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Allo G, Sitarik AR, Redding A, Coleman CM, Cassidy-Bushrow AE, Gaba A, Straughen JK. Maternal COVID-19 exposure and placental characteristics. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302682. [PMID: 38781150 PMCID: PMC11115219 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The impact of COVID-19 on the placenta is poorly described, particularly among minority women. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a retrospective case-control study. Micro- and macroscopic placental pathologic findings were compared for 15 COVID-19 positive and 36 negative mothers. Cases and controls were frequency matched on gestational age, race, maternal comorbidities, and delivery type. Data from the electronic medical record were supplemented with independent review of microscopic slides. RESULTS Placentas from cases and controls were similar except the median distance from the site of the cord insertion to the nearest disk margin was statistically significantly shorter among placentas from COVID-19 positive cases (3.5 versus 6.0 cm, p = 0.006). Case status was not associated with an increased risk of placental pathologies. CONCLUSION There are few pathologic differences between placentas of COVID-19 positive and negative mothers. Additional studies are needed to investigate the role of timing of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghassan Allo
- Department of Pathology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Alexandra R. Sitarik
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Ashley Redding
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Chad M. Coleman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | | | - Arthur Gaba
- Department of Pathology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Jennifer K. Straughen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI, United States of America
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Ma Y, Duan L, Reisch B, Kimmig R, Iannaccone A, Gellhaus A. CCN1-Mediated Signaling in Placental Villous Tissues after SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Term Pregnant Women: Implications for Dysregulated Angiogenesis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:3533-3550. [PMID: 38666951 PMCID: PMC11049059 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46040221] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The global spread of SARS-CoV-2 has increased infections among pregnant women. This study aimed to explore placental pathology alterations and angiogenic factor levels in term pregnant women after SARS-CoV-2 infection in a retrospective single-center study. Additionally, we investigated the role and underlying mechanism of the vascular inflammation-promoting, cysteine-rich protein 61 (CYR61/CCN1) in this context. All analyses were performed in term pregnant women infected with or without SARS-CoV-2. The sFlt-1, PlGF, and sEng serum levels were quantified using ELISA. Placental protein expressions were examined by immunoblot and immunostaining. Additionally, the effect of CCN1 protein on SGHPL-5 trophoblast cells was examined. We found that SARS-CoV-2 activated the inflammatory response in pregnant women, leading to pronounced vascular alterations in placental villous tissues. Elevated serum anti-angiogenic factors (sFlt-1, sEng) upon SARS-CoV-2 infection may directly contribute to these pathological changes. Upregulated CCN1 and pNF-κB in placental villous tissues of infected patients are identified as crucial factors in placental alterations. As a conclusion, CCN1 was significantly elevated in the placentas of term pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2. By activating a cascade of inflammatory responses, CCN1 induced the production of the anti-angiogenic factors sFlt-1 and sEng, which may lead to abnormal placental vascular architecture.
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Popescu DE, Roșca I, Jura AMC, Cioca A, Pop O, Lungu N, Popa ZL, Rațiu A, Boia M. Prompt Placental Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Assessment after SARS-CoV-2 Infection during Pregnancy-Our Perspective of a Small Group. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1836. [PMID: 38339114 PMCID: PMC10855253 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031836] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Research indicates compelling evidence of SARS-CoV-2 vertical transmission as a result of placental pathology. This study offers an approach to histopathological and immunohistochemical placental observations from SARS-CoV-2-positive mothers compared to negative ones. Out of the 44 examined placentas, 24 were collected from patients with a SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy and 20 were collected from patients without infection. The disease group showed strong SARS-CoV-2 positivity of the membranes, trophoblasts, and fetal villous macrophages. Most infections occurred during the third trimester of pregnancy (66.6%). Pathology revealed areas consistent with avascular villi (AV) and thrombi in the chorionic vessels and umbilical cord in the positive group, suggesting fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM). This study shows SARS-CoV-2 has an impact on coagulation, demonstrated by fetal thrombotic vasculopathy (p = 0.01) and fibrin deposition (p = 0.01). Other observed features included infarction (17%), perivillous fibrin deposition (29%), intervillous fibrin (25%), delayed placental maturation (8.3%), chorangiosis (13%), chorioamnionitis (8.3%), and meconium (21%). The negative control group revealed only one case of placental infarction (5%), intervillous fibrin (5%), delayed placental maturation (5%), and chorioamnionitis (5%) and two cases of meconium (19%). Our study sheds light on the changes and differences that occurred in placentas from SARS-CoV-2-infected mothers and the control group. Further research is necessary to definitively establish whether SARS-CoV-2 is the primary culprit behind these intricate complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Eugenia Popescu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Department of Neonatology, Premiere Hospital, Regina Maria Health Network, Calea Aradului, No. 113, 300645 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Roșca
- Faculty of Midwifery and Nursery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Cristina Jura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Cioca
- Department of Pathology, Premiere Hospital, Regina Maria Health Network, Calea Aradului, No. 113, 300645 Timişoara, Romania;
| | - Ovidiu Pop
- Department of Morphological Sciences, University of Oradea, Universității Street, No. 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Nicoleta Lungu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Zoran-Laurențiu Popa
- Department XII Obstetrics and Gynecology—Obstetrics and Gynecology III, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Adrian Rațiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Mărioara Boia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
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Ercolani G, Capuani S, Maiuro A, Celli V, Grimm R, Di Mascio D, Porpora MG, Catalano C, Brunelli R, Giancotti A, Manganaro L. Diffusion-sensitized magnetic resonance imaging highlights placental microstructural damage in patients with previous SARS-CoV-2 pregnancy infection. Placenta 2024; 145:38-44. [PMID: 38052124 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been a major global health problem since December 2019. This work aimed to investigate whether pregnant women's mild and moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with microstructural and vascular changes in the placenta observable in vivo by Intravoxel Incoherent Motion (IVIM) at different gestational ages (GA). METHODS This was a retrospective, nested case-control of pregnant women during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (COVID-19 group, n = 14) compared to pre-pandemic healthy controls (n = 19). MRI IVIM protocol at 1.5T was constituted of diffusion-weighted (DW) images with TR/TE = 3100/76 ms and 10 b-values (0,10,30,50,75,100,200,400,700,1000s/mm2). Differences between IVIM parameters D (diffusion), and f (fractional perfusion) quantified in the two groups were evaluated using the ANOVA test with Bonferroni correction and linear correlation between IVIM metrics and GA, COVID-19 duration, the delay time between a positive SARS-CoV-2 test and MRI examination (delay-time exam+) was studied by Pearson-test. RESULTS D was significantly higher in the COVID-19 placentas compared to that of the age-matched healthy group (p < 0.04 in fetal and p < 0.007 in maternal site). No significant difference between f values was found in the two groups suggesting no-specific microstructural damage with no perfusion alteration (potentially quantified by f) in mild/moderate SARS-Cov-2 placentas. A significant negative correlation was found between D and GA in the COVID-19 placentas whereas no significant correlation was found in the control placentas reflecting a possible accelerated senescence process due to COVID-19. DISCUSSION We report impaired microstructural placental development during pregnancy and the absence of perfusion-IVIM parameter changes that may indicate no perfusion changing through microvessels and microvilli in the placentas of pregnancies with mild/moderate SARS-Cov-2 after reaching negativity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Ercolani
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Maiuro
- CNR ISC Roma Sapienza, Physics Department Rome, Italy; Sapienza University of Rome, Physics Department, Rome, Italy
| | - Veronica Celli
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Di Mascio
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Porpora
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Catalano
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Brunelli
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Giancotti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Manganaro
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
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Debelenko L. SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Late Pregnancy and Childbirth from the Perspective of Perinatal Pathology. J Dev Biol 2023; 11:42. [PMID: 37987372 PMCID: PMC10660738 DOI: 10.3390/jdb11040042] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on SARS-CoV-2 infection in placental and fetal tissues. Viremia is rare in infected pregnant women, and the virus is seldom amplified from placental tissues. Definite and probable placental infection requires the demonstration of viral RNA or proteins using in situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Small subsets (1.0-7.9%, median 2.8%) of placentas of SARS-CoV-2-positive women showed definite infection accompanied by a characteristic histopathology named SARS-CoV-2 placentitis (SP). The conventionally accepted histopathological criteria for SP include the triad of intervillositis, perivillous fibrin deposition, and trophoblast necrosis. SP was shown to be independent of the clinical severity of the infection, but associated with stillbirth in cases where destructive lesions affecting more than 75% of the placental tissue resulted in placental insufficiency and severe fetal hypoxic-ischemic injury. An association between maternal thrombophilia and SP was shown in a subset of cases, suggesting a synergy of the infection and deficient coagulation cascade as one of the mechanisms of the pathologic accumulation of fibrin in affected placentas. The virus was amplified from fetal tissues in approximately 40% of SP cases, but definite fetal involvement demonstrated using ISH or IHC is exceptionally rare. The placental pathology in SARS-CoV-2-positive women also includes chronic lesions associated with placental malperfusion in the absence of definite or probable placental infection. The direct viral causation of the vascular malperfusion of the placenta in COVID-19 is debatable, and common predispositions (hypertension, diabetes, and obesity) may play a role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Debelenko
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University-Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Chen S, Zhang L, Song Y, Xie K, Wang Y, Liang Y. A Comprehensive Analysis of NRP1 in Malignancies Provide Therapeutic Implication for Treating Cancer Patients Infected with SARS-CoV-2. Biochem Genet 2023:10.1007/s10528-023-10518-2. [PMID: 37938510 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10518-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) is caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2), which can lead to pneumonia, cytokine storms, and lymphopenia. Patients with cancer are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19 due to immunosuppression. Recent studies have indicated that NRP1 (Neuropilin 1) may act as a novel mediator of SARS-CoV-2 entry into the host cell. As no systematic review has been performed investigating the characteristics of NRP1 in pan-carcinoma, we comprehensively analyzed NRP1 in patients with pan-cancer. Using a bioinformatics approach, we aimed to systematically examine NRP1 expression profiles in both pan-carcinoma and healthy tissues. We found that lung and genitourinary cancers have a relatively higher NRP-1 expression than other cancer patients, suggesting that these patients may be more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. Our analysis further revealed that NRP1 expression was downregulated in Vero E6 cells, whole blood, lung organoids, testis tissue, and alveolospheres infected with SARS-CoV-2. Notably, NRP1 was associated with immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, and immune-related genes in most patients with cancer. These findings suggest that, in patients with specific types of cancer, especially lung and genitourinary, high expression of NRP1 contributes to greater susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and an increased risk of damage due to cytokine storms. Overall, NRP1 appears to play a critical role in regulating immunological properties and metabolism in many tumor types. Specific inhibitors of the NRP1 antigen (pegaptanib, EG00229, or MNRP1685A) combined with other anti-SARS-CoV-2 strategies may aid in treating patients with lung and genitourinary cancers following SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuzhao Chen
- Department of Hematologic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Limei Zhang
- Department of Hematologic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yiling Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, SunYat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kunying Xie
- Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Hematologic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yang Liang
- Department of Hematologic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Marta CI, Craina M, Nitu R, Maghiari AL, Abu-Awwad SA, Boscu L, Diaconu M, Dumitru C, Sorop B, Stelea L, Babes K. Variations in NT-proBNP Levels in Pregnant Patients with and without SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Consequences for the Newborns. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2964. [PMID: 38001965 PMCID: PMC10669629 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112964] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide) has a high negative predictive value for ruling out heart failure, a disorder linked with volume overload of the ventricles, and is used for diagnosis, prognosis, and risk stratification. Pregnancy causes in healthy women changes in physical and hemodynamic parameters and appears to be a risk factor for severe COVID-19 illness. The purpose of this study is to highlight the significance of monitoring NT-proBNP levels during pregnancy, particularly in patients who were infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy or were infected with the virus while giving birth. The findings of this comparative research indicate the importance of NT-proBNP in terms of foetal prognosis and birthweight. METHODS We collected blood samples to measure NT-proBNP concentrations from a cohort of 186 pregnant patients divided into two groups based on the presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. RESULTS Elevated NT-proBNP had an unfavourable implication on the newborn birth weight and Apgar score and expressed its influence on lower values. CONCLUSIONS We consider that NT-proBNP testing in pregnant patients, especially those with COVID-19 infection, can be relevant and be used as a predictive marker to be taken into consideration when it comes to management, outcome, and treatment regarding pregnant patients and their newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen-Ioana Marta
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Oradea, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania; (C.-I.M.); (K.B.)
