1
|
Yang N, Sun Y, Han B, Deng N, Li G, Han Q, Wang Y, Cai H, Liu F, Cao B, Deng W, Bao H, Kong S, Lu J, Wang H. Trophoblastic signals facilitate endometrial interferon response and lipid metabolism, ensuring normal decidualization. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114246. [PMID: 38762885 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The decidua plays a crucial role in providing structural and trophic support to the developing conceptus before placentation. Following embryo attachment, embryonic components intimately interact with the decidual tissue. While evidence indicates the participation of embryo-derived factors in crosstalk with the uterus, the extent of their impact on post-implantation decidual development requires further investigation. Here, we utilize transgenic mouse models to selectively eliminate primary trophoblast giant cells (pTGCs), the embryonic cells that interface with maternal tissue at the forefront. pTGC ablation impairs decidualization and compromises decidual interferon response and lipid metabolism. Mechanistically, pTGCs release factors such as interferon kappa (IFNK) to strengthen the decidual interferon response and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) to enhance lipid accumulation within the decidua, thereby promoting decidualization. This study presents genetic and metabolomic evidence reinforcing the proactive role of pTGC-derived factors in mobilizing maternal resources to strengthen decidualization, facilitating the normal progression of early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ningjie Yang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Bing Han
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Na Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Gaizhen Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Qian Han
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Yinan Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Han Cai
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Bin Cao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Wenbo Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Haili Bao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
James DW, Quintela M, Lucini L, Alkafri NK, Healey GD, Younas K, Bunkheila A, Margarit L, Francis LW, Gonzalez D, Conlan RS. Homeobox regulator Wilms Tumour 1 is displaced by androgen receptor at cis-regulatory elements in the endometrium of PCOS patients. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1368494. [PMID: 38745948 PMCID: PMC11091321 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1368494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Decidualisation, the process whereby endometrial stromal cells undergo morphological and functional transformation in preparation for trophoblast invasion, is often disrupted in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) resulting in complications with pregnancy and/or infertility. The transcription factor Wilms tumour suppressor 1 (WT1) is a key regulator of the decidualization process, which is reduced in patients with PCOS, a complex condition characterized by increased expression of androgen receptor in endometrial cells and high presence of circulating androgens. Using genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation approaches on primary human endometrial stromal cells, we identify key genes regulated by WT1 during decidualization, including homeobox transcription factors which are important for regulating cell differentiation. Furthermore, we found that AR in PCOS patients binds to the same DNA regions as WT1 in samples from healthy endometrium, suggesting dysregulation of genes important to decidualisation pathways in PCOS endometrium due to competitive binding between WT1 and AR. Integrating RNA-seq and H3K4me3 and H3K27ac ChIP-seq metadata with our WT1/AR data, we identified a number of key genes involved in immune response and angiogenesis pathways that are dysregulated in PCOS patients. This is likely due to epigenetic alterations at distal enhancer regions allowing AR to recruit cofactors such as MAGEA11, and demonstrates the consequences of AR disruption of WT1 in PCOS endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David W. James
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lisa Lucini
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Kinza Younas
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Adnan Bunkheila
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Lavinia Margarit
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Bridgend, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wen B, Liao H, Lin W, Li Z, Ma X, Xu Q, Yu F. The Role of TGF-β during Pregnancy and Pregnancy Complications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16882. [PMID: 38069201 PMCID: PMC10706464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), a multifunctional cytokine, is one of the most important inflammatory cytokines closely related to pregnancy. It plays significant roles in hormone secretion, placental development, and embryonic growth during pregnancy. TGF-β is implicated in embryo implantation and inhibits the invasion of extraepithelial trophoblast cells. It also moderates the mother-fetus interaction by adjusting the secretion pattern of immunomodulatory factors in the placenta, consequently influencing the mother's immune cells. The TGF-β family regulates the development of the nervous, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems by regulating gene expression. Furthermore, TGF-β has been associated with various pregnancy complications. An increase in TGF-β levels can induce the occurrences of pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus, while a decrease can lead to recurrent miscarriage due to the interference of the immune tolerance environment. This review focuses on the role of TGF-β in embryo implantation and development, providing new insights for the clinical prevention and treatment of pregnancy complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baohong Wen
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (B.W.); (H.L.); (W.L.); (Z.L.); (X.M.)
| | - Huixin Liao
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (B.W.); (H.L.); (W.L.); (Z.L.); (X.M.)
| | - Weilin Lin
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (B.W.); (H.L.); (W.L.); (Z.L.); (X.M.)
| | - Zhikai Li
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (B.W.); (H.L.); (W.L.); (Z.L.); (X.M.)
| | - Xiaoqing Ma
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (B.W.); (H.L.); (W.L.); (Z.L.); (X.M.)
| | - Qian Xu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Feiyuan Yu
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (B.W.); (H.L.); (W.L.); (Z.L.); (X.M.)
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Brendel M, Scharf M, Kindler U, Divvela SSK, Brand-Saberi B. Detection of Math6-Expressing Cell Types in Murine Placenta. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1252. [PMID: 37759651 PMCID: PMC10525276 DOI: 10.3390/biology12091252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor Math6, mouse atonal homolog 6, belongs to the family of highly conserved basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors. It plays an important role in embryonic development and shows a wide expression pattern in murine tissues. The placenta, as a life-sustaining transient organ for the fetus, also depends on the expression of Math6. The adverse effects of deleting Math6 in mice, leading to deficient placental development and pregnancy loss, have already been demonstrated by us. Until now, detailed investigations regarding the specific mechanisms underlying the improper placental development in these murine mutants have failed, as the Math6 expression could not be confined to a specific cell type due to the lack of a highly specific Math6 antibody. To circumvent this problem, we used transgenic mice, where Math6 is marked with a Flag sequence that functions as a specific epitope. Tissues from these transgenic mice were used to establish immunohistochemical staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). The establishment of these methods yielded initial findings pertaining to the identification of Math6-expressing cell types and their localization. Our results reveal that Math6 shows a wide expression pattern in both maternal and fetal components of the murine placenta. It shows expression in various cell types, but predominantly in trophoblast giant cells, endothelial cells and macrophages. The largest subpopulation that we detected in the group of Math6-positive cells were identified as DBA+ uterine natural killer cells. These findings reveal information and a chance for further investigation on the involvement of Math6 in placental development and the molecular pathomechanisms of spontaneous abortion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Beate Brand-Saberi
- Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (M.B.); (M.S.); (U.K.); (S.S.K.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rodriguez-Caro F, Moore EC, Good JM. Evolution of parent-of-origin effects on placental gene expression in house mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.24.554674. [PMID: 37662315 PMCID: PMC10473692 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.24.554674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian placenta is a hotspot for the evolution of genomic imprinting, a form of gene regulation that involves the parent-specific epigenetic silencing of one allele. Imprinted genes are central to placental development and are thought to contribute to the evolution of reproductive barriers between species. However, it is unclear how rapidly imprinting evolves or how functional specialization among placental tissues influences the evolution of imprinted expression. We compared parent-of-origin expression bias across functionally distinct placental layers sampled from reciprocal crosses within three closely related lineages of mice ( Mus ). Using genome-wide gene expression and DNA methylation data from fetal and maternal tissues, we developed an analytical strategy to minimize pervasive bias introduced by maternal contamination of placenta samples. We corroborated imprinted expression at 42 known imprinted genes and identified five candidate imprinted genes showing parent-of-origin specific expression and DNA methylation. Paternally-biased expression was enriched in the labyrinth zone, a layer specialized in nutrient transfer, and maternally-biased genes were enriched in the junctional zone, which specializes in modulation of maternal physiology. Differentially methylated regions were predominantly determined through epigenetic modification of the maternal genome and were associated with both maternally- and paternally-biased gene expression. Lastly, comparisons between lineages revealed a small set of co-regulated genes showing rapid divergence in expression levels and imprinted status in the M. m. domesticus lineage. Together, our results reveal important links between core functional elements of placental biology and the evolution of imprinted gene expression among closely related rodent species.
Collapse
|
6
|
Ultrastructural and Immunohistochemical Characterization of Maternal Myofibroblasts in the Bovine Placenta around Parturition. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10010044. [PMID: 36669044 PMCID: PMC9863730 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are contractile cells that exhibit features of both fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells. In the synepitheliochorial placenta of the cow myofibroblasts are found in the maternal stroma. However, a deeper understanding of the structure and function of the stromal myofibroblasts in the developed bovine placenta is still missing. Thus, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses in bovine term placentomes, compared to non-pregnant caruncle samples, were conducted. To investigate functional aspects, contractility of placentomal caruncle slices was assessed in an in vitro contraction assay. Additionally, a three-dimensional reconstruction of a bovine placental myofibroblast was created. Immunofluorescent staining revealed a characteristic pattern, including cytoplasmic expression of α-smooth muscle actin, strong perinuclear signal for the intermediate filament vimentin and nuclear progesterone receptor staining. Ultrastructurally, stress fibers, extended cisternae of the rough endoplasmic reticulum and perinuclear intermediate filaments were observed. Moreover, in vitro stimulation with angiotensin-II, but not with prostaglandin F2α, induced contraction of placental caruncle tissue. Altogether, these results indicate that progesterone-responsive myofibroblasts represent a mesenchymal phenotype that is involved in the contractile properties of bovine placental stroma. Therefore, the present findings suggest a potential involvement of myofibroblasts in post-partum events of cattle, i.e., expulsion of fetal membranes and uterine involution.
Collapse
|
7
|
Reliability of Rodent and Rabbit Models in Preeclampsia Research. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214344. [PMID: 36430816 PMCID: PMC9696504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214344] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo studies on the pathology of gestation, including preeclampsia, often use small mammals such as rabbits or rodents, i.e., mice, rats, hamsters, and guinea pigs. The key advantage of these animals is their short reproductive cycle; in addition, similar to humans, they also develop a haemochorial placenta and present a similar transformation of maternal spiral arteries. Interestingly, pregnant dams also demonstrate a similar reaction to inflammatory factors and placentally derived antiangiogenic factors, i.e., soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) or soluble endoglin-1 (sEng), as preeclamptic women: all animals present an increase in blood pressure and usually proteinuria. These constitute the classical duet that allows for the recognition of preeclampsia. However, the time of initiation of maternal vessel remodelling and the depth of trophoblast invasion differs between rabbits, rodents, and humans. Unfortunately, at present, no known animal replicates a human pregnancy exactly, and hence, the use of rabbit and rodent models is restricted to the investigation of individual aspects of human gestation only. This article compares the process of placentation in rodents, rabbits, and humans, which should be considered when planning experiments on preeclampsia; these aspects might determine the success, or failure, of the study. The report also reviews the rodent and rabbit models used to investigate certain aspects of the pathomechanism of human preeclampsia, especially those related to incorrect trophoblast invasion, placental hypoxia, inflammation, or maternal endothelial dysfunction.
