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Osikoya O, Hula N, da Silva RDNO, Goulopoulou S. Perivascular Adipose Tissue and Uterine Artery Adaptations to Pregnancy. Microcirculation 2024:e12857. [PMID: 38826057 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Pregnancy is characterized by longitudinal maternal, physiological adaptations to support the development of a fetus. One of the cardinal maternal adaptations during a healthy pregnancy is a progressive increase in uterine artery blood flow. This facilitates sufficient blood supply for the development of the placenta and the growing fetus. Regional hemodynamic changes in the uterine circulation, such as a vast reduction in uterine artery resistance, are mainly facilitated by changes in uterine artery reactivity and myogenic tone along with remodeling of the uterine arteries. These regional changes in vascular reactivity have been attributed to pregnancy-induced adaptations of cell-to-cell communication mechanisms, with an emphasis on the interaction between endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is considered the fourth layer of the vascular wall and contributes to the regulation of vascular reactivity in most vascular beds and most species. This review focuses on mechanisms of uterine artery reactivity and the role of PVAT in pregnancy-induced maternal vascular adaptations, with an emphasis on the uterine circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatobiloba Osikoya
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - Nataliia Hula
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Renée de Nazaré Oliveira da Silva
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
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Cary CM, Fournier SB, Adams S, Wang X, Yurkow EJ, Stapleton PA. Single pulmonary nanopolystyrene exposure in late-stage pregnancy dysregulates maternal and fetal cardiovascular function. Toxicol Sci 2024; 199:149-159. [PMID: 38366927 PMCID: PMC11057520 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae019] [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] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Large-scale production and waste of plastic materials have resulted in widespread environmental contamination by the breakdown product of bulk plastic materials to micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs). The small size of these particles enables their suspension in the air, making pulmonary exposure inevitable. Previous work has demonstrated that xenobiotic pulmonary exposure to nanoparticles during gestation leads to maternal vascular impairments, as well as cardiovascular dysfunction within the fetus. Few studies have assessed the toxicological consequences of maternal nanoplastic (NP) exposure; therefore, the objective of this study was to assess maternal and fetal health after a single maternal pulmonary exposure to polystyrene NP in late gestation. We hypothesized that this acute exposure would impair maternal and fetal cardiovascular function. Pregnant rats were exposed to nanopolystyrene on gestational day 19 via intratracheal instillation. 24 h later, maternal and fetal health outcomes were evaluated. Cardiovascular function was assessed in dams using vascular myography ex vivo and in fetuses in vivo function was measured via ultrasound. Both fetal and placental weight were reduced after maternal exposure to nanopolystyrene. Increased heart weight and vascular dysfunction in the aorta were evident in exposed dams. Maternal exposure led to vascular dysfunction in the radial artery of the uterus, a resistance vessel that controls blood flow to the fetoplacental compartment. Function of the fetal heart, fetal aorta, and umbilical artery after gestational exposure was dysregulated. Taken together, these data suggest that exposure to NPs negatively impacts maternal and fetal health, highlighting the concern of MNPs exposure on pregnancy and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Cary
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - S B Fournier
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - S Adams
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - X Wang
- Molecular Imaging Core, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - E J Yurkow
- Molecular Imaging Core, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
| | - P A Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA
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Hong IS. Endometrial Stem Cells: Orchestrating Dynamic Regeneration of Endometrium and Their Implications in Diverse Endometrial Disorders. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:864-879. [PMID: 38250149 PMCID: PMC10797688 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.89795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium, a vital component of the uterus, undergoes dynamic changes during the menstrual cycle to create a receptive environment for embryo implantation. Its remarkable regenerative capacity can be attributed to the presence of tissue-resident stem cell populations within the endometrium. Despite variations in characteristics among different subtypes, endometrial stem cells exhibit notably robust self-renewal capacity and the ability to differentiate into multiple lineages. This review offers a comprehensive insight into the current literature and recent advancements regarding the roles of various endometrial stem cell types during dynamic regeneration of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that dysfunction or depletion of endometrial stem cells may play critical roles in the development and progression of various endometrial disorders, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, infertility, and endometrial cancer. Therefore, we also highlight potential roles of endometrial stem cells in the development and progression of these endometrial diseases, including their ability to accumulate genetic mutations and express genes associated with endometrial diseases. Understanding the dynamic properties of the endometrium and the roles of endometrial stem cells in various endometrial disorders will shed light on potential therapeutic strategies for managing these conditions and improving women's fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Sun Hong
