monsivais D, Matzuk M. Affinity-tagged SMAD1 and SMAD5 mouse lines reveal transcriptional reprogramming mechanisms during early pregnancy. eLife 2024; 12:RP91434. [PMID: 38536963 PMCID: PMC10972565 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization, a prerequisite for successful pregnancies, relies on transcriptional reprogramming driven by progesterone receptor (PR) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-SMAD1/SMAD5 signaling pathways. Despite their critical roles in early pregnancy, how these pathways intersect in reprogramming the endometrium into a receptive state remains unclear. To define how SMAD1 and/or SMAD5 integrate BMP signaling in the uterus during early pregnancy, we generated two novel transgenic mouse lines with affinity tags inserted into the endogenous SMAD1 and SMAD5 loci (Smad1HA/HA and Smad5PA/PA). By profiling the genome-wide distribution of SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR in the mouse uterus, we demonstrated the unique and shared roles of SMAD1 and SMAD5 during the window of implantation. We also showed the presence of a conserved SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR genomic binding signature in the uterus during early pregnancy. To functionally characterize the translational aspects of our findings, we demonstrated that SMAD1/5 knockdown in human endometrial stromal cells suppressed expressions of canonical decidual markers (IGFBP1, PRL, FOXO1) and PR-responsive genes (RORB, KLF15). Here, our studies provide novel tools to study BMP signaling pathways and highlight the fundamental roles of SMAD1/5 in mediating both BMP signaling pathways and the transcriptional response to progesterone (P4) during early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Martin Matzuk
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liao Z, Tang S, Nozawa K, Shimada K, Ikawa M, Monsivais D, Matzuk MM. Affinity-tagged SMAD1 and SMAD5 mouse lines reveal transcriptional reprogramming mechanisms during early pregnancy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.25.559321. [PMID: 38106095 PMCID: PMC10723262 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.25.559321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization, a prerequisite for successful pregnancies, relies on transcriptional reprogramming driven by progesterone receptor (PR) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-SMAD1/SMAD5 signaling pathways. Despite their critical roles in early pregnancy, how these pathways intersect in reprogramming the endometrium into a receptive state remains unclear. To define how SMAD1 and/or SMAD5 integrate BMP signaling in the uterus during early pregnancy, we generated two novel transgenic mouse lines with affinity tags inserted into the endogenous SMAD1 and SMAD5 loci (Smad1HA/HA and Smad5PA/PA). By profiling the genome-wide distribution of SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR in the mouse uterus, we demonstrated the unique and shared roles of SMAD1 and SMAD5 during the window of implantation. We also showed the presence of a conserved SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR genomic binding signature in the uterus during early pregnancy. To functionally characterize the translational aspects of our findings, we demonstrated that SMAD1/5 knockdown in human endometrial stromal cells suppressed expressions of canonical decidual markers (IGFBP1, PRL, FOXO1) and PR-responsive genes (RORB, KLF15). Here, our studies provide novel tools to study BMP signaling pathways and highlight the fundamental roles of SMAD1/5 in mediating both BMP signaling pathways and the transcriptional response to progesterone (P4) during early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Martin M. Matzuk
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Graduate Program of Genetics and Genomics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wasilewska A, Grabowska M, Moskalik-Kierat D, Brzoza M, Laudański P, Garley M. Immunological Aspects of Infertility-The Role of KIR Receptors and HLA-C Antigen. Cells 2023; 13:59. [PMID: 38201263 PMCID: PMC10778566 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms of immune tolerance of a mother against an antigenically foreign fetus without a concomitant loss of defense capabilities against pathogens are the factors underlying the success of a pregnancy. A significant role in human defense is played by killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) receptors, which regulate the function of the natural killer (NK) cells capable of destroying antigenically foreign cells, virus-infected cells, or tumor-lesioned cells. A special subpopulation of NK cells called uterine NK cells (uNK) is found in the uterus. Disruption of the tolerance process or overactivity of immune-competent cells can lead to immune infertility, a situation in which a woman's immune system attacks her own reproductive cells, making it impossible to conceive or maintain a pregnancy. Since the prominent role of the inflammatory response in infertility, including KIR receptors and NK cells, has been postulated, the process of antigen presentation involving major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules (HLA) appears to be crucial for a successful pregnancy. Proper interactions between KIR receptors on female uNK cells and HLA class I molecules, with a predominant role for HLA-C, found on the surface of germ cells, are strategically important during embryo implantation. In addition, maintaining a functional balance between activating and inhibitory KIR receptors is essential for proper placenta formation and embryo implantation in the uterus. A disruption of this balance can lead to complications during pregnancy. The discovery of links between KIR and HLA-C has provided valuable information about the complexity of maternal-fetal immune interactions that determine the success of a pregnancy. The great diversity of maternal KIR and fetal HLA-C ligands is associated with the occurrence of KIR/HLA-C combinations that are more or less favorable for reproductive success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wasilewska
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, University Clinical Center, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.)