Collapse
|
8
|
Jin ZY, Liu CK, Hong YQ, Liang YX, Liu L, Yang ZM. BHPF exposure impairs mouse and human decidualization. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 304:119222. [PMID: 35378203 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Although BHPF has been widely used in plastic manufacturing as a substitute for BPA, current evidence suggests that BHPF also causes harmful effects on reproduction. However, effects of BHPF on mammalian early pregnancy are still poorly defined. This study aimed to explore the effects of BHPF on early pregnancy, especially decidualization and embryonic development in mice and human beings. The results showed that 50 and 100 mg/kg BHPF exposure reduced birth weight, and implantation site weight on the day 8 of pregnancy in mice. Because BHPF inhibits both embryo development and artificial decidualization in mice, suggesting that the detrimental effects of BHPF should be from its effects on embryo development and decidualization. Under in vitro decidualization, 10 μM BHPF inhibits decidualization and leads to disordered expression of Lamin B1 and collagen in mice. In addition, 10 μM BHPF also inhibits decidualization, and causes disordered expression of both collagen III and Lamin B1 under human in vitro decidualization. However, collagen III supplementation can rescue BHPF inhibition on decidualization. Further, our study demonstrates that BHPF impairs human decidualization through the HB-EGF/EGFR/STAT3/Collagen III pathway. Taken together these data suggest that exposure to BHPF impairs mouse and human decidualization during early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Yong Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Cheng-Kan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Yu-Qi Hong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Liang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Li Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Zeng-Ming Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
IL-27 promotes decidualization via the STAT3-ESR/PGR regulatory axis. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 151:103623. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
|
10
|
Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, Dimova T. Immunity at maternal-fetal interface: KIR/HLA (Allo)recognition. Immunol Rev 2022; 308:55-76. [PMID: 35610960 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Both KIR and HLA are the most variable gene families in the human genome. The recognition of the semi-allogeneic embryo-derived trophoblasts by maternal decidual NK (dNK) cells is essential for the establishment of the functional placenta. This recognition is based on the KIR-HLA interactions and trophoblast expresses a specific HLA profile that constitutes classical polymorphic HLA-C and non-classical oligomorphic HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G molecules. This review highlights some features of the KIR/HLA-C (allo)recognition by decidual NK (dNK) cells as a main immune cell population specifically enriched at maternal-fetal interface during human early pregnancy. How KIR/HLA-C axis operates in pregnancy disorders and in the context of transplacental infections is discussed as well. We summarized old and new data on dNK-cell functional plasticity, their selective expression of KIR and fetal maternal/paternal HLA-C haplotypes present. Results showed that KIR-HLA-C combinations and the corresponding axis operate differently in each pregnancy, determined by the variability of both maternal KIR haplotypes and fetus' maternal/paternal HLA-C allotype combinations. Moreover, the maturation of NK cells strongly depends on if or not HLA allotypes for certain KIR are present. We suggest that the unique KIR/HLA combinations reached in each pregnancy (normal and pathological) should be studied according to well-defined guidelines and unified methodologies to have comparable results ease to interpret and use in clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Foster CSP, Van Dyke JU, Thompson MB, Smith NMA, Simpfendorfer CA, Murphy CR, Whittington CM. Different genes are recruited during convergent evolution of pregnancy and the placenta. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:6564414. [PMID: 35388432 PMCID: PMC9048886 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The repeated evolution of the same traits in distantly related groups (convergent evolution) raises a key question in evolutionary biology: do the same genes underpin convergent phenotypes? Here we explore one such trait, viviparity (live birth), which qualitative studies suggest may indeed have evolved via genetic convergence. There are >150 independent origins of live birth in vertebrates, providing a uniquely powerful system to test the mechanisms underpinning convergence in morphology, physiology, and/or gene recruitment during pregnancy. We compared transcriptomic data from eight vertebrates (lizards, mammals, sharks) that gestate embryos within the uterus. Since many previous studies detected qualitative similarities in gene use during independent origins of pregnancy, we expected to find significant overlap in gene use in viviparous taxa. However, we found no more overlap in uterine gene expression associated with viviparity than we would expect by chance alone. Each viviparous lineage exhibits the same core set of uterine physiological functions, yet, contrary to prevailing assumptions about this trait, we find that none of the same genes are differentially expressed in all viviparous lineages, or even in all viviparous amniote lineages. Therefore, across distantly related vertebrates, different genes have been recruited to support the morphological and physiological changes required for successful pregnancy. We conclude that redundancies in gene function have enabled the repeated evolution of viviparity through recruitment of different genes from genomic 'toolboxes', which are uniquely constrained by the ancestries of each lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles S P Foster
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James U Van Dyke
- School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga campus, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael B Thompson
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas M A Smith
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Colin A Simpfendorfer
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- School of Medical Sciences and The Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Camilla M Whittington
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Li R, Wang TY, Xu X, Emery OM, Yi M, Wu SP, DeMayo FJ. Spatial transcriptomic profiles of mouse uterine microenvironments at pregnancy day 7.5†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:529-545. [PMID: 35357464 PMCID: PMC9382390 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine dysfunctions lead to fertility disorders and pregnancy complications. Normal uterine functions at pregnancy depend on crosstalk among multiple cell types in uterine microenvironments. Here, we performed the spatial transcriptomics and single-cell RNA-seq assays to determine local gene expression profiles at the embryo implantation site of the mouse uterus on pregnancy day 7.5 (D7.5). The spatial transcriptomic annotation identified 11 domains of distinct gene signatures, including a mesometrial myometrium, an anti-mesometrial myometrium, a mesometrial decidua enriched with natural killer cells, a vascular sinus zone for maternal vessel remodeling, a fetal-maternal interface, a primary decidual zone, a transition decidual zone, a secondary decidual zone, undifferentiated stroma, uterine glands, and the embryo. The scRNA-Seq identified 12 types of cells in the D7.5 uterus including three types of stromal fibroblasts with differentiated and undifferentiated markers, one cluster of epithelium including luminal and glandular epithelium, mesothelium, endothelia, pericytes, myelomonocytic cell, natural killer cells, and lymphocyte B. These single-cell RNA signatures were then utilized to deconvolute the cell-type compositions of each individual uterine microenvironment. Functional annotation assays on spatial transcriptomic data revealed uterine microenvironments with distinguished metabolic preferences, immune responses, and various cellular behaviors that are regulated by region-specific endocrine and paracrine signals. Global interactome among regions is also projected based on the spatial transcriptomic data. This study provides high-resolution transcriptome profiles with locality information at the embryo implantation site to facilitate further investigations on molecular mechanisms for normal pregnancy progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Tian-yuan Wang
- Integrative Bioinformatics Supportive Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Xin Xu
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Olivia M Emery
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - MyeongJin Yi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Correspondence: Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 111 T. W. Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA. Tel: +9842873987; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
da Silva Pereira MM, de Melo IMF, Braga VAÁ, Teixeira ÁAC, Wanderley-Teixeira V. Effect of swimming exercise, insulin-associated or not, on inflammatory cytokines, apoptosis, and collagen in diabetic rat placentas. Histochem Cell Biol 2022; 157:467-479. [PMID: 35022821 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-021-02069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Physical exercise is an important therapeutic agent for women with diabetes during gestation. However, its histophysiological consequences for the placenta remain unclear. In this study, we evaluated the expression of VEGF-A, IL1ß, TNFα, and type I collagen in the placentas of diabetic rats subjected to a swimming program. Thirty rats were divided into the following groups: CG, pregnant nondiabetic rats; CEG, nondiabetic pregnant rats subjected to swimming; DG, pregnant diabetic rats; DEG, pregnant diabetic rats subjected to swimming; DIG, pregnant diabetic rats treated with insulin; DIEG, pregnant diabetic rats treated with insulin and subjected to swimming. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin [50 mg/kg intraperitoneally (i.p.)], and insulin was administered at a dose of 5 U/day i.p. (2 U at 10 am and 3 U at 7 pm) in the DIG group; in the DIEG group, insulin was administered at a dose of only 2 U/day at 7 pm. The rats were sacrificed on the 20th day of gestation. There was an increase in the expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, VEGF-A, and type I collagen and a higher apoptotic index in the placentas of the DG and DEG groups, but there was a reduction in glycemia in the latter group. In the DIG and DIEG groups, the levels remained similar to those of the control; however, in these groups the reduction was more significant for all analyzed parameters. Therefore, in rats induced to diabetes during pregnancy, swimming, although reducing glycemic levels, did not prevent immunohistochemical changes in the placenta, suggesting the need for a multidisciplinary protocol associated with traditional pharmacological treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Maria da Silva Pereira
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Ismaela Maria Ferreira de Melo