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 406-840, Republic of Korea
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Stapleton PA. The Application of Engineered Nanomaterials in Perinatal Therapeutics. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2303072. [PMID: 37438678 PMCID: PMC10784409 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a vulnerable life stage for the mother and developing fetus. Because of this dual concern, approved therapeutic options for pre-existing conditions or pregnancy-induced pathologies, placental deformities, or fetal concerns are extremely limited. These cases often leave patients and clinicians having to choose between maternal health and fetal development. Recent advancements in nanomedicine and nanotherapeutic devices have made the development of perinatal therapeutics an attractive objective. However, perinatal medicine requires a multifaceted approach given the interactions between maternal, placental, and fetal physiology. Maternal-fetal interactions are centralized to the placenta, a specialized transient barrier organ, to allow for nutrient and waste exchange. Perinatal nanotherapeutics must be designed for placental avoidance or uptake. In this review, pregnancy-related conditions, experimental models, and modes of drug delivery during pregnancy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe A Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, 160 Frelinghuysen Rd., Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, 170 Frelinghuysen Rd., Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
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Cary CM, Seymore TN, Singh D, Vayas KN, Goedken MJ, Adams S, Polunas M, Sunil VR, Laskin DL, Demokritou P, Stapleton PA. Single inhalation exposure to polyamide micro and nanoplastic particles impairs vascular dilation without generating pulmonary inflammation in virgin female Sprague Dawley rats. Part Fibre Toxicol 2023; 20:16. [PMID: 37088832 PMCID: PMC10122824 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-023-00525-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to micro- and nanoplastic particles (MNPs) in humans is being identified in both the indoor and outdoor environment. Detection of these materials in the air has made inhalation exposure to MNPs a major cause for concern. One type of plastic polymer found in indoor and outdoor settings is polyamide, often referred to as nylon. Inhalation of combustion-derived, metallic, and carbonaceous aerosols generate pulmonary inflammation, cardiovascular dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. Additionally, due to the additives present in plastics, MNPs may act as endocrine disruptors. Currently there is limited knowledge on potential health effects caused by polyamide or general MNP inhalation. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to assess the toxicological consequences of a single inhalation exposure of female rats to polyamide MNP during estrus by means of aerosolization of MNP. METHODS Bulk polyamide powder (i.e., nylon) served as a representative MNP. Polyamide aerosolization was characterized using particle sizers, cascade impactors, and aerosol samplers. Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry (MPPD) modeling was used to evaluate pulmonary deposition of MNPs. Pulmonary inflammation was assessed by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cell content and H&E-stained tissue sections. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), wire myography of the aorta and uterine artery, and pressure myography of the radial artery was used to assess cardiovascular function. Systemic inflammation and endocrine disruption were quantified by measurement of proinflammatory cytokines and reproductive hormones. RESULTS Our aerosolization exposure platform was found to generate particles within the micro- and nano-size ranges (thereby constituting MNPs). Inhaled particles were predicted to deposit in all regions of the lung; no overt pulmonary inflammation was observed. Conversely, increased blood pressure and impaired dilation in the uterine vasculature was noted while aortic vascular reactivity was unaffected. Inhalation of MNPs resulted in systemic inflammation as measured by increased plasma levels of IL-6. Decreased levels of 17β-estradiol were also observed suggesting that MNPs have endocrine disrupting activity. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate aerosolization of MNPs in our inhalation exposure platform. Inhaled MNP aerosols were found to alter inflammatory, cardiovascular, and endocrine activity. These novel findings will contribute to a better understanding of inhaled plastic particle toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea M Cary
