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Kirkgöz K, Vogtmann R, Xie Y, Zhao F, Riedel A, Adam LM, Freitag N, Harms C, Garcia MG, Plösch T, Gellhaus A, Blois SM. Placental glycosylation senses the anti-angiogenic milieu induced by human sFLT1 during pregnancy. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 164:104284. [PMID: 38908337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104284] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Abnormal placental angiogenesis during gestation resulting from high levels of anti-angiogenic factors, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1) and soluble endoglin, has been implicated in the progression of preeclampsia (PE). This heterogeneous syndrome (defined by hypertension with or without proteinuria after 20 weeks of pregnancy) remains a major global health burden with long-term consequences for both mothers and child. Previously, we showed that in vivo systemic human (hsFLT1) overexpression led to reduced placental efficiency and PE-like syndrome in mice. Galectins (gal-1, -3 and -9) are critical determinants of vascular adaptation to pregnancy and dysregulation of the galectin-glycan circuits is associated with the development of this life-threatening disease. In this study, we assessed the galectin-glycan networks at the maternal-fetal interface associated with the hsFLT1-induced PE in mice. We observed an increase on the maternal gal-1 expression in the decidua and junctional zone layers of the placenta derived from hs FLT1high pregnancies. In contrast, placental gal-3 and gal-9 expression were not sensitive to the hsFLT1 overexpression. In addition, O- and N-linked glycan expression, poly-LacNAc sequences and terminal sialylation were down-regulated in hsFLT1 high placentas. Thus, the gal-1-glycan axis appear to play an important role counteracting the anti-angiogenic status caused by sFLT1, becoming critical for vascular adaptation at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kürsat Kirkgöz
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rebekka Vogtmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany
| | - Yiran Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fangqi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alina Riedel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany
| | - Lisa-Marie Adam
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nancy Freitag
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Harms
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mariana G Garcia
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Plösch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; Perinatal Neurobiology, Department of Human Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carlvon Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Glycoimmunology Research Group, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Huang W, Chen ACH, Wei X, Fong SW, Yeung WSB, Lee YL. Uncovering the role of TET2-mediated ENPEP activation in trophoblast cell fate determination. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:270. [PMID: 38886218 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05306-z] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Early trophoblast differentiation is crucial for embryo implantation, placentation and fetal development. Dynamic changes in DNA methylation occur during preimplantation development and are critical for cell fate determination. However, the underlying regulatory mechanism remains unclear. Recently, we derived morula-like expanded potential stem cells from human preimplantation embryos (hEPSC-em), providing a valuable tool for studying early trophoblast differentiation. Data analysis on published datasets showed differential expressions of DNA methylation enzymes during early trophoblast differentiation in human embryos and hEPSC-em derived trophoblastic spheroids. We demonstrated downregulation of DNA methyltransferase 3 members (DNMT3s) and upregulation of ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenases (TETs) during trophoblast differentiation. While DNMT inhibitor promoted trophoblast differentiation, TET inhibitor hindered the process and reduced implantation potential of trophoblastic spheroids. Further integrative analysis identified that glutamyl aminopeptidase (ENPEP), a trophectoderm progenitor marker, was hypomethylated and highly expressed in trophoblast lineages. Concordantly, progressive loss of DNA methylation in ENPEP promoter and increased ENPEP expression were detected in trophoblast differentiation. Knockout of ENPEP in hEPSC-em compromised trophoblast differentiation potency, reduced adhesion and invasion of trophoblastic spheroids, and impeded trophoblastic stem cell (TSC) derivation. Importantly, TET2 was involved in the loss of DNA methylation and activation of ENPEP expression during trophoblast differentiation. TET2-null hEPSC-em failed to produce TSC properly. Collectively, our results illustrated the crucial roles of ENPEP and TET2 in trophoblast fate commitments and the unprecedented TET2-mediated loss of DNA methylation in ENPEP promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, Science Park, Sha Tin , Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Andy Chun Hang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, Science Park, Sha Tin , Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xujin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Sze Wan Fong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China
| | - William Shu Biu Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China.
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, Science Park, Sha Tin , Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Yin Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China.