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Pius Brinzeu” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania; (M.C.); (M.D.); (C.D.); (B.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Marius Craina
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Pius Brinzeu” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania; (M.C.); (M.D.); (C.D.); (B.S.); (L.S.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Razvan Nitu
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Pius Brinzeu” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania; (M.C.); (M.D.); (C.D.); (B.S.); (L.S.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Anca Laura Maghiari
- Department I—Discipline of Anatomy and Embryology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Simona-Alina Abu-Awwad
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.-A.A.-A.); (L.B.)
| | - Lioara Boscu
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.-A.A.-A.); (L.B.)
| | - Mircea Diaconu
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Pius Brinzeu” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania; (M.C.); (M.D.); (C.D.); (B.S.); (L.S.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Catalin Dumitru
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Pius Brinzeu” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania; (M.C.); (M.D.); (C.D.); (B.S.); (L.S.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Bogdan Sorop
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Pius Brinzeu” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania; (M.C.); (M.D.); (C.D.); (B.S.); (L.S.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Lavinia Stelea
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Pius Brinzeu” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania; (M.C.); (M.D.); (C.D.); (B.S.); (L.S.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Katalin Babes
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Oradea, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania; (C.-I.M.); (K.B.)
- Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Oradea, 410167 Oradea, Romania
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Heeralall C, Ibrahim UH, Lazarus L, Gathiram P, Mackraj I. The effects of COVID-19 on placental morphology. Placenta 2023; 138:88-96. [PMID: 37235921 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The impact of the COVID-19 infection, caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), during the pandemic has been considerably more severe in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. Therefore, a review detailing the morphological alterations and physiological changes associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy and the effect that these changes have on the feto-placental unit is of high priority. This knowledge is crucial for these mothers, their babies and clinicians to ensure a healthy life post-pandemic. Hence, we review the placental morphological changes due to COVID-19 to enhance the general understanding of how pregnant mothers, their placentas and unborn children may have been affected by this pandemic. Based on current literature, we deduced that COVID-19 pregnancies were oxygen deficient, which could further result in other pregnancy-related complications like preeclampsia and IUGR. Therefore, we present an up-to-date review of the COVID-19 pathophysiological implications on the placenta, covering the function of the placenta in COVID-19, the effects of this virus on the placenta, its functions and its link to other gestational complications. Furthermore, we highlight the possible effects of COVID-19 therapeutic interventions on pregnant mothers and their unborn children. Based on the literature, we strongly suggest that consistent surveillance for the mothers and infants from COVID-19 pregnancies be prioritised in the future. Though the pandemic is now in the past, its effects are long-term, necessitating the monitoring of clinical manifestations in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Heeralall
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - U H Ibrahim
- Discipline of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - L Lazarus
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - P Gathiram
- Discipline of Family Medicine, School of Public Health and Nursing, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - I Mackraj
- Discipline of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
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Zhang Y, Clarke SP, Wu H, Li W, Zhou C, Lin K, Wang J, Wang J, Liang Y, Wang X, Wang L. A comprehensive overview on the transmission, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SARS-CoV-2. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28776. [PMID: 37212261 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is a single positive-strand RNA virus that is responsible for the current pandemic that the world has been facing since 2019. The primary route of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is through respiratory tract transmission. However, other transmission routes such as fecal-oral, vertical transmission, and aerosol-eye also exist. In addition, it has been found that the pathogenesis of this virus involves the binding of the virus's S protein to its host cell surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, which results in the subsequent membrane fusion that is required for SARS-CoV-2 to replicate and complete its entire life. The clinical symptoms of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 can range from asymptomatic to severe. The most common symptoms seen include fever, dry cough, and fatigue. Once these symptoms are observed, a nucleic acid test is done using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. This currently serves as the main confirmatory tool for COVID-19. Despite the fact that no cure has been found for SARS-CoV-2, prevention methods such as vaccines, specific facial mask, and social distancing have proven to be quite effective. It is imperative to have a complete understanding of the transmission and pathogenesis of this virus. To effectively develop new drugs as well as diagnostic tools, more knowledge about this virus would be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | | | - Huanwu Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wenli Li
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chang Zhou
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Kang Lin
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Morphological Experimental Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jiawen Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jinzhi Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Liang
- Department of The Second Clinical School of Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Linding Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
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10
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Massimo M, Barelli C, Moreno C, Collesi C, Holloway RK, Crespo B, Zentilin L, Williams A, Miron VE, Giacca M, Long KR. Haemorrhage of human foetal cortex associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Brain 2023; 146:1175-1185. [PMID: 36642091 PMCID: PMC9976976 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal viral infection and immune response are known to increase the risk of altered development of the foetal brain. Given the ongoing global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), investigating the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on foetal brain health is of critical importance. Here, we report the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in first and second trimester foetal brain tissue in association with cortical haemorrhages. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was sparsely detected within progenitors and neurons of the cortex itself, but was abundant in the choroid plexus of haemorrhagic samples. SARS-CoV-2 was also sparsely detected in placenta, amnion and umbilical cord tissues. Cortical haemorrhages were linked to a reduction in blood vessel integrity and an increase in immune cell infiltration into the foetal brain. Our findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 infection may affect the foetal brain during early gestation and highlight the need for further study of its impact on subsequent neurological development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Massimo
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Carlotta Barelli
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Catalina Moreno
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Chiara Collesi
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34139 Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Rebecca K Holloway
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Chancellor’s Building, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Dementia Research Institute at The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Barlo Multiple Sclerosis Centre and Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Berta Crespo
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lorena Zentilin
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34139 Trieste, Italy
| | - Anna Williams
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Veronique E Miron
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Chancellor’s Building, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Dementia Research Institute at The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Barlo Multiple Sclerosis Centre and Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mauro Giacca
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34139 Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Katherine R Long
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, UK
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11
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Histopathological Changes in Placenta of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) Infection and Maternal and Perinatal Outcome in COVID-19. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2023; 73:44-50. [PMID: 36185774 PMCID: PMC9510235 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-022-01666-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Whether vertical transmission or placental pathology occurs after maternal infection during pregnancy remains unknown. There is a clear need for studies on the impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy outcome. A systemic inflammatory or hypercoagulable state may be the contributing factor for placental pathology. Methods The pregnant women with COVID-19 who delivered between May 2020 and May 2021 were followed and data were collected about pregnancy course and placentas were examined for macro- and microscopical changes and were compared to controls with non-infected women. Results Placenta of COVID-19-infected females had increased prevalence of decidual arteriopathy and placental injury reflecting hypoxia and uteroplacental insufficiency within the intervillous space. Features of maternal vascular malperfusion such as increased syncytial knots were present in 100% cases. Fibrinoid necrosis was seen in 100% cases and increased focal perivillous fibrin depositions were presented in 37.7% cases. About one fourth infected placentas had evidence of villitis. Even after matching for comorbidities like preeclampsia, these changes were present. Conclusion The most common pathological findings of the placenta of COVID-19 infections are signs of maternal and fetal malperfusion. Future studies should target infections in different stage of gestation, including first and second trimesters.
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12
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Holland C, Hammond C, Richmond MM. COVID-19 and Pregnancy: Risks and Outcomes. Nurs Womens Health 2023; 27:31-41. [PMID: 36528073 PMCID: PMC9749909 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The normal physiologic changes of pregnancy are known to increase susceptibility to respiratory illness. Individuals who are pregnant are more likely to acquire a SARS-CoV-2 infection and develop COVID-19 than the general population; they are at increased risk for hospitalization; ventilator-assisted breathing; and other subsequent maternal, fetal, and neonatal health issues. Although the incidence of infection and subsequent morbidity is increased in pregnancy, mortality does not seem to be increased. Individuals who are vaccinated against COVID-19 before childbirth can pass antibodies to their fetuses via the placenta during pregnancy and to their infants during breastfeeding. It is important for health care providers to be cognizant of the potential impacts of COVID-19 on pregnant individuals and their offspring.
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13
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González-Ortiz M, Castro P, Vergara-Barra P, Huerta P, Escudero C. COVID-19 on Pregnancy Outcomes, Mental Health and Placenta: Focus in Latin America. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1428:269-285. [PMID: 37466778 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-32554-0_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many aspects of health and society worldwide. One vulnerable group that faced SARS-CoV-2 infection is pregnant women, who were considered to have potentiated risk factors. In physiological pregnancy, maternal systems have several changes and adaptations to support fetal development. These changes involve regulations of cardiovascular, respiratory, and immunologic systems, among others, which SARS-CoV-2 could severely alter. Furthermore, the systemic effects of viral infection could be associated with placental dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes, which have been studied from the start of the pandemic to date. Additionally, pregnancy is a condition of more significant mental health vulnerability, especially when faced with highly stressful situations. In this chapter, we have collected information on the effect of COVID-19 on maternal mortality, the SARS-CoV-2 infection rate in pregnancy, and the impact on pregnancy outcomes, maternal mental health, and placental function, with a particular focus on studies that consider the Latin American population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo González-Ortiz
- Laboratorio de Investigación Materno-Fetal (LIMaF), Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS), Chillán, Chile.
| | - Patricio Castro
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Pablo Vergara-Barra
- Departamento de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Programa de Neurociencias, Psiquiatría y Salud Mental (NEPSAM), Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Patricia Huerta
- Departamento de Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Carlos Escudero
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS), Chillán, Chile
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS), Chillán, Chile
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14
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Carvajal J, Casanello P, Toso A, Farías M, Carrasco-Negue K, Araujo K, Valero P, Fuenzalida J, Solari C, Sobrevia L. Functional consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women, fetoplacental unit, and neonate. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166582. [PMID: 36273675 PMCID: PMC9581789 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 infection causes COVID-19 disease, characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome, bilateral pneumonia, and organ failure. The consequences of maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection for the pregnant woman, fetus, and neonate are controversial. Thus, it is required to determine whether there is viral and non-viral vertical transmission in COVID-19. The disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 leads to functional alterations in asymptomatic and symptomatic pregnant women, the fetoplacental unit and the neonate. Several diseases of pregnancy, including COVID-19, affect the fetoplacental function, which causes in utero programming for young and adult diseases. A generalized inflammatory state and a higher risk of infection are seen in pregnant women with COVID-19. Obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension may increase the vulnerability of pregnant women to infection by SARS-CoV-2. Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 show specific mutations that seem to increase the capacity of the virus to infect the pregnant woman, likely due to increasing its interaction via the virus S protein and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors. This review shows the literature addressing to what extent COVID-19 in pregnancy affects the pregnant woman, fetoplacental unit, and neonate. Prospective studies that are key in managing SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Carvajal
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile.
| | - Paola Casanello
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile,Department of Neonatology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile,Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Alberto Toso
- Department of Neonatology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Marcelo Farías
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Karina Carrasco-Negue
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Kenny Araujo
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Paola Valero
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile,Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile
| | - Javiera Fuenzalida
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Caterina Solari
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Luis Sobrevia
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Medical School (Faculty of Medicine), Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville E-41012, Spain; University of Queensland, Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Herston 4029, Queensland, Australia; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), 9713GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Eutra, The Institute for Obesity Research (IOR), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.