| | - Marcelina Grabowska
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, University Clinical Center, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.)
| | - Dominika Moskalik-Kierat
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, University Clinical Center, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.)
| | - Martyna Brzoza
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, University Clinical Center, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.)
| | - Piotr Laudański
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland
- OVIklinika Infertility Center, 01-377 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marzena Garley
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Białystok, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Shen Q, Wu X, Chen J, He C, Wang Z, Zhou B, Zhang H. Immune Regulation of Seminal Plasma on the Endometrial Microenvironment: Physiological and Pathological Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14639. [PMID: 37834087 PMCID: PMC10572377 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) accounts for more than 90% of semen volume. It induces inflammation, regulates immune tolerance, and facilitates embryonic development and implantation in the female reproductive tract. In the physiological state, SP promotes endometrial decidualization and causes changes in immune cells such as macrophages, natural killer cells, regulatory T cells, and dendritic cells. This leads to the secretion of cytokines and chemokines and also results in the alteration of miRNA profiles and the expression of genes related to endometrial tolerance and angiogenesis. Together, these changes modulate the endometrial immune microenvironment and contribute to implantation and pregnancy. However, in pathological situations, abnormal alterations in SP due to advanced age or poor diet in men can interfere with a woman's immune adaptation to pregnancy, negatively affecting embryo implantation and even the health of the offspring. Uterine pathologies such as endometriosis and endometritis can cause the endometrium to respond negatively to SP, which can further contribute to pathological progress and interfere with conception. The research on the mechanism of SP in the endometrium is conducive to the development of new targets for intervention to improve reproductive outcomes and may also provide new ideas for semen-assisted treatment of clinical infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiuzi Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Xiaoyu Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Jin Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Chao He
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Zehao Wang
- School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China;
| | - Boyan Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; (Q.S.); (X.W.); (J.C.); (C.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jaouadi H, Theron A, Norscini G, Avierinos JF, Zaffran S. Genetic and phenotypic continuum of HOXA genes: A case with double HOXA9/HOXA13 mutations. Mol Med Rep 2023; 27:59. [PMID: 36734258 PMCID: PMC9936258 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2023.12946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The HOXA genes cluster plays a key role in embryologic development. Mutations in HOXA genes have been linked to different human phenotypes, including developmental delay, limb anomalies, and urogenital malformations. The present study reported a clinical and genetic investigation of a female patient with polymalformative syndrome including left arm agenesis, bicornuate uterus and bicuspid aortic valve. Using whole exome sequencing, two heterozygous missense variants were identified. Of these, one was a novel variant in the HOXA13 gene [p.(Tyr290Ser)] and the second a heterozygous variant in the HOXA9 gene [p.(Ala102Pro)]. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first association of HOXA9/HOXA13 point mutations linked to a syndromic case. In conclusion, the present study suggested that the phenotypic spectrum of vertebral anomalies, anal atresia, cardiac defects, tracheo‑esophageal fistula, renal anomalies and limb abnormalities/hand‑foot‑genital syndrome may be attributable to the combination of different HOXA variants, particularly in patients with a severe clinical presentation. The current report contributed as well to the molecular understanding of HOXA genes‑related phenotypes via the identification of novel variant and genes associations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hager Jaouadi
- Marseille Medical Genetics, U1251, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), School of Medicine, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Alexis Theron
- Marseille Medical Genetics, U1251, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), School of Medicine, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France,Department of Cardiac Surgery, La Timone Hospital, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Giulia Norscini
- Department of Cardiology, Public Assistance-Hospitals of Marseille, La Timone Hospital, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Jean-François Avierinos