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, Science Park, Sha Tin , Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
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Zhong J, Li J, Burton GJ, Koistinen H, Cheung KW, Ng EHY, Yao Y, Yeung WSB, Lee CL, Chiu PCN. The functional roles of protein glycosylation in human maternal-fetal crosstalk. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:81-108. [PMID: 37699855 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad024] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The establishment of maternal-fetal crosstalk is vital to a successful pregnancy. Glycosylation is a post-translational modification in which glycans (monosaccharide chains) are attached to an organic molecule. Glycans are involved in many physiological and pathological processes. Human endometrial epithelium, endometrial gland secretions, decidual immune cells, and trophoblasts are highly enriched with glycoconjugates and glycan-binding molecules important for a healthy pregnancy. Aberrant glycosylation in the placenta and uterus has been linked to repeated implantation failure and various pregnancy complications, but there is no recent review summarizing the functional roles of glycosylation at the maternal-fetal interface and their associations with pathological processes. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize recent findings on glycosylation, glycosyltransferases, and glycan-binding receptors at the maternal-fetal interface, and their involvement in regulating the biology and pathological conditions associated with endometrial receptivity, placentation and maternal-fetal immunotolerance. Current knowledge limitations and future insights into the study of glycobiology in reproduction are discussed. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted using the following keywords: glycosylation, glycosyltransferases, glycan-binding proteins, endometrium, trophoblasts, maternal-fetal immunotolerance, siglec, selectin, galectin, repeated implantation failure, early pregnancy loss, recurrent pregnancy loss, preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction. Relevant reports published between 1980 and 2023 and studies related to these reports were retrieved and reviewed. Only publications written in English were included. OUTCOMES The application of ultrasensitive mass spectrometry tools and lectin-based glycan profiling has enabled characterization of glycans present at the maternal-fetal interface and in maternal serum. The endometrial luminal epithelium is covered with highly glycosylated mucin that regulates blastocyst adhesion during implantation. In the placenta, fucose and sialic acid residues are abundantly presented on the villous membrane and are essential for proper placentation and establishment of maternal-fetal immunotolerance. Glycan-binding receptors, including selectins, sialic-acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (siglecs) and galectins, also modulate implantation, trophoblast functions and maternal-fetal immunotolerance. Aberrant glycosylation is associated with repeated implantation failure, early pregnancy loss and various pregnancy complications. The current limitation in the field is that most glycobiological research relies on association studies, with few studies revealing the specific functions of glycans. Technological advancements in analytic, synthetic and functional glycobiology have laid the groundwork for further exploration of glycans in reproductive biology under both physiological and pathological conditions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS A deep understanding of the functions of glycan structures would provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying their involvement in the physiological and pathological regulation of early pregnancy. Glycans may also potentially serve as novel early predictive markers and therapeutic targets for repeated implantation failure, pregnancy loss, and other pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangming Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianlin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
| | - Graham J Burton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hannu Koistinen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ka Wang Cheung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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S C, G G, LA S, W N, P M, L A, A W, V F, P W, D G, T BT. Transcriptomic profiling reveals differential cellular response to copper oxide nanoparticles and polystyrene nanoplastics in perfused human placenta. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 177:108015. [PMID: 37315489 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The growing nanoparticulate pollution (e.g. engineered nanoparticles (NPs) or nanoplastics) has been shown to pose potential threats to human health. In particular, sensitive populations such as pregnant women and their unborn children need to be protected from harmful environmental exposures. However, developmental toxicity from prenatal exposure to pollution particles is not yet well studied despite evidence of particle accumulation in human placenta. Our study aimed to investigate how copper oxide NPs (CuO NPs; 10-20 nm) and polystyrene nanoplastics (PS NPs; 70 nm) impact on gene expression in ex vivo perfused human placental tissue. Whole genome microarray analysis revealed changes in global gene expression profile after 6 h of perfusion with sub-cytotoxic concentrations of CuO (10 µg/mL) and PS NPs (25 µg/mL). Pathway and gene ontology enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes suggested that CuO and PS NPs trigger distinct cellular response in placental tissue. While CuO NPs induced pathways related to angiogenesis, protein misfolding and heat shock responses, PS NPs affected the expression of genes related to inflammation and iron homeostasis. The observed effects on protein misfolding, cytokine signaling, and hormones were corroborated by western blot (accumulation of polyubiquitinated proteins) or qPCR analysis. Overall, the results of the present study revealed extensive and material-specific interference of CuO and PS NPs with placental gene expression from a single short-term exposure which deserves increasing attention. In addition, the placenta, which is often neglected in developmental toxicity studies, should be a key focus in the future safety assessment of NPs in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chortarea S