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15
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Kurokawa M, Kurokawa R, Lin AY, Capizzano AA, Baba A, Kim J, Johnson TD, Srinivasan A, Moritani T. Neurological and Neuroradiological Manifestations in Neonates Born to Mothers With Coronavirus Disease 2019. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 141:9-17. [PMID: 36731229 PMCID: PMC9741496 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the complications that occurred in neonates born to mothers with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), focusing on neurological and neuroradiological findings, and to compare differences associated with the presence of maternal symptoms. METHODS Ninety neonates from 88 mothers diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during pregnancy were retrospectively reviewed. Neonates were divided into two groups: symptomatic (Sym-M-N, n = 34) and asymptomatic mothers (Asym-M-N, n = 56). The results of neurological physical examinations were compared between the groups. Data on electroencephalography, brain ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities were collected for neonates with neurological abnormalities. RESULTS Neurological abnormalities at birth were found in nine neonates (Sym-M-N, seven of 34, 20.6%). Decreased tone was the most common physical abnormality (n = 7). Preterm and very preterm birth (P < 0.01), very low birth weight (P < 0.01), or at least one neurological abnormality on physical examination (P = 0.049) was more frequent in Sym-M-N neonates. All infants with abnormalities on physical examination showed neuroradiological abnormalities. The most common neuroradiological abnormalities were intracranial hemorrhage (n = 5; germinal matrix, n = 2; parenchymal, n = 2; intraventricular, n = 1) and hypoxic brain injury (n = 3). CONCLUSIONS Neonates born to mothers with symptomatic COVID-19 showed an increased incidence of neurological abnormalities. Most of the mothers (96.4%) were unvaccinated before the COVID-19 diagnosis. Our results highlight the importance of neurological and neuroradiological management in infants born to mothers with COVID-19 and the prevention of maternal COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Kurokawa
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ryo Kurokawa
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
| | - Ava Yun Lin
- Division of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Aristides A Capizzano
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Akira Baba
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - John Kim
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Timothy D Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Ashok Srinivasan
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Toshio Moritani
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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16
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Şahin O, Altay AY, Aydın E, Bağcı H, Yalçın Ö. Effect of asymptomatic COVID-19 infection on the placenta in the third trimester of pregnancy: A prospective case-control study. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 19:178-186. [PMID: 36149229 PMCID: PMC9511936 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.galenos.2022.94984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To clarify the effect of asymptomatic coronaviruse disease-2019 (COVID-19) positivity on the placenta in the third trimester of pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This prospective, case-control study included 30 pregnant women diagnosed with asymptomatic COVID-19 between April 30, 2021 and July 20, 2021 who delivered after the 34th gestational week, and a control group of 30 pregnant women without COVID-19, who delivered between April 2021 and July 2021, matched to the study group regarding age, gestational age and body mass index. Outcomes were compared in terms of demographic characteristics, serum blood outcomes, neonatal results, complications and placental histopathological findings. Results: The mean age of the study population was 28.8 years and the mean gestational week was 38.2 weeks. The C-reactive protein levels (38.2 mg/L vs 5.8 mg/L, p=0.001) and ferritin levels (266.4 μg/L and 40.5 μg/L, p=0.001) were significantly higher in the COVID-19-positive pregnant women. The lymphocyte level was significantly higher in the non-COVID-19 pregnant women (p=0.040). Mural hypertrophy was determined at a significantly higher rate in COVID-positive pregnant women (83.3% vs 30.0%, p=0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that only COVID-19 positivity increased the presence of mural hypertrophy in pregnant women with asymptomatic COVID-19 (4.716-fold, 95% confidence interval=1.012-22.251). Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that asymptomatic COVID-19 had no significant effect on pregnancy and neonatal complications. However, mural hypertrophy in the placenta was found at a significantly higher rate in pregnant women with asymptomatic COVID-19.
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17
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Gürel S, Yıldırım Ş. Increased Rate of Spontaneous Pneumothorax in Infants of COVID-19 Positive Mothers. J PEDIAT INF DIS-GER 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1755209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective The epidemiological and clinical characteristics of neonates born to women infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during pregnancy were assessed, and the correlation between this infection and spontaneous pneumothorax in neonates born to mothers with COVID-19 was evaluated in the present study.
Methods Records of 14 neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit with pneumothorax were collected and analyzed. Pregnant women were routinely screened for COVID-19 before birth. This study only included the neonates of mothers positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 immunoglobulin Mand immunoglobulin G and developing spontaneous pneumothorax. Antenatal, natal and postnatal risk factors, data related to demographic, epidemiological and clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and breastfeeding history were obtained from medical records.
Results The gestational age of the 14 neonates was 30 to 38 weeks. One male infant was born by normal spontaneous vaginal delivery, while all other infants were born by C-section. Though the mothers did not have a diagnosis of COVID-19 in their charts, they all reported one or more symptoms when interviewed. No mother had received a COVID-19 vaccination before or during pregnancy. No mother had undergone a hospital visit or doctor examination due to suspicion of COVID and COVID polymerase chain reaction test. COVID antibody titers were present during admission to hospital before birth.
Conclusion The infants of pregnant cases with symptomatic or asymptomatic COVID-19 may develop respiratory distress and pneumothorax. Observational data obtained from case series similar to what is presented here may be accepted as a potential first step to producing hypotheses to test with preclinical or clinical models if it can be expanded in larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selçuk Gürel
- Department of Pediatrics, Uşak Öztan Hospital, Uşak, Turkey
| | - Şule Yıldırım
- Department of Pediatrics, Uşak Öztan Hospital, Uşak, Turkey
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18
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Parcial ALN, Salomão NG, Portari EA, Arruda LV, de Carvalho JJ, de Matos Guedes HL, Conde TC, Moreira ME, Batista MM, Paes MV, Rabelo K, Gomes-Silva A. SARS-CoV-2 Is Persistent in Placenta and Causes Macroscopic, Histopathological, and Ultrastructural Changes. Viruses 2022; 14:1885. [PMID: 36146692 PMCID: PMC9500736 DOI: 10.3390/v14091885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a virus that belongs to the Betacoronavirus genus of the Coronaviridae family. Other coronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, were associated with complications in pregnant women. Therefore, this study aimed to report the clinical history of five pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 (four symptomatic and one asymptomatic who gave birth to a stillborn child) during the COVID-19 pandemic. They gave birth between August 2020 to January 2021, a period in which there was still no vaccination for COVID-19 in Brazil. In addition, their placental alterations were later investigated, focusing on macroscopic, histopathological, and ultrastructural aspects compared to a prepandemic sample. Three of five placentas presented SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected by RT-PCRq at least two to twenty weeks after primary pregnancy infection symptoms, and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was detected in all placentas by immunoperoxidase assay. The macroscopic evaluation of the placentas presented congested vascular trunks, massive deposition of fibrin, areas of infarctions, and calcifications. Histopathological analysis showed fibrin deposition, inflammatory infiltrate, necrosis, and blood vessel thrombosis. Ultrastructural aspects of the infected placentas showed a similar pattern of alterations between the samples, with predominant characteristics of apoptosis and detection of virus-like particles. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in placental tissue, vertical transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Luiz N. Parcial
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Research, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, Brazil
| | - Natália Gedeão Salomão
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Research, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, Brazil
| | - Elyzabeth Avvad Portari
- Pathological Anatomy, Fernandes Figueira Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 22250020, Brazil
| | - Laíza Vianna Arruda
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Research, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, Brazil
| | - Jorge José de Carvalho
- Laboratory of Ultrastructure and Tissue Biology, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro 20551030, Brazil
| | - Herbert Leonel de Matos Guedes
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Research, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Elizabeth Moreira
- Pathological Anatomy, Fernandes Figueira Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 22250020, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Meuser Batista
- Pathological Anatomy, Fernandes Figueira Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 22250020, Brazil
| | - Marciano Viana Paes
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Research, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, Brazil
| | - Kíssila Rabelo
- Laboratory of Ultrastructure and Tissue Biology, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro 20551030, Brazil
| | - Adriano Gomes-Silva
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Research, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, Brazil
- Mycobacteriosis Clinical Research Laboratory, National Institute of Infectious Diseases Evandro Chagas, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, Brazil
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19
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Gesaka SR, Obimbo MM, Wanyoro A. Coronavirus disease 2019 and the placenta: A literature review. Placenta 2022; 126:209-223. [PMID: 35872511 PMCID: PMC9293390 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has been implicated in the clinical pathology of multiple organs and organ systems. Due to the novelty of the disease, there is a need to review emerging literature to understand the profile of SARS-CoV-2 in the placenta. This review sought to evaluate the literature on the mediators, mechanism of entry, pathogenesis, detection, and pathology of SARS-CoV-2 in the placenta. Systematic literature searches found 96 eligible studies. Our review revealed that SARS-CoV-2 canonical mediators, angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), and transmembrane serine protease-2 (TMPRSS2) are variably expressed in various placenta compartments, including the villous cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblasts (STBs), and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) throughout pregnancy. Placental SARS-CoV-2 and coronavirus-associated receptors and factors (SCARFs), including basigin (BSG/CD147), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4/CD26), cathepsin B/L (CTL B/L), furin, interferon-induced transmembrane protein (IFITM1-3), and lymphocyte antigen 6E (LY6E) may increase or reduce the permissiveness of the placenta to SARS-CoV-2. EVTs express genes that code for proteins that may drive viral pathogenesis in the placenta. Viral RNA, proteins, and particles were detected primarily in the STBs by in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, and polymerase chain reaction. Placental pathology in SARS-CoV-2-infected placentas included maternal and fetal vascular malperfusion and a generally nonspecific inflammatory-immune response. The localization of SARS-CoV-2 receptors, proteases, and genes involved in coding proteins that drive viral pathogenesis in the placenta predisposes the placenta to SARS-CoV-2 infection variably in all pregnancy trimesters, with antecedent placental pathology. There is a need for further studies to explicate the mechanism of entry and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 in the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samwel R Gesaka
- Basic Clinical and Translational (BCT) Research Laboratory, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Moses M Obimbo
- Basic Clinical and Translational (BCT) Research Laboratory, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Human Anatomy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Anthony Wanyoro
- Basic Clinical and Translational (BCT) Research Laboratory, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya.
