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Metodiev D, Parvanov D, Ruseva M, Ganeva R, Handzhiyska M, Vidolova N, Chavoushian A, Hadjidekova S, Stamenov G. NOTCH1- and CD117-Positive Stem Cells in Human Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Lesions. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1642. [PMID: 39125516 PMCID: PMC11311773 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14151642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis and endometriosis are distinct gynecological disorders characterized by ectopic growth of endometrial tissue. Their etiology remains unclear, but stem cells have been implicated in both. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the quantity of NOTCH1+ and CD117+ stem cells in endometriosis and adenomyosis lesions. Immunohistochemical staining of ectopic endometrium biopsies using antibodies against NOTCH1 and CD117 was performed. The quantity and spatial distribution of endometrial stromal cells positive for these markers were determined and compared between endometriosis and adenomyosis lesions. Additionally, their quantities were compared between endometriosis lesion types. Mann-Whitney U test showed that the median percentages of both NOTCH1+ and CD117+ cells in the endometriosis lesions were significantly higher than those in the adenomyosis lesions (2.26% vs. 0.13%, p = 0.002 and 0.44% vs. 0.26%, p = 0.016, respectively). Spearman's test showed a positive correlation between NOTCH1+ and CD117+ cells in endometriosis lesions (R = 0.45, p = 0.027) but no significant correlation in adenomyosis lesions (R = -0.11, p = 0.69). The quantity of both stem cell types was highest in extragenital endometriotic lesions. Unlike adenomyosis, endometriosis lesions are associated with higher quantities of NOTCH1+ and CD117+ stem cells and a coordinated increase in their number. These findings support the distinct origin of the two conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitar Metodiev
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Nadezhda Women’s Health Hospital, 1373 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dimitar Parvanov
- Department of Research, Nadezhda Women’s Health Hospital, 1373 Sofia, Bulgaria; (D.P.); (R.G.); (M.H.); (N.V.)
| | - Margarita Ruseva
- Department of Research, Nadezhda Women’s Health Hospital, 1373 Sofia, Bulgaria; (D.P.); (R.G.); (M.H.); (N.V.)
| | - Rumiana Ganeva
- Department of Research, Nadezhda Women’s Health Hospital, 1373 Sofia, Bulgaria; (D.P.); (R.G.); (M.H.); (N.V.)
| | - Maria Handzhiyska
- Department of Research, Nadezhda Women’s Health Hospital, 1373 Sofia, Bulgaria; (D.P.); (R.G.); (M.H.); (N.V.)
| | - Nina Vidolova
- Department of Research, Nadezhda Women’s Health Hospital, 1373 Sofia, Bulgaria; (D.P.); (R.G.); (M.H.); (N.V.)
| | - Ani Chavoushian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Acibadem City Clinic UMBAL Mladost, 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Savina Hadjidekova
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Sofia, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Georgi Stamenov
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nadezhda Women’s Health Hospital, 1373 Sofia, Bulgaria
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Sun B, Cheng X, Wu Q. The Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells and Their Niches. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:1273-1284. [PMID: 38635126 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10725-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Endometrial stem/progenitor cells are a type of stem cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into multiple cell types. They exist in the endometrium and form niches with their neighbor cells and extracellular matrix. The interaction between endometrial stem/progenitor cells and niches plays an important role in maintaining, repairing, and regenerating the endometrial structure and function. This review will discuss the characteristics and functions of endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their niches, the mechanisms of their interaction, and their roles in endometrial regeneration and diseases. Finally, the prospects for their applications will also be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baolan Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
- The State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China.
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qiang Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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Oropeza-de Lara SA, Garza-Veloz I, Berthaud-González B, Tirado-Navarro TG, Gurrola-Carlos R, Bonilla-Rocha B, Delgado-Enciso I, Martinez-Fierro ML. Comparative Assessment of miR-185-5p and miR-191-5p Expression: From Normal Endometrium to High-Grade Endometrial Cancer. Cells 2024; 13:1099. [PMID: 38994952 PMCID: PMC11240595 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131099] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is a significant cause of cancer-related deaths in women. MicroRNAs (miRs) play a role in cancer development, acting as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. This study evaluated the diagnostic potential of hsa-miR-185-5p and hsa-miR-191-5p in EC and their correlation with clinical and histopathological features. A cross-sectional study analyzed formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples from 59 patients: 18 with EC, 21 with endometrial hyperplasia (EH), 17 with normal endometrium (NE), and 3 with endometrial polyps (EPs). Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and TaqMan probes were used for miR expression analysis. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to analyze the normal distribution of the data. Subsequently, parametric or non-parametric tests were used to evaluate the associations between the expression levels of each miR and clinical parameters. Both miRs were underexpressed in some precursor and malignant lesions compared to certain NE subtypes and benign lesions. Specifically, hsa-miR-185-5p showed underexpression in grade 3 EC compared to some NE and EH subtypes (FC: -57.9 to -8.5, p < 0.05), and hsa-miR-191-5p was underexpressed in EH and EC compared to secretory endometrium and EPs (FC: -4.2 to -32.8, p < 0.05). SETD1B, TJP1, and MSI1 were common predicted target genes. In conclusion, hsa-miR-185-5p and hsa-miR-191-5p are underexpressed in EC tissues, correlating with histopathological grades, highlighting their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and their role as tumor suppressors in EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Antonio Oropeza-de Lara
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Academic Unit of Human Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Carretera Zacatecas-Guadalajara Km 6 Ejido la Escondida, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico
| | - Idalia Garza-Veloz
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Academic Unit of Human Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Carretera Zacatecas-Guadalajara Km 6 Ejido la Escondida, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico
| | - Bertha Berthaud-González
- Hospital General "Luz González Cosío", Circuito el Orito, Cd. Administrativa, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico
| | - Tania Guillermina Tirado-Navarro
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Academic Unit of Human Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Carretera Zacatecas-Guadalajara Km 6 Ejido la Escondida, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico
| | - Reinaldo Gurrola-Carlos
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Academic Unit of Human Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Carretera Zacatecas-Guadalajara Km 6 Ejido la Escondida, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico
| | - Bernardo Bonilla-Rocha
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Academic Unit of Human Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Carretera Zacatecas-Guadalajara Km 6 Ejido la Escondida, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico
| | - Ivan Delgado-Enciso
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colima, Av. Universidad No. 333, Las Viboras, Colima 28040, Mexico
- Department of Research, Colima Cancerology State Institute, IMSS-Bienestar Colima, Colima 28085, Mexico
| | - Margarita L Martinez-Fierro
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Academic Unit of Human Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Carretera Zacatecas-Guadalajara Km 6 Ejido la Escondida, Zacatecas 98160, Mexico
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Li Q, Shi J, Yi D, Li X, Gu Z, Yan H, Leng J. The pathogenesis of endometriosis and adenomyosis: insights from single-cell RNA sequencing†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:854-865. [PMID: 38386960 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis and adenomyosis are two similar gynecological diseases that are characterized by ectopic implantation and the growth of the endometrial tissue. Previous studies have reported that they share a common pathophysiology in some respects, such as a similar cellular composition and resistance to the progestogen of lesions, but their underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Emerging single-cell ribonucleic acid sequencing (scRNA-seq) technologies allow for the dissection of single-cell transcriptome mapping to reveal the etiology of diseases at the level of the individual cell. In this review, we summarized the published findings in research on scRNA-seq regarding the cellular components and molecular profiles of diverse lesions. They show that epithelial cell clusters may be the vital progenitors of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Subclusters of stromal cells, such as endometrial mesenchymal stem cells and fibroblasts, are also involved in the occurrence of endometriosis and adenomyosis, respectively. Moreover, CD8+ T cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages exhibit a deficiency in clearing the ectopic endometrial cells in the immune microenvironment of endometriosis. It seems that the immune responses are activated in adenomyosis. Understanding the immune characteristics of adenomyosis still needs further exploration. Finally, we discuss the application of findings from scRNA-seq for clinical diagnosis and treatment. This review provides fresh insights into the pathogenesis of endometriosis and adenomyosis as well as the therapeutic targets at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiutong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jinghua Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Dai Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyue Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hailan Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jinhua Leng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Velho RV, Danielyan I, Mechsner S, Götte M. Sox-2 positive cells identified in lymph nodes from endometriosis patients may play a role in the disease pathogenesis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 288:124-129. [PMID: 37506598 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.07.017] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to characterize Sox-2 in sentinel lymph nodes and randomly obtained lymph nodes from endometriosis (EM) patients for the first time. STUDY DESIGN This prospective study analyzed tissue samples from surgical specimens collected from May until December 2007 in the Endometriosis Center Charité, Berlin. Lymph node samples from 38 women aged between 22 and 49 years who underwent laparoscopy due to symptomatic EM were analyzed. The material was obtained either randomly or, in the case of deep infiltrating endometriosis, detected using 4 cc Patent Blue®, labeled intraoperatively, which made the sentinel lymph nodes available for histological examination. Together with hematoxylin and eosin staining, the sections were evaluated by immunohistochemistry with antibodies against estrogen and progesterone receptors and Sox-2. Using double-immunofluorescence microscopy, the colocalization of Sox-2 and estrogen receptors were evaluated. RESULTS Sox-2-positive cells were identified in the lymph nodes' cortical and medullary zones, with a higher expression in the medullary layer. Occasionally, Sox-2 positive stained cell groups, called cell nests, could also be detected. The number of Sox-2 positive cells in the sentinel lymph nodes was almost three times higher than in the random lymph nodes (p = 0.031). A significant five-fold increase (p = 0.0013) in Sox-2 expression was seen in the estrogen and progesterone receptor (ER/PR) positive patient group compared to the progesterone receptor positive group or hormone receptor negative patients. Identical hormone-related Sox-2 expression was also detected separately for the sentinel lymph node group (p = 0.0174). Sox-2 showed pronounced colocalisation with estrogen receptors. CONCLUSION The lymphatic involvement in EM is evidence of a systemic disease manifestation and provides evidence of an immune system failure. In recent years, many theories have been studied, but there is no single theory that could explain all aspects of EM. The future concept of EM is likely to incorporate the elements from all the pathogenetic theories already described. Through this study, stem cells and lymphatic metastasis theories were incorporated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Voltolini Velho
- Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Endometriosis Research Center Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Inna Danielyan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Labor PAN-Zentrum, Vesaliusweg 2-4, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Sylvia Mechsner
- Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Endometriosis Research Center Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Götte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Labor PAN-Zentrum, Vesaliusweg 2-4, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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6
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Sicking M, Falke I, Löblein MT, Eich HT, Götte M, Greve B, Troschel FM. The Musashi RNA-binding proteins in female cancers: insights on molecular mechanisms and therapeutic relevance. Biomark Res 2023; 11:76. [PMID: 37620963 PMCID: PMC10463710 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00516-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins have increasingly been identified as important regulators of gene expression given their ability to bind distinct RNA sequences and regulate their fate. Mounting evidence suggests that RNA-binding proteins are involved in the onset and progression of multiple malignancies, prompting increasing interest in their potential for therapeutic intervention.The Musashi RNA binding proteins Musashi-1 and Musashi-2 were initially identified as developmental factors of the nervous system but have more recently been found to be ubiquitously expressed in physiological tissues and may be involved in pathological cell behavior. Both proteins are increasingly investigated in cancers given dysregulation in multiple tumor entities, including in female malignancies. Recent data suggest that the Musashi proteins serve as cancer stem cell markers as they contribute to cancer cell proliferation and therapy resistance, prompting efforts to identify mechanisms to target them. However, as the picture remains incomplete, continuous efforts to elucidate their role in different signaling pathways remain ongoing.In this review, we focus on the roles of Musashi proteins in tumors of the female - breast, endometrial, ovarian and cervical cancer - as we aim to summarize current knowledge and discuss future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Sicking
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Isabel Falke
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Maria T Löblein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Hans Th Eich
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Götte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Burkhard Greve
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Fabian M Troschel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Münster, Albert Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany.