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Talia N Seymore
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Dilpreet Singh
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 02115, Boston, MA, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Kinal N Vayas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Michael J Goedken
- Research Pathology Services, Rutgers University, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Samantha Adams
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Marianne Polunas
- Research Pathology Services, Rutgers University, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Vasanthi R Sunil
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Debra L Laskin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 02115, Boston, MA, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Phoebe A Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), 08854, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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Expression profile of genes related to pregnancy maintenance in Dromedary Camel during the first trimester. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 251:107211. [PMID: 36990016 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
So far, few signals involved in embryo-maternal dialogue have been identified in pregnant she-camel. Our objective was to investigate expression profiles of genes relevant to uterine extracellular matrix remodeling (ITGB4, SLCO2A1, FOS, and JUN), uterine tissue vascularization, and placental formation (VEGFA, PGF, and PDGFA), embryonic growth and development (IGF1 and PTEN), plus cell death of uterine tissue (BCL2) in early pregnant versus non-pregnant she-camels. Forty genital tracts (20 pregnant and 20 non-pregnant) and blood samples were collected from abattoirs. Total RNA was extracted from uterine tissues and qRT-PCR was conducted for candidate genes. Serum concentrations of progesterone (P4) and estradiol17-β (E2) were measured. Expression of ITGB4, FOS, and PGF genes increased (P < 0.001) in the right uterine horn of pregnant versus non-pregnant she-camels. Moreover, JUN, SLCO2A1, VEGFA, and PTEN mRNAs were up-regulated (P < 0.001) in various segments of uterine tissues in pregnant groups. The PDGFA transcript was over-expressed (P < 0.001) in both uterine horns of pregnant groups. Additionally, IGF1 was higher (P < 0.001) in the right horn and the uterine body of pregnant groups, and expression of BCL2 was increased (P < 0.001) in the pregnant uterine body. Moreover, serum concentrations of P4 were higher (P < 0.001) and E2 lower (P < 0.05) in pregnant she-camels. Taken together, the fine-tuning of genes related to implantation, matrix formation, vascularization, and placental formation is highly required for successful pregnancy in she-camels.
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Bruić M, Pirković A, Vilotić A, Jovanović-Krivokuća M, Spremo-Potparević B. Cytoprotective and genoprotective effects of taxifolin against oxidative damage in HTR-8/SVneo human trophoblast cells. Mutagenesis 2023; 38:64-70. [PMID: 36082793 DOI: 10.1093/mutage/geac013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
An increase of reactive oxygen species in the placenta and oxidative disbalance has been recognized as a significant factor contributing to pregnancy complications. Dietary intake of food rich in antioxidants during pregnancy could exert a protective role in the prevention of adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia, miscarriage, and others. Flavonoid taxifolin has shown numerous health-promoting effects in a large number of studies conducted on animals, as well as various human cell types in vitro. However, its effects on human placental cells-trophoblasts-have yet to be determined. Therefore, cytoprotective and genoprotective effects of taxifolin on trophoblast cell line HTR-8/SVneo under induced oxidative stress were explored in this study. Cytotoxicity of a range of taxifolin concentrations (1-150 µM) was evaluated using the MTT and crystal violet assays. A model of oxidative stress was achieved by exposing HTR-8/SVneo cells to H2O2. To determine cytoprotective and antigenotoxic effects, the cells were pre-incubated with three concentrations of taxifolin (10, 50, and 100 µM) and then exposed to H2O2. Taxifolin in concentrations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 µM showed no cytotoxic effects on HTR-8/SVneo cells, but 150 µM of taxifolin caused a significant decrease in adherent cell number, as detected by crystal violet assay. Pretreatment with the chosen concentrations of taxifolin showed a significant cytoprotective effect on H2O2-induced cytotoxicity, as determined by the MTT assay. Furthermore, taxifolin showed a significant reduction in H2O2-induced DNA damage, measured by comet assay. This study showed protective effects of taxifolin on human trophoblast cells exposed to oxidative damage. Further studies are needed to explore the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Bruić
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pathobiology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Andrea Pirković
- Department for Biology of Reproduction, University of Belgrade, Institute for the Application of Nuclear Energy (INEP), Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Vilotić
- Department for Biology of Reproduction, University of Belgrade, Institute for the Application of Nuclear Energy (INEP), Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Jovanović-Krivokuća
