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Dudley JS, Murphy CR, Thompson MB, McAllan BM. Uterine cellular changes during mammalian pregnancy and the evolution of placentation. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1381-1400. [PMID: 34514493 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many different forms of nutrient provision in viviparous (live bearing) species. The formation of a placenta is one method where the placenta functions to transfer nutrients from mother to fetus (placentotrophy), transfer waste from the fetus to the mother and respiratory gas exchange. Despite having the same overarching function, there are different types of placentation within placentotrophic vertebrates, and many morphological changes occur in the uterus during pregnancy to facilitate formation of the placenta. These changes are regulated in complex ways but are controlled by similar hormonal mechanisms across species. This review describes current knowledge of the morphological and molecular changes to the uterine epithelium preceding implantation among mammals. Our aim is to identify the commonalities and constraints of these cellular changes to understand the evolution of placentation in mammals and propose directions for future research. We compare and discuss the complex modifications to the ultrastructure of uterine epithelial cells and show that there are similarities in the changes to the cytoskeleton and gross morphology of the uterine epithelial cells, especially of the apical and lateral plasma membrane of the cells during the formation of a placenta in all eutherians and marsupials studied to date. We conclude that further research is needed to understand the evolution of placentation among viviparous mammals, particularly concerning the level of placental invasiveness, hormonal control and genetic underpinnings of pregnancy in marsupial taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica S Dudley
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michael B Thompson
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Bronwyn M McAllan
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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2
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Ban Z, Knöspel F, Schneider MR. Shedding light into the black box: Advances in in vitro systems for studying implantation. Dev Biol 2020; 463:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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3
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Song Y, Han J, Cao F, Ma H, Cao B, An X. Endometrial genome-wide DNA methylation patterns of Guanzhong dairy goats at days 5 and 15 of the gestation period. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 208:106124. [PMID: 31405455 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Uterine receptivity for the embryo is established and maintained through a series of precise cellular and molecular events, such as DNA methylation. There have been no studies to elucidate entire genome DNA methylation changes associated with embryo receptivity development of the endometrium (RE). In the present study, there was development of a complete genome-wide DNA methylome maps of the RE using whole-genome bisulphite sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. As many as 163.06 Gb of sequencing data averaging 81.53 Gb per sample were obtained for genome bisulphite sequencing of endometrium samples. There were distinct genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in pre-receptive endometrium (PE; Day 5 of gestation) and RE (Day 15 of gestation). There were as many as 16,467 differentially methylated regions (DMRs); 21,391 DMRs were less methylated in RE samples compared with PE samples (P-values ≤ 0.05 and |log2 (fold change)| ≥ 2). Compared with PE samples, methylation ratios of IGF2BP2, ACOX2, PTGDS, VEGFB and PTGDR2 genes were markedly less in RE samples (P-value ≤ 0.05 and |log2 (fold change)| ≥ 2). Conversely, in RE samples there was a markedly greater methylation ratio of IGFBP3 and IGF1R genes. The results of KEGG analysis indicated that these genes were involved in the signalling pathways for insulin, mitogen-activated protein kinase, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, vascular endothelial growth factor and progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, which participated in differential regulation of goat endometrial development during receptive and prereceptive phases. The results of previous and the present study indicate resulting proteins of IGF2BP2, PTGDS, VEGFB, PGR, IGFBP3 and IGF1R gene expression may have important functions in regulating endometrial receptivity for the embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Jincheng Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Fangjun Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Haidong Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Binyun Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China.