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Valeska Andrea Ático Braga
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Álvaro Aguiar Coelho Teixeira
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Valéria Wanderley-Teixeira
- Department of Morphology and Animal Physiology, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sternberg AK, Buck VU, Classen-Linke I, Leube RE. How Mechanical Forces Change the Human Endometrium during the Menstrual Cycle in Preparation for Embryo Implantation. Cells 2021; 10:2008. [PMID: 34440776 PMCID: PMC8391722 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is characterized by exceptional plasticity, as evidenced by rapid growth and differentiation during the menstrual cycle and fast tissue remodeling during early pregnancy. Past work has rarely addressed the role of cellular mechanics in these processes. It is becoming increasingly clear that sensing and responding to mechanical forces are as significant for cell behavior as biochemical signaling. Here, we provide an overview of experimental evidence and concepts that illustrate how mechanical forces influence endometrial cell behavior during the hormone-driven menstrual cycle and prepare the endometrium for embryo implantation. Given the fundamental species differences during implantation, we restrict the review to the human situation. Novel technologies and devices such as 3D multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography, atomic force microscopy, organ-on-a-chip microfluidic systems, stem-cell-derived organoid formation, and complex 3D co-culture systems have propelled the understanding how endometrial receptivity and blastocyst implantation are regulated in the human uterus. Accumulating evidence has shown that junctional adhesion, cytoskeletal rearrangement, and extracellular matrix stiffness affect the local force balance that regulates endometrial differentiation and blastocyst invasion. A focus of this review is on the hormonal regulation of endometrial epithelial cell mechanics. We discuss potential implications for embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rudolf E. Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (A.K.S.); (V.U.B.); (I.C.-L.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Xi J, Cheng J, Jin CC, Liu JY, Shen ZR, Xia LJ, Li Q, Shen J, Xia YB, Xu B. Electroacupuncture Improves Pregnancy Outcomes in Rats with Thin Endometrium by Promoting the Expression of Pinopode-Related Molecules. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6658321. [PMID: 33937407 PMCID: PMC8062184 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6658321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A thin endometrium affects the success of assisted reproduction due to low endometrial receptivity. Acupuncture improves endometrial receptivity and promotes the formation of pinopodes, the ultrastructure marker implantation window. However, the specific underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the efficacy of acupuncture treatment and its underlying mechanism were investigated by analyzing pregnancy rate, pinopode formation, and related molecular markers in thin endometrium model rats. Absolute ethanol (95%) was injected into the uteruses of female Sprague-Dawley rats to construct a thin endometrium model. In this model, acupuncture stimulation at EX-CA1, SP6, and CV4 ameliorated the pregnancy rate. Significantly increased embryo implantation, endometrial thickness, numbers of glands, and blood vessels were observed in the electroacupuncture (EA) group compared to the model group. The number of pinopodes in the EA group was abundant, with a shape similar to that of the control group. Additionally, significantly higher expression levels of pinopode-related markers, including integrin αvβ3, homeobox A10 (HOXA10), heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HBEGF), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), and progesterone receptor (PR), were observed in the EA group than those in the model group. In conclusion, EA had a positive effect on the endometrial receptivity of thin endometrium model rats by improving pinopode formation through multiple molecular targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Xi
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Chun-chun Jin
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jing-yu Liu
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhen-ru Shen
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Liang-jun Xia
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qian Li
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - You-bing Xia
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Bin Xu
- Acupuncture and Tuina College, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fang X, Ni N, Gao Y, Lydon JP, Ivanov I, Rijnkels M, Bayless KJ, Li Q. Transforming growth factor beta signaling and decidual integrity in mice†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1186-1198. [PMID: 32902612 PMCID: PMC7711917 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling regulates multifaceted reproductive processes. It has been shown that the type 1 receptor of TGFβ (TGFBR1) is indispensable for female reproductive tract development, implantation, placental development, and fertility. However, the role of TGFβ signaling in decidual development and function remains poorly defined. Our objective is to determine the impact of uterine-specific deletion of Tgfbr1 on decidual integrity, with a focus on the cellular and molecular properties of the decidua during development. Our results show that the developmental dynamics of the decidua is altered in TGFBR1 conditionally depleted uteri from embryonic day (E) 5.5 to E8.5, substantiated by downregulation of genes associated with inflammatory responses and uterine natural killer cell abundance, reduced presence of nondecidualized fibroblasts in the antimesometrial region, and altered decidual cell development. Notably, conditional ablation of TGFBR1 results in the formation of decidua containing more abundant alpha smooth muscle actin (ACTA2)-positive cells at the peripheral region of the antimesometrial side versus controls at E6.5-E8.5. This finding is corroborated by upregulation of a subset of smooth muscle marker genes in Tgfbr1 conditionally deleted decidua at E6.5 and E8.5. Moreover, increased cell proliferation and enhanced decidual ERK1/2 signaling were found in Tgfbr1 conditional knockout mice upon decidual regression. In summary, conditional ablation of TGFBR1 in the uterus profoundly impacts the cellular and molecular properties of the decidua. Our results suggest that TGFBR1 in uterine epithelial and stromal compartments is important for the integrity of the decidua, a transient but crucial structure that supports embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Fang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ivan Ivanov
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Monique Rijnkels
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kaloğlu C, Bulut HE, Hamutoğlu R, Korkmaz EM, Önder O, Dağdeviren T, Aydemir MN. Wingless ligands and beta-catenin expression in the rat endometrium: The role of Wnt3 and Wnt7a/beta-catenin pathway at the embryo-uterine interface. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:1159-1172. [PMID: 32949181 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Wnt/beta-catenin signaling may play an essential role in endometrial decidualization, placentation, and the establishment of pregnancy. We investigate here the possible roles, immunolocalizations, and synthesis of the Wnt3, Wnt7a, and beta-catenin proteins in the rat endometrium during the estrous cycle and early postimplantation period. Wnt3 and Wnt7a had a similar localization and dynamic expression relative to the endometrial stages. Wnt7a immunostaining was not limited only to the luminal epithelial cells, but also to strong stainings in the stromal and endothelial cells. Wnt3, Wnt7a, and beta-catenin were highly synthesized and colocalized at the trophoblast-decidual interface; and were more obvious in the primary decidual zone, the GTCs, and the ectoplacental cone. Beta-catenin was strongly localized at the borders of the mature decidual cells; however, Wnt3 and Wnt7a immunolocalizations were decreased in those cells. As such, the immunolocalization of Wnt3, Wnt7a, and beta-catenin shifted with decidualization and placentation. The expression level of Wnt3, Wnt7a, and beta-catenin messenger RNAs increased in early pregnancy, and especially between Days 8.5 and 9.5. The dramatic changes in the expression of Wnt3, Wnt7a, and beta-catenin observed during the early days of pregnancy and the estrous cycle may indicate their roles in decidualization, stromal cell proliferation, and trophoblast invasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celal Kaloğlu
- Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) Center, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin E Bulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Rasim Hamutoğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Ertan M Korkmaz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Ozan Önder
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Tuğba Dağdeviren
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Merve N Aydemir
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Sivas-Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sexually dimorphic effects of forkhead box a2 (FOXA2) and uterine glands on decidualization and fetoplacental development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:23952-23959. [PMID: 32900950 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2014272117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Glands of the uterus are essential for pregnancy establishment. Forkhead box A2 (FOXA2) is expressed specifically in the glands of the uterus and a critical regulator of glandular epithelium (GE) differentiation, development, and function. Mice with a conditional deletion of FOXA2 in the adult uterus, created using the lactotransferrin iCre (Ltf-iCre) model, have a morphologically normal uterus with glands, but lack FOXA2-dependent GE-expressed genes, such as leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). Adult FOXA2 conditional knockout (cKO; Ltf iCre/+ Foxa2 f/f ) mice are infertile due to defective embryo implantation arising from a lack of LIF, a critical implantation factor of uterine gland origin. However, intraperitoneal injections of LIF can initiate embryo implantation in the uterus of adult FOXA2 cKO mice with pregnancies maintained to term. Here, we tested the hypothesis that FOXA2-regulated genes in the uterine glands impact development of the decidua, placenta, and fetus. On gestational day 8.5, the antimesometrial and mesometrial decidua transcriptome was noticeably altered in LIF-replaced FOXA2 cKO mice. Viable fetuses were reduced in FOXA2 cKO mice on gestational days 12.5 and 17.5. Sex-dependent differences in fetal weight, placenta histoarchitecture, and the placenta and metrial gland transcriptome were observed between control and FOXA2 cKO mice. The transcriptome of the placenta with a female fetus was considerably more altered than the placenta with a male fetus in FOXA2 cKO dams. These studies reveal previously unrecognized sexually dimorphic effects of FOXA2 and uterine glands on fetoplacental development with potential impacts on offspring health into adulthood.