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7
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Markowska A, Antoszczak M, Markowska J, Huczyński A. The Role of Selected Dietary Factors in the Development and Course of Endometriosis. Nutrients 2023; 15:2773. [PMID: 37375677 DOI: 10.3390/nu15122773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic disease with a complex, heterogeneous pathogenesis that affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, causing pain and leading to infertility. Treatment consists of administering pharmacological agents (resulting in a reduction of estrogen levels and inflammation), as well as the surgical removal of endometriotic lesions. Unfortunately, despite a wide range of available therapies, there is still a high recurrence rate after surgery. Consequently, it is necessary to improve the outcome of patients with endometriosis. In this context, there is growing interest in possible dietary modification to support or complement classic treatment options and even serve as a potential alternative to hormone therapy. In addition, a growing number of studies indicate positive effects of selected dietary factors on the development and course of endometriosis. This review article focuses on the potentially beneficial effects of compounds from the polyphenol group (curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, resveratrol), vitamins, and selected micronutrients on endometriosis. The results indicate the potential of the selected ingredients in fighting the disease. However, most of the studies have been performed on experimental animal models, with a smaller proportion looking at the actual effects of use among women. Therefore, well-designed studies are needed to assess the importance of a well-chosen diet and the effects of specific dietary factors on the health of women suffering from endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Markowska
- Department of Perinatology and Women's Health, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznań, Poland
| | - Michał Antoszczak
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Janina Markowska
- Gynecological Oncology Center, Poznańska 58A, 60-850 Poznań, Poland
| | - Adam Huczyński
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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Chen K, Zheng S, Fang F. Endometrial Stem Cells and Their Applications in Intrauterine Adhesion. Cell Transplant 2023; 32:9636897231159561. [PMID: 36891869 PMCID: PMC9998408 DOI: 10.1177/09636897231159561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), resulting from pregnancy or nonpregnant uterine trauma, is one of the major causes of abnormal menstruation, infertility, or repeated pregnancy loss. Although a few methods, including hysteroscopy and hormone therapy, are routinely used for its diagnosis and treatment, they cannot restore tissue regeneration. Stem cells, which have self-renewal and tissue regeneration abilities, have been proposed as a promising therapy for patients with severe IUAs. In this review, we summarize the origin and features of endometrium-associated stem cells and their applications in the treatment of IUAs based on animal models and human clinical trials. We expect that this information will help to elucidate the underlying mechanism for tissue regeneration and to improve the design of stem cell-based therapies for IUAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Shengxia Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Endometriosis Stem Cells as a Possible Main Target for Carcinogenesis of Endometriosis-Associated Ovarian Cancer (EAOC). Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010111. [PMID: 36612107 PMCID: PMC9817684 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a serious recurrent disease impairing the quality of life and fertility, and being a risk for some histologic types of ovarian cancer defined as endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers (EAOC). The presence of stem cells in the endometriotic foci could account for the proliferative, migrative and angiogenic activity of the lesions. Their phenotype and sources have been described. The similarly disturbed expression of several genes, miRNAs, galectins and chaperones has been observed both in endometriotic lesions and in ovarian or endometrial cancer. The importance of stem cells for nascence and sustain of malignant tumors is commonly appreciated. Although the proposed mechanisms promoting carcinogenesis leading from endometriosis into the EAOC are not completely known, they have been discussed in several articles. However, the role of endometriosis stem cells (ESCs) has not been discussed in this context. Here, we postulate that ESCs may be a main target for the carcinogenesis of EAOC and present the possible sequence of events resulting finally in the development of EAOC.
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10
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Lv M, Chen P, Bai M, Huang Y, Li L, Feng Y, Liao H, Zheng W, Chen X, Zhang Z. Progestin Resistance and Corresponding Management of Abnormal Endometrial Hyperplasia and Endometrial Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246210. [PMID: 36551694 PMCID: PMC9776943 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
With a younger tendency in morbidity age, endometrial cancer (EC) incidence has grown year after year. Worse, even more commonly occurring is endometrial hyperplasia (EH), which is a precancerous endometrial proliferation. For young women with early EC and EH who want to preserve fertility, progestin therapy has been utilized as a routine fertility-preserving treatment approach. Nevertheless, progestin medication failure in some patients is mostly due to progestin resistance and side effects. In order to further analyze the potential mechanisms of progestin resistance in EH and EC, to provide theoretical support for effective therapeutic strategies, and to lay the groundwork for searching novel treatment approaches, this article reviews the current therapeutic effects of progestin in EH and EC, as well as the mechanisms and molecular biomarkers of progestin resistance, and systematically expounds on the potential therapeutic methods to overcome progestin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu Lv
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Peiqin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital of China Welfare Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Mingzhu Bai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Xuzhou, Xuzhou 215002, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong-an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Linxia Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seventh People’s Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 358 Datong Road, Shanghai 200137, China
| | - Youji Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Hong Liao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Wenxin Zheng
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200090, China
- Correspondence: (X.C.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Zhenbo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
- Correspondence: (X.C.); (Z.Z.)
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11
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Chen Y, Zhu J, Chen L, Shen Y, Zhang J, Wang Q. SFRP4 +IGFBP5 hi NKT cells induced neural-like cell differentiation to contribute to adenomyosis pain. Front Immunol 2022; 13:945504. [PMID: 36532077 PMCID: PMC9750790 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.945504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecological disease. The pathogenesis of chronic pain, the main clinical symptom of adenomyosis, remains undefined. As a combination lymphocyte with both T-cell and natural killer (NK)-cell properties, NK T (NKT) cells play a role in immune defense against numerous diseases and modulate cell differentiation. Method This study analyzed the tissue-cell samples from adenomyosis with or without pain by single-cell sequencing. Result We found a specific population of secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4)+NKT cells and a large amount of undifferentiated multipotent stem cells in the adenomyosis pain group. We discovered that a high expression of IGFBP5 in SFRP4+NKT cells could promote the differentiation of multipotent stem cells into neural-like cells via the single-cell trajectory. Through verification by the sample, we found that the degree of the expression of the neuronal marker NEFM was correlated with the duration of pain in adenomyosis patients. The expression of IGFBP5 was positively correlated with the pain scores of adenomyosis patients. Conclusion Collectively, these findings suggest that SFRP4+IGFBP5hi NKT cells were capable of converting part of the stem cells into neurogenic cells and inducing adenomyosis pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jing Zhang
- *Correspondence: Jing Zhang, ; Qiming Wang,
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Żeberkiewicz M, Hyc A, Iwan A, Zwierzchowska A, Ścieżyńska A, Kalaszczyńska I, Barcz E, Malejczyk J. Expression of Fucosyltransferase 4 ( FUT4) mRNA Is Increased in Endometrium from Women with Endometriosis. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11195606. [PMID: 36233470 PMCID: PMC9572337 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder defined as the presence of endometrial-like tissue (glands and stroma) outside the uterus. The etiopathogenesis of endometriosis is still poorly recognized. It is speculated that stage-specific embryonic antigen 1 (SSEA-1)-positive stem-like glandular epithelial cells may contribute to the development of the disease. The synthesis of SSEA-1 is mediated by fucosyltransferase 4 encoded by the FUT4 gene. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the specific expression of FUT4 mRNA in biopsies of the endometrium from women with and without endometriosis. FUT4 mRNA levels were examined in 49 women with laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis and 28 controls by means of quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The expression of FUT4 mRNA was significantly increased in the endometrium of patients with endometriosis when compared to the controls (p < 0.0001). Expression of FUT4 mRNA in the endometrium was correlated with the severity of endometriosis (rs = 0.5579, p < 0.0001); however, there were no differences in endometrial FUT4 mRNA expression when comparing endometriotic lesions from various locations. The discriminatory ability of FUT4 mRNA expression was evaluated by receiver-operating characteristics (ROC), which showed high statistical significance (AUC = 0.90, p < 0.0001), thus indicating that an increased level of endometrial FUT4 mRNA may serve as a specific marker for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Żeberkiewicz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
- Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Hyc
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Iwan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aneta Zwierzchowska
- Chair and Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinale Stefan Wyszyński University, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Multidisciplinary Hospital Warsaw-Miedzylesie, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aneta Ścieżyńska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Kalaszczyńska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
- Diagendo Ltd., 05-504 Bobrowiec, Poland
| | - Ewa Barcz
- Chair and Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinale Stefan Wyszyński University, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Multidisciplinary Hospital Warsaw-Miedzylesie, 04-749 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Malejczyk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
- Diagendo Ltd., 05-504 Bobrowiec, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +48-22-6295282
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Endometrial stem/progenitor cells: Properties, origins, and functions. Genes Dis 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Knockdown of the stem cell marker Musashi-1 inhibits endometrial cancer growth and sensitizes cells to radiation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:212. [PMID: 35619161 PMCID: PMC9137084 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02891-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometrial carcinoma is the most common gynecological cancer in Europe. Musashi-1 is known to be a key regulator of endometrial cancer stem cells and a negative prognostic marker. In the present study, we aimed to understand growth and gene expression patterns in endometrial carcinoma after Musashi-1 knockdown in vitro and in vivo. Changes in therapeutic resistance were also assessed.