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Whitby S, Salamonsen LA, Evans J. The Endometrial Polarity Paradox: Differential Regulation of Polarity Within Secretory-Phase Human Endometrium. Endocrinology 2018; 159:506-518. [PMID: 29029020 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A major cause of infertility in normal and assisted reproduction cycles is failure of the endometrium to undergo appropriate changes during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle as it acquires receptivity for an implanting blastocyst. Current dogma states that loss of epithelial polarity in the luminal epithelial cells, the point of first contact between maternal endometrium and blastocyst, may facilitate embryo implantation. Loss of polarity is likely an important change during the secretory phase to overcome mutual repulsion between otherwise polarized epithelial surfaces. Although "plasma membrane transformation" describes morphological/molecular alterations associated with loss of polarity, direct measures of polarity have not been investigated. Transepithelial resistance, a proxy measure of polarity, was downregulated in endometrial epithelial (ECC-1) cells by combined estrogen/progestin, mimicking the hormonal milieu of the secretory phase. Examination of defined polarity markers within human endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle identified downregulation of atypical protein kinase C, Stardust, Crumbs, and Scribble within the luminal-epithelial layer, with upregulation of Scribble within the stromal compartment as the menstrual cycle progressed from the estrogen-dominated proliferative to progesterone-dominated secretory phase. Epithelial (ECC-1) Scribble expression was downregulated in vitro by combined estrogen/progestin and estrogen/progestin/human chorionic gonadotropin treatment, whereas knockdown of Scribble in these cells enhanced "embryo" (trophectodermal spheroid) adhesion. In contrast, Scribble was upregulated within decidualized primary human endometrial stromal cells, with decidualization downregulated upon Scribble knockdown. These data highlight an important contribution of polarity modulation within the human endometrium, likely important for receptivity. Clinical investigations examining how polarity may be modulated in the infertile endometrium may facilitate fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Whitby
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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5
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Bhusane K, Bhutada S, Chaudhari U, Savardekar L, Katkam R, Sachdeva G. Secrets of Endometrial Receptivity: Some Are Hidden in Uterine Secretome. Am J Reprod Immunol 2016; 75:226-36. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kashmira Bhusane
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health; Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Sumit Bhutada
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health; Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Uddhav Chaudhari
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health; Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Lalita Savardekar
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health; Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Rajendra Katkam
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health; Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
| | - Geetanjali Sachdeva
- Primate Biology Laboratory; National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health; Indian Council of Medical Research; Mumbai India
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Park SJ, Kim TS, Kim JM, Chang KT, Lee HS, Lee DS. Repeated Superovulation via PMSG/hCG Administration Induces 2-Cys Peroxiredoxins Expression and Overoxidation in the Reproductive Tracts of Female Mice. Mol Cells 2015; 38:1071-8. [PMID: 26486164 PMCID: PMC4696998 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2015.0173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Superovulation induced by exogenous gonadotropin treatment (PMSG/hCG) increases the number of available oocytes in humans and animals. However, Superovulatory PMSG/hCG treatment is known to affect maternal environment, and these effects may result from PMSG/hCG treatment-induced oxidative stress. 2-Cys peroxiredoxins (2-Cys Prxs) act as antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from oxidative stress induced by various exogenous stimuli. Therefore, the objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that repeated PMSG/hCG treatment induces 2-Cys Prx expression and overoxidation in the reproductive tracts of female mice. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting analyses further demonstrated that, after PMSG/hCG treatment, the protein expression levels of 2-Cys Prxs increased most significantly in the ovaries, while that of Prx1 was most affected by PMSG/hCG stimulation in all tissues of the female reproductive tract. Repeated PMSG/hCG treatment eventually leads to 2-Cys Prxs overoxidation in all reproductive organs of female mice, and the abundance of the 2-Cys Prxs-SO2/3 proteins reported here supports the hypothesis that repeated superovulation induces strong oxidative stress and damage to the female reproductive tract. Our data suggest that excessive oxidative stress caused by repeated PMSG/hCG stimulation increases 2-Cys Prxs expression and overoxidation in the female reproductive organs. Intracellular 2-Cys Prx therefore plays an important role in maintaining the reproductive organ environment of female mice upon exogenous gonadotropin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Ji Park
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 702-701,
Korea
| | - Tae-Shin Kim
- Embryology Laboratory, Neway Fertility, 115 East 57th Street Suite 500 New York, NY 10022,
USA
| | - Jin-Man Kim
- Cancer Research Institute and Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 301-747,
Korea
| | - Kyu-Tae Chang
- National Primate Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 305-806,
Korea
| | - Hyun-Shik Lee
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 702-701,
Korea
| | - Dong-Seok Lee
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, BK21 Plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 702-701,
Korea
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Ishibashi H, Motohashi HH, Kumon M, Yamamoto K, Okada H, Okada T, Seki K. Efficient embryo transfer in the common marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus) with a reduced transfer volume: a non-surgical approach with cryopreserved late-stage embryos. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:115. [PMID: 23536374 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.109165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Among primates, the common marmoset is suitable for primate embryology research. Its small body size, however, has delayed the technical development of efficient embryo transfer. Furthermore, three factors have been determined to adversely affect the performance of marmoset embryo transfer: nonsurgical approaches, the use of cryopreserved embryos, and the use of late-stage embryos. Here we performed embryo transfer under conditions that included the above three factors and using either a small (1 μl or less) or a large volume (2-3 μl) of medium. The pregnancy and birth rates were 50% (5/10) and 27% (3/11), respectively, when using the large volume, and 80% (8/10) and 75% (9/12), respectively, when using the small volume. The latter scores exceed those of previous reports using comparable conditions. Thus, it appears that these three previously considered factors could be overcome, and we propose that reducing the transfer volume to 1 μl or less is essential for successful marmoset embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetoshi Ishibashi
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.