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Gupta G
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Saarimäki LA
- Finnish Hub for Development and Validation of Integrated Approaches (FHAIVE), Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Netkueakul W
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Manser P
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Aengenheister L
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland; Human Biomonitoring Research Unit, Department of Precision Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), 1 A-B, Rue Thomas Edison, L-1445 Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Wichser A
- Laboratory for Advanced Analytical Technologies, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials, Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Fortino V
- Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Wick P
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Greco D
- Finnish Hub for Development and Validation of Integrated Approaches (FHAIVE), Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland; Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Buerki-Thurnherr T
- Laboratory for Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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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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Long Y, Zeng S, Gao F, Liu F, Zhang Y, Zhou C, Zhu C, Zhao X, Han M, Gan Q, Ye W, Zeng F, Song C, Jiang M, Lash GE, Yang H. SERPINA5 may promote the development of preeclampsia by disruption of the uPA/uPAR pathway. Transl Res 2023; 251:14-26. [PMID: 35717024 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity or mortality but lacks reliable methods for early diagnosis. In a previous study, serum SERPINA5 levels were higher in women with PE before the clinical manifestation of the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of SERPINA5 in predicting PE and investigate its role in trophoblast cell biology. A multicenter, 2-stage observational case-control study was performed to develop and validate an early predictive PE model based on SERPINA5, maternal characteristics, and inflammatory factors. To further understand the relationship between SERPINA5 and PE, SERPINA5 was overexpressed or knocked down in extravillous trophoblast cells (EVT) and a pregnant rat model. After development and initial validation, a model that combined SERPINA5 and inflammatory factors had a high predictive ability for PE before 20 weeks gestation with an AUC of 0.90 (95% CI 0.83-0.96). It also demonstrated that SERPINA5 inhibited primary EVT cell invasion by disrupting the urokinase-type plasminogen activator/urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPA/uPAR) pathway, in turn, is involved in the development of PE. In vivo experiments also proved that overexpression of SERPINA5 induced a PE-like syndrome (hypertension and proteinuria) in pregnant rats. Therefore, serum SERPINA5 is a promising early biomarker of PE, suggesting that it may be involved in placental development through its action on the uPA/uPAR system prior to the clinical manifestation of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Long
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanshui Zeng
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University/The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yonggang Zhang
- Department of Laboratory, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal & Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Chunyan Zhu
- School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueqin Zhao
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengru Han
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiangsheng Gan
- School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weitao Ye
- School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangling Zeng
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunlin Song
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal & Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Min Jiang
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Gendie E Lash
- Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hongling Yang
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Li J, Qi Y, Yang K, Zhu L, Cui X, Liu Z. Follistatin Is a Novel Chemoattractant for Migration and Invasion of Placental Trophoblasts of Mice. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233816. [PMID: 36497076 PMCID: PMC9741044 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) as a gonadal protein is central to the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Trophoblasts' migration and invasion into the endometrium are critical events in placental development. This study aimed to elucidate the role of FST in the migration and invasion of placental trophoblasts of mice. We found that FST increased the vitality and proliferation of primary cultured trophoblasts of embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5) mice and promoted wound healing of trophoblasts. Moreover, FST significantly induced migration of trophoblasts in a microfluidic device and increased the number of invasive trophoblasts by Matrigel-coated transwell invasion assay. Being treated with FST, the adhesion of trophoblasts was inhibited, but intracellular calcium flux of trophoblasts was increased. Western blotting results showed that FST had no significant effects on the level of p-Smad3 or the ratio of p-Smad3/Smad3 in trophoblasts. Interestingly, FST elevated the level of p-JNK; the ratio of p-JNK/JNK; and expression of migration-related proteins N-cadherin, vimentin, ezrin and MMP2 in trophoblasts. Additionally, the migration of trophoblasts and expression of N-cadherin, vimentin, and MMP2 in trophoblasts induced by FST were attenuated by JNK inhibitor AS601245. These findings suggest that the elevated FST in pregnancy may act as a chemokine to induce trophoblast migration and invasion through the enhanced JNK signaling to maintain trophoblast function and promote placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Institute of Applied Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Linjing Zhu
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xueling Cui
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
- Key Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Clinical Immunology, Changchun 130021, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-431-8561-9476
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8
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Research on the Mechanism of Asperosaponin VI for Treating Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion by Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8099853. [PMID: 35783512 PMCID: PMC9246589 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8099853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Asperosaponin VI (AS6), as the quality marker of Dipsaci Radix, is verified to exert therapeutic effect on alleviating recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). However, due to the lack of relevant research, its molecular mechanism is still unclear. We retrieved targets for AS6 and RSA, and then used their overlapped targets for PPI analysis. In addition, we used GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, and molecular docking to investigate the anti-RSA mechanisms of AS6. Furthermore, we conducted in vitro experiments to validate the predictions of network pharmacology. Results showed that a total of 103 AS6-associated targets and 2084 RSA-associated targets, with 49 targets overlapped. GO enrichment analysis showed 845 significant biological processes like decidualization, while KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed 76 significant entries including 18 signaling pathways, which were closely linked to PI3K-Akt, HIF-1, TNF, IL-17, and VEGF signaling pathways, etc. Molecular docking findings verified that AS6 had tight link with the key targets including JUN, CASP3, STAT3, SRC, and PTGS2. Notably, in vitro experiments revealed that AS6 treatment could exert lower expressions of JUN, pro-CASP3, CASP3, STAT3, SRC, and PTGS2 in decidual cells compared with progesterone despite the expressions of STAT3, SRC, and PTGS2 with no significant difference, and mifepristone could interfere with the effects. In general, numerous targets and multiple pathways involve during the process of AS6 treatment against RSA. Moreover, our in vitro research first reported that AS6 may regulate the expressions of key targets (JUN, CASP3, STAT3, SRC, and PTGS2) in decidual cells to promote decidualization, thus treating RSA.
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Gao W, Yang L, Shi B. Mapping themes trends and knowledge structure of trophoblastic invasion, a bibliometric analysis from 2012-2021. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 146:103347. [PMID: 34175737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Trophoblastic invasion at the maternal-fetal interface can affect pregnancy outcomes. To describe an intuitive theme trends and knowledge structure of trophoblastic invasion-related literature from a bibliometric perspective, and provide researchers with new research hotspots. STUDY DESIGN The literature form PubMed database related to trophoblastic invasion from January 1, 2012 to April 30, 2021 were extracted, and then biclustering analysis, co-word analysis, strategy diagram and social network analysis were performed to provide immature, or newly emerging research hotspots for researchers. RESULTS A total of 96 high-frequency medical subjects heading terms were extracted and classified into 6 clusters. Themes in the first and second quadrant of strategy diagram, including trophoblasts metabolism, placenta metabolism, pre-eclampsia, etc., as the mature parts of the research on trophoblastic invasion have been well developed. On the other hand, themes in the third and fourth quadrants of strategy diagram, such as embryo implantation and trophoblasts immunology, pregnancy complication, matrix metalloproteinase and trophoblasts metabolism, habitual abortion and trophoblasts metabolism, etc., are immature themes. Social network analysis suggests that themes at the edge, such as habitual abortion / metabolism, placenta / immunology, natural killer cells / physiology, natural killer cells / immunology, embryo implantation / immunology, are considered new research hotspots and have considerable research space. CONCLUSION By analyzing the research hotspots related to trophoblastic invasion, immature themes and emerging hotspots deserve more attention and can be considered as hints when launching new research projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyan Gao
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, NO. 155, Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110001, PR China
| | - Liyuan Yang
- No. 966 Hospital of PLA, Dandong, Liaoning, 118000, PR China
| | - Bei Shi
- Teaching Center for Basic Medical Experiment, China Medical University, NO. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110001, PR China.