Methods First, we performed analyses to understand Musashi-1 expression patterns using The Cancer Genome Atlas database. We then proceeded to assess effects of small interfering RNA-based Musashi-1 targeting in two endometrial carcinoma cell lines, Ishikawa and KLE. After quantifying baseline changes in cell metabolism, we used MTT tests to assess chemotherapy effects and colony formation assays to understand changes in radioresistance. For mechanistic study, we used quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting of key Musashi-1 target genes and compared results to primary tissue database studies. Finally, xenograft experiments in a mouse model helped understand in vivo effects of Musashi-1 knockdown. Results Musashi-1 is aberrantly expressed in primary tumor tissues. In vitro, silencing of Musashi-1 resulted in a strong decline in cell proliferation and radioresistance, while chemoresistance remained unchanged. Loss of Musashi-1 led to downregulation of telomerase, DNA-dependent protein kinase, the Notch pathway and overexpression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21, the latter of which we identified as a key mediator of Msi-1 knockdown-related anti-proliferative signaling. In vivo, the anti-proliferative effect was confirmed, with Msi-1 knockdown tumors being about 40% reduced in size. Conclusions Musashi-1 knockdown resulted in a strong decrease in endometrial cancer proliferation and a loss of radioresistance, suggesting therapeutic potential. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02891-3.
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The Role of Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells in Recurrent Reproductive Failure. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12050775. [PMID: 35629197 PMCID: PMC9143189 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12050775] [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: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), collectively referred to as recurrent reproductive failure (RRF), are both challenging conditions with many unanswered questions relating to causes and management options. Both conditions are proposed to be related to an aberrant endometrial microenvironment, with different proposed aetiologies related to a restrictive or permissive endometrium for an invading embryo. The impressive regenerative capacity of the human endometrium has been well-established and has led to the isolation and characterisation of several subtypes of endometrial stem/progenitor cells (eSPCs). eSPCs are known to be involved in the pathogenesis of endometrium-related disorders (such as endometriosis) and have been proposed to be implicated in the pathogenesis of RRF. This review appraises the current knowledge of eSPCs, and their involvement in RRF, highlighting the considerable unknown aspects in this field, and providing avenues for future research to facilitate much-needed advances in the diagnosis and management of millions of women suffering with RRF.
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Impact of Musashi-1 and Musashi-2 Double Knockdown on Notch Signaling and the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052851. [PMID: 35269992 PMCID: PMC8911246 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The stem cell marker and RNA-binding protein Musashi-1 is overexpressed in endometriosis. Musashi-1-siRNA knockdown in Ishikawa cells altered the expression of stem cell related genes, such as OCT-4. To investigate the role of both human Musashi homologues (MSI-1 and MSI-2) in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, immortalized endometriotic 12-Z cells and primary endometriotic stroma cells were treated with Musashi-1- and Musashi-2-siRNA. Subsequently, the impact on cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, cell necrosis, spheroid formation, stem cell phenotype and the Notch signaling pathway was studied in vitro. Using the ENDOMET Turku Endometriosis database, the gene expression of stem cell markers and Notch signaling pathway constituents were analyzed according to localization of the endometriosis lesions. The database analysis demonstrated that expression of Musashi and Notch pathway-related genes are dysregulated in patients with endometriosis. Musashi-1/2-double-knockdown increased apoptosis and necrosis and reduced stem cell gene expression, cell proliferation, and the formation of spheroids. Musashi silencing increased the expression of the anti-proliferation mediator p21. Our findings suggest the therapeutic potential of targeting the Musashi–Notch axis. We conclude that the Musashi genes have an impact on Notch signaling and the pathogenesis of endometriosis through the downregulation of proliferation, stemness characteristics and the upregulation of apoptosis, necrosis and of the cell cycle regulator p21.
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A Revised Stem Cell Theory for the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12020216. [PMID: 35207704 PMCID: PMC8875896 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12020216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
During the past decade, a stem cell-based hypothesis has emerged (among many others) to explain the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The initial hypothesis proposed that endometriosis arose from a single or a few specific cells with stem cell properties, including self-renewal and multi-lineage cell differentiation. The origins of the endometriosis-initiating stem cells were thought to be the bone marrow, uterine endometrium, and other tissues. Based on the implantation or metastatic theory in combination with the initial stem cell theory, one or a few multipotent stem/progenitor cells present in the eutopic endometrium or bone marrow translocate to ectopic sites via fallopian tubes during menstruation, vasculolymphatic routes, or through direct migration and invasion. Subsequently, they give rise to endometriotic lesions followed by differentiation into various cell components of endometriosis, including glandular and stromal cells. Recent somatic mutation analyses of deep infiltrating endometriosis, endometrioma, and eutopic normal endometrium using next-generation sequencing techniques have redefined the stem cell theory. It is now proposed that stem/progenitor cells of at least two different origins—epithelium and stroma—sequentially, differentially, but coordinately contribute to the genesis of endometriosis. The dual stem cell theory on how two (or more) stem/progenitor cells differentially and coordinately participate in the establishment of endometriotic lesions remains to be elucidated. Furthermore, the stem/progenitor cells involved in this theory also remain to be identified. Given that the origin of endometriosis is eutopic endometrium, the candidate cells for endometriotic epithelium-initiating cells are likely to be endometrial epithelial cells positive for either N-cadherin or SSEA-1 or both. The candidate cells for endometriotic stroma-initiating cells may be endometrial mesenchymal stem cells positive for SUSD2. Endometrial side population cells are also a possible candidate because they contain unipotent or multipotent cells capable of behaving as endometrial epithelial and stromal stem/progenitor cells.
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Resveratrol impairs cellular mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 44:976-990. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Tempest N, Hill CJ, Maclean A, Marston K, Powell SG, Al-Lamee H, Hapangama DK. Novel microarchitecture of human endometrial glands: implications in endometrial regeneration and pathologies. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:153-171. [PMID: 34875046 PMCID: PMC8888994 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human endometrium remains a poorly understood tissue of the female reproductive tract. The superficial endometrial functionalis, the site of embryo implantation, is repeatedly shed with menstruation, and the stem cell-rich deeper basalis is postulated to be responsible for the regeneration of the functionalis. Two recent manuscripts have demonstrated the 3D architecture of endometrial glands. These manuscripts have challenged and replaced the prevailing concept that these glands end in blind pouches in the basalis layer that contain stem cells in crypts, as in the intestinal mucosa, providing a new paradigm for endometrial glandular anatomy. This necessitates re-evaluation of the available evidence on human endometrial regeneration in both health and disease in the context of this previously unknown endometrial glandular arrangement. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this review is to determine if the recently discovered glandular arrangement provides plausible explanations for previously unanswered questions related to human endometrial biology. Specifically, it will focus on re-appraising the theories related to endometrial regeneration, location of stem/progenitor cells and endometrial pathologies in the context of this recently unravelled endometrial glandular organization. SEARCH METHODS An extensive literature search was conducted from inception to April 2021 using multiple databases, including PubMed/Web of Science/EMBASE/Scopus, to select studies using keywords applied to endometrial glandular anatomy and regeneration, and the references included in selected publications were also screened. All relevant publications were included. OUTCOMES The human endometrial glands have a unique and complex architecture; branched basalis glands proceed in a horizontal course adjacent to the myometrium, as opposed to the non-branching, vertically coiled functionalis glands, which run parallel to each other as is observed in intestinal crypts. This complex network of mycelium-like, interconnected basalis glands is demonstrated to contain endometrial epithelial stem cells giving rise to single, non-branching functionalis glands. Several previous studies that have tried to confirm the existence of epithelial stem cells have used methodologies that prevent sampling of the stem cell-rich basalis. More recent findings have provided insight into the efficient regeneration of the human endometrium, which is preferentially evolved in humans and menstruating upper-order primates. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The unique physiological organization of the human endometrial glandular element, its relevance to stem cell activity and scarless endometrial regeneration will inform reproductive biologists and clinicians to direct their future research to determine disease-specific alterations in glandular anatomy in a variety of endometrial pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Tempest
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Christopher J Hill
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alison Maclean
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kathleen Marston
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Simon G Powell
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Hannan Al-Lamee
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dharani K Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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20
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The IVF-generated human embryonic microenvironment reverses progestin resistance in endometrial cancer cells by inducing cancer stem cell differentiation. Cancer Lett 2021; 526:311-321. [PMID: 34775003 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Progestin resistance is a critical factor that prevents patients with endometrial cancer (EC) from receiving conservative therapy. However, the etiology remains elusive. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) may be a contributing factor to progestin resistance in EC. These cells share similar stemness properties with embryonic stem cells that have a multipotent but differential naïve phenotype. Embryonic stem cells are programed to self-renew, to differentiate and to show plasticity toward a normal cellular phenotype in their defined microenvironment. However, whether this microenvironment may promote CSC differentiation toward a better responsive phenotype and reverse progestin resistance has not yet been clarified. In the current study, we found that progestin resistance of endometrial CSCs can be improved or reversed by using in vitro fertilization (IVF)-generated embryonic sac-derived fluid containing the embryonic microenvironment. Furthermore, suppression or reversal of progestin resistance was mediated by placental alkaline phosphatase (ALPP), a factor secreted into the embryonic microenvironment by IVF-generated blastocysts. ALPP significantly reversed progestin resistance by facilitating endometrial CSC differentiation through downregulating the stemness genes NANOG, OCT4 and SOX2. We further showed that the downregulation of NANOG, OCT4 and SOX2 by ALPP was carried out by TET1/2-mediated epigenetic modulation of the promoter regions of these genes. Such changes at the molecular level initiated endometrial CSC differentiation and promoted a better responsive endometrial cancer phenotype. In fact, their response to progestin treatment was similar to that of well-differentiated endometrioid carcinoma cells without CSCs. ALPP could be a novel target in the process to overcome progestin resistance, and such findings may provide a new approach for the conservative treatment of endometrial cancer.