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8
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Naguib S, Ahmad VN, Kasim N, Amri SM, Onn YS. The effect of progesterone on uterine fluid ph &endometrial nhe-1 protein expression in rats. Health (London) 2011. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2011.31012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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9
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Fraser HM, Morris KD, Wiegand SJ, Wilson H. Inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor during the postovulatory period prevents pregnancy in the marmoset. Contraception 2010; 82:572-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2010.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Revised: 04/01/2010] [Accepted: 04/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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10
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Rosario GX, Katkam RR, Nimbkar-Joshi S, Modi DN, Manjramkar DD, Hinduja I, Zaveri K, Puri CP, Sachdeva G. Expression of endometrial protein kinase a during early pregnancy in bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata). Biol Reprod 2009; 81:1172-81. [PMID: 19684337 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.077339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo-induced signaling pathways are considered to be important for initiation and sustenance of pregnancy. However many of these pathways remain to be deciphered in primates. In the present study, differential display RT-PCR was used to identify genes or gene fragments that are differentially expressed in endometrium of bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata) on Day 6 of pregnancy. Of several fragments found to be differentially expressed, a fragment of 567 base pair (named GG1) was characterized in detail. GG1 was highly represented in endometrium of pregnant animals compared with that of nonpregnant animals. Sequencing analysis revealed homology of this fragment to exons 7, 8, 9, and 10 and surprisingly to intron 6 of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) regulatory type I alpha (tissue-specific extinguisher 1) (PRKAR1A). The increased expression of this fragment in gestational endometrium was confirmed by quantitative PCR studies. Two transcripts of 3.0 kilobase (kb) and 1.5 kb were detected in Northern blot probed with labeled GG1. Protein expressions of alpha regulatory (PRKAR1A) and alpha catalytic (PRKCA) subunits of PKA were also higher in gestational endometrium compared with that in nongestational endometrium. Further in vitro studies using human endometrial explants demonstrated regulation of PRKAR1A (or GG1) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 or cyclooxygenase 2 (PTGS2) by estradiol. This is the first study to date on the differential expression of PKA in primate endometrium during early pregnancy and its in vitro regulation by estradiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracy Xavier Rosario
- Primate Biology Division, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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11
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Rahnama F, Thompson B, Steiner M, Shafiei F, Lobie PE, Mitchell MD. Epigenetic regulation of E-cadherin controls endometrial receptivity. Endocrinology 2009; 150:1466-72. [PMID: 18974268 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-1142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Key to the success of human reproduction is the capacity of an embryo to attach and implant into the endometrial wall after which a nutrient supply is established through placentation. Herein, we have examined the potential epigenetic regulation of uterine receptivity by use of the receptive RL95-2 and nonreceptive AN3-CA endometrial epithelial carcinoma cell lines. Using an in vitro model of embryo implantation, we demonstrate that inhibition of DNA methylation by 5'-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (AZA), resulted in the nonreceptive AN3-CA cell line becoming receptive to BeWo cell spheroid attachment. Examination of components of the adherens junction complex revealed that AZA specifically increased the expression of E-cadherin and plakoglobin at the mRNA and protein levels in AN3-CA cells, and E-cadherin protein expression was found to localize to sites of intercellular contact. Forced expression of E-cadherin in AN3-CA cells significantly enhanced receptivity. Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated depletion of the individual DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) molecules did not induce E-cadherin expression in AN3-CA cells; however, concomitant siRNA-mediated depletion of both DNMT3A and DNMT3B induced the expression of E-cadherin. Furthermore, E-cadherin expression was significantly increased after the concomitant siRNA-mediated depletion of DNMT-1, -3A, and -3B in AN3-CA cells. Therefore, we have provided evidence that E-cadherin plays an important role in uterine receptivity and that E-cadherin expression is epigenetically regulated in AN3-CA cells, suppressed by the combined actions of DNMT-1, -3A, and -3B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Rahnama
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, National Research Centre for Growth, Development and the Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Private Bag, Auckland, New Zealand