Collapse
|
19
|
Parobchak N, Rao S, Negron A, Schaefer J, Bhattacharya M, Radovick S, Babwah AV. Uterine Gpr83 mRNA is highly expressed during early pregnancy and GPR83 mediates the actions of PEN in endometrial and non-endometrial cells. F&S SCIENCE 2020; 1:67-77. [PMID: 35559741 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the expression and signaling of uterine GPR83 in vivo in the nonpregnant and pregnant mouse and in vitro in human endometrial and nonendometrial cells. DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENTS Not applicable. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Expression of uterine Gpr83 was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction throughout the estrous cycle and during early pregnancy in ovarian-stimulated and non-ovarian-stimulated mice and pregnant and pseudopregnant mice. Expression was also determined in ovariectomized mice after the administration of oil, E2, P4, or E2 + P4 and in stromal cells following 6 days of in vitro decidualization. GPR83 signaling was studied in human endometrial and embryonic kidney cell lines. Cells were treated by PEN, a GPR83 ligand, and PEN-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation was assayed under conditions that blocked Gαq/11 and/or β-arrestin signaling. RESULTS Uterine Gpr83 is expressed throughout the estrous cycle and during early pregnancy; expression increases dramatically at the time of uterine receptivity, embryo implantation, and stromal cell decidualization. In the ovariectomized mouse, hormone add-back reveals that Gpr83 expression is highly responsive to the combined treatment of E2 and P4, and studies in the ovarian-stimulated mouse show that expression is also very sensitive to changes in E2 and P4 and is therefore tightly regulated by E2 and P4. At the implantation site, expression is elevated up to D6 of pregnancy and then declines rapidly on D7 and D8, suggesting that if there is any involvement in decidualization, it is likely associated with primary but not secondary stromal cell decidualization. This premise was supported by the observation that stromal cell decidualization in vitro progresses with a decline in Gpr83 expression. In ERα/PR-expressing endometrial Ishikawa cells, GPR83 mediates PEN signals in a Gαq/11-dependent manner, and studies conducted in HEK 293 cells lacking β-arrestin revealed that GPR83 also signals via a β-arrestin-dependent manner. When signaling by either one or both pathways is downregulated, cells exhibit a major reduction in responsiveness to PEN treatment, demonstrating that signaling by both pathways is significant. CONCLUSION We hypothesize that PEN/GPR83 signaling regulates uterine receptivity, embryo implantation, and primary stromal cell decidualization by coupling to Gαq/11- and β-arrestin-dependent pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Parobchak
- Laboratory of Human Growth and Reproductive Development, Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; School of Graduate Studies, Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Shivani Rao
- Laboratory of Human Growth and Reproductive Development, Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Ariel Negron
- Laboratory of Human Growth and Reproductive Development, Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Jennifer Schaefer
- Laboratory of Human Growth and Reproductive Development, Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; School of Graduate Studies, Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Moshmi Bhattacharya
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Sally Radovick
- Laboratory of Human Growth and Reproductive Development, Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; School of Graduate Studies, Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey; Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Andy V Babwah
- Laboratory of Human Growth and Reproductive Development, Department of Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey; School of Graduate Studies, Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey; Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Latifi Z, Nejabati HR, Abroon S, Mihanfar A, Farzadi L, Hakimi P, Hajipour H, Nouri M, Fattahi A. Dual role of TGF-β in early pregnancy: clues from tumor progression. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1417-1430. [PMID: 30772900 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
TGF-β signaling in the endometrium is active during the implantation period and has a pivotal role in regulating endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. During embryo implantation, both apoptosis and proliferation of endometrial cells happen at the same time and it seems TGF-β is the factor that controls both of these processes. As shown in cancer cells, in special conditions this cytokine can have a dual effect and switch the action from apoptosis to proliferation. Owing to the similarity between embryo implantation and cancer development and also unusual pattern of proliferation and remodeling in the uterus, in this review we suggest the existence of such a switching in endometrium during the early pregnancy. Moreover, we address some potential mechanisms that could regulate the switching. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating TGF-β action and signaling during the implantation period could pave the way for introducing novel therapeutic strategies in order to solve implantation-associated issues such as repeated implantation failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Latifi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sina Abroon
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aynaz Mihanfar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parvin Hakimi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Hajipour
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Owusu-Akyaw A, Krishnamoorthy K, Goldsmith LT, Morelli SS. The role of mesenchymal-epithelial transition in endometrial function. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:114-133. [PMID: 30407544 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human uterine endometrium undergoes significant remodeling and regeneration on a rapid and repeated basis, after parturition, menstruation, and in some cases, injury. The ability of the adult endometrium to undergo cyclic regeneration and differentiation/decidualization is essential for successful human reproduction. Multiple key physiologic functions of the endometrium require the cells of this tissue to transition between mesenchymal and epithelial phenotypes, processes known as mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although MET/EMT processes have been widely characterized in embryonic development and in the context of malignancy, mounting evidence demonstrates the importance of MET/EMT in allowing the endometrium the phenotypic and functional flexibility necessary for successful decidualization, regeneration/re-epithelialization and embryo implantation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the observations concerning MET and EMT and their regulation in physiologic uterine functions, specifically in the context of endometrial regeneration, decidualization and embryo implantation. SEARCH METHODS Using variations of the search terms 'mesenchymal-epithelial transition', 'mesenchymal-epithelial transformation', 'epithelial-mesenchymal transition', 'epithelial-mesenchymal transformation', 'uterus', 'endometrial regeneration', 'endometrial decidualization', 'embryo implantation', a search of the published literature between 1970 and 2018 was conducted using the PubMed database. In addition, we searched the reference lists of all publications included in this review for additional relevant original studies. OUTCOMES Multiple studies demonstrate that endometrial stromal cells contribute to the regeneration of both the stromal and epithelial cell compartments of the uterus, implicating a role for MET in mechanisms responsible for endometrial regeneration and re-epithelialization. During decidualization, endometrial stromal cells undergo morphologic and functional changes consistent with MET in order to accommodate embryo implantation. Under the influence of estradiol, progesterone and multiple other factors, endometrial stromal fibroblasts acquire epithelioid characteristics, such as expanded cytoplasm and rough endoplasmic reticulum required for greater secretory capacity, rounded nuclei, increased expression of junctional proteins which allow for increased cell-cell communication, and a reorganized actin cytoskeleton. During embryo implantation, in response to both maternal and embryonic-derived signals, the maternal luminal epithelium as well as the decidualized stromal cells acquire the mesenchymal characteristics of increased migration/motility, thus undergoing EMT in order to accommodate the invading trophoblast. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Overall, the findings support important roles for MET/EMT in multiple endometrial functions required for successful reproduction. The endometrium may be considered a unique wound healing model, given its ability to repeatedly undergo repair without scarring or loss of function. Future studies to elucidate how MET/EMT mechanisms may contribute to scar-free endometrial repair will have considerable potential to advance studies of wound healing mechanisms in other tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amma Owusu-Akyaw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Kavitha Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Laura T Goldsmith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Sara S Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kaushik T, Mishra R, Singh RK, Bajpai S. Role of connexins in female reproductive system and endometriosis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 49:101705. [PMID: 32018041 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101705] [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: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Gap junction form channels between the cells and facilitate the function of cellular cross talk. Connexins, the gap junction proteins play an essential role in female reproductive health and its expression anomalies are correlated with female reproductive disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome, recurrent miscarriage, pre-term birth and endometriosis. Endometriosis is a chronic gynecologic disorder caused by ectopic endometrial lesions growing outside the uterine cavity. Embryonic implantation is adversely affected in case of endometriosis leading to infertility. Endometriosis also interferes with ovulatory functions, reduces fertilization and impaires blastocyst implantation. There lies a lacunae in understanding of the role of gap junctions protein connexins in endometriosis. Therefore, this study discusses the role of connexins in improving female fertility by taming the processes of oogenesis, germ line development, uterine receptivity, placental growth, implantation, decidualization and concludes by focusing the role of connexins in endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tripti Kaushik
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnolgy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, 304022, Rajasthan, India
| | - Rakesh Mishra
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (inStem), NCBS Campus, Bengaluru, 560065, Karnataka, India
| | - Rakesh K Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Surabhi Bajpai
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnolgy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, 304022, Rajasthan, India.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Gonella-Diaza AM, Silveira Mesquita F, Lopes E, Ribeiro da Silva K, Cogliati B, De Francisco Strefezzi R, Binelli M. Sex steroids drive the remodeling of oviductal extracellular matrix in cattle. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:590-599. [PMID: 29659700 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a group of molecules that offer structural and biochemical support to cells and interact with them to regulate their function. Also, growth factors (GFs) stored in the ECM can be locally released during ECM remodeling. Here, we hypothesize that the balance between ECM components and remodelers is regulated according to the ovarian steroid milieu to which the oviduct is exposed during the periovulatory period. Follicular growth was manipulated to generate cows that ovulated small follicles (SF-small corpus luteum [SCL]; n = 20) or large follicles (LF-large corpus luteum [LCL]; n = 21) and possess corresponding Estradiol (E2) and Progesterone (P4) plasmatic concentrations. Ampulla and isthmus samples were collected on day 4 (day 0 = ovulation induction) and immediately frozen or fixed. The transcriptional profile (n = 3/group) was evaluated by RNA sequencing. MMP Antibody Array was used to quantify ECM remodelers' protein abundance and immunohistochemistry to quantify type I collagen. Transcriptome analysis revealed the over-representation of ECM organization and remodeling pathways in the LF-LCL group. Transcription of ECM components (collagens), remodelers (ADAMs and MMPs), and related GFs were upregulated in LF-LCL. Protein intensities for MMP3, MMP8, MMP9, MMP13, and TIMP4 were greater for the LF-LCL group. Type I collagen content in the mucosa was greater in SF-SCL group. In conclusion, that the earlier and more intense exposure to E2 and P4 during the periovulatory period in LF-LCL animals stimulates ECM remodeling. We speculate that differential ECM regulation may contribute to oviductal receptivity to the embryo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Maria Gonella-Diaza
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Everton Lopes
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kauê Ribeiro da Silva
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Mario Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
An SM, Kwon S, Hwang JH, Yu GE, Kang DG, Park DH, Kim TW, Park HC, Ha J, Kim CW. Hypomethylation in the promoter region of ZPBP as a potential litter size indicator in Berkshire pigs. Arch Anim Breed 2019; 62:69-76. [PMID: 31807615 PMCID: PMC6852858 DOI: 10.5194/aab-62-69-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In pigs, litter size is typically defined as the total number of piglets born (TNB) or the number of piglets born alive (NBA). Increasing pig litter size is of great economic interest as a means to increase productivity. The capacity of the uterus is a critical component of litter size and may play a central role in prolificacy. In this study, we investigated litter-size-related epigenetic markers in uterine tissue from Berkshire pigs with smaller litter size groups (SLGs) and larger litter size groups (LLGs) using genome-wide bisulfite sequencing (GWBS). A total of 3269 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified: 1566 were hypermethylated and 1703 hypomethylated in LLG compared to SLG. The zona pellucida binding protein (ZPBP) gene was significantly hypomethylated in the LLG promoter region, and its expression was significantly upregulated in uterine tissue. Thus, the methylation status of ZPBP gene was identified as a potential indicator of litter size. Furthermore, we verified its negative correlation with litter size traits (TNB and NBA) in whole blood samples from 172 Berkshire sows as a blood-based biomarker by a porcine methylation-specific restriction enzyme polymerase chain reaction (PMP) assay. The results suggest that the methylation status of the ZPBP gene can serve as a valuable epigenetic biomarker for hyperprolific sows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Mi An
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | - Seulgi Kwon
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | - Jung Hye Hwang
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | - Go Eun Yu
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | - Deok Gyeong Kang
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | - Da Hye Park
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | - Tae Wan Kim
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | | | - Jeongim Ha
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| | - Chul Wook Kim
- Swine Science and Technology Center, Gyeongnam National University of Science & Technology, Jinju, 52725, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Barreto RSN, Romagnolli P, Cereta AD, Coimbra-Campos LMC, Birbrair A, Miglino MA. Pericytes in the Placenta: Role in Placental Development and Homeostasis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1122:125-151. [PMID: 30937867 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-11093-2_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is the most variable organ, in terms of structure, among the species. Besides it, all placental types have the same function: production of viable offspring, independent of pregnancy length, litter number, or invasion level. The angiogenesis is a central mechanism for placental functionality, due to proper maternal-fetal communication and exchanges. Much is known about the vasculature structure, but little is known about vasculature development and cellular interactions. Pericytes are perivascular cells that were described to control vasculature stability and permeability. Nowadays there are several new functions discovered, such as lymphocyte modulation and activation, macrophage-like phagocytic properties, tissue regenerative and repair processes, and also the ability to modulate stem cells, majorly the hematopoietic. In parallel, placental tissues are known to be a particularly immune microenvironment and a rich stem cell niche. The pericyte function plethora could be similar in the placental microenvironment and could have a central role in placental development and homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo S N Barreto
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, Butantã, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patricia Romagnolli
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, Butantã, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andressa Daronco Cereta
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, Butantã, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leda M C Coimbra-Campos
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Alexander Birbrair
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maria Angelica Miglino
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, Butantã, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nicholson L, Madawala R, Lindsay L, Murphy CR. α-Parvin and β-parvin in the rat uterus during decidualisation and uterine receptivity. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 151:395-406. [PMID: 30515554 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1761-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
During early pregnancy, the uterine luminal epithelial cells (UECs) and endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) undergo morphological changes to enable blastocyst implantation. The present study investigates, for the first time, the cytoskeletal-associated proteins and α-actinin superfamily members, α-parvin and β-parvin, during early pregnancy in the rat uterus. These two PARVA proteins are involved in cell adhesion, morphological changes and regulation of other cytoskeletal proteins, through binding with proteins such as actin and integrin-linked kinase. α-parvin is present in UECs at fertilisation and significantly decreases by the time of implantation. β-parvin acts in opposition; significantly increasing in both UECs and ESCs at the time of implantation, suggesting a role in the process of decidualisation. Additionally, the presence of a serine-8 residue-phosphorylated α-parvin, which is associated with cell morphology changes, was found in the nuclear region of both UECs and ESCs during implantation and decidualisation. We also show that the presence of both β-parvin and phosphorylated α-parvin in ESCs is dependent on decidualisation occurring. This study demonstrates that the changing balance and localisation of the two PARVA proteins are dependent on the time of uterine receptivity, suggesting a co-dependent role in the cytoskeletal re-organisation crucial to the changing conditions necessary for implantation and decidualisation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leigh Nicholson
- Cell and Reproductive Biology Lab, Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.