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21
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Oliveira FR, Casalechi M, Carneiro MM, de Ávila I, Dela Cruz C, Del Puerto HL, Camargos AF, Abrão MS, Reis FM. Immunolocalization of stem/progenitor cell biomarkers Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1 in endometriotic lesions. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:6863-6870. [PMID: 34468911 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06685-3] [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: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human endometrium harbors stem/progenitor cells (SPCs) that may contribute to the establishment of endometriosis when seeded outside the uterus. Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1 are some of the many proteins used to characterize SPCs, but their association with endometriosis is uncertain. OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN In this study, specimens of normal endometrium (n = 12), eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis (n = 9), superficial peritoneal endometriosis (SUP, n = 12) and deep endometriosis (DE, n = 13) lesions were evaluated for localization and intensity of immunostaining for Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1. RESULTS The three markers were abundantly expressed in normal endometrium, eutopic endometrium from endometriosis patients, SUP and DE specimens. Oct-4 and C-kit expression did not vary across groups as regards intensity or frequency. C-kit staining signal was seldom detected in vascular endothelium of normal or eutopic endometrium from endometriosis patients; however, it was positive in 67% of the SUP lesions and in 25% of the DE lesions (p = 0.042). Musashi-1 was expressed in some endometriotic glands as cell clusters, but its signal was similar between the four types of tissue (p = 0.971) CONCLUSION: The wide distribution of Oct-4, C-kit and Musashi-1 in endometria of patients with and without endometriosis and in SUP and DE endometriotic lesions suggests that these markers are not suitable for the in situ characterization of endometrial SPCs and should not be taken as surrogates for the study of SPCs in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia R Oliveira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maíra Casalechi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Márcia M Carneiro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ivete de Ávila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Helen L Del Puerto
- Department of Pathology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Aroldo F Camargos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maurício S Abrão
- Gynecologic Division, BP - A Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando M Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital das Clínicas, UFMG, Av. Alfredo Balena, 110, 9˚ andar, Belo Horizonte, MG, 30130-100, Brazil.
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22
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Kong Y, Shao Y, Ren C, Yang G. Endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their roles in immunity, clinical application, and endometriosis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:474. [PMID: 34425902 PMCID: PMC8383353 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02526-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial stem/progenitor cells have been proved to exist in periodically regenerated female endometrium and can be divided into three categories: endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells, CD140b+CD146+ or SUSD2+ endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs), and side population cells (SPs). Endometrial stem/progenitor cells in the menstruation blood are defined as menstrual stem cells (MenSCs). Due to their abundant sources, excellent proliferation, and autotransplantation capabilities, MenSCs are ideal candidates for cell-based therapy in regenerative medicine, inflammation, and immune-related diseases. Endometrial stem/progenitor cells also participate in the occurrence and development of endometriosis by entering the pelvic cavity from retrograde menstruation and becoming overreactive under certain conditions to form new glands and stroma through clonal expansion. Additionally, the limited bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMDSCs) in blood circulation can be recruited and infiltrated into the lesion sites, leading to the establishment of deep invasive endometriosis. On the other hand, cell derived from endometriosis may also enter the blood circulation to form circulating endometrial cells (CECs) with stem cell-like properties, and to migrate and implant into distant tissues. In this manuscript, by reviewing the available literature, we outlined the characteristics of endometrial stem/progenitor cells and summarized their roles in immunoregulation, regenerative medicine, and endometriosis, through which to provide some novel therapeutic strategies for reproductive and cancerous diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Kong
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yang Shao
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chunxia Ren
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China.
| | - Gong Yang
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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Song Y, Pan S, Li K, Chen X, Wang ZP, Zhu X. Insight into the role of multiple signaling pathways in regulating cancer stem cells of gynecologic cancers. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 85:219-233. [PMID: 34098106 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence has demonstrated that a myriad of developmental signaling pathways, such as the Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog and Hippo, are frequently deregulated and play a critical role in regulating cancer stem cell (CSC) activity in human cancers, including gynecologic malignancies. In this review article, we describe an overview of various signaling pathways in human cancers. We further discuss the developmental roles how these pathways regulate CSCs from experimental evidences in gynecologic cancers. Moreover, we mention several compounds targeting CSCs in gynecologic cancers to enhance the treatment outcomes. Therefore, these signaling pathways might be the potential targets for developing targeted therapy in gynecologic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizuo Song
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuya Pan
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kehan Li
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Z Peter Wang
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xueqiong Zhu
- Center of Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China.
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Mc Cormack B, Maenhoudt N, Fincke V, Stejskalova A, Greve B, Kiesel L, Meresman GF, Vankelecom H, Götte M, Barañao RI. The ellagic acid metabolites urolithin A and B differentially affect growth, adhesion, motility, and invasion of endometriotic cells in vitro. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1501-1519. [PMID: 33748857 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the effects of plant-derived antioxidant compounds urolithin A (UA) and B (UB) on the growth and pathogenetic properties of an in vitro endometriosis model? SUMMARY ANSWER Both urolithins showed inhibitory effects on cell behavior related to the development of endometriosis by differentially affecting growth, adhesion, motility, and invasion of endometriotic cells in vitro. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Endometriosis is one of the most common benign gynecological diseases in women of reproductive age and is defined by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. As current pharmacological therapies are associated with side effects interfering with fertility, we aimed at finding alternative therapeutics using natural compounds that can be administered for prolonged periods with a favorable side effects profile. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In vitro cultures of primary endometriotic stromal cells from 6 patients subjected to laparoscopy for benign pathologies with histologically confirmed endometriosis; and immortalized endometrial stromal (St-T1b) and endometriotic epithelial cells (12Z) were utilized to assess the effects of UA and UB on endometriotic cell properties. Results were validated in three-dimensional (3D) in vitro co-culture spheroids of 12Z and primary endometriotic stroma cells of one patient, and organoids from 3 independent donors with endometriosis. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The effects on cell growth were measured by non-radioactive colorimetric assay to measure cellular metabolic activity as an indicator of cell viability (MTT assay) and flow cytometric cell cycle assay on primary cultures, St-T1b, and 12Z. Apoptosis analyses, the impact on in vitro adhesion, migration, and invasion were evaluated in the cell lines. Moreover, Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assays were performed on primary cultures, St- T1b and 12Z to evaluate a plausible mechanistic contribution by factors related to proteolysis (matrix metalloproteinase 2, 3 and 9 -MMP2, MMP3, MMP9-, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases -TIMP-1-), cytoskeletal regulators (Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 -RAC1-, Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2 -ROCK2-), and cell adhesion molecules (Syndecan 1 -SDC1-, Integrin alpha V-ITGAV-). Finally, the urolithins effects were evaluated on spheroids and organoids by formation, viability, and drug screen assays. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE 40 µM UA and 20 µM UB produced a significant decrease in cell proliferation in the primary endometriotic cell cultures (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively) and in the St-T1b cell line (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). In St-T1b, UA exhibited a mean half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 39.88 µM, while UB exhibited a mean IC50 of 79.92 µM. Both 40 µM UA and 20 µM UB produced an increase in cells in the S phase of the cell cycle (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). The same concentration of UA also increased the percentage of apoptotic ST-t1b cells (P < 0.05), while both urolithins decreased cell migration after 24 h (P < 0.001 both). Only the addition of 5 µM UB decreased the number of St-T1b adherent cells. TIMP-1 expression was upregulated in response to treating the cells with 40 µM UA (P < 0.05). Regarding the 12Z endometriotic cell line, only 40 µM UA decreased proliferation (P < 0.01); while both 40 µM UA and 20 µM UB produced an increase in cells in the G2/M phase (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively). In this cell line, UA exhibited a mean IC50 of 40.46 µM, while UB exhibited a mean IC50 of 54.79 µM. UB decreased cell migration (P < 0.05), and decreased the number of adherent cells (P < 0.05). Both 40 µM UA and 20 µM UB significantly decreased the cellular invasion of these cells; and several genes were altered when treating the cells with 40 µM UA and 10 µM UB. The expression of MMP2 was downregulated by UA (P < 0.001), and expression of MMP3 (UA P < 0.001 and UB P < 0.05) and MMP9 (P < 0.05, both) were downregulated by both urolithins. Moreover, UA significantly downregulated ROCK2 (P < 0.05), whereas UB treatment was associated with RAC1 downregulation (P < 0.05). Finally, the matrix adhesion receptors and signaling (co)receptors SDC1 and ITGAV were downregulated upon treatment with either UA or UB (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively in both cases). Regarding the effects of urolithins on 3D models, we have seen that they significantly decrease the viability of endometriosis spheroids (80 µM UA and UB: P < 0.05 both) as well as affecting their area (40 µM UA: P < 0.05, and 80 µM UA: P < 0.01) and integrity (40 µM UA and UB: P < 0.05, 80 µM UA and UB: P < 0.01). On the other hand, UA and UB significantly inhibited organoid development/outgrowth (40 and 80 µM UA: P < 0.0001 both; 40 µM UB: P < ns-0.05-0.001, and 80 µM UB: P < 0.01-0.001-0.001), and all organoid lines show urolithins sensitivity resulting in decreasing viability (UA exhibited a mean IC50 of 33.93 µM, while UB exhibited a mean IC50 of 52.60 µM). LARGE-SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was performed on in vitro endometriosis models. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These in vitro results provide new insights into the pathogenetic pathways affected by these compounds and mark their use as a potential new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of endometriosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded EU MSCA-RISE-2015 project MOMENDO (691058). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mc Cormack
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - N Maenhoudt
- Laboratory of Tissue Plasticity in Health and Disease, Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Cluster, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - V Fincke
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - A Stejskalova
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - B Greve
- Department of Radiotherapy-Radiooncology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - L Kiesel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - G F Meresman
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - H Vankelecom
- Laboratory of Tissue Plasticity in Health and Disease, Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Cluster, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M Götte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - R I Barañao
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Liu Y, Liang S, Yang F, Sun Y, Niu L, Ren Y, Wang H, He Y, Du J, Yang J, Lin J. Biological characteristics of endometriotic mesenchymal stem cells isolated from ectopic lesions of patients with endometriosis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:346. [PMID: 32771033 PMCID: PMC7414689 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01856-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research into the pathogenesis of endometriosis (EMs) would substantially promote its effective treatment and early diagnosis. However, the aetiology of EMs is poorly understood and controversial despite the progress in EMs research in the last several decades. Currently, accumulating evidence has shed light on the importance of endometrial stem cells (EnSCs) residing in the basal layer of endometrium in the establishment and progression of endometriotic lesions. Therefore, we aimed to identify the differences between EnSCs isolated from the ectopic lesions of EMs patients (EnSC-EM-EC) and EnSCs isolated from eutopic endometrium of control group (EnSC-Control). We further performed preliminary exploration of the potential signalling pathways involved in the above abnormalities. METHODS EnSC-EM-EC (n = 12) and EnSC-Control (n = 13) were successfully isolated. Then, the proliferative capacity, migratory capacity and angiogenic potential of EnSCs were evaluated by conventional MTT assay, flow cytometry, wound healing assay, transwell assay, tube formation assay and chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane assay respectively. The expression of 11 angiogenesis-associated biological factors and 11 cytokines secreted by EnSCs and 17 adhesion molecules expressed on EnSCs were determined by protein array assays respectively. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between EnSC-EM-EC and EnSC-Control were analysed by RNA-sequence. RESULTS EnSC-EM-EC exhibited unique biological characteristics, including prolonged mitosis, enhanced migratory capacity and enhanced angiogenic potential. Greater amounts of angiogenic factors (especially VEGF and PDGF) were secreted by EnSC-EM-EC than by EnSC-Control; however, the distinct profiles of cytokines secreted by EnSC-EM-EC and adhesion molecules expressed by EnSC-EM-EC require further investigation. A total of 523 DEGs between EnSC-EM-EC and EnSC-Control were identified and analysed using the KEGG and Gene Ontology databases. CONCLUSIONS Our results not only improve the understanding of EMs but also contribute to the development of EnSC-EM-EC as a tool for EMs drug discovery. These cells could be of great help in exploiting promising therapeutic targets and new biomarkers for EMs treatment and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Liu
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, NO 601, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang City, 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Shengying Liang
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, NO 601, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang City, 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Fen Yang
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, NO 601, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang City, 453003, Henan Province, China.,College of Biomedical Engineering, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yuliang Sun
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Lidan Niu
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.,College of Biomedical Engineering, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yakun Ren
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, NO 601, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang City, 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - Hongmei Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, NO 88, JianKang Road, Weihui, Xinxiang City, 453100, Henan Province, China
| | - Yanan He
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jiang Du
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.,College of Biomedical Engineering, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jun Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, NO 88, JianKang Road, Weihui, Xinxiang City, 453100, Henan Province, China.