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12
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Rosario GX, D'Souza SJ, Manjramkar DD, Parmar V, Puri CP, Sachdeva G. Endometrial modifications during early pregnancy in bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata). Reprod Fertil Dev 2008; 20:281-94. [PMID: 18255018 DOI: 10.1071/rd07152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2007] [Accepted: 10/29/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to investigate endometrial modifications that occur before embryo invasion in bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata). These changes were analysed in luminal epithelium, glandular epithelium and stroma of endometrial functionalis on Day 6 post ovulation from pregnant and non-pregnant animals (n = 4 each) by transmission electron microscopy. Distinct features (i.e. loss of columnar shape by epithelial cells, changes in mitochondrial size and diffused apicolateral gap junctions) were observed in the luminal and glandular epithelium in pregnant animals. Stromal compaction was also observed in pregnant animals. Further, immunogold localisation studies demonstrated significantly higher expression (P < 0.05) of oestrogen receptor alpha, an oestrogen-regulated gene, in the glandular epithelium and stroma of the endometrium in pregnant animals compared with non-pregnant animals. Expression of two other genes known to be regulated by oestradiol, namely beta-actin and cyclo-oxygenase-1, were also significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the endometria of pregnant animals. These studies demonstrate marked changes in the endometrium before embryo invasion in bonnet monkeys. These studies also indicate altered oestrogenic activity in the uterine milieu before embryo invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracy X Rosario
- Primate Biology Division, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, Maharashtra, India
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Silvestri A, Fraser HM. Oestrogen and progesterone receptors in the marmoset endometrium: changes during the ovulatory cycle, early pregnancy and after inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor, GnRH or ovariectomy. Reproduction 2007; 134:341-53. [PMID: 17660243 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Marmosets are widely used, but detailed studies on localisation of endometrial oestrogen receptors alpha and beta (ER alpha and ER beta ), and the progesterone receptor (PR) are lacking. These receptors were localised and semi-quantitatively analysed throughout the ovulatory cycle, weeks 2, 3 and 4 of pregnancy and after treatment with GnRH antagonist, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) Trap or ovariectomy. The PR in epithelial cells increased markedly between the mid- and late proliferative phases before declining in the mid-secretory phase and pregnancy. PR in stromal cells was present throughout the cycle and levels were maintained in pregnancy. ER alpha was present at the mid-proliferative phase and increased in glands at the late proliferative and early secretory phases, before declining at the late secretory phase and week 4 of pregnancy. Stromal ER alpha showed a similar trend, but decreased earlier, by the mid-secretory phase. ER beta was highly expressed in epithelial cells throughout the cycle and in pregnancy. In stroma, increases in ER beta expression were observed at the late proliferative phase with the staining index decreasing by half as the secretory phase progressed and in pregnancy. GnRH antagonist, VEGF Trap or ovariectomy caused significant reductions in PR and ER beta expression, but not in ER alpha when compared with the late proliferative phase of the normal cycle. Endothelial cells expressed ER beta , but not ER alpha or PR. It is concluded that the steroid receptor profile in the marmoset endometrium is generally similar to the human and should provide a useful model for studies on hormonal manipulation of the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Silvestri
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Julian J, Enders AC, Fazleabas AT, Carson DD. Compartmental distinctions in uterine Muc-1 expression during early pregnancy in cynomolgous macaque (Macaca fascicularis) and baboon (Papio anubis). Hum Reprod 2005; 20:1493-503. [PMID: 15774539 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss of the transmembrane mucin, Muc-1, is a molecular correlate of the acquisition of uterine receptivity to embryo adhesion in most species examined. In macaques, two distinct adhesion events occur at opposite sides of the uterus. Attachment to the secondary site is delayed relative to the primary site. The aim was to determine if Muc-1 is removed at secondary sites prior to trophoblast attachment. METHODS We examined Muc-1 expression in the uteri of cynomolgus macaque and baboon during early implantation by immunocytochemistry. RESULTS Luminal epithelia were devoid of Muc-1 at all stages examined at both primary and secondary adhesion sites. Loss of Muc-1 in luminal epithelia was found to be maternally determined, accompanied membrane transformation in both macaque and baboon, and at secondary implantation sites, preceded trophoblast attachment. In contrast, glandular epithelia in pregnant macaques exhibited a temporal and compartmentalized gradient of Muc-1 loss confined to the implantation sites. Glandular epithelia in the pregnant baboon uterus were uniformly negative for Muc-1. CONCLUSIONS Restriction of the Muc-1 loss in glandular epithelia to conceptual cycles may reflect the fundamental distinctions among epithelia of the various uterine compartments and the differential modulation of Muc-1 that occurs within these compartments in conceptual and non-conceptual cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoAnne Julian