- Department for Biology of Reproduction, University of Belgrade, Institute for the Application of Nuclear Energy (INEP), Belgrade, Serbia
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Systemic polidocanol from intravenous or pressurized intrauterine administration produces reversible cardiovascular toxicity. JVS Vasc Sci 2022; 3:316-335. [PMID: 36439699 PMCID: PMC9692028 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvssci.2022.08.002] [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: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Fatal allergic responses and cardiac arrhythmias have been reported with the intravenous (IV) administration of polidocanol. We sought to identify the physiologic mechanism of systemic cardiovascular response after transcervical (TC) and IV administration of polidocanol. Methods We continuously monitored blood pressure (BP) and heart rate using an arterial line during IV and intraperitoneal (IP) administration of polidocanol solution (PS) and polidocanol doxycycline solution in female rats and TC and IP administration of polidocanol foam (PF) and PDF (TC only) in female baboons. We performed TC procedures using a catheter with (pressurized) and without (nonpressurized) balloon inflation. Baboons also underwent monitoring during IV PS administration with and without pretreatment with antihistamines. We performed cardiac echo and electrocardiograms during selected experiments. We defined a refractory hypotension as a sustained decrease of more than 30% from baseline that prevented delivery of the target dose. Results We found a dose-related increase in the proportion of baboons that developed refractory hypotension during TC administration of 5% PDF and PF, an effect confined to pressurized administration. The infusion of 0.5% PS in rats induced a rapid and dramatic refractory hypotension. The inclusion of doxycycline did not improve or deteriorate these outcomes, and doxycycline solution or saline (control) alone did not affect BP. All five female baboons that received up to 20 mL of 1% PS (200 mg) developed refractory hypotension. Pretreatment with diphenhydramine, ranitidine, or both did not block the refractory hypotension induced by IV administration of 1% PS (100 mg). In contrast, only one of the six female baboons treated with IP PF 400 mg developed a decrease of more than 30% in BP, and this response was not sustained. Cardiac echocardiography done in four baboons during TC treatment demonstrated a decrease in cardiac output as the physiologic mechanism of hypotension. We did not observe important changes on the electrocardiograms. Conclusions Adverse cardiovascular effects of polidocanol treatment occur owing to a direct myocardial effect of polidocanol and not as a result of a hypersensitivity reaction. Pressurized TC administration of PF results in refractory hypotension owing to endometrial vascular uptake of polidocanol and not as a result of uptake from peritoneal surfaces.
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Pasha M, Kirschenman R, Wooldridge A, Spaans F, Cooke CLM, Davidge ST. The Effect of Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid (TUDCA) Treatment on Pregnancy Outcomes and Vascular Function in a Rat Model of Advanced Maternal Age. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071275. [PMID: 35883766 PMCID: PMC9312116 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced maternal age (≥35 years) increases the risk of vascular complications in pregnancy that can result in fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes in these complicated pregnancies. However, the role of ER stress in advanced maternal age is not known. We hypothesize that increased ER stress contributes to altered vascular function and poor pregnancy outcomes, and that treatment with the ER-stress inhibitor TUDCA will improve pregnancy outcomes. First, young and aged non-pregnant/pregnant rats were used to assess ER stress markers in mesenteric arteries; mesenteric artery phospho-eIF2α and CHOP expression were increased in aged dams compared to young dams. In a second study, young and aged control and TUDCA-treated dams were studied on gestational day (GD) 20 (term = 22 days). TUDCA treatment was provided via the drinking water throughout pregnancy (GD0-GD20; calculated dose of 150 mg/kg/day TUDCA). ER stress markers were quantified in mesenteric arteries, blood pressure was measured, pregnancy outcomes were recorded, mesenteric and main uterine arteries were isolated and vascular function was assessed by wire myography. Aged dams had increased phospho-eIF2α and CHOP expression, reduced fetal weight, reduced litter size, and impaired uterine artery relaxation. In the aged dams, TUDCA treatment reduced phospho-eIF2α and CHOP expression, reduced blood pressure, improved fetal body weight, and tended to improve uterine artery function compared to control-treated aged dams. In conclusion, our data illustrate the role of ER stress, as well as TUDCA as a potential therapeutic that may benefit pregnancy outcomes in advanced maternal age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazhar Pasha
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Raven Kirschenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Amy Wooldridge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Christy-Lynn M. Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Sandra T. Davidge
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (R.K.); (A.W.); (F.S.); (C.-L.M.C.)