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20
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Twanow JDE, McCabe C, Ream MA. The COVID-19 Pandemic and Pregnancy: Impact on Mothers and Newborns. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2022; 42:100977. [PMID: 35868726 PMCID: PMC9122838 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2022.100977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic has markedly, and likely permanently, changed health care. This includes changing the obstetric and perinatal care of mothers and infants, and by extension, the care of their families. Infection during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk for severe coronavirus disease 2019 illness and related complications that can significantly impact maternal health and the health of the neonate. Viral transmission from mother to fetus is possible, but rare during pregnancy, and current health care policies focusing on maternal masking, and hand washing allows infected mothers to safely care for neonates (including nursing or feeding with expressed breast milk). The newly developed vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective for pregnant and breast-feeding mothers, with measurable antibody levels in cord blood and breast milk potentially providing a level of passive immunity to neonates. While studies looking at short-term outcomes for neonates have been reassuring, it is critical that we continue to work to understand and improve the care of pregnant woman and newborns with coronavirus disease 2019 to optimize long term outcomes. Although the knowledge base continues to evolve, the available evidence influencing the care of pregnant women and their infants is summarized in this focused review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime-Dawn E. Twanow
- Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus, OH,The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH,Address reprint requests to Jaime-Dawn E. Twanow, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205
| | - Corinne McCabe
- Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus, OH,The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
| | - Margie A. Ream
- Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus, OH,The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH
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21
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Abdolrazaghnejad A, Miraj S. Can Coronavirus Disease 2019 Effect on Human Reproduction? Adv Biomed Res 2022; 11:55. [PMID: 35982865 PMCID: PMC9379922 DOI: 10.4103/abr.abr_236_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the main role in the pathogenesis of the coronavirus is attributed to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) receptor, it could possibly be a hypothesis in the differential sex-based pathogenesis of the coronavirus. The virus inserts its genetic material into the cell through its ACE2 receptors and replicates it by intracellular proteins. ACE2 receptors are highly expressed in cell membranes of various tissues in the body, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, renal, macrophage cells, and especially on the surface of type 2 pneumocytes in the lungs, ovaries, uterus, vagina, placenta, and testes. Therefore, cells having a higher expression of the ACE2 may be a specific target for coronavirus binding and infectivity. Due to the increase of infections in males, concerns have been appeared about the potential impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on their fertility and reproductive organs. Thus, it is necessary to investigate if COVID-19 disturbs female and male fertility, so this review aimed to study the comprehensive evidences on the association of COVID-19 with human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Abdolrazaghnejad
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Khatam-Al-Anbia Hospital, Clinical Immunology Research Center at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Sepideh Miraj
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nekouei-Hedayati-Forghani Hospital, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran,Address for correspondence: Dr. Sepideh Miraj, Associate Professor of Infertility and IVF, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nekouei-Hedayati-Forghani Hospital, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran. E-mail:
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22
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Horn LC, Krücken I, Hiller GGR, Niedermair M, Perac K, Pietsch C, Höhn AK. Placental pathology in sudden intrauterine death (SIUD) in SARS-CoV-2-positive oligosymptomatic women. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 307:1811-1822. [PMID: 35716208 PMCID: PMC9206072 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06614-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Pregnant women are also susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. Although an infection of the placenta may be rare, pregnancy may occasionally be affected by intrauterine failure. The knowledge of placental morphology on sudden intrauterine demise is still limited. Methods Fetal and placental tissue of two cases of sudden intrauterine death in the second trimester were analysed morphologically and by immunohistochemistry. One case was evaluated by RT-PCR. Results Both mothers were tested positive for the Alpha variant of SARS-CoV-2 but were oligosymptomatic for COVID-19. Unexpected sudden intrauterine death (SIUD) occurred at 15 + 2 and 27 + 3 weeks of gestation. One fetus demonstrated an intrauterine growth restriction. No malformations nor inflammatory changes were observed in either fetus on autopsy. In contrast to the placentas, the fetal tissue was negative for SARS-CoV-2 on immunohistochemical and RT-PCR analyses. Macroscopically, the placentas showed an increased consistency with a white, reticular cutting surface covering about 95% of the whole placenta. Only very focal histiocytic chronic intervillositis was noted histologically. Massive perivillous fibrin deposits with extensive necroses of the villous trophoblast were present in more than 90% of the placental tissue. Immunohistochemical staining was strong and diffusely positive for SARS-CoV-2 in the villous trophoblast and rarely within the villous stromal cells. Placental SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed by RT-PCR. Conclusion Sudden intrauterine death may occur in mothers who are oligosymptomatic for COVID-19. Acute placental failure is responsible for SIUD, demonstrated by massive perivillous fibrin deposits and extensive necroses of the villous trophoblast with SARS-CoV-2-positivity based on immunohistochemical staining and RT-PCR. Detailed histopathological examination of placental and fetal tissue is mandatory to verify SARS-CoV-2 and to evaluate the pathogenesis and functionality of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars-Christian Horn
- Division of Breast Gynecologic and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Leipzig, Liebigstrasse 26, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Irene Krücken
- Division of Breast Gynecologic and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Leipzig, Liebigstrasse 26, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Grit Gesine Ruth Hiller
- Division of Breast Gynecologic and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Leipzig, Liebigstrasse 26, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maria Niedermair
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, City Hospital Wels-Grieskirchen, Grieskirchen, Austria
| | - Kristina Perac
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, City Hospital Wels-Grieskirchen, Grieskirchen, Austria
| | - Corinna Pietsch
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Hospital of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anne Kathrin Höhn
- Division of Breast Gynecologic and Perinatal Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Leipzig, Liebigstrasse 26, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
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23
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Motwani R, Deshmukh V, Kumar A, Kumari C, Raza K, Krishna H. Pathological involvement of placenta in COVID-19: a systematic review. LE INFEZIONI IN MEDICINA 2022; 30:157-167. [PMID: 35693050 PMCID: PMC9177177 DOI: 10.53854/liim-3002-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian placenta, which is responsible for bonding between the mother and the fetus, is one of the first organs to develop. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has caused a great threat to public health and affected almost all the organs including the placenta. Owing to limited available data on vertical transmission and pathological changes in the placenta of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, we aim to review and summarize histopathological and ultrastructural changes in the placental tissue following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2009 guidelines were used for review writing. Multiple studies have reported significant pathological changes in the placental tissue of SARS-CoV-2 positive mothers. On the other hand, some studies have demonstrated either no or very little involvement of the placental tissue. The most common pathological changes reported are fetal and maternal vascular malformation, villitis of unknown etiology, thrombus formation in the intervillous space and sub-chorionic space, and chorangiosis. Reports on vertical transmission are less in number. The observations of this review present a strong base for the pathological involvement of the placenta in SARS-CoV-2 infected mothers. However, a smaller number of original studies have been done until now, and most of them have small sample sizes and lack matched control groups, which are the big limitations for drawing an effective conclusion at this stage. Antenatal care can be improved by a better understanding of the correlation between maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and placental pathology in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini Motwani
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bibinagar, Hyderabad (Telangana), India
| | - Vishwajit Deshmukh
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Nagpur (Maharashtra), India
| | - Ashutosh Kumar
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna (Bihar), India
| | - Chiman Kumari
- Department of Anatomy, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Khursheed Raza
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Deoghar (Jharkhand), India
| | - Hare Krishna
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
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24
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Karvas RM, Khan SA, Verma S, Yin Y, Kulkarni D, Dong C, Park KM, Chew B, Sane E, Fischer LA, Kumar D, Ma L, Boon ACM, Dietmann S, Mysorekar IU, Theunissen TW. Stem-cell-derived trophoblast organoids model human placental development and susceptibility to emerging pathogens. Cell Stem Cell 2022; 29:810-825.e8. [PMID: 35523141 PMCID: PMC9136997 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Trophoblast organoids derived from placental villi provide a 3D model system of human placental development, but access to first-trimester tissues is limited. Here, we report that trophoblast stem cells isolated from naive human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) can efficiently self-organize into 3D stem-cell-derived trophoblast organoids (SC-TOs) with a villous architecture similar to primary trophoblast organoids. Single-cell transcriptome analysis reveals the presence of distinct cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast clusters and a small cluster of extravillous trophoblasts, which closely correspond to trophoblast identities in the post-implantation embryo. These organoid cultures display clonal X chromosome inactivation patterns previously described in the human placenta. We further demonstrate that SC-TOs exhibit selective vulnerability to emerging pathogens (SARS-CoV-2 and Zika virus), which correlates with expression levels of their respective entry factors. The generation of trophoblast organoids from naive hPSCs provides an accessible 3D model system of the developing placenta and its susceptibility to emerging pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan M Karvas
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Shafqat A Khan
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Sonam Verma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yan Yin
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Devesha Kulkarni
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Chen Dong
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Kyoung-Mi Park
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Brian Chew
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Eshan Sane
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Laura A Fischer
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Liang Ma
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Adrianus C M Boon
- Division of Infection Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Sabine Dietmann
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Division of Nephrology and Institute for Informatics (I(2)), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | - Indira U Mysorekar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Thorold W Theunissen
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 4515 McKinley Ave, Room 3313, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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25
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Francesca P, Mauro P, Clerbaux LA, Leoni G, Ponti J, Bogni A, Brogna C, Cristoni S, Sanges R, Mendoza-de Gyves E, Fabbri M, Querci M, Soares H, Munoz Pineiro A, Whelan M, Van de Eede G. Effects of spike protein and toxin-like peptides found in COVID-19 patients on human 3D neuronal/glial model undergoing differentiation: possible implications for SARS-CoV-2 impact on brain development. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 111:34-48. [PMID: 35525527 PMCID: PMC9068247 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The possible neurodevelopmental consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection are presently unknown. In utero exposure to SARS-CoV-2 has been hypothesized to affect the developing brain, possibly disrupting neurodevelopment of children. Spike protein interactors, such as ACE2, have been found expressed in the fetal brain, and could play a role in potential SARS-CoV-2 fetal brain pathogenesis. Apart from the possible direct involvement of SARS-CoV-2 or its specific viral components in the occurrence of neurological and neurodevelopmental manifestations, we recently reported the presence of toxin-like peptides in plasma, urine and fecal samples specifically from COVID-19 patients. In this study, we investigated the possible neurotoxic effects elicited upon 72-hour exposure to human relevant levels of recombinant spike protein, toxin-like peptides found in COVID-19 patients, as well as a combination of both in 3D human iPSC-derived neural stem cells differentiated for either 2 weeks (short-term) or 8 weeks (long-term, 2 weeks in suspension + 6 weeks on MEA) towards neurons/glia. Whole transcriptome and qPCR analysis revealed that spike protein and toxin-like peptides at non-cytotoxic concentrations differentially perturb the expression of SPHK1, ELN, GASK1B, HEY1, UTS2, ACE2 and some neuronal-, glia- and NSC-related genes critical during brain development. Additionally, exposure to spike protein caused a decrease of spontaneous electrical activity after two days in long-term differentiated cultures. The perturbations of these neurodevelopmental endpoints are discussed in the context of recent knowledge about the key events described in Adverse Outcome Pathways relevant to COVID-19, gathered in the context of the CIAO project (https://www.ciao-covid.net/).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Petrillo Mauro
- Seidor Italy srl. Past affiliation (until 15/06/2021) European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Leoni
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy; International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), Trieste, Italy
| | - Jessica Ponti
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Alessia Bogni
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | | | - Remo Sanges
- International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Marco Fabbri
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Helena Soares
- Human Immunobiology and Pathogenesis Group, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Maurice Whelan
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Guy Van de Eede
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Geel, Belgium
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26