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
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15
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Rosario GX, Modi DN, Sachdeva G, Manjramkar DD, Puri CP. Morphological events in the primate endometrium in the presence of a preimplantation embryo, detected by the serum preimplantation factor bioassay. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:61-71. [PMID: 15576397 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormonal modulation of the endometrium towards receptivity is well established; however, the role of embryonic stimuli in modulation of the endometrium prior to implantation, especially in primates, is unknown. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the endometrial histology when the embryo was present in its vicinity prior to implantation. METHODS Preimplantation factor (PIF) bioassay was used as a tool to detect the presence of an embryo in the uterine lumen of mated bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata) (n=9). The control group comprised seven non-mated animals. The specificity of the PIF bioassay for the presence of an embryo was tested by studies in pregnant humans and monkeys. The effects of embryonic stimuli on the endometrial morphology were analysed by routine haematoxylin-eosin staining. The expressions of CD34, an endothelial cell marker, alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), a marker for blood vessel maturation, and prolactin, a marker of endometrial decidualization, were studied by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS That PIF is embryo specific was established by its presence in sera of pregnant humans, monkeys and also in embryo culture media. Six mated bonnet monkeys were found to be PIF positive. Morphologically, the endometria from these PIF-positive animals showed the presence of the pre-epithelial plaque reaction, increased angiogenesis and stromal compaction. The significantly increased number of CD34- and alpha-SMA-positive blood vessels (P<0.05) in the endometria of PIF-positive animals indicated increased angiogenesis in response to embryonic stimuli. The endometrial expression of immunoreactive prolactin was also significantly increased (P<0.05) in the PIF-positive animals, indicating decidualization. CONCLUSIONS Using PIF as a marker to detect early pregnancy in bonnet monkeys, we have shown that the embryo induces a pre-epithelial plaque type of reaction, increased angiogenesis and decidual reaction in the endometrium prior to implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracy X Rosario
- Primate Biology Department and Experimental Animal Facility, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai-400012, Maharashtra, India
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Rowe AJ, Wulff C, Fraser HM. Angiogenesis and microvascular development in the marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) endometrium during early pregnancy. Reproduction 2004; 128:107-16. [PMID: 15232068 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.00208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to describe and quantify the changes in the maternal vasculature and angiogenesis during early pregnancy in the marmoset endometrium using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) to identify proliferating cells, CD31 to label endothelial cells and dual staining to identify proliferating endothelial cells. Non-pregnant animals from mid- and late secretory stages were studied and compared with pregnant animals at weeks 2, 3 and 4 of pregnancy. Qualitative and morphometric analyses of angiogenesis and vascular area were performed. The results show that pregnancy is associated with increasing angiogenesis in the upper zone of the endometrium, becoming significantly increased at 3 weeks. This is associated with an increase in the vessel area and diameter in this zone. These results provide the platform from which to design studies in which specific angiogenic factors can be targeted in vivo during early pregnancy in order to determine their role in regulating these vascular changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Rowe
- Medical Research Council Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Centre for Reproductive Biology, University of Edinburgh Chancellor's Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, UK