- Marseille Medical Genetics, U1251, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), School of Medicine, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France,Department of Cardiology, Public Assistance-Hospitals of Marseille, La Timone Hospital, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Stéphane Zaffran
- Marseille Medical Genetics, U1251, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), School of Medicine, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France,Correspondence to: Dr Stéphane Zaffran, Marseille Medical Genetics, U1251, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), School of Medicine, Aix Marseille University, 27 Bd Jean Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gene Expression Profile of Uterine Leiomyoma from Women Exposed to Different Air Pollution Levels in Metropolitan Cities of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032431. [PMID: 36768749 PMCID: PMC9917088 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leiomyomas (LMs) are the most frequent uterine benign tumors, representing the leading cause of hysterectomy indications worldwide. They are highly associated with women's reproductive complications, and endocrine disruptors may influence their etiology. In this sense, air pollution represents a relevant hormonal disruptor that acts on key signaling pathways, resulting in tumor development and infertility. Our goal was to evaluate submucosal LM samples from patients living in the metropolitan and Sao Paulo city regions, focusing on genes involved in tumor development and infertility features. Twenty-four patients were selected based on their region of residence and clinical information availability. Several genes were differentially expressed between women living in metropolitan areas and Sao Paulo city. Significant associations were observed between BCL-2, DVL1, FGFR3, and WNT5b downregulation and contraceptive use in the samples from women living in Sao Paulo city. ESR1 and HHAT downregulation was associated with ethnicity. WNT5b and GREM were associated with LM treatment and related pathologies, respectively. In the samples from women living in other cities of the metropolitan region, abortion occurrence was associated with BMP4 upregulation. Although further studies may be necessary, our results showed that air pollution exposure influences the expression of genes related to LM development and female reproductive features.
Collapse
|
10
|
Mishra A, Ganguli N, Majumdar SS, Modi D. Loss of HOXA10 causes endometrial hyperplasia progressing to endometrial cancer. J Mol Endocrinol 2022; 69:431-444. [PMID: 35917434 DOI: 10.1530/jme-22-0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is the fourth most common malignancy in women and the precursor lesion is endometrial hyperplasia. HOXA10 is a transcription factor that plays key roles in endometrial functions such as the endowment of receptivity, embryo implantation, and trophoblast invasion. Herein, using testicular transgenesis, we developed transgenic mice that expressed a shRNA against HOXA10 and there was a nearly 70% reduction in the expression of HOXA10 in these animals. We observed that downregulation of HOXA10 led to the development of endometrial hyperplasia in the young animals (3 months), and as they aged (>1 year), most animals developed well-differentiated endometrial adenocarcinoma. In the endometrium of animals with reduced HOXA10, there was increased proliferation and elevated levels of ERα and ERβ. In parallel, there was increased expression of Wnt4 and β-Catenin, SOX9, and YAP1. We propose that chronic reduction in HOXA10 expression disrupts multiple pathways in the uterus that aids in the development of endometrial hyperplasia which progresses to endometrial cancer with age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Mishra
- National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, ICMR, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Nirmalya Ganguli
- National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB), Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, ICMR, Parel, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
The Role of Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells in Recurrent Reproductive Failure. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12050775. [PMID: 35629197 PMCID: PMC9143189 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12050775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), collectively referred to as recurrent reproductive failure (RRF), are both challenging conditions with many unanswered questions relating to causes and management options. Both conditions are proposed to be related to an aberrant endometrial microenvironment, with different proposed aetiologies related to a restrictive or permissive endometrium for an invading embryo. The impressive regenerative capacity of the human endometrium has been well-established and has led to the isolation and characterisation of several subtypes of endometrial stem/progenitor cells (eSPCs). eSPCs are known to be involved in the pathogenesis of endometrium-related disorders (such as endometriosis) and have been proposed to be implicated in the pathogenesis of RRF. This review appraises the current knowledge of eSPCs, and their involvement in RRF, highlighting the considerable unknown aspects in this field, and providing avenues for future research to facilitate much-needed advances in the diagnosis and management of millions of women suffering with RRF.