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Elgueta D, Murgas P, Riquelme E, Yang G, Cancino GI. Consequences of Viral Infection and Cytokine Production During Pregnancy on Brain Development in Offspring. Front Immunol 2022; 13:816619. [PMID: 35464419 PMCID: PMC9021386 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.816619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections during pregnancy can seriously damage fetal neurodevelopment by aberrantly activating the maternal immune system, directly impacting fetal neural cells. Increasing evidence suggests that these adverse impacts involve alterations in neural stem cell biology with long-term consequences for offspring, including neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and cognitive impairment. Here we review how maternal infection with viruses such as Influenza A, Cytomegalovirus, and Zika during pregnancy can affect the brain development of offspring by promoting the release of maternal pro-inflammatory cytokines, triggering neuroinflammation of the fetal brain, and/or directly infecting fetal neural cells. In addition, we review insights into how these infections impact human brain development from studies with animal models and brain organoids. Finally, we discuss how maternal infection with SARS-CoV-2 may have consequences for neurodevelopment of the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Elgueta
- Center for Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paola Murgas
- Center for Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Erick Riquelme
- Center for Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Gonzalo I Cancino
- Center for Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile.,Escuela de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
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27
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Ayala-Ramírez P, González M, Escudero C, Quintero-Arciniegas L, Giachini FR, Alves de Freitas R, Damiano AE, García-Robles R. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection in Pregnancy. A Non-systematic Review of Clinical Presentation, Potential Effects of Physiological Adaptations in Pregnancy, and Placental Vascular Alterations. Front Physiol 2022; 13:785274. [PMID: 35431989 PMCID: PMC9005899 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.785274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, the novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) rapidly spread to become a pandemic. To date, increasing evidence has described the potential negative impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on pregnant women. Although the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not entirely understood, there is emerging evidence that it causes a severe systemic inflammatory response associated with vascular alterations that could be of special interest considering some physiological changes in pregnancy. Additionally, these alterations may affect the physiology of the placenta and are associated with pregnancy complications and abnormal histologic findings. On the other hand, data about the vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 are limited, but the risks of administering COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy appear to be minimal. This review summarizes the current literature on SARSCoV2 virus infection, the development of COVID-19 and its relationship with physiological changes, and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) function during pregnancy. We have particularly emphasized evidence coming from Latin American countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Ayala-Ramírez
- School of Medicine, Human Genetics Institute, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Paola Ayala-Ramírez,
| | - Marcelo González
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillan, Chile
- Laboratorio de Investigación Materno-Fetal (LIMaF), Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Marcelo González,
| | - Carlos Escudero
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillan, Chile
- Laboratory of Vascular Physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad del Bio-Bio, Chillan, Chile
| | - Laura Quintero-Arciniegas
- Perinatal Medicine Seedbed, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernanda R. Giachini
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, Brazil
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | - Alicia E. Damiano
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO)- CONICET- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Reggie García-Robles
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
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28
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Mangialardi K, Fanelli M, Cazzato G, Marzullo A, Baldassarre ME, Vimercati A, Resta L. Laminar Necrosis and Hypoxic Damage of the Placenta: A Case-Control Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073891. [PMID: 35409574 PMCID: PMC8997949 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to verify the role of laminar necrosis (LN) in the diagnosis of hypoxic damage of the placenta. This is a retrospective case-control study in which 50 cases with laminar necrosis were compared with 100 gestational age-matched controls without laminar necrosis in a 1:2 ratio. The parameters analyzed were: the presence of other placental lesions, obstetric characteristics and neonatal outcome. For each of the 50 cases, the area affected by the lesion was detected, and the lesions were classified into three groups based on the morphology and time of onset of the lesion in order to understand whether these characteristics of the lesion had a clinical-pathology. The results showed that including the search for LN among placental lesions generally examined is useful to guide the pathologist in the diagnosis of placental dysfunction of hypoxic origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Mangialardi
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Section of Pathology, School of Medicine University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (K.M.); (G.C.); (A.M.); (L.R.)
| | - Margherita Fanelli
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Medical Statistic, School of Medicine University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3388575283
| | - Gerardo Cazzato
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Section of Pathology, School of Medicine University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (K.M.); (G.C.); (A.M.); (L.R.)
| | - Andrea Marzullo
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Section of Pathology, School of Medicine University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (K.M.); (G.C.); (A.M.); (L.R.)
| | - Maria Elisabetta Baldassarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Antonella Vimercati
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Gynecologic and Obstetrics Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Leonardo Resta
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Section of Pathology, School of Medicine University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (K.M.); (G.C.); (A.M.); (L.R.)
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29
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Detection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) including Variant Analysis by Mass Spectrometry in Placental Tissue. Viruses 2022; 14:v14030604. [PMID: 35337011 PMCID: PMC8953811 DOI: 10.3390/v14030604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Among neonates, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the majority of infections occur through postpartum transmission. Only few reports describe intrauterine or intrapartum SARS-CoV-2 infections in newborns. To understand the route of transmission, detection of the virus or virus nucleic acid in the placenta and amniotic tissue are of special interest. Current methods to detect SARS-CoV-2 in placental tissue are immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, in-situ hybridization, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing. Recently, we described an alternative method for the detection of viral ribonucleic acid (RNA), by combination of reverse transcriptase-PCR and mass spectrometry (MS) in oropharyngeal and oral swabs. In this report, we could detect SARS-CoV-2 in formal-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) placental and amniotic tissue by multiplex RT-PCR MS. Additionally, we could identify the British variant (B.1.1.7) of the virus in this tissue by the same methodology. Combination of RT-PCR with MS is a fast and easy method to detect SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA, including specific variants in FFPE tissue.
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SARS- CoV-2 infection and oxidative stress in early-onset preeclampsia. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166321. [PMID: 34920081 PMCID: PMC8668602 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) also in pregnant women. Infection in pregnancy leads to maternal and placental functional alterations. Pregnant women with vascular defects such as preeclampsia show high susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection by undefined mechanisms. Pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 show higher rates of preterm birth and caesarean delivery, and their placentas show signs of vasculopathy and inflammation. It is still unclear whether the foetus is affected by the maternal infection with this virus and whether maternal infection associates with postnatal affections. The SARS-CoV-2 infection causes oxidative stress and activation of the immune system leading to cytokine storm and next tissue damage as seen in the lung. The angiotensin-converting-enzyme 2 expression is determinant for these alterations in the lung. Since this enzyme is expressed in the human placenta, SARS-CoV-2 could infect the placenta tissue, although reported to be of low frequency compared with maternal lung tissue. Early-onset preeclampsia (eoPE) shows higher expression of ADAM17 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17) causing an imbalanced renin-angiotensin system and endothelial dysfunction. A similar mechanism seems to potentially account for SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review highlights the potentially common characteristics of pregnant women with eoPE with those with COVID-19. A better understanding of the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its impact on the placenta function is determinant since eoPE/COVID-19 association may result in maternal metabolic alterations that might lead to a potential worsening of the foetal programming of diseases in the neonate, young, and adult.
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31
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Liu A, Raja xavier J, Singh Y, Brucker SY, Salker MS. Molecular and Physiological Aspects of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Women and Pregnancy. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:756362. [PMID: 35284910 PMCID: PMC8908006 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.756362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Whilst scientific knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 is rapidly increasing, much of the effects on pregnant women is still unknown. To accommodate pregnancy, the human endometrium must undergo a physiological transformation called decidualization. These changes encompass the remodeling of endometrial immune cells leading to immunotolerance of the semi-allogenic conceptus as well as defense against pathogens. The angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) plays an important regulatory role in the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) and has been shown to be protective against comorbidities known to worsen COVID-19 outcomes. Furthermore, ACE2 is also crucial for decidualization and thus for early gestation. An astounding gender difference has been found in COVID-19 with male patients presenting with more severe cases and higher mortality rates. This could be attributed to differences in sex chromosomes, hormone levels and behavior patterns. Despite profound changes in the female body during pregnancy, expectant mothers do not face worse outcomes compared with non-pregnant women. Whereas mother-to-child transmission through respiratory droplets during labor or in the postnatal period is known, another question of in utero transmission remains unanswered. Evidence of placental SARS-CoV-2 infection and expression of viral entry receptors at the maternal-fetal interface suggests the possibility of in utero transmission. SARS-CoV-2 can cause further harm through placental damage, maternal systemic inflammation, and hindered access to health care during the pandemic. More research on the effects of COVID-19 during early pregnancy as well as vaccination and treatment options for gravid patients is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Liu
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Janet Raja xavier
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yogesh Singh
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sara Y. Brucker
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Madhuri S. Salker
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
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Kim TE, Kim H, Ahn KH, Joo E, Kim HJ, Park JY, Oh KJ, Jung YH, Lee H, Choi CW, Jung J, Park KU. Investigation for SARS-CoV-2 vertical transmission in a COVID-19 pregnant woman: a case report. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:1561-1563. [PMID: 35164648 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2027893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tae Eun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyojeong Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Hee Ahn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunwook Joo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Ji Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Yoon Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Kyung Joon Oh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Young Hwa Jung
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunju Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Chang Won Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jongtak Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Kyoung Un Park
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
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33
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Peng Z, Zhang J, Shi Y, Yi M. Research progresses in vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among infants born to mothers with COVID-19. Future Virol 2022. [PMID: 35173797 PMCID: PMC8833011 DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2021-0213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhoujie Peng
- Department of Neonatology, Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital; Department of Neonatology, Chongqing Three Gorges Central Hospital, 165 Xin Cheng Road, Wanzhou District, Chongqing, 404000, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital; Department of Neonatology, Chongqing Three Gorges Central Hospital, 165 Xin Cheng Road, Wanzhou District, Chongqing, 404000, China
| | - Yuan Shi
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health & Disorders; China International Science & Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development & Critical Disorders No.136 Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400014, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Neonatology, Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital; Department of Neonatology, Chongqing Three Gorges Central Hospital, 165 Xin Cheng Road, Wanzhou District, Chongqing, 404000, China
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34
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Almohammadi NH. A review of the main placenta histopathological findings reported in coronavirus disease 2019. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2022; 17:165-173. [PMID: 35250425 PMCID: PMC8879984 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2022.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have reported that pregnant women are more susceptible to contracting the SARS-CoV-2 disease. However, SARS-CoV-2 infection studies have limited evidence regarding its impact on pregnancy, particularly its pathological effects on the maternal–fetal interface. This review emphasized the placental structures and immunomodulatory defense mechanism against the viral infection COVID and highlighted the spectrum of reported histopathological changes from SARS-CoV-2-infected mothers' placenta to contribute to the knowledge of the nature of this placental pathology. Further studies where collaborations that seek to maximize sample numbers analyzed can be performed to improve the generalizability and reliability of the findings. This can lead to improved knowledge on the relationship between placental dysfunction and pathology from maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. Consequently, this can help improve maternity care delivery during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawal H. Almohammadi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Taibah University, Madinah, KSA
- Department of Histopathology, Prince Sultan Armed Forces Hospital, Madinah, KSA
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Taibah University, P.O. Box 334, Madina, KSA.