| | - Romanthi Madawala
- Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, Australia
| | - Laura Lindsay
- Cell and Reproductive Biology Lab, Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- Cell and Reproductive Biology Lab, Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Böing M, Brand-Saberi B, Napirei M. Murine transcription factor Math6 is a regulator of placenta development. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14997. [PMID: 30301918 PMCID: PMC6177472 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33387-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The murine basic helix-loop-helix transcription (bHLH) factor mouse atonal homolog 6 (Math6) is expressed in numerous organs and supposed to be involved in several developmental processes. However, so far neither all aspects nor the molecular mechanisms of Math6 function have been explored exhaustively. To analyze the in vivo function of Math6 in detail, we generated a constitutive knockout (KO) mouse (Math6−/−) and performed an initial histological and molecular biological investigation of its main phenotype. Pregnant Math6−/− females suffer from a disturbed early placental development leading to the death of the majority of embryos independent of the embryonic Math6 genotype. A few placentas and fetuses survive the severe uterine hemorrhagic events at late mid-gestation (E13.5) and subsequently develop regularly. However, these fetuses could not be born due to obstructions within the gravid uterus, which hinder the birth process. Characterization of the endogenous spatiotemporal Math6 expression during placenta development reveals that Math6 is essential for an ordered decidualization and an important regulator of the maternal-fetal endocrine crosstalk regulating endometrial trophoblast invasion and differentiation. The strongly disturbed vascularization observed in the maternal placenta appears as an additional consequence of the altered endocrine status and as the main cause for the general hemorrhagic crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Böing
- Ruhr University Bochum, Institute of Anatomy, Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Bochum, Germany
| | - Beate Brand-Saberi
- Ruhr University Bochum, Institute of Anatomy, Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Bochum, Germany.
| | - Markus Napirei
- Ruhr University Bochum, Institute of Anatomy, Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Farah O, Biechele S, Rossant J, Dufort D. Porcupine-dependent Wnt activity within the uterine epithelium is essential for fertility. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:688-697. [PMID: 29036275 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The secretion of mammalian Wnt ligands within the cell is dependent on the activity of Porcupine, a gene located on the X-chromosome that encodes for a membrane-bound O-acyl transferase. Here, we report that postnatal ablation of Porcupine in the uterine luminal epithelium alone results in the decrease in endometrial gland number. Despite having uterine glands, mutant females are completely infertile. Epithelial ablation of Porcupine causes defects in timely apposition of the lumen, along with failure to respond to artificial decidual induction. Interestingly, progesterone supplementation was able to rescue the initiation of decidualization, but the decidua was not maintained and subsequently resorbed. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that deletion of Porcupine in the epithelium resulted in the stromal dysregulation of members of the Wnt signaling pathway (Lef1, Wnt4, and Wnt16), dysregulation of receptors and ligands in the Notch signaling pathway (Notch1, Notch4, and Dll4) as well as Hoxa10. Our results demonstrate the crucial requirement of Wnt signaling in the epithelium for fertility and demonstrate that epithelial Wnts regulate stromal Wnt gene expression as well as regulating the expression of essential signaling factors and effectors required for successful embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Farah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Steffen Biechele
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Janet Rossant
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bellofiore N, Cousins F, Temple-Smith P, Dickinson H, Evans J. A missing piece: the spiny mouse and the puzzle of menstruating species. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R25-R41. [PMID: 29789322 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We recently discovered the first known menstruating rodent. With the exception of four bats and the elephant shrew, the common spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) is the only species outside the primate order to exhibit menses. There are few widely accepted theories on why menstruation developed as the preferred reproductive strategy of these select mammals, all of which reference the evolution of spontaneous decidualisation prior to menstrual shedding. Though menstruating species share several reproductive traits, there has been no identifiable feature unique to menstruating species. Such a feature might suggest why spontaneous decidualisation, and thus menstruation, evolved in these species. We propose that a ≥3-fold increase in progesterone during the luteal phase of the reproductive cycle is a unique characteristic linking menstruating species. We discuss spontaneous decidualisation as a consequence of high progesterone, and the potential role of prolactin in screening for defective embryos in these species to aid in minimising implantation of abnormal embryos. We further explore the possible impact of nutrition in selecting species to undergo spontaneous decidualisation and subsequent menstruation. We summarise the current knowledge of menstruation, discuss current pre-clinical models of menstruation and how the spiny mouse may benefit advancing our understanding of this rare biological phenomenon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Bellofiore
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Fiona Cousins
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | | | - Hayley Dickinson
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- Centre for Reproductive HealthHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Gupta K, Sirohi VK, Kumari S, Shukla V, Manohar M, Popli P, Dwivedi A. Sorcin is involved during embryo implantation via activating VEGF/PI3K/Akt pathway in mice. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:119-132. [PMID: 29273681 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Our earlier studies have demonstrated the cyclic variation and also the altered expression of sorcin in endometrium during early-to-mid-secretory phase transition in women with unexplained infertility. The current study was undertaken to establish the functional role of sorcin in endometrial receptivity in mice. Results indicated that sorcin was highly expressed during the window of implantation in mice and functional blockage of sorcin caused significant reduction in number of implanted blastocyst. The receptivity markers (i.e.Integrin β3, HBEGF, IGFBP1, WNT4 and Cyclin E)) were found to be downregulated in sorcin knocked down uterine horn on day 5 as compared to untreated horn. The reduced attachment and expansion of BeWo spheroids on RL95-2 endometrial cells with sorcin knock down, in in vitro model of endometrium-trophoblast interaction further supported these findings. Uterine sorcin expression pattern during estrous cycle and in delayed implantation mice model suggested the upregulation of sorcin by estrogen. The functional blockade of sorcin induced the intracellular Ca+2 levels in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs), which indicated that altered Ca+2 homeostasis might be responsible for implantation failure. Sorcin silencing led to significant reduction in the expression of angiogenic factor VEGF and its downstream effector molecules i.e. PI3K, Akt and NOS. The migratory and invasive properties of HUVECs were abrogated by anti-VEGF or by adding culture media from sorcin blocked EECs, which indicated that sorcin might mediate angiogenesis during implantation. Taken together, sorcin is involved in the regulation of Ca+2-mediated angiogenesis via VEGF/PI3K/Akt pathway in endometrial cells and plays a crucial role in preparing the endometrium for implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Sirohi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Suparna Kumari
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vinay Shukla
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Murli Manohar
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Pooja Popli
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anila Dwivedi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Dowland SN, Madawala RJ, Poon CE, Lindsay LA, Murphy CR. Prominin-2 Prevents the Formation of Caveolae in Normal and Ovarian Hyperstimulated Pregnancy. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:1231-1242. [PMID: 29113580 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117737842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
During early pregnancy, uterine epithelial cells (UECs) become less adherent to the underlying basal lamina and are subsequently removed so the blastocyst can invade the underlying stroma. This process involves the removal of focal adhesions from the basal plasma membrane of UECs. These focal adhesions are thought to be internalized by caveolae, which significantly increase in abundance at the time of blastocyst implantation. A recent in vitro study indicated that prominin-2 prevents the formation of caveolae by sequestering membrane cholesterol. The present study examines whether prominin-2 affects the formation of caveolae and loss of focal adhesions in UECs during normal and ovarian hyperstimulation (OH) pregnancy in the rat. At the time of fertilization during normal pregnancy, prominin-2 is distributed throughout the basolateral plasma membrane. However, at the time of implantation and coincident with an increase in caveolae, prominin-2 is lost from the basal plasma membrane. In contrast, prominin-2 remains in the basolateral plasma membrane throughout OH pregnancy. Transmission electron microscopy showed that this membrane contained few caveolae throughout OH pregnancy. Our results indicate that prominin-2 prevents the formation of caveolae. We suggest the retention of prominin-2 in the basal plasma membrane during OH pregnancy prevents the formation of caveolae and is responsible for the retention of focal adhesions in this membrane, thereby contributing to the reduced implantation rate observed after such treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samson N Dowland
- 1 Cell and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy and Histology) and The Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Romanthi J Madawala
- 1 Cell and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy and Histology) and The Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Connie E Poon
- 1 Cell and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy and Histology) and The Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Laura A Lindsay