Collapse
|
12
|
Ekanayake DL, Małopolska MM, Schwarz T, Tuz R, Bartlewski PM. The roles and expression of HOXA/Hoxa10 gene: A prospective marker of mammalian female fertility? Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100647. [PMID: 35550944 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This review addresses the influence of homebox A10/a10 (HOXA/Hoxa10) gene on reproductive tract anatomy and functional fertility in mammalian species, and discusses major endocrine and environmental regulators of HOXA/Hoxa10 expression. Female reproductive efficiency or success is a function of several factors including the ovulation and fertilization rate, and uterine receptivity. A family of HOX/Hox genes establishes the segmental identity of the reproductive tract during embryogenesis and retains its physiological plasticity in sexually mature animals and humans. In particular, the HOXA/Hoxa10 gene is an intrinsic component of implantation, decidualization, and immunomodulation in the adult uterus. It was, therefore, suggested that knowledge of HOXA/Hoxa10 regulation might be essential in navigating molecular mechanisms with the aim of enhancing female reproductive potential. However, a recent study in pigs revealed a lack of associations between endometrial HOXA10 expression and reproductive tract morphology, and very poor correlations with sows' fertility metrics. Retinoic acid mainly regulates 3' HOX/Hox paralogs but may also modify the expression of downstream HOX/Hox genes, including HOXA/Hoxa10. Sex steroids directly regulate HOXA/Hoxa10 expression. The vitamin D receptor pathway modulates HOXA/Hoxa10 expression in the adult reproductive tract. Lastly, endocrine disruptors such as diethylstilbestrol, methoxychlor, bisphenol A, and isoflavones were shown to alter HOXA/Hoxa10 expression, thus affecting reproductive competence of the female.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Don Lochana Ekanayake
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Martyna M Małopolska
- Department of Pig Breeding, National Research Institute of Animal Production, 32-083 Balice n. Kraków, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Schwarz
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Ethology, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Avenue, 31-120 Kraków, Poland
| | - Ryszard Tuz
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Ethology, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Avenue, 31-120 Kraków, Poland
| | - Pawel M Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xue Z, Li J, Feng J, Han H, Zhao J, Zhang J, Han Y, Wu X, Zhang Y. Research Progress on the Mechanism Between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Abnormal Endometrium. Front Physiol 2022; 12:788772. [PMID: 34975540 PMCID: PMC8718643 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.788772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
As a highly dynamic tissue, the endometrium is periodically shed in response to the secretion of estrogen and progesterone. After menarche, the endometrium of healthy women proliferates and differentiates under the action of steroid hormones (e.g., 17β-estradiol and progesterone) that are secreted by the ovaries to provide appropriate conditions for embryo implantation. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorder in reproductive-aged women, is usually associated with multiple cysts within the ovaries and excess levels of androgen and is characterized by hirsutism, acne, menstrual irregularity, infertility, and increased risk of insulin resistance. Multiple factors, such as anovulation, endocrine-metabolic abnormalities, and inflammation, can disrupt the endometrium in PCOS patients and can lead to endometrial hyperplasia, pregnancy complications, or even cancer. Despite many recent studies, the relationship between PCOS and abnormal endometrial function is still not fully understood. In this review, we investigate the correlation of PCOS patient endometrium with anovulation, hyperandrogenemia, insulin resistance, progesterone resistance, and inflammatory cytokines, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of disorders caused by endometrial dysfunction in PCOS patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Xue
- The graduate school, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Juanli Li
- The graduate school, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jiaxing Feng
- The graduate school, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Han Han
- The First Clinical Hospital Affiliated to Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Second Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yanhua Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yuehui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lu W, Xu ZM, Liu Q, Yu NN, Yu JB, Li WL, Mao YY, Du Z, Si L, Yuan S, Jin J, Fu S, Sun D, Han YH. Inhibitory Effect of Bovine Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Lipopolysaccharide Induced Inflammation of Endometrial Epithelial Cells in Dairy Cows. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:726328. [PMID: 34746277 PMCID: PMC8567161 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.726328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometritis is a disease that affects reproductive health in dairy cows and causes serious economic damage to the dairy industry world-wide. Although in recent years, the application of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for the treatment of inflammatory diseases has attracted much attention, there are few reports of the use of MSCs in dairy cows. In the present study, our objective was to explore the inhibitory effects of bovine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (bAD-MSCs) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation in bovine endometrial epithelial cells (bEECs) along with the potential underlying molecular mechanisms. We characterized isolated bAD-MSCs using cell surface marker staining and adipogenic/osteogenic differentiation, and analyzed them using immunofluorescence, flow cytometry (surface marker staining), and adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, to understand the anti-inflammatory effects of bAD-MSCs on LPS induced bEEC inflammation, we used a bAD-MSC/bEEC co-culture system. The results showed that bAD-MSC treatments could significantly decrease LPS induced bEEC apoptosis and pro-inflammatory cytokine expression levels, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Furthermore, our results showed that bAD-MSC treatments could also significantly downregulate LPS induced p38, IkB-a, and JAK1 phosphorylation and Bax protein expression levels, which are closely related to inflammatory progress and cellular apoptosis in bEECs. Our findings demonstrate that bAD-MSCs play an inhibitory role in LPS induced bEEC inflammation and provide new insights for the clinical therapy of endometritis in dairy cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wengeng Lu