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35
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Guan M, Johannesen E, Tang CY, Hsu AL, Barnes CL, Burnam M, McElroy JA, Wan XF. Intrauterine fetal demise in the third trimester of pregnancy associated with mild infection with the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant without protection from vaccination. J Infect Dis 2022; 225:748-753. [PMID: 35024853 PMCID: PMC8807234 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has a higher infection rate in pregnant women than age-matched adults. With increased infectivity and transmissibility, the Delta variant is predominant worldwide. Here, we describe intrauterine fetal demise in an unvaccinated women with mild symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant infection. Histology and elevated proinflammatory responses of the placenta suggest that fetal demise was associated with placental malperfusion due to Delta variant infection. This study suggests that the Delta variant can cause severe morbidity and mortality to fetuses. Vaccination should continve to be advocated and will likely continue to reduce SARS-CoV-2 infection risks for pregnant women and their fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhui Guan
- Center for Influenza and Emerging Infectious Diseases (CIEID), University of Missouri, Columbia, MO.,School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Eric Johannesen
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Cynthia Y Tang
- Center for Influenza and Emerging Infectious Diseases (CIEID), University of Missouri, Columbia, MO.,School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Institute for Data Science and Informatics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Albert L Hsu
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | | | - Megan Burnam
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jane A McElroy
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Xiu-Feng Wan
- Center for Influenza and Emerging Infectious Diseases (CIEID), University of Missouri, Columbia, MO.,School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Institute for Data Science and Informatics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,College of Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Placental SARS-CoV-2 distribution correlates with level of tissue oxygenation in COVID-19-associated necrotizing histiocytic intervillositis/perivillous fibrin deposition. Placenta 2022; 117:187-193. [PMID: 34929459 PMCID: PMC8638245 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Recent evidence supports the – rare – occurrence of vertical transplacental SARS-CoV-2 transmission. We previously determined that placental expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the SARS-CoV-2 receptor, and associated viral cell entry regulators is upregulated by hypoxia. In the present study, we utilized a clinically relevant model of SARS-CoV-2-associated chronic histiocytic intervillositis/massive perivillous fibrin deposition (CHIV/MPFVD) to test the hypothesis that placental hypoxia may facilitate placental SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods We performed a comparative immunohistochemical and/or RNAscope in-situ hybridization analysis of carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX, hypoxia marker), ACE2 and SARS-CoV-2 expression in free-floating versus fibrin-encased chorionic villi in a 20-weeks’ gestation placenta with SARS-CoV-2-associated CHIV/MPVFD. Results The levels of CAIX and ACE2 immunoreactivity were significantly higher in trophoblastic cells of fibrin-encased villi than in those of free-floating villi, consistent with hypoxia-induced ACE2 upregulation. SARS-CoV-2 showed a similar preferential localization to trophoblastic cells of fibrin-encased villi. Discussion The localization of SARS-CoV-2 to hypoxic, fibrin-encased villi in this placenta with CHIV/MPVFD suggests placental infection and, therefore, transplacental SARS-CoV-2 transmission may be promoted by hypoxic conditions, mediated by ACE2 and similar hypoxia-sensitive viral cell entry mechanisms. Understanding of a causative link between placental hypoxia and SARS-CoV-2 transmittability may potentially lead to the development of alternative strategies for prevention of intrauterine COVID-19 transmission.
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Ferreira G, Blasina F, Rodríguez Rey M, Anesetti G, Sapiro R, Chavarría L, Cardozo R, Rey G, Sobrevia L, Nicolson GL. Pathophysiological and molecular considerations of viral and bacterial infections during maternal-fetal and -neonatal interactions of SARS-CoV-2, Zika, and Mycoplasma infectious diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166285. [PMID: 34624499 PMCID: PMC8492386 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
During pregnancy, a series of physiological changes are determined at the molecular, cellular and macroscopic level that make the mother and fetus more susceptible to certain viral and bacterial infections, especially the infections in this and the companion review. Particular situations increase susceptibility to infection in neonates. The enhanced susceptibility to certain infections increases the risk of developing particular diseases that can progress to become morbidly severe. For example, during the current pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, epidemiological studies have established that pregnant women with COVID-19 disease are more likely to be hospitalized. However, the risk for intensive care unit admission and mechanical ventilation is not increased compared with nonpregnant women. Although much remains unknown with this particular infection, the elevated risk of progression during pregnancy towards more severe manifestations of COVID-19 disease is not associated with an increased risk of death. In addition, the epidemiological data available in neonates suggest that their risk of acquiring COVID-19 is low compared with infants (<12 months of age). However, they might be at higher risk for progression to severe COVID-19 disease compared with older children. The data on clinical presentation and disease severity among neonates are limited and based on case reports and small case series. It is well documented the importance of the Zika virus infection as the main cause of several congenital anomalies and birth defects such as microcephaly, and also adverse pregnancy outcomes. Mycoplasma infections also increase adverse pregnancy outcomes. This review will focus on the molecular, pathophysiological and biophysical characteristics of the mother/placental-fetal/neonatal interactions and the possible mechanisms of these pathogens (SARS-CoV-2, ZIKV, and Mycoplasmas) for promoting disease at this level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Ferreira
- Laboratory of Ion Channels, Biological Membranes and Cell Signaling, Dept. of Biophysics, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay,Corresponding author
| | - Fernanda Blasina
- Dept. of Neonatology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Marianela Rodríguez Rey
- Dept. of Neonatology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gabriel Anesetti
- Dept. of Histology and Development, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Rosana Sapiro
- Dept. of Histology and Development, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Luisina Chavarría
- Laboratory of Ion Channels, Biological Membranes and Cell Signaling, Dept. of Biophysics, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Romina Cardozo
- Laboratory of Ion Channels, Biological Membranes and Cell Signaling, Dept. of Biophysics, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Grazzia Rey
- Dept. of Clinical Ginecology and Obstetrics B, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Republica, Uruguay
| | - Luis Sobrevia
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville E-41012, Spain,Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil,University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia,Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Garth L. Nicolson
- Department of Molecular Pathology, The Institute for Molecular Medicine, Huntington Beach, CA, USA
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38
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Wang Y, Gu Y, Lewis DF, Gu X, Brown K, Lachute C, Hankins M, Scott RS, Busada C, Cooper DB, McCathran CE, Barrilleaux P. Cell-type specific distribution and activation of type I IFN pathway molecules at the placental maternal-fetal interface in response to COVID-19 infection. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:951388. [PMID: 36743911 PMCID: PMC9895786 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.951388] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE COVID-19 infection in pregnancy significantly increases risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, little is known how the innate immunity at the placental maternal-fetal interface responds to COVID-19 infection. Type I IFN cytokines are recognized as a key component of the innate immune response against viral infection. In this study, we specifically evaluated expression of IFN antiviral signaling molecules in placentas from women infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy. METHODS Expression of IFN activation signaling pathway molecules, including cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), stimulator of interferon genes (STING), interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7), mitochondrial antiviral-signaling protein (MAVS), and IFNβ were determined in formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) placental tissue sections (villous and fetal membrane) by immunostaining. A total of 20 placentas were examined, 12 from COVID-19 patients and 8 from non-COVID-19 controls. Patient demographics, clinical data, and placental pathology report were acquired via EPIC medical record review. RESULTS Except BMI and placental weight, there was no statistical difference between COVID and non-COVID groups in maternal age, gestational age at delivery, gravity/parity, delivery mode, and newborn gender and weight. In COVID-exposed group, the main pathological characteristics in the placental disc are maternal and fetal vascular malperfusion and chronic inflammation. Compared to non-COVID controls, expression of IFN activation pathway molecules were all upregulated with distinct cell-type specific distribution in COVID-exposed placentas: STING in villous and decidual stromal cells; IRF3 in cytotrophoblasts (CTs) and extra-villous trophoblasts (EVTs); and TLR7 and MAVS in syncytiotrophoblasts (STs), CTs, and EVTs. Upregulation of STING, MAVS and TLR7 was also seen in fetal endothelial cells. CONCLUSIONS STING, IRF3, TLR7, and MAVS are key viral sensing molecules that regulate type I IFN production. Type I IFNs are potent antiviral cytokines to impair and eradicate viral replication in infected cells. The finding of cell-type specific distribution and activation of these innate antiviral molecules at the placental maternal-fetal interface provide plausible evidence that type I IFN pathway molecules may play critical roles against SARS-CoV-2 infection in the placenta. Our findings also suggest that placental maternal-fetal interface has a well-defined antiviral defense system to protect the developing fetus from SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
- *Correspondence: Yuping Wang,
| | - Yang Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - David F. Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Xin Gu
- Department of Pathology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Karisa Brown
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Courtney Lachute
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Miriam Hankins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Rona S. Scott
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Caitlin Busada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Danielle B. Cooper
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Charles E. McCathran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Perry Barrilleaux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, United States
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Young EM, Green O, Stewart J, King Y, O'Donoghue K, Walker KF, Thornton JG. COVID-19 and pregnancy: A comparison of case reports, case series and registry studies. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2021; 268:135-142. [PMID: 34920270 PMCID: PMC8647390 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selection, outcome and publication biases are well described in case reports and case series but may be less of a problem early in the appearance of a new disease when all cases might appear to be worth publishing. OBJECTIVE To use a prospectively collected database of primary sources to compare the reporting of COVID-19 in pregnancy in case reports, case series and in registries over the first 8 months of the pandemic. STUDY DESIGN MEDLINE, Embase and Maternity and Infant Care databases were searched from 22 March to 5 November 2020, to create a curated list of primary sources. Duplicate reports were excluded. Case reports, case series and registry studies of pregnant women with confirmed COVID-19, where neonatal outcomes were reported, were selected and data extracted on neonatal infection status, neonatal death, neonatal intensive care unit admission, preterm birth, stillbirth, maternal critical care unit admission and maternal death. RESULTS 149 studies comprising 41,658 mothers and 8,854 neonates were included. All complications were more common in case reports, and in retrospective series compared with presumably prospective registry studies. Extensive overlap is likely in registry studies, with cases from seven countries reported by multiple registries. The UK Obstetric Surveillance System was the only registry to explicitly report identification and removal of duplicate cases, although five other registries reported collection of patient identifiable data which would facilitate identification of duplicates. CONCLUSIONS Since it is likely that registries provide the least biased estimates, the higher rates seen in the other two study designs are probably due to selection or publication bias. However even some registry studies include self- or doctor-reported cases, so might be biased, and we could not completely exclude overlap of cases in some registries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise M Young
- University of Nottingham, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 2UH, England
| | - Oleia Green
- University of Nottingham, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 2UH, England
| | - Joel Stewart
- University of Nottingham, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 2UH, England
| | - Yasmin King
- University of Nottingham, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 2UH, England
| | - Keelin O'Donoghue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, College Road, University College, Cork, Ireland
| | - Kate F Walker
- University of Nottingham, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 2UH, England
| | - Jim G Thornton
- University of Nottingham, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham NG7 2UH, England.