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10
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Guo W, Zheng X, Hua L, Zheng X, Zhang Y, Sun B, Tao Z, Gao J. Screening and bioinformatical analysis of differentially expressed genes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. J Cancer 2021; 12:1867-1883. [PMID: 33753985 PMCID: PMC7974527 DOI: 10.7150/jca.48979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify differentially expressed genes via bioinformatical analysis for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and explore potential biomarkers for NPC. Methods: We downloaded the NPC gene expression datasets (GSE40290, GSE53819) and obtained differentially expressed genes (DEGs) via GEO2R. Functional analysis of DEGs was performed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. In order to explore the interaction of DEGs and screen the core genes, we established protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Then the expression level, prognostic and diagnostic analysis of the core genes in NPC were performed to reveal their potential effects on NPC. Furthermore, we obtained the transcription factors (TF) and microRNAs of core genes to construct the coregulatory network. Results: We obtained 124 up-regulated genes and 190 down-regulated genes in total. These genes were found to be related to signal transduction, extracellular matrix organization and cell adhesion based on GO analysis. KEGG analysis revealed that the NF-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, pathways in cancer were mainly enriched signaling pathways. 25 core genes were obtained by constructing PPI network. Then the high expression of 10 core genes in NPC were verified via GEPIA, Oncomine databases and laboratory experiments. The TF-microRNA coregulatory network of the 10 core genes was built. Survival and diagnostic analysis indicated that SPP1 had negative influence on the prognosis of NPC patients based on two datasets and nine up-regulated core genes (FN1, MMP1, MMP3, PLAU, PLAUR, SERPINE1, SPP1, COL8A1, COL10A1) might be diagnostic markers for NPC. Conclusions: Core genes of NPC were screened out by bioinformatical analysis in the present study and these genes may serve as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqian Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Xiaomin Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Lei Hua
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | | | - Yangyang Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Zhenchao Tao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Jin Gao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230031, China
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11
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Sun M, Gao J, Meng T, Liu S, Chen H, Liu Q, Xing X, Zhao C, Luo Y. Cyclin G2 upregulation impairs migration, invasion, and network formation through RNF123/Dvl2/JNK signaling in the trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo, a possible role in preeclampsia. FASEB J 2020; 35:e21169. [PMID: 33205477 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001559rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) migration and invasion is considered to be responsible for pathological placentation in preeclampsia (PE). Cyclin G2 (CCNG2) is an atypical cyclin that inhibits cell cycle progression. However, its biological function and underlying molecular mechanism in PE are poorly understood. In this study, clinical data demonstrated that CCNG2 was significantly upregulated in PE placenta and associated with invasive EVT dysfunction. Additionally, Ccng2 knockout led to an attenuation of PE-like symptoms in the PE mouse model produced via treatment with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). In vitro, CCNG2 inhibited the migration, invasion, and endothelial-like network formation of human trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo. Mechanically, CCNG2 suppressed JNK-dependent Wnt/PCP signaling and its downstream indicators including epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) via promoting the polyubiquitination degradation of dishevelled 2 (Dvl2) protein in HTR8/SVneo cells. We also discovered that the E3 ligase Ring finger protein 123 (RNF123), as a novel CCNG2 target among HTR8/SVneo cells, interacted with Dvl2 and participated in CCNG2-induced polyubiquitination degradation of Dvl2. Moreover, we verified that the treatment of HTR8/SVneo cells with RNF123-specific siRNA improved polyubiquitination-induced degradation of Dvl2 and the activity of Wnt/PCP-JNK signaling mediated by CCNG2. Taken together, our results reveal that the CCNG2/RNF123/Dvl2/JNK axis may be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of PE through trophoblastic cell function modulation, thus probably providing us with new therapeutic strategies for PE treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manni Sun
- The Research Center for Medical Genomics, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Jinlan Gao
- The Research Center for Medical Genomics, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Tao Meng
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Shenghuan Liu
- The Research Center for Medical Genomics, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Haiying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Qi Liu
- The Research Center for Medical Genomics, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Xuesha Xing
- The Research Center for Medical Genomics, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Chenyang Zhao
- The Research Center for Medical Genomics, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Yang Luo
- The Research Center for Medical Genomics, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
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12
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Wang F, Xie N, Zhou J, Dai M, Zhang Q, Hardiman PJ, Qu F. Molecular mechanisms underlying altered neurobehavioural development of female offspring of mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome: FOS-mediated regulation of neurotrophins in placenta. EBioMedicine 2020; 60:102993. [PMID: 32949999 PMCID: PMC7501055 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.102993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study explored the mechanisms underlying altered neurobehavioural development of female offspring born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS In total, 20 women with PCOS and 32 healthy women who underwent caesarean deliveries with a single female foetus were recruited. Infants were assessed with Dubowitz scoring. Swan71 cell line with stable FOS overexpression was used to verify the regulatory effects of FOS on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) expression. Learning and memory in female first-generation (F1) and second-generation (F2) offspring in a rat model of PCOS was tested using the Morris water maze at puberty and adulthood. Transcriptome analysis of pubertal hippocampi and hypothalami of female F1 offspring was conducted. FINDINGS Total score and behaviour subscales of Dubowitz scoring were significantly lower in female infants of women with PCOS. FOS and NGF protein levels were downregulated in placental villi of the PCOS group. FOS played a key role in BDNF inhibition and enhancing NGF in Swan71 cells. PCOS female F1 rats exhibited lower target crossing times during puberty when compared to controls. Transcriptome analysis revealed significant changes in hippocampal and hypothalamic neuronal pathways in female F1 rats at puberty. INTERPRETATION FOS regulation of neurotrophins in the placenta negatively affects neurobehavioural development of female offspring of PCOS mothers. FUNDING This study was funded by the National Key R&D Program of China (2018YFC1004900 to F.Q. and F.W.) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81874480 to F.Q.; 81873837 to F.W.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Wang
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Ningning Xie
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Jue Zhou
- College of Food Science and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Minchen Dai
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Paul J Hardiman
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Fan Qu
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, China; Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom.