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Thie M, Denker HW. In vitro studies on endometrial adhesiveness for trophoblast: cellular dynamics in uterine epithelial cells. Cells Tissues Organs 2004; 172:237-52. [PMID: 12476051 DOI: 10.1159/000066963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Initiation of embryo implantation involves adhesion of trophoblast cells to the epithelial lining of the endometrium. The mechanisms regulating the adhesive properties of the uterine epithelium for trophoblast during initiation of human embryo implantation, however, are still incompletely understood. We report here on model studies that we have performed in our laboratory, and in particular on certain methodological approaches that seem to yield new insight into basic mechanisms involved. Of central interest is the ability of the uterine epithelium to develop an adhesion competence at its apical cell pole. This confronts us with a cell biological paradox in that adhesion must be established at the pole which in simple epithelia is typically specialized to resist adhesion. Gain of apical adhesion competence by uterine epithelial cells should be related to cellular rearrangements, i.e. a modulation of their apicobasal cell polarity. Here, we used monolayer-cultured uterine epithelial RL95-2 cells as an in vitro model for the human receptive uterine epithelium. We demonstrated that formation of stable cell-to-cell bonds between the free (apical) pole of these cells and attaching trophoblast (modelled by JAr cells) depends on a number of structural and functional peculiarities that RL95-2 cells have in contrast to other uterine epithelial cells (HEC-1-A cells) which resist attachment via this cell pole. RL95-2 cells were shown to lack tight junctions and to exhibit only rudimentary adherens junctions and a non-polar organization of the actin cytoskeleton. Using the atomic force microscope in a force spectroscopy mode, we exactly defined the time dependence of adhesive interactions between RL95-2 cells and trophoblast, measured the pressure force needed to initiate this process, and screened the buildup of the adhesive forces between the binding partners. A dynamic interaction between the actin cytoskeleton and integrins (a prerequisite for functional activity of integrins) was shown to be an important aspect of the adhesive properties of RL95-2 cells. In addition, at least two types of calcium channels in the plasma membrane of RL95-2 cells seem to play a role in activation of a variety of calcium-sensitive response mechanisms including adhesiveness for trophoblast, i.e. diltiazem-sensitive channels seem to contribute to the initiation of JAr cell binding and SKF-96365-sensitive channels to participate in a feedback loop that controls the balance of bonds. By extrapolation, these data suggest an active role of the uterine epithelium in the process of embryo implantation which we are just beginning to understand in terms of its cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Thie
- Institut für Anatomie, Lehrstuhl für Anatomie und Entwicklungsbiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Germany.
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Demir R, Kayisli UA, Celik-Ozenci C, Korgun ET, Demir-Weusten AY, Arici A. Structural differentiation of human uterine luminal and glandular epithelium during early pregnancy: an ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study. Placenta 2002; 23:672-84. [PMID: 12361686 DOI: 10.1053/plac.2002.0841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The differentiation of human endometrial epithelium is a dynamic event that occurs throughout the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy. The structural transformation and differentiation of human uterine luminal and glandular epithelium of early human pregnancy (n=14) was investigated ultrastructurally and immunohistochemically using antibodies against cytokeratin (CT), endothelial marker CD31, Fas, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Ultrastructurally, luminal epithelial cells showed distinctive euchromatic nuclei with prominent nucleoli and relatively loose cell membranes in all poles (apical to basal). Subcellular components were easily recognized in luminal epithelium except in degenerating cells. Mainly two cell types, dark and clear cells, formed the glandular epithelium. In the early gestation period, microvilli were abundant on the apical and apico-lateral poles of these cells. Only a few cytoplasmic projections were observed in dark cells. Numerous cilia were observed on the apical pole of some clear cells, located at the adluminal segment. In contrast, dark cells lacked cilia, nuclear channels, or giant mitochondrial profiles. Glycogen synthesis and apocrine secretion were recognizable for several days during early gestation. The apocrine secretory activity differed among dark cells of the glandular epithelium. The immunoreactivity of PCNA and Fas, and ultrastructural observations in the glandular epithelium suggest that, even in different segments of the same gland, epithelial cells do not regress during early gestation, but proliferate, perhaps representing a resistance against trophoblastic invasion. These morphological and molecular changes suggest that both luminal and glandular epithelium may play an important role in cellular defense and limitation for trophoblastic invasion during early pregnancy since plasma membrane alterations of the surface epithelium take place at the apical, basal and lateral poles compared to early secretory phase endometrial cells. Besides glandular epithelium may be consequently responsible for uterine secretions, which may be critical for early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Demir
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
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