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Health, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Bovine Diseases, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Zheng-Mei Xu
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Health, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Health, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Nan-Nan Yu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Therapy and Regenration Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Jia-Bin Yu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Therapy and Regenration Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Wei-Long Li
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Therapy and Regenration Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Ying-Ying Mao
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Therapy and Regenration Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Du
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Health, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Linqing Si
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Health, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Siqi Yuan
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Health, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Jidong Jin
- Cofeed Feedmill (Changchun) Co., Ltd., Changchun, China
| | - Shixin Fu
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Health, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Bovine Diseases, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Dongbo Sun
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Bovine Diseases, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Ying-Hao Han
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Therapy and Regenration Biology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wu JX, Lin S, Kong SB. Psychological Stress and Functional Endometrial Disorders: Update of Mechanism Insights. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:690255. [PMID: 34413829 PMCID: PMC8369421 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.690255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium plays a vital role in providing the site for embryo implantation and maintaining the normal development and survival of the embryo. Recent studies have shown that stress is a common factor for the development of unexplained reproductive disorders. The nonreceptive endometrium and disturbed early maternal-fetal interaction might lead to infertility including the repeated embryo implantation failure and recurrent spontaneous abortion, or late pregnancy complications, thereby affecting the quality of life as well as the psychological status of the affected individuals. Additionally, psychological stress might also adversely affect female reproductive health. In recent years, several basic and clinical studies have tried to investigate the harm caused by psychological stress to reproductive health, however, the mechanism is still unclear. Here, we review the relationship between psychological stress and endometrial dysfunction, and its consequent effects on female infertility to provide new insights for clinical therapeutic interventions in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-xiang Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shuang-bo Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Dinsdale NL, Crespi BJ. Endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome are diametric disorders. Evol Appl 2021; 14:1693-1715. [PMID: 34295358 PMCID: PMC8288001 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary and comparative approaches can yield novel insights into human adaptation and disease. Endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) each affect up to 10% of women and significantly reduce the health, fertility, and quality of life of those affected. PCOS and endometriosis have yet to be considered as related to one another, although both conditions involve alterations to prenatal testosterone levels and atypical functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Here, we propose and evaluate the novel hypothesis that endometriosis and PCOS represent extreme and diametric (opposite) outcomes of variation in HPG axis development and activity, with endometriosis mediated in notable part by low prenatal and postnatal testosterone, while PCOS is mediated by high prenatal testosterone. This diametric disorder hypothesis predicts that, for characteristics shaped by the HPG axis, including hormonal profiles, reproductive physiology, life-history traits, and body morphology, women with PCOS and women with endometriosis will manifest opposite phenotypes. To evaluate these predictions, we review and synthesize existing evidence from developmental biology, endocrinology, physiology, life history, and epidemiology. The hypothesis of diametric phenotypes between endometriosis and PCOS is strongly supported across these diverse fields of research. Furthermore, the contrasts between endometriosis and PCOS in humans parallel differences among nonhuman animals in effects of low versus high prenatal testosterone on female reproductive traits. These findings suggest that PCOS and endometriosis represent maladaptive extremes of both female life-history variation and expression of sexually dimorphic female reproductive traits. The diametric disorder hypothesis for endometriosis and PCOS provides novel, unifying, proximate, and evolutionary explanations for endometriosis risk, synthesizes diverse lines of research concerning the two most common female reproductive disorders, and generates future avenues of research for improving the quality of life and health of women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bernard J. Crespi