| | - Juntang Lin
- Stem Cell and Biotherapy Technology Research Center, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China. .,Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, NO 601, East of JinSui Road, Xinxiang City, 453003, Henan Province, China.
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Yin M, Zhou HJ, Lin C, Long L, Yang X, Zhang H, Taylor H, Min W. CD34 +KLF4 + Stromal Stem Cells Contribute to Endometrial Regeneration and Repair. Cell Rep 2020; 27:2709-2724.e3. [PMID: 31141693 PMCID: PMC6548470 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.04.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The regenerative capacity of the human endometrium requires a population of local stem cells. However, the phenotypes, locations, and origin of these cells are still unknown. In a mouse menstruation model, uterine stromal SM22α+-derived CD34+KLF4+ stem cells are activated and integrate into the regeneration area, where they differentiate and incorporate into the endometrial epithelium; this process is correlated with enhanced protein SUMOylation in CD34+KLF4+ cells. Mice with a stromal SM22α-specific SENP1 deletion (SENP1smKO) exhibit accelerated endometrial repair in the regeneration model and develop spontaneous uterine hyperplasia. Mechanistic studies suggest that SENP1 deletion induces SUMOylation of ERα, which augments ERα transcriptional activity and proliferative signaling in SM22α+CD34+KLF4+ cells. These cells then transdifferentiate to the endometrial epithelium. Our study reveals that CD34+KLF4+ stromal-resident stem cells directly contribute to endometrial regeneration, which is regulated through SENP1-mediated ERα suppression. The regenerative capacity of the human endometrium requires a population of local stem cells. Here, Yin et al. show that uterine stromal SM22α+CD34+KLF4+ stem cells are activated by ERα SUMOylation and integrate into the regeneration area, where they differentiate and incorporate into the endometrial epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Yin
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Huanjiao Jenny Zhou
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Caixia Lin
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Lingli Long
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiaolei Yang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Hugh Taylor
- Department of Comparative Medicine and Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Wang Min
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Giordano M, Cavallaro U. Different Shades of L1CAM in the Pathophysiology of Cancer Stem Cells. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1502. [PMID: 32429448 PMCID: PMC7291284 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) is aberrantly expressed in several tumor types where it is causally linked to malignancy and therapy resistance, acting also as a poor prognosis factor. Accordingly, several approaches have been developed to interfere with L1CAM function or to deliver cytotoxic agents to L1CAM-expressing tumors. Metastatic dissemination, tumor relapse and drug resistance can be fueled by a subpopulation of neoplastic cells endowed with peculiar biological properties that include self-renewal, efficient DNA repair, drug efflux machineries, quiescence, and immune evasion. These cells, known as cancer stem cells (CSC) or tumor-initiating cells, represent, therefore, an ideal target for tumor eradication. However, the molecular and functional traits of CSC have been unveiled only to a limited extent. In this context, it appears that L1CAM is expressed in the CSC compartment of certain tumors, where it plays a causal role in stemness itself and/or in biological processes intimately associated with CSC (e.g., epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and chemoresistance). This review summarizes the role of L1CAM in cancer focusing on its functional contribution to CSC pathophysiology. We also discuss the clinical usefulness of therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting L1CAM in the context of anti-CSC treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ugo Cavallaro
- Unit of Gynaecological Oncology Research, European Institute of Oncology IRCSS, 20128 Milan, Italy;
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Abstract
Adenomyosis is a common disorder of the uterus, and is associated with an enlarged uterus, heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), pelvic pain, and infertility. It is characterized by endometrial epithelial cells and stromal fibroblasts abnormally found in the myometrium where they elicit hyperplasia and hypertrophy of surrounding smooth muscle cells. While both the mechanistic processes and the pathogenesis of adenomyosis are uncertain, several theories have been put forward addressing how this disease develops. These include intrinsic or induced (1) microtrauma of the endometrial-myometrial interface; (2) enhanced invasion of endometrium into myometrium; (3) metaplasia of stem cells in myometrium; (4) infiltration of endometrial cells in retrograde menstrual effluent into the uterine wall from the serosal side; (5) induction of adenomyotic lesions by aberrant local steroid and pituitary hormones; and (6) abnormal uterine development in response to genetic and epigenetic modifications. Dysmenorrhea, HMB, and infertility are likely results of inflammation, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and contractile abnormalities in the endometrial and myometrial components. Elucidating mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of adenomyosis raise possibilities to develop targeted therapies to ameliorate symptoms beyond the current agents that are largely ineffective. Herein, we address these possible etiologies and data that support underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Zhai
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Linda C. Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Knockdown of Musashi RNA Binding Proteins Decreases Radioresistance but Enhances Cell Motility and Invasion in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21062169. [PMID: 32245259 PMCID: PMC7139790 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21062169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of Musashi (MSI) RNA-binding proteins, important stemness-associated gene expression regulators, remains insufficiently understood in breast cancer. This study identifies the interplay between MSI protein expression, stem cell characteristics, radioresistance, cell invasiveness and migration. MSI-1, MSI-2 and Notch pathway elements were investigated via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in 19 triple-negative breast cancer samples. Measurements were repeated in MDA-MB-231 cells after MSI-1 and -2 siRNA-mediated double knockdown, with further experiments performed after MSI silencing. Flow cytometry helped quantify expression of CD44 and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR), changes in apoptosis and cell cycle progression. Proliferation and irradiation-induced effects were assessed using colony formation assays. Radiation-related proteins were investigated via Western blots. Finally, cell invasion assays and digital holographic microscopy for cell migration were performed. MSI proteins showed strong correlations with Notch pathway elements. MSI knockdown resulted in reduction of stem cell marker expression, cell cycle progression and proliferation, while increasing apoptosis. Cells were radiosensitized as radioresistance-conferring proteins were downregulated. However, MSI-silencing-mediated LIFR downregulation resulted in enhanced cell invasion and migration. We conclude that, while MSI knockdown results in several therapeutically desirable consequences, enhanced invasion and migration need to be counteracted before knockdown advantages can be fully exploited.
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YÜKSEL H, ZAFER E. Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-020-00278-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Chagas PF, Baroni M, Brassesco MS, Tone LG. Interplay between the RNA binding‐protein Musashi and developmental signaling pathways. J Gene Med 2020; 22:e3136. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Ferreira Chagas
- Department of GeneticsRibeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo Ribeirão Preto São Paulo Brazil
| | - Mirella Baroni
- Department of GeneticsRibeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo Ribeirão Preto São Paulo Brazil
| | - María Sol Brassesco
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão PretoUniversity of São Paulo Brazil
| | - Luiz Gonzaga Tone
- Department of GeneticsRibeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo Ribeirão Preto São Paulo Brazil
- Department of PediatricsRibeirão Preto Medical School São Paulo
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Laganà AS, Garzon S, Götte M, Viganò P, Franchi M, Ghezzi F, Martin DC. The Pathogenesis of Endometriosis: Molecular and Cell Biology Insights. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5615. [PMID: 31717614 PMCID: PMC6888544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 237] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The etiopathogenesis of endometriosis is a multifactorial process resulting in a heterogeneous disease. Considering that endometriosis etiology and pathogenesis are still far from being fully elucidated, the current review aims to offer a comprehensive summary of the available evidence. We performed a narrative review synthesizing the findings of the English literature retrieved from computerized databases from inception to June 2019, using the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) unique ID term "Endometriosis" (ID:D004715) with "Etiology" (ID:Q000209), "Immunology" (ID:Q000276), "Genetics" (ID:D005823) and "Epigenesis, Genetic" (ID:D044127). Endometriosis may origin from Müllerian or non-Müllerian stem cells including those from the endometrial basal layer, Müllerian remnants, bone marrow, or the peritoneum. The innate ability of endometrial stem cells to regenerate cyclically seems to play a key role, as well as the dysregulated hormonal pathways. The presence of such cells in the peritoneal cavity and what leads to the development of endometriosis is a complex process with a large number of interconnected factors, potentially both inherited and acquired. Genetic predisposition is complex and related to the combined action of several genes with limited influence. The epigenetic mechanisms control many of the processes involved in the immunologic, immunohistochemical, histological, and biological aberrations that characterize the eutopic and ectopic endometrium in affected patients. However, what triggers such alterations is not clear and may be both genetically and epigenetically inherited, or it may be acquired by the particular combination of several elements such as the persistent peritoneal menstrual reflux as well as exogenous factors. The heterogeneity of endometriosis and the different contexts in which it develops suggest that a single etiopathogenetic model is not sufficient to explain its complex pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Simone Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Filippo Del Ponte” Hospital, University of Insubria, Piazza Biroldi 1, 21100 Varese, Italy; (S.G.); (F.G.)
| | - Simone Garzon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Filippo Del Ponte” Hospital, University of Insubria, Piazza Biroldi 1, 21100 Varese, Italy; (S.G.); (F.G.)
| | - Martin Götte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, D-48149 Münster, Germany;
| | - Paola Viganò
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20136 Milan, Italy;
| | - Massimo Franchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126 Verona, Italy;
| | - Fabio Ghezzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Filippo Del Ponte” Hospital, University of Insubria, Piazza Biroldi 1, 21100 Varese, Italy; (S.G.); (F.G.)
| | - Dan C. Martin
- School of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 910 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38163, USA;
- Virginia Commonwealth University, 907 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
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Unique Molecular Features in High-Risk Histology Endometrial Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111665. [PMID: 31717878 PMCID: PMC6896116 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States and the sixth most common cancer in women worldwide. Fortunately, most women who develop endometrial cancer have low-grade early-stage endometrioid carcinomas, and simple hysterectomy is curative. Unfortunately, 15% of women with endometrial cancer will develop high-risk histologic tumors including uterine carcinosarcoma or high-grade endometrioid, clear cell, or serous carcinomas. These high-risk histologic tumors account for more than 50% of deaths from this disease. In this review, we will highlight the biologic differences between low- and high-risk carcinomas with a focus on the cell of origin, early precursor lesions including atrophic and proliferative endometrium, and the potential role of stem cells. We will discuss treatment, including standard of care therapy, hormonal therapy, and precision medicine-based or targeted molecular therapies. We will also discuss the impact and need for model systems. The molecular underpinnings behind this high death to incidence ratio are important to understand and improve outcomes.