- 1 Cell and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy and Histology) and The Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- 1 Cell and Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy and Histology) and The Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Decidualization is an intricate biological process where extensive morphological, functional, and genetic changes take place in endometrial stromal cells to support the development of an implanting blastocyst. Deficiencies in decidualization are associated with pregnancy complications and reproductive diseases. Decidualization is coordinately regulated by steroid hormones, growth factors, and molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily signaling regulates multifaceted reproductive processes. However, the role of TGFβ signaling in uterine decidualization is poorly understood. Recent studies using the Cre-LoxP strategy have shed new light on the critical role of TGFβ signaling machinery in uterine decidualization. Herein, we focus on reviewing exciting findings from studies using both mouse genetics and in vitro cultured human endometrial stromal cells. We also delve into emerging mechanisms that underlie decidualization, such as non-coding RNAs and epigenetic modifications. We envision that future studies aimed at defining the interrelationship among TGFβ signaling circuitries and their potential interactions with epigenetic modifications/non-coding RNAs during uterine decidualization will open new avenues to treat pregnancy complications associated with decidualization deficiencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Wang X, Wu SP, DeMayo FJ. Hormone dependent uterine epithelial-stromal communication for pregnancy support. Placenta 2017; 60 Suppl 1:S20-S26. [PMID: 28716426 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Human fertility is a relatively inefficient process. Despite the presence of visibly healthy embryos, 30% of pregnancies generated by assisted reproductive technology (ART) fail before the second trimester. The uterine microenvironment plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining a successful pregnancy that requires coordinated communication between the epithelial and stromal cells of the endometrium. The epithelial cells must cease proliferation and become permissive for the conceptus (embryo and associated extraembryonic membranes), while the stromal cells undergoes mesenchymal-to-epithelioid transformation to form the decidua in support of subsequent embryo development. The ovarian steroids Estrogen (E2) and Progesterone (P4) are the major hormones governing these processes. These hormones act via their nuclear receptors, the estrogen receptor, ESR1, and progesterone receptor, PGR, to direct the transcription of genes that orchestrate epithelial and stromal cell communication. This review will discuss the molecular mechanisms utilized by steroid hormones that regulate uterine receptivity, as well, establish and maintain pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiu Wang
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institute of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institute of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institute of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Maternal HtrA3 optimizes placental development to influence offspring birth weight and subsequent white fat gain in adulthood. Sci Rep 2017; 7:4627. [PMID: 28676687 PMCID: PMC5496872 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-04867-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
High temperature requirement factor A3 (HtrA3), a member of the HtrA protease family, is highly expressed in the developing placenta, including the maternal decidual cells in both mice and humans. In this study we deleted the HtrA3 gene in the mouse and crossed females carrying zero, one, or two HtrA3-expressing alleles with HtrA3+/− males to investigate the role of maternal vs fetal HtrA3 in placentation. Although HtrA3−/− mice were phenotypically normal and fertile, HtrA3 deletion in the mother resulted in intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR). Disorganization of labyrinthine fetal capillaries was the major placental defect when HtrA3 was absent. The IUGR caused by maternal HtrA3 deletion, albeit being mild, significantly altered offspring growth trajectory long after birth. By 8 months of age, mice born to HtrA3-deficient mothers, independent of their own genotype, were significantly heavier and contained a larger mass of white fat. We further demonstrated that in women serum levels of HtrA3 during early pregnancy were significantly lower in IUGR pregnancies, establishing an association between lower HtrA3 levels and placental insufficiency in the human. This study thus revealed the importance of maternal HtrA3 in optimizing placental development and its long-term impact on the offspring well beyond in utero growth.
Collapse
|
35
|
Cheng J, Rosario G, Cohen TV, Hu J, Stewart CL. Tissue-Specific Ablation of the LIF Receptor in the Murine Uterine Epithelium Results in Implantation Failure. Endocrinology 2017; 158:1916-1928. [PMID: 28368537 PMCID: PMC5460932 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cytokine leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is essential for rendering the uterus receptive for blastocyst implantation. In mice, LIF receptor expression (LIFR) is largely restricted to the uterine luminal epithelium (LE). LIF, secreted from the endometrial glands (GEs), binds to the LIFR, activating the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activation of transcription (STAT) 3 (Jak-Stat3) signaling pathway in the LE. JAK-STAT activation converts the LE to a receptive state so that juxtaposed blastocysts begin to implant. To specifically delete the LIFR in the LE, we derived a line of mice in which Cre recombinase was inserted into the endogenous lactoferrin gene (Ltf-Cre). Lactoferrin expression in the LE is induced by E2, and we demonstrate that Cre recombinase activity is restricted to the LE and GE. To determine the requirement of the LIFR in implantation, we derived an additional mouse line carrying a conditional (floxed) Lifrflx/flx gene. Crossing Ltf-Cre mice with Lifrflx/flx mice generated Lifrflx/Δ:LtfCre/+ females that were overtly normal but infertile. Many of these females, despite repeated matings, did not become pregnant. Unimplanted blastocysts were recovered from the Lifrflx/Δ:LtfCre/+ uteri and, when transferred to wild-type recipients, implanted normally, indicating that uterine receptivity rather than the embryo's competency is compromised. The loss of Lifr results in both the failure for STAT3 to translocate to the LE nuclei and a reduction in the expression of the LIF regulated gene Msx1 that regulates uterine receptivity. These results reveal that uterine expression of the LIFR is essential for embryo implantation and further define the components of the LIF signaling pathway necessary for effective implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- JrGang Cheng
- Cancer and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Division of Basic Science, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, Maryland 21702
| | | | - Tatiana V. Cohen
- Cancer and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Division of Basic Science, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, Maryland 21702
| | - Jianbo Hu
- Cancer and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Division of Basic Science, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, Maryland 21702
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Mapping of estradiol binding sites through receptor micro-autoradiography in the endometrial stroma of early pregnant mice. Histochem Cell Biol 2017; 148:257-272. [PMID: 28417191 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-017-1568-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol triggers key biological responses in the endometrium, which rely on the presence and levels of its cognate receptors on target cells. Employing the receptor micro-autoradiography (RMAR) technique, we aimed to provide a temporal and spatial map of the functional binding sites for estradiol in the mouse endometrial stroma during early pregnancy. Uterine samples from days 1.5 to 7.5 of pregnancy were collected 1 h after tritiated- (3H-) estradiol administration and prepared for RMAR analysis. Autoradiographic incorporation of 3H-thymidine (after 1-h pulse) was evaluated over the same gestational interval. Combined RMAR with either histochemistry with Dolichus biflorus (DBA) lectin or immunohistochemistry for detection of the desmin further characterized 3H-estradiol binding pattern in uterine Natural Killer (uNK) and decidual cells, respectively. 3H-estradiol binding levels oscillated in the pregnant endometrial stroma between the mesometrial and antimesometrial regions as well as the superficial and deep domains. Although most of the endometrial stromal cells retained the hormone, a sub-population of them, as well as endothelial and uNK cells, were unable to do so. Rises in the levels of 3H-estradiol binding preceded endometrial stromal cell proliferation. 3H-estradiol binding and 3H-thymidine incorporation progressively decreased along the development of the antimesometrial decidua. Endothelial proliferation occurred regardless of 3H-estradiol binding, whereas pericytes proliferation was associated with high levels of hormone binding. Endometrial cell populations autonomously control their levels of 3H-estradiol binding and retention, a process associated with their proliferative competence. Collectively, our results illustrate the intricate regulatory dynamic of nuclear estrogen receptors in the pregnant mouse endometrium.
Collapse
|
37
|
Raquet M, Brun C, Exbrayat JM. Patterns of Apoptosis and Proliferation throughout the Biennial Reproductive Cycle of Viviparous Female Typhlonectes compressicauda (Amphibia, Gymnophiona). Int J Mol Sci 2016; 18:ijms18010016. [PMID: 28025499 PMCID: PMC5297651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Typhlonectes compressicauda is an aquatic gymnophionan amphibian living in South America. Its breeding cycle is linked to seasons, characterized by a regular alternation of rainy and dry seasons. During a complex biennial cycle, the female genital tract undergoes a series of alternations of increasing and decreasing, governed by equilibrium of proliferation and apoptotic phenomena. Immunohistochemical methods were used to visualize cell proliferation with the detection of Ki67 antibody, a protein present in proliferative cells; terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and Apostain were performed to detect apoptotic cells on sections of ovaries and oviducts. In ovaries, both phenomena affect the germinal nests and follicles according to the cycle period. In the oviduct, the balance was in favor of proliferation during preparation for reproduction, and in favor of apoptosis when genital ducts regress. Apoptosis and proliferation are narrowly implicated in the remodeling of the genital tract and they are accompanied by the differentiation of tissues according to the phase of the breeding cycle. These variations permit the capture of oocytes at ovulation, always at the same period, and the parturition after 6-7 months of gestation, at a period in which the newborns live with their mother, protected in burrows in the mud. During the intervening year of sexual inactivity, the female reconstitutes body reserves.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Raquet
- Laboratory of General Biology, Lyon Catholic University, UMRS 449, University of Lyon, 69288 Lyon Cedex 02, France.
- Laboratory of Reproduction and Comparative Development, Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, Paris Sciences Lettres, 69288 Lyon Cedex 02, France.
| | - Claire Brun
- Laboratory of General Biology, Lyon Catholic University, UMRS 449, University of Lyon, 69288 Lyon Cedex 02, France.
- Laboratory of Reproduction and Comparative Development, Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, Paris Sciences Lettres, 69288 Lyon Cedex 02, France.
| | - Jean-Marie Exbrayat
- Laboratory of General Biology, Lyon Catholic University, UMRS 449, University of Lyon, 69288 Lyon Cedex 02, France.