- Department of Biological SciencesSimon Fraser UniversityBurnabyBCCanada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ajdary M, Ashrafi M, Aflatoonian R, Mehdizadeh M. The role of sperm in inducing genomic changes in the implantation: An experimental study. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14077. [PMID: 33909315 DOI: 10.1111/and.14077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity and implantation are important topics in reproductive sciences. No evidence was found to support sperm involvement in endometrial receptivity and its associated factors. This study aimed to explore the effect of the normal human spermatozoa-endometrium cell interaction in regulating genes in the endometrial receptivity pathway. Semen samples were collected from a healthy and fertile man; then, they were incubated with endometrial cells for 24 hr and considered as the sperm group. A group was cultured without spermatozoa and considered as a control group. About 24 hr later, cells were collected from the bottom of the culture dish. The expressions of the VEGF, FGF2, HBEGF, LIFR, EGF, LIF, MUC1, HOXA10, CSF and PGR genes were evaluated in the two groups. Statistical analysis was performed using an independent sample test. Compared with the control group, in the sperm group, the mRNA levels of PGR (p = .0451), VEGF (p = .0101), HBEGF (p = .0163), EFG (p = .0339), FGF2 (p = .012), LIF (p = .0324), LIFR (p = .0321) and HOXA10 (p = .0098) were significantly upregulated. The results showed that there is a need for the interaction between spermatozoa and endometrium for implantation and can be used for preparing uterine in in vitro fertilisation cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marziyeh Ajdary
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Ashrafi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Science, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Topaloğlu U, Aydın Ketani M. The distribution of some homeobox proteins in the bovine placenta during gestation. Theriogenology 2021; 166:71-82. [PMID: 33678478 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Homeobox proteins are transcription factors known to be involved in the molecular basics of body model formation and transformation. Some homeobox proteins are known to play critical roles in the control of the extraembryonic development of the placenta during gestation and in the regulation of uterine and placental physiology in adults. The gravid uteruses and placentas of 27 Holsteins cows, obtained from private slaughterhouses, were used in this study. The tissues were assigned to three groups as belonging to the first, second and third timesters of gestation, based on the fetal ages determined. Subsequently, the tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical staining using antibodies specific to the proteins investigated in the study. The evaluation of the immunohistochemical findings obtained in this study, demonstrated the presence of trimester-dependent varying intensities of immunoreactions in the uterus and placenta. Immunoreactivity was observed particularly in the luminal and glandular epithelial cells of the uterus, as well as in stromal and some endothelial cells. Furthermore, immunoreactivity for the proteins HOXA10, HOXB6, HOXC6 and Dlx-5 was determined in the smooth muscle cells. Moreover, immunoreactivity was also detected in the maternal epithelium and fetal trophoblasts found in the structure of the placenta. The results suggest that the homeobox proteins investigated may have critical roles in the regulation of endometrial functions in cows, and the proliferation and differentiation of endometrial and placental cells. It is concluded that these proteins may have physiological roles in the formation and development of the placenta, as well as in the maintenance of pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uğur Topaloğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey.
| | - Muzaffer Aydın Ketani
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Dicle University, Diyarbakır, 21280, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Paulson EE, Comizzoli P. Endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation in carnivores-commonalities and differences with other mammalian species. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:771-783. [PMID: 33412583 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation processes are a major point of pregnancy failure in many mammalian species, including humans. Although reproductive biology in many carnivore species remains enigmatic, the few that have been studied so far are invaluable comparative models. The goals of this review are to (1) summarize current data on the mechanisms involved in uterine receptivity and embryo implantation in carnivores, including commonalities and differences with other mammalian species and (2) identify research priorities to better understand a key phenomenon in a critical group of mammals. Besides unique reproductive traits in some carnivores (induced vs. spontaneous ovulation in cats, ovulation at the germinal vesicle stage in dogs), preimplantation embryo development is comparable with other orders. However, the timing of implantation varies, especially in species having an embryonic diapause. Mechanisms involved in endometrial receptivity and decidualization still remain to be fully understood, but specific markers have already been identified. Importantly, the use of endogenous hormones to control the ovarian activity may impact endometrial receptivity and subsequent embryo implantation. Next, research efforts should take advantage of advanced technologies to further study embryo implantation in carnivores and to provide more relevant models to reproductive medicine or for the conservation of rare and endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Elinor Paulson