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Wang L, Xing Q, Feng T, He M, Yu W, Chen H. SNP rs710886 A>G in long noncoding RNA PCAT1 is associated with the risk of endometriosis by modulating expression of multiple stemness‐related genes via microRNA‐145 signaling pathway. J Cell Biochem 2019; 121:1703-1715. [PMID: 31595574 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Liming Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Hubei Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Qi Xing
- Department of Gynecology, Hubei Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Tongfu Feng
- Department of Gynecology, Hubei Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Ming He
- Department of Gynecology, Hubei Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Weixu Yu
- Department of Gynecology, Hubei Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan China
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Ramirez Williams L, Brüggemann K, Hubert M, Achmad N, Kiesel L, Schäfer SD, Greve B, Götte M. γ-Secretase inhibition affects viability, apoptosis, and the stem cell phenotype of endometriotic cells. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2019; 98:1565-1574. [PMID: 31424097 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stem cells mediate cyclic regeneration of the endometrium. The upregulated expression of receptors and modulators of the notch signaling pathway in endometriosis suggests an involvement in the pathogenetic process. Here, we investigated the effects of notch pathway inhibition by a γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) on stemness-associated properties of the epithelial endometriotic cell line 12Z and of primary endometriotic stroma cells. MATERIAL AND METHODS 12Z cells and primary endometriotic stroma cells of 7 patients were treated with or without GSI, and analyzed for changes in gene expression by TaqMan low-density arrays, quantitative PCR, and flow cytometry. The functional impact of GSI treatment was studied by MTT assay, cell cycle analysis, colony formation assay, annexin V apoptosis assay, and aldehyde dehydrogenase activity assays. RESULTS In 12Z cells, GSI treatment reduced aldehyde dehydrogenase activity and colony formation, and induced a shift to the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Cell viability was decreased and apoptosis was increased in both cell models. GSI further induced transcriptional downregulation of the stemness-associated factors leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR), sex-determining region Y (SRY)- box 2, interferon-induced transmembrane protein 1, and hes-related family bHLH transcription factor with YRPW motif 1, in 12Z cells and in primary cell cultures. Downregulation of LIFR expression by GSI was confirmed at the protein level by flow cytometry. CONCLUSIONS Our in vitro data suggest that application of GSI may be a worthwhile approach in the treatment of endometriosis that warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ramirez Williams
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Kathrin Brüggemann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Marina Hubert
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Nurjannah Achmad
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Ludwig Kiesel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Sebastian D Schäfer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Burkhard Greve
- Department of Radiotherapy-Radiooncology, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Götte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
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Hapangama DK, Drury J, Da Silva L, Al-Lamee H, Earp A, Valentijn AJ, Edirisinghe DP, Murray PA, Fazleabas AT, Gargett CE. Abnormally located SSEA1+/SOX9+ endometrial epithelial cells with a basalis-like phenotype in the eutopic functionalis layer may play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2019; 34:56-68. [PMID: 30496412 PMCID: PMC6295963 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is endometriosis associated with abnormally located endometrial basalis-like (SSEA1+/SOX9+) cells in the secretory phase functionalis and could they contribute to ectopic endometriotic lesion formation? SUMMARY ANSWER Women with endometriosis had an abnormally higher number of basalis-like SSEA1+/SOX9+ epithelial cells present in the stratum functionalis and, since these cells formed 3D structures in vitro with phenotypic similarities to ectopic endometriotic lesions, they may generate ectopic lesions following retrograde menstruation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Endometrial basalis cells with progenitor potential are postulated to play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and SSEA1 and nuclear SOX9 (nSOX9) mark basalis epithelial cells that also have some adenogenic properties in vitro. Induction of ectopic endometriotic lesions in a baboon model of endometriosis produces characteristic changes in the eutopic endometrium. Retrograde menstruation of endometrial basalis cells is proposed to play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective study included endometrial samples from 102 women with and without endometriosis undergoing gynaecological surgery and from six baboons before and after induction of endometriosis, with in vitro assays examining the differentiation potential of human basalis-like cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The study was conducted at a University Research Institute. SSEA1 and SOX9 expression levels were examined in human endometrial samples from women aged 18-55 years (by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and qPCR) and from baboons (IHC). The differential gene expression and differentiation potential was assessed in freshly isolated SSEA1+ endometrial epithelial cells from women with and without endometriosis (n = 8/group) in vitro. In silico analysis of selected published microarray datasets identified differential regulation of genes of interest for the mid-secretory phase endometrium of women with endometriosis relative to that of healthy women without endometriosis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Women with endometriosis demonstrated higher number of basalis-like cells (SSEA1+, nSOX9+) in the functionalis layer of the eutopic endometrium compared with the healthy women without endometriosis in the secretory phase of the cycle (P < 0.05). Induction of endometriosis resulted in a similar increase in basalis-like epithelial cells in the eutopic baboon endometrium. The isolated SSEA1+ epithelial cells from the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis had higher expression of OCT4, NANOG, FUT4 mRNA (P = 0.05, P = 0.007, P = 0.018, respectively) and they differentiated into ectopic endometriotic gland-like structures in 3D culture, but not into mesodermal lineages (adipose or bone cells). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Small sample size. Bioinformatics analysis and results depends on the quality of published microarray datasets and the stringency of patient selection criteria employed. Differentiation of SSEA-1+ cells was only examined for two mesodermal lineages (adipogenic and osteogenic). WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Since endometrial epithelial cells with SSEA1+/nSOX9+ basalis-like phenotype generate endometriotic gland-like structures in vitro, they may potentially be a therapeutic target for endometriosis. An in depth analysis of the function of basalis-like eutopic endometrial epithelial cells might provide insights into their potential deregulation in other disorders of the endometrium including heavy menstrual bleeding and endometrial cancer where their function may be aberrant. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) We acknowledge the support by Wellbeing of Women project grant RG1073 (D.K.H., C.E.G.) and R01 HD083273 from the National Institutes of Health (A.T.F.). We also acknowledge the support of Liverpool Women's Hospital Foundation Trust (J.D.), Institute of Translational Medicine (L.D.S., H.A.L., A.J.V., D.K.H.), University of Liverpool, the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia ID 1042298 (C.E.G.) and the Victorian Government Operational Infrastructure Support Fund. All authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- D K Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - J Drury
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - L Da Silva
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - H Al-Lamee
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - A Earp
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - A J Valentijn
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - D P Edirisinghe
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - P A Murray
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - A T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - C E Gargett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
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Vallvé-Juanico J, López-Gil C, Ballesteros A, Santamaria X. Endometrial Stromal Cells Circulate in the Bloodstream of Women with Endometriosis: A Pilot Study. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3740. [PMID: 31370190 PMCID: PMC6695832 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. While endometriotic tissue is commonly localized in the pelvic cavity, it can also be found in distant sites, including the brain. The origin and pathophysiology of tissue migration is poorly understood; retrograde menstruation is thought to be the cause, although the presence of endometrium at distant sites is not explained by this hypothesis. To determine whether dissemination occurs via the bloodstream in women with endometriosis, we analyzed circulating blood for the presence of endometrial cells. Circulating endometrial stromal cells were identified only in women with endometriosis but not in controls, while endometrial epithelial cells were not identified in the circulation of either group. Our results support the hypothesis that endometrial stromal cells may migrate through circulation and promote the pathophysiology of endometriosis. The detection of these cells in circulation creates avenues for the development of less invasive diagnostic tools for the disease, and opens possibilities for further study of the origin of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlia Vallvé-Juanico
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, IVIRMA-Barcelona S.L., 08017 Barcelona, Spain
- Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) and University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Carlos López-Gil
- Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) and University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Agustín Ballesteros
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, IVIRMA-Barcelona S.L., 08017 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Santamaria
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, IVIRMA-Barcelona S.L., 08017 Barcelona, Spain.
- Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) and University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain.
- Igenomix Foundation, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain.
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The ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase-2 (NTPDase2) in human endometrium: a novel marker of basal stroma and mesenchymal stem cells. Purinergic Signal 2019; 15:225-236. [PMID: 31123897 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-019-09656-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium undergoes repetitive regeneration cycles in order to recover the functional layer, shed during menses. The basal layer, which remains in charge of endometrial regeneration in every cycle, contains adult stem or progenitor cells of epithelial and mesenchymal lineage. Some pathologies such as adenomyosis, in which endometrial tissue develops within the myometrium, originate from this layer. It is well known that the balance between adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine plays a crucial role in stem/progenitor cell physiology, influencing proliferation, differentiation, and migration. The extracellular levels of nucleotides and nucleosides are regulated by the ectonucleotidases, such as the nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 2 (NTPDase2). NTPDase2 is a membrane-expressed enzyme found in cells of mesenchymal origin such as perivascular cells of different tissues and the stem cells of adult neurogenic regions. The aim of this study was to characterize the expression of NTPDase2 in human nonpathological cyclic and postmenopausic endometria and in adenomyosis. We examined proliferative, secretory, and atrophic endometria from women without endometrial pathology and also adenomyotic lesions. Importantly, we identified NTPDase2 as the first marker of basal endometrium since other stromal cell markers such as CD10 label the entire stroma. As expected, NTPDase2 was also found in adenomyotic stroma, thus becoming a convenient tracer of these lesions. We did not record any changes in the expression levels or the localization of NTPDase2 along the cycle, thus suggesting that the enzyme is not influenced by the female sex hormones like other previously studied ectoenzymes. Remarkably, NTPDase2 was expressed by the Sushi Domain containing 2 (SUSD2)+ endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) found perivascularly, rendering it useful as a cell marker to improve the isolation of eMSCs needed for regenerative medicine therapies.