- Laboratory of Reproduction and Comparative Development, Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, Paris Sciences Lettres, 69288 Lyon Cedex 02, France.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Whittington CM, Danastas K, Grau GE, Murphy CR, Thompson MB. Expression of VEGF 111 and other VEGF-A variants in the rat uterus is correlated with stage of pregnancy. J Comp Physiol B 2016; 187:353-360. [PMID: 27722773 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-016-1040-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor A is a major mediator of angiogenesis, a critically important process in vertebrate growth and development as well as pregnancy. Here we report for the first time the expression of a rare and unusually potent splice variant, VEGF 111 , in vivo in mammals. This variant has previously only been found in mammals in cultured human cells exposed to genotoxic agents. Our discovery of VEGF 111 in the uterus of both a eutherian (rat) and a marsupial (fat-tailed dunnart) suggests that the splice variant may be common to all mammals. As VEGF 111 is also expressed in the uterus of at least one lineage of lizards, the expression of this splice variant may be a widespread amniote phenomenon. We measured expression of VEGF 111 and two major VEGF-A splice variants in the uterus of pregnant rats, showing that the three variants show different expression patterns across pregnancy. Our results suggest that viviparous mammals possess a precisely regulated milieu of VEGF isoforms producing the angiogenesis required for successful pregnancy. The discovery of VEGF 111 in rat uterus paves the way for the development of in vivo models of VEGF 111 activity in a highly tractable laboratory animal, and is particularly significant in the context of early pregnancy loss and cancer research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilla M Whittington
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Kevin Danastas
- School of Medical Sciences, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Georges E Grau
- School of Medical Sciences, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- School of Medical Sciences, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael B Thompson
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Robles TG, Fernández RAG, García-Palencia P, Arrabal MD, Maldonado BS, Pérez MAS, Rollan E, Caballero JM, Flores JM. Hoxa-10 and Cyclin D3 Overexpression in the Decidual Reaction in a Superovulation Protocol in Young Adult C57BL/6J Mice. Vet Pathol 2016; 54:328-335. [PMID: 27511308 DOI: 10.1177/0300985816660748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Following the performance of a superovulation protocol, multiple nodules were observed bilaterally in the uterine horns of 31 of 276 (11.2%) C57BL/6 J female mice aged 8.5 ± 0.6 (mean and standard error of mean) weeks. These lesions prevented embryo collection, and the uterine decidual reaction was suspected. Samples of pathological uteri (n = 20) and the normal genital tracts of donors treated with a similar superovulation protocol (control group, n = 10) were collected. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate pancytokeratin, desmin, vimentin, progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor α (ERα), Ki-67, cyclin D3 and c-Myc expression, as well as quantitative polymerase chain reaction to assess cyclin D3, Hoxa-10 and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) mRNA expression. The uterine decidual reaction presented a high degree of structural organization and specifically affected the antimesometrial region of the endometrium. The abnormal decidual cells were large polygonal cells that were frequently polyploid or binucleated and strongly positive for desmin. Immunohistochemistry showed higher Ki-67 proliferation index and higher expression of PR and cyclin D3 in decidual cells in the antimesometrial aspect of the endometrium, compared to nondecidualized endometrial stromal cells in the mesometrial aspect of affected uteri, and compared to endometrial stromal cells in healthy uteri. High expression of cyclin D3 and Hoxa-10 mRNA was also observed in uteri affected by the decidual reaction. These results suggest that PR overexpression in endometrial stromal cells, likely due to high progesterone levels, triggers cyclin D3 and Hoxa-10 overexpression, which may be involved in the pathological mechanisms of the mouse uterine decidual reaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - R A García Fernández
- 1 Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - P García-Palencia
- 1 Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M D Arrabal
- 1 Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - B Sánchez Maldonado
- 1 Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M A Sánchez Pérez
- 1 Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - E Rollan
- 1 Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - J M Flores
- 1 Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Bian F, Gao F, Kartashov AV, Jegga AG, Barski A, Das SK. Polycomb repressive complex 1 controls uterine decidualization. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26061. [PMID: 27181215 PMCID: PMC4867636 DOI: 10.1038/srep26061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine stromal cell decidualization is an essential part of the reproductive process. Decidual tissue development requires a highly regulated control of the extracellular tissue remodeling; however the mechanism of this regulation remains unknown. Through systematic expression studies, we detected that Cbx4/2, Rybp, and Ring1B [components of polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1)] are predominantly utilized in antimesometrial decidualization with polyploidy. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed that PRC1 members are co-localized with its functional histone modifier H2AK119ub1 (mono ubiquitination of histone-H2A at lysine-119) in polyploid cell. A potent small-molecule inhibitor of Ring1A/B E3-ubiquitin ligase or siRNA-mediated suppression of Cbx4 caused inhibition of H2AK119ub1, in conjunction with perturbation of decidualization and polyploidy development, suggesting a role for Cbx4/Ring1B-containing PRC1 in these processes. Analyses of genetic signatures by RNA-seq studies showed that the inhibition of PRC1 function affects 238 genes (154 up and 84 down) during decidualization. Functional enrichment analyses identified that about 38% genes primarily involved in extracellular processes are specifically targeted by PRC1. Furthermore, ~15% of upregulated genes exhibited a significant overlap with the upregulated Bmp2 null-induced genes in mice. Overall, Cbx4/Ring1B-containing PRC1 controls decidualization via regulation of extracellular gene remodeling functions and sheds new insights into underlying molecular mechanism(s) through transcriptional repression regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fenghua Bian
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 49267, USA.,Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Fei Gao
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 49267, USA.,Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Andrey V Kartashov
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 49267, USA.,Division of Allergy and Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Anil G Jegga
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 49267, USA.,Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Artem Barski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 49267, USA.,Division of Allergy and Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Sanjoy K Das
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 49267, USA.,Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
What was the ancestral function of decidual stromal cells? A model for the evolution of eutherian pregnancy. Placenta 2016; 40:40-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
42
|
Costa AF, Gomes SZ, Lorenzon-Ojea AR, Martucci M, Faria MR, Pinto DDS, Oliveira SF, Ietta F, Paulesu L, Bevilacqua E. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor induces phosphorylation of Mdm2 mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt kinase: Role of this pathway in decidual cell survival. Placenta 2016; 41:27-38. [PMID: 27208405 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway has an anti-apoptotic effect through several downstream targets, which includes activation of the transformed mouse 3T3 cell double-minute 2 (Mdm2) protein, its translocation to the nucleus and degradation of the tumor suppressor p53. We show that Mif, the Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor, an important cytokine at the maternal fetal interface in several species, triggers phosphorylation of Mdm2 protein in a PI3K/Akt-dependent manner, thereby preventing apoptosis in cultured mouse decidual cells. Inhibition of Akt and PI3K suppresses the pathway. Mif treatment also changes the nuclear translocation of p53 and interferes with the apoptotic fate of these cells when challenged with reactive oxygen species. In conclusion, an important mechanism has been found underlying decidual cell survival through Akt signaling pathway activated by Mif, suggesting a role for this cytokine in decidual homeostasis and in the integrity of the maternal-fetal barrier that is essential for successful gestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Fraga Costa
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Stomatology, Dental School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sara Zago Gomes
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aline R Lorenzon-Ojea
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariane Martucci
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Miriam Rubio Faria
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Sergio F Oliveira
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francesca Ietta
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luana Paulesu
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Estela Bevilacqua
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dowland SN, Madawala RJ, Lindsay LA, Murphy CR. The adherens junction is lost during normal pregnancy but not during ovarian hyperstimulated pregnancy. Acta Histochem 2016; 118:137-43. [PMID: 26738975 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2015.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
During early pregnancy in the rat, the luminal uterine epithelial cells (UECs) must transform to a receptive state to permit blastocyst attachment and implantation. The implantation process involves penetration of the epithelial barrier, so it is expected that the transformation of UECs includes alterations in the lateral junctional complex. Previous studies have demonstrated a deepening of the tight junction (zonula occludens) and a reduction in the number of desmosomes (macula adherens) in UECs at the time of implantation. However, the adherens junction (zonula adherens), which is primarily responsible for cell-cell adhesion, has been little studied during early pregnancy. This study investigated the adherens junction in rat UECs during the early stages of normal pregnancy and ovarian hyperstimulated (OH) pregnancy using transmission electron microscopy. The adherens junction is present in UECs at the time of fertilisation, but is lost at the time of blastocyst implantation during normal pregnancy. Interestingly, at the time of implantation after OH, adherens junctions are retained and may impede blastocyst penetration of the epithelium. The adherens junction anchors the actin-based terminal web, which is known to be disrupted in UECs during early pregnancy. However, artificial disruption of the terminal web, using cytochalasin D, did not cause removal of the adherens junction in UECs. This study revealed that adherens junction disassembly occurs during early pregnancy, but that this process does not occur during OH pregnancy. Such disassembly does not appear to depend on the disruption of the terminal web.
Collapse
|
44
|
Madawala RJ, Poon CE, Dowland SN, Murphy CR. Actin crosslinking protein filamin A during early pregnancy in the rat uterus. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 28:960-968. [DOI: 10.1071/rd14240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
During early pregnancy the endometrium undergoes a major transformation in order for it to become receptive to blastocyst implantation. The actin cytoskeleton and plasma membrane of luminal uterine epithelial cells (UECs) and the underlying stromal cells undergo dramatic remodelling to facilitate these changes. Filamin A (FLNA), a protein that crosslinks actin filaments and also mediates the anchorage of membrane proteins to the actin cytoskeleton, was investigated in the rat uterus at fertilisation (Day 1) and implantation (Day 6) to determine the role of FLNA in actin cytoskeletal remodelling of UECs and decidua during early pregnancy. Localisation of FLNA in UECs at the time of fertilisation was cytoplasmic, whilst at implantation it was distributed apically; its localisation is under the influence of progesterone. FLNA was also concentrated to the first two to three stromal cell layers at the time of fertilisation and shifted to the primary decidualisation zone at the time of implantation. This shift in localisation was found to be dependent on the decidualisation reaction. Protein abundance of the FLNA 280-kDa monomer and calpain-cleaved fragment (240 kDa) did not change during early pregnancy in UECs. Since major actin cytoskeletal remodelling occurs during early pregnancy in UECs and in decidual cells, the changing localisation of FLNA suggests that it may be an important regulator of cytoskeletal remodelling of these cells to allow uterine receptivity and decidualisation necessary for implantation in the rat.