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40
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Sevilla‐Montoya R, Hidalgo‐Bravo A, Estrada‐Gutiérrez G, Villavicencio‐Carrisoza O, Leon‐Juarez M, Villegas‐Mota I, Espino‐y‐Sosa S, Monroy‐Muñoz IE, Martinez‐Portilla RJ, Poon LC, Cardona‐Pérez JA, Helguera‐Repetto AC. Evidence of possible SARS-CoV-2 vertical transmission according to World Health Organization criteria in asymptomatic pregnant women. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2021; 58:900-908. [PMID: 34580942 PMCID: PMC8661610 DOI: 10.1002/uog.24787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vertical transmission has been investigated extensively. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) published strict criteria to classify the timing of mother-to-child transmission of SARS-CoV-2 into different categories. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of vertical transmission in asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-positive women. METHODS Pregnant women attending for delivery at a perinatology center in Mexico City, Mexico, who had a SARS-CoV-2-positive nasopharyngeal swab 24-48 h before delivery, were asymptomatic at the time of the test and had an obstetric indication for Cesarean section were eligible for inclusion in this study. Amniotic fluid was collected during Cesarean delivery, and neonatal oral and rectal swabs were collected at birth and at 24 h after birth. SARS-CoV-2 detection was carried out using real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in all samples. Relevant medical information was retrieved from clinical records. The WHO criteria for classifying the timing of mother-to-child transmission of SARS-CoV-2 were applied to the study population. RESULTS Forty-two SARS-CoV-2-positive asymptomatic pregnant women fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Twenty-five (59%) women developed mild disease after discharge. Neonatal death occurred in three (7%) cases, of which one had a positive SARS-CoV-2 test at birth and none had coronavirus disease 2019-related symptoms. There were five (12%) cases with strong evidence of intrauterine transmission of SARS-CoV-2, according to the WHO criteria, as amniotic fluid samples and neonatal samples at birth and at 24 h after birth were positive for SARS-CoV-2. Our results also showed that 40-60% of infected neonates would have been undetected if only one swab (oral or rectal) was tested. CONCLUSION This study contributes evidence to reinforce the potential for vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 even in asymptomatic women and highlights the importance of testing more than one neonatal sample in order to increase the detection rate of SARS-CoV-2 in affected cases. © 2021 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Sevilla‐Montoya
- Department of Genetics and Human GenomicsNational Institute of PerinatologyMexico CityMexico
| | - A. Hidalgo‐Bravo
- Department of Genetics and Genomic MedicineNational Institute of Rehabilitation Luis Guillermo Ibarra IbarraMexico CityMexico
| | - G. Estrada‐Gutiérrez
- Dirección de InvestigaciónInstituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
| | - O. Villavicencio‐Carrisoza
- Departamento de Inmuno‐BioquímicaInstituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
- Programa de posgrado en Biomedicina y Biotecnología MolecularEscuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico NacionalMexico CityMexico
| | - M. Leon‐Juarez
- Departamento de Inmuno‐BioquímicaInstituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
| | - I. Villegas‐Mota
- Unidad de enfermedades infecciosas y epidemiología, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
| | - S. Espino‐y‐Sosa
- Subdirección de Investigación ClínicaInstituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
| | - I. E. Monroy‐Muñoz
- Department of Genetics and Human GenomicsNational Institute of PerinatologyMexico CityMexico
| | - R. J. Martinez‐Portilla
- Subdirección de Investigación ClínicaInstituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
| | - L. C. Poon
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyPrince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong KongShatin, Hong Kong SAR
| | - J. A. Cardona‐Pérez
- Dirección General, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
| | - A. C. Helguera‐Repetto
- Departamento de Inmuno‐BioquímicaInstituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los ReyesMexico CityMexico
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Roberts J, Cheng JD, Moore E, Ransom C, Ma M, Rogers BB. Extensive Perivillous Fibrin and Intervillous Histiocytosis in a SARS-CoV-2 Infected Placenta From an Uninfected Newborn: A Case Report Including Immunohistochemical Profiling. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2021; 24:581-584. [PMID: 34176361 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211025122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Placental infection by SARS-CoV-2 with various pathologic alterations reported. Inflammatory findings, such as extensive perivillous fibrin deposition and intervillous histiocytosis, have been postulated as risk factors for fetal infection by SARS-CoV-2. We describe the placental findings in a case of a 31-year-old mother with SARS-CoV-2 infection who delivered a preterm female neonate who tested negative for SAR-CoV2 infection. Placental examination demonstrated a small for gestational age placenta with extensive intervillous histiocytosis, syncytiotrophoblast karyorrhexis, and diffuse intervillous fibrin deposition. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated infection of the syncytiotrophoblasts by SARS-CoV-2 inversely related to the presence of intervillous histiocytes and fibrin deposition. Our case demonstrates that despite extensive placental pathology, no fetal transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurred, as well as postulates a relationship between placental infection, inflammation, and fibrin deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Roberts
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of pathology, Emory University, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Jeanette D Cheng
- Department of Pathology, Piedmont Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Elizabeth Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Piedmont Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Carla Ransom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Piedmont Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Minhui Ma
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Beverly B Rogers
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of pathology, Emory University, Decatur, Georgia
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42
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Fuentes-Zacarías P, Murrieta-Coxca JM, Gutiérrez-Samudio RN, Schmidt A, Schmidt A, Markert UR, Morales-Prieto DM. Pregnancy and pandemics: Interaction of viral surface proteins and placenta cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166218. [PMID: 34311080 PMCID: PMC9188292 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Throughout history, pandemics of infectious diseases caused by emerging viruses have spread worldwide. Evidence from previous outbreaks demonstrated that pregnant women are at high risk of contracting the diseases and suffering from adverse outcomes. However, while some viruses can cause major health complications for the mother and her fetus, others do not appear to affect pregnancy. Viral surface proteins bind to specific receptors on the cellular membrane of host cells and begin therewith the infection process. During pregnancy, the molecular features of these proteins may determine specific target cells in the placenta, which may explain the different outcomes. In this review, we display information on Variola, Influenza, Zika and Corona viruses focused on their surface proteins, effects on pregnancy, and possible target placental cells. This will contribute to understanding viral entry during pregnancy, as well as to develop strategies to decrease the incidence of obstetrical problems in current and future infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jose M Murrieta-Coxca
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | | | - Astrid Schmidt
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Andre Schmidt
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Udo R Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany..
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43
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Di Girolamo R, Khalil A, Alameddine S, D'Angelo E, Galliani C, Matarrelli B, Buca D, Liberati M, Rizzo G, D'Antonio F. Placental histopathology after SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2021; 3:100468. [PMID: 34425296 PMCID: PMC8379009 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2021.100468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to report the spectrum of placental pathology findings in pregnancies complicated by SARS-CoV-2 infection. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Web of Science databases were searched up to August 11, 2021. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Histopathologic anomalies included maternal vascular malperfusion, fetal vascular malperfusion, acute inflammatory pathology, chronic inflammatory pathology, increased perivillous fibrin, and intervillous thrombosis. Moreover, subanalyses of symptomatic women only and high-risk pregnancies were performed. METHODS Histopathologic analysis of the placenta included gross examination, histopathology on hematoxylin and eosin, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence in situ hybridization, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction on placental tissue, and transmission electron microscope. Random-effect meta-analyses were used to analyze the data. RESULTS A total of 56 studies (1008 pregnancies) were included. Maternal vascular malperfusion was reported in 30.7% of placentas (95% confidence interval, 20.3-42.1), whereas fetal vascular malperfusion was observed in 27.08 % of cases (95% confidence interval, 19.2-35.6). Acute and chronic inflammatory pathologies were reported in 22.68% (95% confidence interval, 16.9-29.0) and 25.65% (95% confidence interval, 18.4-33.6) of cases, respectively. Increased perivillous fibrin was observed in 32.7% (95% confidence interval, 24.1-42.0) of placentas undergoing histopathologic analysis, whereas intervillous thrombosis was observed in 14.6% of cases (95% confidence interval, 9.7-20.2). Other placental findings, including a basal plate with attached myometrial fibers, microscopic accretism, villous edema, increased circulating nucleated red blood cells, or membranes with hemorrhage, were reported in 37.5% of cases (95% confidence interval, 28.0-47.5), whereas only 17.5% of cases (95% confidence interval, 10.9-25.2) did not present any abnormal histologic findings. The subanalyses according to maternal symptoms owing to SARS-CoV-2 infection or the presence of a high-risk pregnancy showed a similar distribution of the different histopathologic anomalies to that reported in the main analysis. Moreover, the risk of placental histopathologic anomalies was higher when considering only case-control studies comparing women with SARS-CoV-2 infection with healthy controls. CONCLUSION In pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection, a significant proportion of placentas showed histopathologic findings, suggesting placental hypoperfusion and inflammation. Future multicenter prospective blinded studies are needed to correlate these placental lesions with pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Di Girolamo
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Asma Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom (XX Khalil); Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom (Dr Khalil)
| | - Sara Alameddine
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Emanuela D'Angelo
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Dr D'Angelo)
| | - Carmen Galliani
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Barbara Matarrelli
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Danilo Buca
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Marco Liberati
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale Cristo Re Roma, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy (Dr Rizzo)
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio).
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Giordano G, Petrolini C, Corradini E, Campanini N, Esposito S, Perrone S. COVID-19 in pregnancy: placental pathological patterns and effect on perinatal outcome in five cases. Diagn Pathol 2021; 16:88. [PMID: 34602071 PMCID: PMC8487453 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-021-01148-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, is a severe systemic thrombotic syndrome that emerged in 2019, with an ensuing pandemic. To evaluate the impact of this disease on placental tissue and perinatal outcome, histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses of placental tissue were performed for five cases of pregnant women with COVID-19. CASE REPORTS All five pregnant women in this series developed COVID-19 in late pregnancy. Two patients experienced respiratory distress, and computed tomography revealed signs of pneumonia, with bilateral involvement, multiple lobular and subsegmental areas of consolidation and ground-glass opacities. Histological studies of placental tissue revealed the presence of slight signs of maternal vascular underperfusion (MVUs) or foetal vascular underperfusion (FVUs) lesions and mild inflammatory lesions. CD15 immunoreactivity in the placental tissue was low in all cases, demonstrating that in these cases there was not severe foetal hypoxia/asphyxia risk for newborns or distal vascular immaturity. In all cases examined, ultrastructural analyses showed spherical-like coronavirus particles with an electron intermediate-density core as well as projections from the surface as spike-like structures in the syncytiotrophoblasts. At term, all of the women delivered newborns who were negative for SARS-CoV-2 by nasopharyngeal testing in their first day of life. All newborns were exclusively breastfed and were discharged on the 3rd day of life. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, placental patterns in pregnancy due to COVID-19 in the late stage of gestation indicate no evidence of vertical trans-placental SARS-CoV-2 transmission or a significant impact on the perinatal outcome of newborns, in both mild and more severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Giordano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Unit, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy.