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Santamaria X, Mas A, Cervelló I, Taylor H, Simon C. Uterine stem cells: from basic research to advanced cell therapies. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 24:673-693. [PMID: 30239705 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stem cell research in the endometrium and myometrium from animal models and humans has led to the identification of endometrial/myometrial stem cells and their niches. This basic knowledge is beginning to be translated to clinical use for incurable uterine pathologies. Additionally, the implication of bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDSCs) in uterine physiology has opened the field for the exploration of an exogenous and autologous source of stem cells. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this review, we outline the progress of endometrial and myometrial stem/progenitor cells in both human and mouse models from their characterization to their clinical application, indicating roles in Asherman syndrome, atrophic endometrium and tissue engineering, among others. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed and Google Scholar up to December 2017 was conducted to identify peer-reviewed literature related to the contribution of bone marrow, endometrial and myometrial stem cells to potential physiological regeneration as well as their implications in pathologies of the human uterus. OUTCOMES The discovery and main characteristics of stem cells in the murine and human endometrium and myometrium are presented together with the relevance of their niches and cross-regulation. The current state of advanced stem cell therapy using BMDSCs in the treatment of Asherman syndrome and atrophic endometrium is analyzed. In the myometrium, the understanding of genetic and epigenetic defects that result in the development of tumor-initiating cells in the myometrial stem niche and thus contribute to the growth of uterine leiomyoma is also presented. Finally, recent advances in tissue engineering based on the creation of novel three-dimensional scaffolds or decellularisation open up new perspectives for the field of uterine transplantation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS More than a decade after their discovery, the knowledge of uterine stem cells and their niches is crystalising into novel therapeutic approaches aiming to treat with cells those conditions that cannot be cured with drugs, particularly the currently incurable uterine pathologies. Additional work and improvements are needed, but the basis has been formed for this therapeutic application of uterine cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Santamaria
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Igenomix Academy, Paterna (Valencia), Spain.,Reproductive Medicine Department, IVI Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Biomedical Research Group in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Institut de Recerca, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aymara Mas
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Igenomix Academy, Paterna (Valencia), Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Irene Cervelló
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), and Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Hugh Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carlos Simon
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Igenomix Academy, Paterna (Valencia), Spain.,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Valencia University and INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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40
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Chen H, Liu J, Wang H, Cheng Q, Zhou C, Chen X, Ye F. Inhibition of RNA-Binding Protein Musashi-1 Suppresses Malignant Properties and Reverses Paclitaxel Resistance in Ovarian Carcinoma. J Cancer 2019; 10:1580-1592. [PMID: 31031868 PMCID: PMC6485236 DOI: 10.7150/jca.27352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Ovarian carcinoma (OC) is one of the most lethal malignant tumors with a high reoccurrence and chemoresistance. The key mechanism relationship with chemoresistance in ovarian carcinoma is still unclear. The existence of cancer stem cells involves in chemoresistance and reoccurrence in OC. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression, suppression of malignant properties and reversal of paclitaxel resistance inhibiting RNA-binding protein Musashi-1 with siRNA in ovarian cancer cells. Methods: The expression of MSI-1 was analyzed in 39 normal ovarian epithelia tissues, 92 serous cystadenomas, 68 borderline serous cystadenomas, and 97 serous cystadenocarcinomas by immunohistochemistry. pLKO.1-MSI-1-siRNA expression vector was transfected into ovarian carcinoma cell line A2780 and its paclitaxel-resistant cell subline A2780/Taxol. The roles of MSI-1 in proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were explored by cell proliferation analysis, Caspase 3 activity assay, wound healing assay, migration and matrigel invasion assay, respectively. Western Blotting and Real-time quantitative PCR were conducted to detect the expression of MSI-1 and the ERK signaling pathway. Reversal of paclitaxel resistance assay was used to evaluate the role of MSI-1 in paclitaxel resistance of OC cells. Finally, therapeutic effects of MSI-1 inhibition were investigated the xenogratfs of SCID mice in vivo of the paclitacel-resistant. Results: MSI-1 is overexpressed and associated with an unfavorable prognosis in OC patients. Knockdown of MSI-1 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) inhibits proliferation, promotes apoptosis, and reduces migration and invasion of cancer cells. Moreover, MSI-1 expression inhibition reverses paclitaxel-resistance in OC cells. We further display that MSI-1 effectively protects OC cells from paclitaxel-induced apoptosis by increasing the expression of p-Bcl-2 through ERK signaling pathway activation. In vivo, MSI-1 siRNA clearly showed a strong effect on tumor growth inhibition and paclitaxel-resistance reversal. Conclusions: These findings suggest that MSI-1 overexpression is associated with the prognosis of OC patients, and knockdown of MSI-1 can suppress malignant properties and reverse paclitaxel-resistance in OC cells. MSI-1 maybe act as a potential prognostic indicator and a therapeutic target in OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaizeng Chen
- Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, P.R. China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, P.R. China
| | - Hanzhi Wang
- Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, P.R. China
| | - Qi Cheng
- Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, P.R. China
| | - Caiyun Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojing Chen
- Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, P.R. China
| | - Feng Ye
- Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, P.R. China
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Saad MN, Mabrouk MS, Eldeib AM, Shaker OG. Studying the effects of haplotype partitioning methods on the RA-associated genomic results from the North American Rheumatoid Arthritis Consortium (NARAC) dataset. J Adv Res 2019; 18:113-126. [PMID: 30891314 PMCID: PMC6403413 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Haplotype blocks methods plays a complementary role to the single-SNP approaches. CIT, FGT, SSLD, and single-SNP methods should be applied to discover the markers. Selection of the method used for the association has an impact on the biomarkers. SSLD method detected more significant SNPs than CIT, FGT, and single-SNP methods. The 383 SNPs discovered by all methods are significantly associated with RA.
The human genome, which includes thousands of genes, represents a big data challenge. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune disease with a genetic basis. Many single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) association methods partition a genome into haplotype blocks. The aim of this genome wide association study (GWAS) was to select the most appropriate haplotype block partitioning method for the North American Rheumatoid Arthritis Consortium (NARAC) dataset. The methods used for the NARAC dataset were the individual SNP approach and the following haplotype block methods: the four-gamete test (FGT), confidence interval test (CIT), and solid spine of linkage disequilibrium (SSLD). The measured parameters that reflect the strength of the association between the biomarker and RA were the P-value after Bonferroni correction and other parameters used to compare the output of each haplotype block method. This work presents a comparison among the individual SNP approach and the three haplotype block methods to select the method that can detect all the significant SNPs when applied alone. The GWAS results from the NARAC dataset obtained with the different methods are presented. The individual SNP, CIT, FGT, and SSLD methods detected 541, 1516, 1551, and 1831 RA-associated SNPs respectively, and the individual SNP, FGT, CIT, and SSLD methods detected 65, 156, 159, and 450 significant SNPs respectively, that were not detected by the other methods. Three hundred eighty-three SNPs were discovered by the haplotype block methods and the individual SNP approach, while 1021 SNPs were discovered by all three haplotype block methods. The 383 SNPs detected by all the methods are promising candidates for studying RA susceptibility. A hybrid technique involving all four methods should be applied to detect the significant SNPs associated with RA in the NARAC dataset, but the SSLD method may be preferred because of its advantages when only one method was used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed N Saad
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Mai S Mabrouk
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Misr University for Science and Technology, 6th of October City, Egypt
| | - Ayman M Eldeib
- Systems and Biomedical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Olfat G Shaker
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Wu CH, Chuang HY, Wang CL, Hsu CY, Long CY, Hsieh TH, Tsai EM. Estradiol induces cell proliferation in MCF‑7 mammospheres through HER2/COX‑2. Mol Med Rep 2019; 19:2341-2349. [PMID: 30664162 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.9879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cluster of differentiation (CD)44+/CD24- breast cancer cells have stem cell‑like characteristics and are potent initiators of tumorigenesis. Mammosphere cells can partially initiate breast tumorigenesis by inducing estradiol (E2)‑dependent breast cancer cells. However, the mechanisms by which E2 mediates cancer formation in MCF‑7 mammosphere (MS) cells have remained elusive. In the present study, MS cells were isolated by sphere culture. It was possible to maintain these MS cells in culture for long periods of time, while retaining the CD44+/CD24- stem cell marker status. The CD44+/CD24- status was confirmed by flow cytometry. Furthermore, the stem‑cell markers Musashi‑1, cytokeratin (CK)7 and CK19 were identified by immunofluorescence microscopy. It was revealed that treatment of MS cells with E2 increased the expression of CD44, whereas decreased the expression of CD24 on MS cells. In addition, treatment with E2 increased colony formation by MS cells. E2 also induced cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) expression in MS cells, which promoted their proliferation through the estrogen receptor/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)/mitogen‑activated protein kinase/phosphoinositide‑3 kinase signaling pathway. The results suggested a tumorigenic mechanism by which E2 promotes tumor cell proliferation via HER2/COX‑2 signaling. The present study provided evidence for the molecular impact of E2 on breast tumorigenesis, and suggested possible strategies for preventing and treating human breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Hu Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Sanmin, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Hui-Yu Chuang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Sanmin, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Chiu-Lin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Sanmin, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Chia-Yi Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Sanmin, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Cheng-Yu Long
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Sanmin, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Tsung-Hua Hsieh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Sanmin, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Eing-Mei Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Sanmin, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan R.O.C
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Endometrial Stem Cell Markers: Current Concepts and Unresolved Questions. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103240. [PMID: 30347708 PMCID: PMC6214006 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a highly regenerative organ undergoing over 400 cycles of shedding and regeneration over a woman’s lifetime. Menstrual shedding and the subsequent repair of the functional layer of the endometrium is a process unique to humans and higher-order primates. This massive regenerative capacity is thought to have a stem cell basis, with human endometrial stromal stem cells having already been extensively studied. Studies on endometrial epithelial stem cells are sparse, and the current belief is that the endometrial epithelial stem cells reside in the terminal ends of the basalis glands at the endometrial/myometrial interface. Since almost all endometrial pathologies are thought to originate from aberrations in stem cells that regularly regenerate the functionalis layer, expansion of our current understanding of stem cells is necessary in order for curative treatment strategies to be developed. This review critically appraises the postulated markers in order to identify endometrial stem cells. It also examines the current evidence supporting the existence of epithelial stem cells in the human endometrium that are likely to be involved both in glandular regeneration and in the pathogenesis of endometrial proliferative diseases such as endometriosis and endometrial cancer.