Collapse
|
45
|
Li Y, Gao R, Liu X, Chen X, Liao X, Geng Y, Ding Y, Wang Y, He J. Folate Deficiency Could Restrain Decidual Angiogenesis in Pregnant Mice. Nutrients 2015; 7:6425-45. [PMID: 26247969 PMCID: PMC4555123 DOI: 10.3390/nu7085284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of birth defects induced by folate deficiency was focused on mainly in fetal development. Little is known about the effect of folate deficiency on the maternal uterus, especially on decidual angiogenesis after implantation which establishes vessel networks to support embryo development. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of folate deficiency on decidual angiogenesis. Serum folate levels were measured by electrochemiluminescence. The status of decidual angiogenesis was examined by cluster designation 34 (CD34) immunohistochemistry and the expression of angiogenic factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), placental growth factor (PLGF), and VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) were also tested. Serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), progesterone (P4), and estradiol (E2) were detected by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The folate-deficient mice had a lower folate level and a higher Hcy level. Folate deficiency restrained decidual angiogenesis with significant abnormalities in vascular density and the enlargement and elongation of the vascular sinus. It also showed a reduction in the expressions of VEGFA, VEGFR2, and PLGF. In addition, the serum levels of P4, E2, LH, and PRL were reduced in folate-deficient mice, and the expression of progesterone receptor (PR) and estrogen receptor α (ERα) were abnormal. These results indicated that folate deficiency could impaire decidual angiogenesis and it may be related to the vasculotoxic properties of Hcy and the imbalance of the reproductive hormone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Li
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Rufei Gao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Xueqing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Xinggui Liao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yanqing Geng
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yubin Ding
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Junlin He
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Covarrubias AEC, Barrence FC, Zorn TMT. The absence of the embryo in the pseudopregnant uterus alters the deposition of some ECM molecules during decidualization in mice. Connect Tissue Res 2015; 56:253-63. [PMID: 25738597 DOI: 10.3109/03008207.2015.1023432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The embryo-implantation promotes deep changes in the uterus resulting in the formation of a new structure at the maternal-fetal interface, the decidua. Decidualization can also be induced in pseudopregnant rodents resulting in a structure called deciduoma that is morphologically and functionally similar to the decidua. Previous studies from our and other laboratories demonstrate that in rodents, decidualization of the endometrium requires remarkable remodeling of the endometrial extracellular matrix (ECM) that is mainly coordinated by estradiol and progesterone. The influence of the embryo in this process, however, has not yet been investigated. To enlarge the knowledge on this subject, the present study investigates the behavior of a set of ECM molecules, in the absence of paracrine cues originated from the embryo. For that deciduoma was induced in pseudopregnant Swiss mice, and the distribution of collagen types I, III, IV, V and the proteoglycans decorin and biglycan was investigated by immunolabeling from the fifth to the eighth day of pseudopregnancy. It was observed the deposition of collagen types III and IV as well as decorin and biglycan was similar to that previously described by our group in the decidua. However, in the absence of the embryo, some differences occur in the distribution of collagen types I and V, suggesting that beside the major role of ovarian hormones on the endometrial ECM remodeling, molecular signals originated from the conceptus may influence this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ambart E C Covarrubias
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Extracellular Matrix Biology, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil and
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Winterhager E, Kidder GM. Gap junction connexins in female reproductive organs: implications for women's reproductive health. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:340-52. [PMID: 25667189 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connexins comprise a family of ~20 proteins that form intercellular membrane channels (gap junction channels) providing a direct route for metabolites and signalling molecules to pass between cells. This review provides a critical analysis of the evidence for essential roles of individual connexins in female reproductive function, highlighting implications for women's reproductive health. METHODS No systematic review has been carried out. Published literature from the past 35 years was surveyed for research related to connexin involvement in development and function of the female reproductive system. Because of the demonstrated utility of genetic manipulation for elucidating connexin functions in various organs, much of the cited information comes from research with genetically modified mice. In some cases, a distinction is drawn between connexin functions clearly related to the formation of gap junction channels and those possibly linked to non-channel roles. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Based on work with mice, several connexins are known to be required for female reproductive functions. Loss of connexin43 (CX43) causes an oocyte deficiency, and follicles lacking or expressing less CX43 in granulosa cells exhibit reduced growth, impairing fertility. CX43 is also expressed in human cumulus cells and, in the context of IVF, has been correlated with pregnancy outcome, suggesting that this connexin may be a determinant of oocyte and embryo quality in women. Loss of CX37, which exclusively connects oocytes with granulosa cells in the mouse, caused oocytes to cease growing without acquiring meiotic competence. Blocking of CX26 channels in the uterine epithelium disrupted implantation whereas loss or reduction of CX43 expression in the uterine stroma impaired decidualization and vascularization in mouse and human. Several connexins are important in placentation and, in the human, CX43 is a key regulator of the fusogenic pathway from the cytotrophoblast to the syncytiotrophoblast, ensuring placental growth. CX40, which characterizes the extravillous trophoblast (EVT), supports proliferation of the proximal EVTs while preventing them from differentiating into the invasive pathway. Furthermore, women with recurrent early pregnancy loss as well as those with endometriosis exhibit reduced levels of CX43 in their decidua. The antimalaria drug mefloquine, which blocks gap junction function, is responsible for increased risk of early pregnancy loss and stillbirth, probably due to inhibition of intercellular communication in the decidua or between trophoblast layers followed by an impairment of placental growth. Gap junctions also play a critical role in regulating uterine blood flow, contributing to the adaptive response to pregnancy. Given that reproductive impairment can result from connexin mutations in mice, it is advised that women suffering from somatic disease symptoms associated with connexin gene mutations be additionally tested for impacts on reproductive function. Better knowledge of these essential connexin functions in human female reproductive organs is important for safeguarding women's reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elke Winterhager
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, University Clinics, 45211 Essen, Germany
| | - Gerald M Kidder
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario and Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario N6C 2V5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ning S, Wang Y, Yuan X, Wang S, Huang L. Effect of autonomic nerves on Dickkopf-3 expression in the uterus during early pregnancy of rats. ANIM BIOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1163/15707563-00002474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
To explore how uterine innervations affect expression of Dickkopf-3 (DKK-3) during peri-implantation, we first examined the consequence of uterine neurectomy on embryo implantation events. We observed that amputation of autonomic nerves innervating the uterus led to the failure of on-time implantation in rats. We then analyzed the effect of neurectomy on expression of DKK-3 further using immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. We observed that disconnection of autonomic nerve innervation significantly increased DKK-3 expression in the endometrium before and during invasion of the blastocyst. We also observed high levels of DKK-3 immunoreactivity in the vasculature of the uterus during peri-implantation. Thus, we speculate that DKK-3 may relate to implantation. Besides, our findings provide a new line of evidence that DKK-3 may be regulated by the autonomic nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shujie Ning
- 1College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an City, Shandong Province 271018, China
- 2College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yalin Wang
- 3College of Life Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an City, Shandong Province 271000, China
| | - Xuejun Yuan
- 3College of Life Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an City, Shandong Province 271000, China
| | - Shuying Wang
- 1College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an City, Shandong Province 271018, China
| | - Libo Huang
- 1College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an City, Shandong Province 271018, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Poon CE, Madawala RJ, Day ML, Murphy CR. EpCAM is decreased but is still present in uterine epithelial cells during early pregnancy in the rat: potential mechanism for maintenance of mucosal integrity during implantation. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 359:655-664. [PMID: 25367431 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The non-receptive uterine luminal epithelium forms a polarised epithelial barrier, protective against potential pathogenic assault from the external environment and invasion by the blastocyst. However, during the window of implantation, the uterine luminal epithelial cells (UECs) transition to a receptive state by dismantling many of their intercellular and cell-matrix adhesions in preparation for epithelial detachment and subsequent blastocyst implantation. The present study investigated the presence and regulation of the intercellular adhesion protein, Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule (EpCAM) during early pregnancy in the rat to understand its role in the transition to receptivity. Immunofluorescence and western blotting analysis were used to study EpCAM expression in normal pregnancy, hormone replacement studies and pseudopregnancy. EpCAM was abundantly expressed and localised to the uterine luminal and glandular epithelium during the non-receptive state but decreased to lower but still observable levels around the time of implantation. This decrease was not dependent on ovarian hormones or the blastocyst. Further, EpCAM colocalised with but did not associate with its frequent binding partner, Tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα)-converting enzyme, also known as A Disintegrin And Metalloprotease 17 (TACE/ADAM17), at the time of fertilisation. These results suggest that, prior to implantation, EpCAM mediates intercellular adhesion in the uterine epithelium, but that, during implantation when UECs lose the majority of their intercellular and cell-matrix adhesions, EpCAM levels are decreased but still present for the maintenance of mucosal integrity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Connie E Poon
- Cell & Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy & Histology) and The Bosch Institute, Anderson Stuart Building, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Romanthi J Madawala
- Cell & Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy & Histology) and The Bosch Institute, Anderson Stuart Building, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Margot L Day
- Laboratory of Developmental Physiology, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Physiology) and The Bosch Institute, The Medical Foundation Building, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- Cell & Reproductive Biology Laboratory, School of Medical Sciences (Discipline of Anatomy & Histology) and The Bosch Institute, Anderson Stuart Building, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Lima PDA, Zhang J, Dunk C, Lye SJ, Croy BA. Leukocyte driven-decidual angiogenesis in early pregnancy. Cell Mol Immunol 2014; 11:522-37. [PMID: 25066422 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2014.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Revised: 06/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy and long-term, post-natal maternal and offspring cardiac, vascular and metabolic health require key maternal cardiovascular adaptations over gestation. Within the pregnant decidualizing uterus, coordinated vascular, immunological and stromal cell changes occur. Considerable attention has been given to the roles of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells in initiating decidual spiral arterial remodeling, a process normally completed by mid-gestation in mice and in humans. However, leukocyte roles in much earlier, region specific, decidual vascular remodeling are now being defined. Interest in immune cell-promoted vascular remodeling is driven by vascular aberrations that are reported in human gestational complications such as infertility, recurrent spontaneous abortion, preeclampsia (PE) and fetal growth restriction. Appropriate maternal cardiovascular responses during pregnancy protect mothers and their children from later cardiovascular disease risk elevation. One of the earliest uterine responses to pregnancy in species with hemochorial placentation is stromal cell decidualization, which creates unique niches for angiogenesis and leukocyte recruitment. In early decidua basalis, the aspect of the implantation site that will cradle the developing placenta and provide the major blood vessels to support mature placental functions, leukocytes are greatly enriched and display specialized properties. UNK cells, the most abundant leukocyte subset in early decidua basalis, have angiogenic abilities and are essential for normal early decidual angiogenesis. The regulation of uNK cells and their roles in determining maternal and progeny cardiovascular health over pregnancy and postpartum are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia D A Lima
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital General Campus, Critical Care Wing, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jianhong Zhang
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Caroline Dunk
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Lye
- 1] Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada [2] Department of Physiology and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada [3] Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - B Anne Croy
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|