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13
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Zhao L, Sun L, Zheng X, Liu J, Zheng R, Yang R, Wang Y. Alterations in complement and coagulation pathways of human placentae subjected to in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer in the first trimester. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e17031. [PMID: 31689742 PMCID: PMC6946305 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000017031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the potential risks of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to explore changes in the complement and coagulation pathways in placentae subjected to IVF-ET in the first trimester compared to placentae from normal pregnancies. Four placenta samples in the first trimester were obtained from patients undergoing IVF-ET owing to oviductal factors only. An additional 4 control placentae were obtained from volunteers with normal pregnancies. A GeneChip Affymetrix HG-U133 Plus 2.0 Array was utilized to analyze the changes in gene expression between the normal and IVF-ET placentae. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed using the Database for Annotation and Visualization and Integrated Discovery bioinformatics resource, and gene ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were conducted. Using real-time PCR, we confirmed the obtained microarray data in 10 dysregulated genes. Five of the gene products were further analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) to determine their protein expression and localization. A total of fifty DEGs were identified in the complement and coagulation pathways in the IVF-ET treated placentae: 38 upregulated and 12 down-regulated. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that IVF-ET manipulation substantially over-activated the coagulation and complement pathways, while urokinase plasminogen activator- and urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-mediated trophoblastic invasion and tissue remodeling were inhibited. Furthermore, the 5 proteins analyzed by IHC were found to be localized specifically to the placenta. This is the first study to compare DEGs relating to the placental complement and coagulation pathways from patients undergoing IVF-ET treatment compared to those undergoing normal pregnancy. These findings identified valuable biomarkers and potential novel therapeutic targets to combat the unfavorable effects of IVF-ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital
| | - Lifang Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital
| | - Xiuli Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital
| | - Jingfang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital
| | - Rong Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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Novoa Herran SS, Castelblanco M, Sanchez-Gomez M, Umaña Pérez A. Transforming Growth Factor Beta has Dual Effects on MMP9 and uPA Expression in HTR-8/SVneo Human Trophoblastic Cell Line. ACTA BIOLÓGICA COLOMBIANA 2019. [DOI: 10.15446/abc.v24n1.69527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasion of trophoblast into endometrium is vital for successful pregnancy development. MMP9 and uPA are key proteases in this process, but it is still not clear the regulation of its expression by Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β), known negative regulator of trophoblast invasion. We evaluated the effect of TGF-β on the transcriptional expression of uPA and MMP9 over time, in HTR- /SVneo trophoblast cells cultured with or without 0.5 % fetal bovine serum, via RT qPCR. The involved transcription factors and signaling pathways were analyzed in silico, using Proscan, Enrich, PCViz and WikiPathway. Results showed that that TGF-β regulates the expression of uPA and MMP9. Serum modified the nature of TGF-β’s effects on uPA expression, from negative without serum to positive with it, showing opposite effects on MMP9 expression. In silico analysis evidenced different transcription factors for each protease, some belonging to TGF-β ssignaling pathway, and crosstalk with MAPK and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. The TGF-β ddual role is discussed proposing that serum affects the cellular context. Transcriptional regulation of MMP9 and uPA by TGF-β is differential and depends on serum presence and evaluation time.
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