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Guo S. Cancer driver mutations in endometriosis: Variations on the major theme of fibrogenesis. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:369-397. [PMID: 30377392 PMCID: PMC6194252 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One recent study reports cancer driver mutations in deep endometriosis, but its biological/clinical significance remains unclear. Since the natural history of endometriosis is essentially gradual progression toward fibrosis, it is thus hypothesized that the six driver genes reported to be mutated in endometriosis (the RP set) may play important roles in fibrogenesis but not necessarily malignant transformation. METHODS Extensive PubMed search to see whether RP and another set of driver genes not yet reported (NR) to be mutated in endometriosis have any roles in fibrogenesis. All studies reporting on the role of fibrogenesis of the genes in both RP and NR sets were retrieved and evaluated in this review. RESULTS All six RP genes were involved in various aspects of fibrogenesis as compared with only three NR genes. These nine genes can be anchored in networks linking with their upstream and downstream genes that are known to be aberrantly expressed in endometriosis, piecing together seemingly unrelated findings. CONCLUSIONS Given that somatic driver mutations can and do occur frequently in physiologically normal tissues, it is argued that these mutations in endometriosis are not necessarily synonymous with malignancy or premalignancy, but the result of enormous pressure for fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun‐Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine‐Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
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Abbaszadegan MR, Riahi A, Forghanifard MM, Moghbeli M. WNT and NOTCH signaling pathways as activators for epidermal growth factor receptor in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2018; 23:42. [PMID: 30202417 PMCID: PMC6122622 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-018-0109-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most common histological type of esophageal cancer, with a poor prognosis. Deregulation of WNT and NOTCH signaling pathways is important in ESCC progression, which can be due to either malfunction of their components or crosstalk with other pathways. Therefore, identification of new crosstalk between such pathways may be effective to introduce new strategies for targeted therapy of cancer. A correlation study was performed to assess the probable interaction between growth factor receptors and WNT/NOTCH pathways via the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and Musashi1 (MSI1), respectively. Methods Levels of MSI1/EGFR mRNA expression in tumor tissues from 48 ESCC patients were compared to their corresponding normal tissues using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results There was a significant correlation between EGFR and MSI1 expression (p = 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant correlation between EGFR/MSI1 expression and grade of tumor differentiation (p = 0.02). Conclusion This study confirms a direct correlation between MSI1 and EGFR and may support the important role of MSI1 in activation of EGFR through NOTCH/WNT pathways in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Abbaszadegan
- 1Medical Genetics Research Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Anali Riahi
- 2Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Meysam Moghbeli
- 4Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Ning J, Zhang H, Yang H. MicroRNA‑326 inhibits endometrial fibrosis by regulating TGF‑β1/Smad3 pathway in intrauterine adhesions. Mol Med Rep 2018; 18:2286-2292. [PMID: 29956752 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), characterized by endometrial fibrosis, may lead to infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. At present, there is no ideal therapy for IUA. Recent findings have revealed that microRNAs (miRNAs) have a decisive role in the regulation of fibrosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the molecular mechanism of miRNAs in endometrial fibrosis. The present study compared the expression profiles of miRNAs between endometrial tissues from patients with IUA and normal endometrial tissues using microarray analysis. Validation of miR‑326 level in endometrial tissues was performed using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR). Subsequently, the effects of miR‑326 on fibrotic markers including α‑smooth muscle actin (α‑SMA), collagen type I α 1 chain (COL1A1), transforming growth factor‑β1 (TGF‑β1) and fibronectin (FN), were evaluated in endometrial tissues and endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) from patients with IUA. Additional bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assays, RT‑qPCR and western blotting were performed to identify target genes. Additionally, the expression levels of TGF‑β1, p‑Smad3 and Smad3 were quantified to determine whether the anti‑fibrotic role of miR‑326 was associated with the activity of the TGF‑β1/Smad3 signaling pathway. The present study determined that miR‑326 was downregulated in endometrial tissues from patients with IUA and miR‑326 levels were inversely correlated with the expression of TGF‑β1, α‑SMA, COL1A1 and FN. Additional findings revealed that overexpression of miR‑326 inhibited endometrial fibrosis by downregulating these pro‑fibrotic genes. TGF‑β1, an important pro‑fibrogenic mediator, was identified as a direct target of miR‑326. Additionally, overexpression of miR‑326 blocked the activation of the TGF‑β1/SMAD family member 3 (Smad3) signaling pathway by suppressing the expression of TGF‑β1 in ESCs from patients with IUA. The findings of the present study indicated that miR‑326 inhibited endometrial fibrosis by suppressing the TGF‑β1/Smad3 signaling pathway, suggesting that miR‑326 may be a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ning
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hainan Branch of PLA General Hospital, Sanya, Hainan 572013, P.R. China
| | - Hongtao Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Fuxing Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, P.R. China
| | - Hongwei Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Fuxing Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, P.R. China
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Theophilou G, Morais CLM, Halliwell DE, Lima KMG, Drury J, Martin-Hirsch PL, Stringfellow HF, Hapangama DK, Martin FL. Synchrotron- and focal plane array-based Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy differentiates the basalis and functionalis epithelial endometrial regions and identifies putative stem cell regions of human endometrial glands. Anal Bioanal Chem 2018; 410:4541-4554. [PMID: 29740671 PMCID: PMC6021468 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-018-1111-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The cyclical process of regeneration of the endometrium suggests that it may contain a cell population that can provide daughter cells with high proliferative potential. These cell lineages are clinically significant as they may represent clonogenic cells that may also be involved in tumourigenesis as well as endometriotic lesion development. To determine whether the putative stem cell location within human uterine tissue can be derived using vibrational spectroscopy techniques, normal endometrial tissue was interrogated by two spectroscopic techniques. Paraffin-embedded uterine tissues containing endometrial glands were sectioned to 10-μm-thick parallel tissue sections and were floated onto BaF2 slides for synchrotron radiation-based Fourier-transform infrared (SR-FTIR) microspectroscopy and globar focal plane array-based FTIR spectroscopy. Different spectral characteristics were identified depending on the location of the glands examined. The resulting infrared spectra were subjected to multivariate analysis to determine associated biophysical differences along the length of longitudinal and crosscut gland sections. Comparison of the epithelial cellular layer of transverse gland sections revealed alterations indicating the presence of putative transient-amplifying-like cells in the basalis and mitotic cells in the functionalis. SR-FTIR microspectroscopy of the base of the endometrial glands identified the location where putative stem cells may reside at the same time pointing towards νsPO2− in DNA and RNA, nucleic acids and amide I and II vibrations as major discriminating factors. This study supports the view that vibration spectroscopy technologies are a powerful adjunct to our understanding of the stem cell biology of endometrial tissue. ᅟ ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Theophilou
- Department of Gynaecology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Leeds, LS1 3EX, UK
| | - Camilo L M Morais
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE, UK
| | - Diane E Halliwell
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE, UK
| | - Kássio M G Lima
- Biological Chemistry and Chemometrics, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Josephine Drury
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - Pierre L Martin-Hirsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Preston Hospital, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 9HT, UK
| | - Helen F Stringfellow
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Preston Hospital, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 9HT, UK
| | - Dharani K Hapangama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - Francis L Martin
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE, UK.
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Abstract
Oestrogen–progesterone signalling is highly versatile and critical for the maintenance of healthy endometrium in humans. The genomic and nongenomic signalling cascades initiated by these hormones in differentiated cells of endometrium have been the primary focus of research since 1920s. However, last decade of research has shown a significant role of stem cells in the maintenance of a healthy endometrium and the modulatory effects of hormones on these cells. Endometriosis, the growth of endometrium outside the uterus, is very common in infertile patients and the elusiveness in understanding of disease pathology causes hindrance in selection of treatment approaches to enhance fertility. In endometriosis, the stem cells are dysfunctional as it can confer progesterone resistance to their progenies resulting in disharmony of hormonal orchestration of endometrial homeostasis. The bidirectional communication between stem cell signalling pathways and oestrogen–progesterone signalling is found to be disrupted in endometriosis though it is not clear which precedes the other. In this paper, we review the intricate connection between hormones, stem cells and the cross-talks in their signalling cascades in normal endometrium and discuss how this is deregulated in endometriosis. Re-examination of the oestrogen–progesterone dependency of endometrium with a focus on stem cells is imperative to delineate infertility associated with endometriosis and thereby aid in designing better treatment modalities.
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García-Solares J, Donnez J, Donnez O, Dolmans MM. Pathogenesis of uterine adenomyosis: invagination or metaplasia? Fertil Steril 2018; 109:371-379. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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50
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Schüring AN, Dahlhues B, Korte A, Kiesel L, Titze U, Heitkötter B, Ruckert C, Götte M. The endometrial stem cell markers notch-1 and numb are associated with endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 36:294-301. [PMID: 29398419 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies reported increased expression of the notch pathway-associated protein Musashi-1 in endometriosis. This case-control study investigates an association of the endometrial stem cell markers notch-1 and numb with endometriosis. Fifty-one endometriosis patients and 76 controls were recruited in the IVF unit and tertiary endometriosis referral centre of a university hospital. All subjects underwent transcervical endometrial biopsy and diagnostic laparoscopy. Expression of endometrial notch-1 and numb was assessed by immunostaining and correlated with clinical data. Association of stem-cell-marker expression with the presence of endometriosis was evaluated. Numb expression in the luminal epithelium was significantly higher in eutopic endometrium of endometriosis patients compared with controls (20.5% versus 16.5%, P = 0.033). Numb-positive single stromal cells were less frequent in endometrioma patients compared with other forms of endometriosis (0.3 versus 0.5 cells/visual field; P = 0.028). Notch-1 expression in endometrial glands was significantly higher in patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis compared with controls (39.1% versus 21.8%; P = 0.045). We conclude that stem cell markers notch-1 and numb of eutopic endometrium are associated with endometriosis and its clinical presentations, supporting the stem cell hypothesis of endometriosis. These findings could help develop promising research strategies applying endometrial stem cells as novel tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas N Schüring
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Beatrice Dahlhues
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Anna Korte
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Ludwig Kiesel
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Ulf Titze
- Gerhard-Domagk-Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Birthe Heitkötter
- Gerhard-Domagk-Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Ruckert
- Institute of Biometry and Statistics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Götte
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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