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ajdary M, Zandieh Z, Amjadi FS, Keyhanfar F, Mehdizadeh M, Aflatoonian R. Interaction of sperm with endometrium can regulate genes involved in endometrial receptivity pathway in mice: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2020; 18:815-824. [PMID: 33134794 PMCID: PMC7569714 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v13i10.7765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many researchers consider implantation and endometrial receptivity as pertinent issues in reproductive science. Although, several experiments have been performed and their results evaluated, yet there is no confirmed evidence about the related factors and the role of sperm in endometrial receptivity. Objective To investigate the effect of the sperm-endometrium interaction in regulating genes involved in the endometrial receptivity pathway. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 10 male and 30 female NMRI mice were included, and half of the male cases were vasectomized. The subjects were divided into two groups as follows; group 1 (case) comprised of 15 females mated with 5 non-vasectomized male mice, while group 2 (control) consisted of 15 females mated with 5 vasectomized males. Cases were sacrificed and assessed after 36 hr and the endometrial tissue was extracted and kept at -80°C until the next use. The expression of the endometrial receptivity pathway genes, including VEGF, HBEGF, FGF2, EGF, LIF, LIFR, HOXA10, MUC1, PGR, and CSF, was examined in both groups. For statistical analysis, an independent samples test (Mean ± SD) was used. Results The mRNA levels of LIF (p = 0.045), LIFR (p = 0.040), MUC1 (p = 0.032), VEGF (p = 0.022), EFG (p = 0.035), and FGF2 (p = 0.040) were significantly upregulated in the case group compared with the control group. Conclusion Finally, seminal plasma was observed to be effective in expressing the involved genes in the successful implantation pathway, including LIF, LIFR, MUC1, VEGF, EGF, and FGF2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marziyeh Ajdary
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Department of Anatomical Science, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Amjadi
- Department of Anatomical Science, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariborz Keyhanfar
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Science, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ma H, Su L, He X, Miao J. Loss of HMBOX1 promotes LPS-induced apoptosis and inhibits LPS-induced autophagy of vascular endothelial cells in mouse. Apoptosis 2020; 24:946-957. [PMID: 31583496 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-019-01572-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Our previous study revealed that Homeobox containing 1 (HMBOX1), essential for the survival of vascular endothelial cells (VECs), was involved in the progression of atherosclerosis. Knockdown of HMBOX1 promoted apoptosis and inhibited autophagy through regulating intracellular free zinc level in cultured VECs. In current study, in order to investigate the roles of HMBOX1 in vivo and in endothelium, we generated a knockout (KO) mouse for HMBOX1 by using transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) technology. Herein, we reported that the protein level of HMBOX1 was gradually increased during mouse development. The HMBOX1 KO mouse was viable and fertile. There existed no differences in apoptosis and autophagy of aortic endothelial cells between wild type and KO mouse. Whereas, loss of HMBOX1 promoted apoptosis and inhibited autophagy of aortic endothelial cells under lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in mouse. We also demonstrated that HMBOX1 deletion had no influence on the secretion of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. Moreover, overexpression or knockdown of HMBOX1 failed to regulate multiple pro-apoptotic genes expression in vitro. In conclusion, HMBOX1 participated in the functional maintenance of mouse aortic endothelial cells, the aortic endothelial cells of HMBOX1 KO mouse showed increased apoptosis and decreased autophagy with LPS treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- HanLin Ma
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, People's Republic of China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, People's Republic of China
| | - Le Su
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, People's Republic of China
| | - XiaoYing He
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, People's Republic of China
| | - JunYing Miao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, People's Republic of China. .,The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education and Chinese Ministry of Health, Shandong University Qilu Hospital, Jinan, 250012, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Esmaeilzadeh S, Mohammadi A, Mahdinejad N, Ghofrani F, Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei M. Receptivity markers in endometrial mesenchymal stem cells of recurrent implantation failure and non-recurrent implantation failure women: A pilot study. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 46:1393-1402. [PMID: 32485783 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM Endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSC) have a vital role in regeneration of endometrium during menstrual cycles. Since it has been suggested that (eMSC) likely play a role in uterine receptivity and establishment of pregnancy, we aimed to evaluate the expression levels of five most known receptivity markers-Integrin (ITG) β1, Rac1, HoxA11, ITGβ3 and Noggin-in eMSC of recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and non-RIF women. METHODS Human eMSC were isolated from menstrual blood (MB) of RIF and non-RIF women. The isolated eMSC characterized based on their morphological and behavioral characteristics, expression of MSC-specific surface CD markers and their capacity of differentiation into osteocytes and adipocytes. The expression levels of the five mentioned receptivity markers were analyzed with real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Our findings revealed that RIF and non-RIF eMSC expressed all tested genes at different levels. ITGb1 expression in RIF eMSC was lower than its expression in non-RIF cells. On the other hand, all the other markers were expressed at higher levels in RIF eMSC than in non-RIF cells although only HOXA11 and ITG β3 showed statistically significant (P < 0.05) higher expression levels. CONCLUSION This pilot study on determination of the expression levels of uterine receptivity markers in eMSC interestingly indicated that RIF and non-RIF eMSC were different regarding the expression of these markers. Future studies using these findings can brighten up more the role of eMSC in the endometrium receptivity and establishment of pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sedighe Esmaeilzadeh
- Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Akbar Mohammadi
- Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Neda Mahdinejad
- Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Faezeh Ghofrani
- Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei
- Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ling Z, Long X, Li J, Feng M. Homeodomain protein DLX4 facilitates nasopharyngeal carcinoma progression via up-regulation of YB-1. Genes Cells 2020; 25:466-474. [PMID: 32281175 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant tumor in nasopharynx tissues and lacks effective treatment strategies. Dysregulation of distal-less homeobox 4 (DLX4) participates in the development of tumors. Understanding the regulatory mechanism of DLX4 in NPC progression may address this issue. Here, we first identified an up-regulation of DLX4 in NPC cell lines compared to normal epithelial cells. Data from colony formation and transwell assays showed that knockdown of DLX4 inhibited cell proliferation and invasion of NPC, respectively. Moreover, DLX4 knockdown blocked the cell cycle of NPC at G1 phase, suggesting the antitumor effect of DLX4 knockdown on NPC. The downstream target of DLX4 was identified as Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1), whose expression was increased by over-expression of DLX4, while decreased by knockdown of DLX4. The binding capacity between DLX4 and YB-1 was verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and the result showed that DLX4 could not directly bind to the promoter of YB-1. Mechanically, YB-1 over-expression reversed the effects of DLX4 knockdown on cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest and cell invasion of NPC. In conclusion, our findings indicated that DLX4 promoted NPC progression via up-regulation of YB-1, which would shed light on therapeutic schedule in NPC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeyi Ling
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and neck surgery, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing City, China
| | - Xiaoli Long
- Department of Geriatrics, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing City, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and neck surgery, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing City, China
| | - Mingliang Feng
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and neck surgery, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing City, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hesam Shariati MB, Seghinsara AM, Shokrzadeh N, Niknafs B. The effect of fludrocortisone on the uterine receptivity partially mediated by ERK1/2-mTOR pathway. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:20098-20110. [PMID: 30968418 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Implantation of embryos needs endometrial receptivity. Mineralocorticoids is one of the causes influencing the implantation window. This study targeted to evaluation fludrocortisone different properties on endometrial receptivity. The objective of this study was to assess whether treatment with fludrocortisone could impact the expression of diverse genes and proteins that are involved in uterine receptivity in mice. In this study, 40 female adult BALB/c mice were used. The samples were allocated to four groups of ten. Control group (C) received: vehicle; fludrocortisone group (FCA): received 1.5 mg/kg fludrocortisone; PP242 group (PP242): received 30 mg/kg PP242; fludrocortisone+PP242 group (FCA+PP242): received fludrocortisone and PP242. Mice were killed on window implantation day after mating and confirmed pregnancy. The endometrial epithelium of mouse was collected to assess mRNA expression of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), mucin-1 (MUC1), heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), (Msx.1), miRNA Let-7a, and miRNA 223-3p as well as protein expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) in the uterine using real-time PCR and western blot, respectively. In comparison with the control group, fludrocortisone administration upregulated the expression of LIF, HB-EGF, Msx.1, miRNA Let-7a, ERK1/2, and mTOR in the epithelial endometrium. The PP242-treated group demonstrated a significant rise in the expression of MUC1, miRNA 223-3p and a remarkable decline in ERK1/2 and p-4E-BP1 levels in comparison with the control group. Combination therapy of (FCA+PP242) resulted in a remarkable rise in LIF, Msx-1, HB-EGF, ERK1/2, and mTOR levels, in comparison with the PP242 group. Furthermore, combination therapy of (FCA+PP242) downregulated the expression of MUC1 in comparison with the PP242-treated group. According to the results, fludrocortisone affected uterine receptivity possibly by means of modulating the expression of genes involved in the uterine receptivity and activation of the ERK1/2-mTOR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Abbas Majdi Seghinsara
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Naser Shokrzadeh
- Infertility and Reproductive Health research center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Behrooz Niknafs
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|