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-780-492-1864; Fax: +1-780-492-1308
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Zhang N, Schumacher A, Fink B, Bauer M, Zenclussen AC, Meyer N. Insights into Early-Pregnancy Mechanisms: Mast Cells and Chymase CMA1 Shape the Phenotype and Modulate the Functionality of Human Trophoblast Cells, Vascular Smooth-Muscle Cells and Endothelial Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071158. [PMID: 35406722 PMCID: PMC8997408 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Spiral-artery (SA) remodeling is a fundamental process during pregnancy that involves the action of cells of the initial vessel, such as vascular smooth-muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells, but also maternal immune cells and fetal extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs). Mast cells (MCs), and specifically chymase-expressing cells, have been identified as key to a sufficient SA-remodeling process in vivo. However, the mechanisms are still unclear. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of the MC line HMC-1 and recombinant human chymase (rhuCMA1) on human primary uterine vascular smooth-muscle cells (HUtSMCs), a human trophoblast cell line (HTR8/SV-neo), and human umbilical-vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro. Both HMC-1 and rhuCMA1 stimulated migration, proliferation, and changed protein expression in HUtSMCs. HMC-1 increased proliferation, migration, and changed gene expression of HTR8/SVneo cells, while rhuCMA treatment led to increased migration and decreased expression of tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases. Additionally, rhuCMA1 enhanced endothelial-cell-tube formation. Collectively, we identified possible mechanisms by which MCs/rhuCMA1 promote SA remodeling. Our findings are relevant to the understanding of this crucial step in pregnancy and thus of the dysregulated pathways that can lead to pregnancy complications such as fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningjuan Zhang
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (N.Z.); (A.S.); (B.F.); (M.B.); (A.C.Z.)
- Perinatal Immunology, Saxonian Incubator for Clinical Translation (SIKT), Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anne Schumacher
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (N.Z.); (A.S.); (B.F.); (M.B.); (A.C.Z.)
- Perinatal Immunology, Saxonian Incubator for Clinical Translation (SIKT), Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Beate Fink
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (N.Z.); (A.S.); (B.F.); (M.B.); (A.C.Z.)
| | - Mario Bauer
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (N.Z.); (A.S.); (B.F.); (M.B.); (A.C.Z.)
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (N.Z.); (A.S.); (B.F.); (M.B.); (A.C.Z.)
- Perinatal Immunology, Saxonian Incubator for Clinical Translation (SIKT), Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nicole Meyer
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; (N.Z.); (A.S.); (B.F.); (M.B.); (A.C.Z.)
- Perinatal Immunology, Saxonian Incubator for Clinical Translation (SIKT), Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-341-235-1542
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Fraser R, Zenclussen AC. Killer Timing: The Temporal Uterine Natural Killer Cell Differentiation Pathway and Implications for Female Reproductive Health. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:904744. [PMID: 35832424 PMCID: PMC9271944 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.904744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are the predominant maternal uterine immune cell component, and they densely populate uterine mucosa to promote key changes in the post-ovulatory endometrium and in early pregnancy. It is broadly accepted that (a) immature, inactive endometrial NK (eNK) cells in the pre-ovulatory endometrium become activated and transition into decidual NK (dNK) cells in the secretory stage, peri-implantation endometrium, and continue to mature into early pregnancy; and (b) that secretory-stage and early pregnancy dNK cells promote uterine vascular growth and mediate trophoblast invasion, but do not exert their killing function. However, this may be an overly simplistic view. Evidence of specific dNK functional killer roles, as well as opposing effects of dNK cells on the uterine vasculature before and after conception, indicates the presence of a transitory secretory-stage dNK cell (s-dNK) phenotype with a unique angiodevelopmental profile during the peri-implantation period, that is that is functionally distinct from the angiomodulatory dNK cells that promote vessel destabilisation and vascular cell apoptosis to facilitate uterine vascular changes in early pregnancy. It is possible that abnormal activation and differentiation into the proposed transitory s-dNK phenotype may have implications in uterine pathologies ranging from infertility to cancer, as well as downstream effects on dNK cell differentiation in early pregnancy. Further, dysregulated transition into the angiomodulatory dNK phenotype in early pregnancy will likely have potential repercussions for adverse pregnancy outcomes, since impaired dNK function is associated with several obstetric complications. A comprehensive understanding of the uterine NK cell temporal differentiation pathway may therefore have important translational potential due to likely NK phenotypic functional implications in a range of reproductive, obstetric, and gynaecological pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupsha Fraser
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Rupsha Fraser,
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Environmental Immunology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig-Halle, Leipzig, Germany
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