| | - Chiara Petrolini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Neonatology Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Emilia Corradini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Unit, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Campanini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Unit, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Paediatric Clinic Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Serafina Perrone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Neonatology Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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45
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Meyer JA, Roman AS, Limaye M, Grossman TB, Flaifel A, Vaz MJ, Thomas KM, Penfield CA. Association of SARS-CoV-2 placental histopathology findings with maternal-fetal comorbidities and severity of COVID-19 hypoxia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2021; 35:8412-8418. [PMID: 34542385 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2021.1977791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE SARS-CoV-2 is known to impact multiple organ systems, with growing data to suggest the potential for placental infection and resultant pathology. Understanding how maternal COVID-19 disease can affect placental histopathology has been limited by small study cohorts with mild disease, review by multiple pathologists, and potential confounding by maternal-fetal comorbidities that can also influence placental findings. This study aims to identify pathologic placental findings associated with COVID-19 disease and severity, as well as to distinguish them from changes related to coexisting maternal-fetal comorbidities. METHODS This is an observational study of 61 pregnant women with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection who delivered and had a placental histological evaluation at NYU Langone Health between March 19, 2020 and June 30, 2020. Primary outcomes were the prevalence of placental histopathologic features and their association with maternal-fetal comorbidities and severity of COVID-19 related hypoxia. Analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test and t-test with p < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS Sixty-one placentas were included in the study cohort, 71% from pregnancies complicated by at least one maternal-fetal comorbidity. Twenty-five percent of placentas were small for gestational age and 77% exhibited at least one feature of maternal vascular malperfusion. None of the histopathologic features in the examined placentas were associated with the presence of any specific maternal-fetal comorbidity. Thirteen percent of the cohort required maternal respiratory support for COVID-19 related hypoxia. Villous trophoblast necrosis was associated with maternal supplemental oxygen requirement (67 vs. 33%, p = 0.04) and intubation (67 vs. 33%, p = 0.01). CONCLUSION In pregnancies complicated by COVID-19 disease, there was a high prevalence of placental histopathologic changes identified, particularly features of maternal vascular malperfusion, which could not be attributed solely to the presence of maternal-fetal comorbidities. The significantly increased prevalence of villous trophoblast necrosis in women needing respiratory support suggests a connection to the severity of COVID-19 illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Meyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ashley S Roman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Meghana Limaye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tracy B Grossman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Abdallah Flaifel
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michelle J Vaz
- Department of Pediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kristen M Thomas
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christina A Penfield
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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46
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Eltemamy E, Salama S, Salem SM, Abdel-Rasheed M, Salama E, Elsirgany S, Elnahas T. Assessment of fetal growth and anomalies in the era of COVID-19 pandemic: an Egyptian pilot study. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2021; 26:32. [PMID: 34483650 PMCID: PMC8401358 DOI: 10.1186/s43043-021-00075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many issues need to be studied regarding pregnant women during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection pandemic. The aim of this study was to assess fetal growth, fetal well-being, and any observed gross anomalies that may follow SARS-CoV-2 infection in Egyptian pregnant women. During fetal anomaly scan at 22 weeks, we compared 30 pregnant women with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection at 6‑12 weeks of gestation (group A) with 60 pregnant women (group B) who had no history of SARS-CoV-2. Then, we followed them on 28 and 34 weeks of gestation with fetal biometry and Doppler study. Results Our results revealed no significant difference between both groups regarding fetal biometry, estimated fetal weight, amniotic fluid index, Doppler scan, and gross anomaly scan throughout all visits. Conclusion According to the results of our pilot study, SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy was not found to increase the risk of fetal growth restriction or possible fetal gross anomalies. Nevertheless, larger-scale studies are needed to confirm those findings. Perhaps, post-SARS-CoV-2 infection pregnancies may run an uncomplicated course regarding fetal parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Eltemamy
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sameh Salama
- Reproductive Health and Family Planning Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sondos M Salem
- Reproductive Health and Family Planning Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mazen Abdel-Rasheed
- Reproductive Health and Family Planning Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ehab Salama
- Reproductive Health and Family Planning Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sherif Elsirgany
- Reproductive Health and Family Planning Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tamer Elnahas
- Reproductive Health and Family Planning Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
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Di Girolamo R, Khalil A, Alameddine S, D'Angelo E, Galliani C, Matarrelli B, Buca D, Liberati M, Rizzo G, D'Antonio F. Placental histopathology after SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2021. [PMID: 34425296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2021.100468.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to report the spectrum of placental pathology findings in pregnancies complicated by SARS-CoV-2 infection. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Web of Science databases were searched up to August 11, 2021. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Histopathologic anomalies included maternal vascular malperfusion, fetal vascular malperfusion, acute inflammatory pathology, chronic inflammatory pathology, increased perivillous fibrin, and intervillous thrombosis. Moreover, subanalyses of symptomatic women only and high-risk pregnancies were performed. METHODS Histopathologic analysis of the placenta included gross examination, histopathology on hematoxylin and eosin, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence in situ hybridization, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction on placental tissue, and transmission electron microscope. Random-effect meta-analyses were used to analyze the data. RESULTS A total of 56 studies (1008 pregnancies) were included. Maternal vascular malperfusion was reported in 30.7% of placentas (95% confidence interval, 20.3-42.1), whereas fetal vascular malperfusion was observed in 27.08 % of cases (95% confidence interval, 19.2-35.6). Acute and chronic inflammatory pathologies were reported in 22.68% (95% confidence interval, 16.9-29.0) and 25.65% (95% confidence interval, 18.4-33.6) of cases, respectively. Increased perivillous fibrin was observed in 32.7% (95% confidence interval, 24.1-42.0) of placentas undergoing histopathologic analysis, whereas intervillous thrombosis was observed in 14.6% of cases (95% confidence interval, 9.7-20.2). Other placental findings, including a basal plate with attached myometrial fibers, microscopic accretism, villous edema, increased circulating nucleated red blood cells, or membranes with hemorrhage, were reported in 37.5% of cases (95% confidence interval, 28.0-47.5), whereas only 17.5% of cases (95% confidence interval, 10.9-25.2) did not present any abnormal histologic findings. The subanalyses according to maternal symptoms owing to SARS-CoV-2 infection or the presence of a high-risk pregnancy showed a similar distribution of the different histopathologic anomalies to that reported in the main analysis. Moreover, the risk of placental histopathologic anomalies was higher when considering only case-control studies comparing women with SARS-CoV-2 infection with healthy controls. CONCLUSION In pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection, a significant proportion of placentas showed histopathologic findings, suggesting placental hypoperfusion and inflammation. Future multicenter prospective blinded studies are needed to correlate these placental lesions with pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Di Girolamo
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Asma Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom (XX Khalil); Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom (Dr Khalil)
| | - Sara Alameddine
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Emanuela D'Angelo
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Dr D'Angelo)
| | - Carmen Galliani
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Barbara Matarrelli
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Danilo Buca
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Marco Liberati
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio)
| | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale Cristo Re Roma, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy (Dr Rizzo)
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (Ms Di Girolamo, Ms Alameddine, Ms Galliani, Ms Matarrelli, Mr Buca, Dr Liberati, and Dr D'Antonio).
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Infection prevention measures in acute care settings based on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 transmission patterns and risk: a review. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2021; 34:346-356. [PMID: 34127582 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, when facing extraordinary infection prevention challenges, acute care settings have balanced routine patient safety needs while minimizing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission risk to patients and healthcare personnel (HCP). Mitigation strategies in acute care settings are based on a combination of basic science, environmental, and epidemiologic evidence. Here, we review the literature on SARS-CoV-2 transmission, how it has shaped infection prevention interventions in acute care settings, and the results of such measures to reduce transmission. RECENT FINDINGS HCP adherence to transmission-based precautions in acute care settings, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), is essential to mitigating SARS-CoV-2 spread. Although the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been isolated in nonrespiratory body sites, such exposure has not been shown to definitively cause transmission in humans. Epidemiologic evidence has demonstrated that implementation and adherence to infection prevention strategies reduces acute setting transmission. SUMMARY Given SARS-CoV-2 infection occurs primarily through respiratory transmission, preventing HCP acquisition requires fidelity to consistent PPE usage. Infection prevention strategies and implementation of transmission-based precautions have reduced spread and outbreaks. Epidemiologic studies of acute care outbreaks often include reports of PPE nonadherence and community exposure contributing to SARS-CoV-2 transmission within this setting.
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Levy E, Stintzi A, Cohen A, Desjardins Y, Marette A, Spahis S. Critical appraisal of the mechanisms of gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary infection by COVID-19. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2021; 321:G99-G112. [PMID: 34009033 PMCID: PMC8289353 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00106.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 represents a novel infectious disease induced by SARS-CoV-2. It has to date affected 24,240,000 individuals and killed 2,735,805 people worldwide. The highly infectious virus attacks mainly the lung, causing fever, cough, and fatigue in symptomatic patients, but also pneumonia in severe cases. However, growing evidence highlights SARS-CoV-2-mediated extrarespiratory manifestations, namely, gastrointestinal (GI) and hepatic complications. The detection of 1) the virus in the GI system (duodenum, colon, rectum, anal region, and feces); 2) the high expression of additional candidate coreceptors/auxiliary proteins to facilitate the virus entry; 3) the abundant viral angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor; 4) the substantial expression of host transmembrane serine protease 2, necessary to induce virus-cell fusion; 5) the viral replication in the intestinal epithelial cells; and 6) the primarily GI disorders in the absence of respiratory symptoms lead to increased awareness of the risk of disease transmission via the fecal-oral route. The objectives of this review are to provide a brief update of COVID-19 pathogenesis and prevalence, present a critical overview of its GI and liver complications that affect clinical COVID-19 outcomes, clarify associated mechanisms (notably microbiota-related), define whether gut/liver disorders occur more frequently among critically ill patients with COVID-19, determine the impact of COVID-19 on preexisting gut/liver complications and vice versa, and discuss the available strategies for prevention and treatment to improve prognosis of the patients. The novel SARS-CoV-2 can cause gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary manifestations. Metagenomics studies of virobiota in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection are necessary to highlight the contribution of bacterial microflora to COVID-19 phenotype, which is crucial for developing biomarkers and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emile Levy
- 1Research Centre, Sainte-Justine University Health Center, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada,2Department of Nutrition, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada,3Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada,4Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alain Stintzi
- 5Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Albert Cohen
- 6Division of Gastroenterology, Jewish General Hospital, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yves Desjardins
- 4Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - André Marette
- 4Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Schohraya Spahis
- 1Research Centre, Sainte-Justine University Health Center, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada,2Department of Nutrition, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada,4Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
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Akdemir Y, Haciseyitoglu D, Celebi G, Aydemir C, Bahadır B, Cakir AT, Barut A, Ozmen U. Probable viremia and positive placental swabs for SARS-CoV-2 in a preterm pregnant woman with mild COVID-19. J Med Virol 2021; 93:6788-6793. [PMID: 34260081 PMCID: PMC8426688 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to report a case of mild novel coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) in a pregnant woman with probable viremia, as reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) testing of endometrial and placental swabs for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) was positive. A 26‐year‐old multigravida at 35 weeks 2 days of gestation, who had extensive thigh and abdominal cellulitis, tested SARS‐CoV‐2 positive by RT‐PCR performed on samples from the endometrium and maternal side of the placenta. However, other samples (amniotic fluid, fetal side of the placenta, umbilical cord, maternal vagina, and neonatal nasopharynx) tested negative for SARS‐CoV‐2. This is one of the rare reports of probable SARS‐CoV‐2 viremia with the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the endometrium and placenta, but not leading to vertical transmission and neonatal infection. Because knowledge about transplacental transmission and results is very limited, we conclude that more RT‐PCR tests on placental and cord blood samples are needed in order to safely make definite conclusions. Viremia of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) could occur after incubation period and could lead to vertical transmission. Placenta is the main barrier against viral infections as it has an organ specific antiviral mechanism. Not all neonates of infected pregnant women are infected with novel coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). More evidence of placental SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA increases fears about congenital infections that its effects will be in a spectrum between maternal immune activation related neonatal disorders and congenital anomalies or syndromes. Further investigations which will be focusing short and long term effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on neonates in different trimesters of pregnancy are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesim Akdemir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Demet Haciseyitoglu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Guven Celebi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Cumhur Aydemir
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatal Critical Care, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Burak Bahadır
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Anil T Cakir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Aykut Barut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Ulku Ozmen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
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