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Park Y, Lee I, Lee MJ, Park H, Jung GS, Kim N, Im W, Kim H, Lee JH, Cho S, Choi YS. Particulate matter exposure induces adverse effects on endometrium and fertility via aberrant inflammatory and apoptotic pathways in vitro and in vivo. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142466. [PMID: 38810796 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the adverse effects of particulate matter (PM) exposure on endometrial cells and fertility and to identify possible underlying mechanisms. Thirteen women (aged 15-52 years) were included in this study. Enrolled patients underwent laparoscopic surgery at Gangnam Severance Hospital between 1 January and 31 December 2021. For in vivo experiments, 36 female and nine male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control(vehicle), low-dose(10 mg/kg/d), and high-dose exposure groups(20 mg/kg/d). PM was inhaled nasally for four weeks and natural mating was performed. NIST® SRM® 1648a was used for PM exposure. qRT-PCR, western blotting and Masson's trichrome staining were performed. PM treatment in human endometrial stromal cells induced inflammation with significant upregulation of IL-1β, p-NF-kB, and p-c-Jun compared to those of controls. Additionally, PM treatment significantly increased apoptosis in human endometrial stromal cells by downregulating p-AKT and upregulating p-p53/p53, Cas-3, BAX/Bcl-2, p-AMPK, and p-ERK. After PM treatment, the relative expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, p-NF-κB, p-c-Jun, and p-Nrf2/Nrf2 significantly increased in murine endometrium compared to those of the controls. Expression of apoptotic proteins p53, p27, and Cas-3, was also significantly elevated in murine endometrium of the PM exposure group compared to that of the controls. A significant increase in expression of procollagen Ⅰ, and Masson's trichrome staining scores in the murine endometrium was noted after PM treatment. PM treatment significantly decreased ERα expression. After natural mating, all 3 female mice in the control group gave birth to 25 offspring (mean 8.1), whereas in the low-dose PM treatment group, two of three female mice gave birth to nine offspring (mean 4.5). No pregnant mice or offspring was present in the high-dose PM treatment group. PM exposure induces adverse effects on the endometrium through aberrant activation of inflammatory and apoptotic pathways and is associated with detrimental effects on murine fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjeong Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 08308, Republic of Korea
| | - Inha Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jung Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyemin Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea
| | - Gee Soo Jung
- Department of Medical Device Engineering and Management, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea
| | - Nara Kim
- Department of Medical Device Engineering and Management, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooseok Im
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Heeyon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - SiHyun Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06229, Republic of Korea; Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young Sik Choi
- Institute of Women's Life Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
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Dias Da Silva I, Wuidar V, Zielonka M, Pequeux C. Unraveling the Dynamics of Estrogen and Progesterone Signaling in the Endometrium: An Overview. Cells 2024; 13:1236. [PMID: 39120268 PMCID: PMC11312103 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151236] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is crucial for the perpetuation of human species. It is a complex and dynamic tissue lining the inner wall of the uterus, regulated throughout a woman's life based on estrogen and progesterone fluctuations. During each menstrual cycle, this multicellular tissue undergoes cyclical changes, including regeneration, differentiation in order to allow egg implantation and embryo development, or shedding of the functional layer in the absence of pregnancy. The biology of the endometrium relies on paracrine interactions between epithelial and stromal cells involving complex signaling pathways that are modulated by the variations of estrogen and progesterone levels across the menstrual cycle. Understanding the complexity of estrogen and progesterone receptor signaling will help elucidate the mechanisms underlying normal reproductive physiology and provide fundamental knowledge contributing to a better understanding of the consequences of hormonal imbalances on gynecological conditions and tumorigenesis. In this narrative review, we delve into the physiology of the endometrium, encompassing the complex signaling pathways of estrogen and progesterone.
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Grants
- J.0165.24, 7.6529.23, J.0153.22, 7.4580.21F, 7.6518.21, J.0131.19 Fund for Scientific Research
- FSR-F-2023-FM, FSR-F-2022-FM, FSR-F-2021-FM, FSR-F-M-19/6761 University of Liège
- 2020, 2021, 2022 Fondation Léon Fredericq
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Christel Pequeux
- Tumors and Development, Estrogen-Sensitive Tissues and Cancer Team, GIGA-Cancer, Laboratory of Biology, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (I.D.D.S.); (V.W.); (M.Z.)
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Chen S, Tan S, Zheng L, Wang M. Multilayered Shape-Morphing Scaffolds with a Hierarchical Structure for Uterine Tissue Regeneration. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:6772-6788. [PMID: 38295266 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c14983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Owing to dysfunction of the uterus, millions of couples around the world suffer from infertility. Different from conventional treatments, tissue engineering provides a new and promising approach to deal with difficult problems such as human tissue or organ failure. Adopting scaffold-based tissue engineering, three-dimensional (3D) porous scaffolds in combination with stem cells and appropriate biomolecules may be constructed for uterine tissue regeneration. In this study, a hierarchical tissue engineering scaffold, which mimicked the uterine tissue structure and functions, was designed, and the biomimicking scaffolds were then successfully fabricated using solvent casting, layer-by-layer assembly, and 3D bioprinting techniques. For the multilayered, hierarchical structured scaffolds, poly(l-lactide-co-trimethylene carbonate) (PLLA-co-TMC, "PLATMC" in short) and poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) blends were first used to fabricate the shape-morphing layer of the scaffolds, which was to mimic the function of myometrium in uterine tissue. The PLATMC/PLGA polymer blend scaffolds were highly stretchable. Subsequently, after etching of the PLATMC/PLGA surface and employing estradiol (E2), polydopamine (PDA), and hyaluronic acid (HA), PDA@E2/HA multilayer films were formed on PLATMC/PLGA scaffolds to build an intelligent delivery platform to enable controlled and sustained release of E2. The PDA@E2/HA multilayer films also improved the biological performance of the scaffold. Finally, a layer of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC)-laden hydrogel [which was a blend of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and gelatin (Gel)] was 3D printed on the PDA@E2/HA multilayer films of the scaffold, thereby completing the construction of the hierarchical scaffold. BMSCs in the GelMA/Gel hydrogel layer exhibited excellent cell viability and could spread and be released eventually upon biodegradation of the GelMA/Gel hydrogel. It was shown that the hierarchically structured scaffolds could evolve from the initial flat shape into the tubular structure completely in an aqueous environment at 37 °C, fulfilling the requirement for curved scaffolds for uterine tissue engineering. The biomimicking scaffolds with a hierarchical structure and curved shape, high stretchability, and controlled and sustained E2 release appear to be very promising for uterine tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangsi Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Shenglong Tan
- Department of Endodontics and Operative Dentistry, College of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, No. 1838 North Guangzhou Avenue, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Liwu Zheng
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, 34 Hospital Road, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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Hong IS. Endometrial Stem Cells: Orchestrating Dynamic Regeneration of Endometrium and Their Implications in Diverse Endometrial Disorders. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:864-879. [PMID: 38250149 PMCID: PMC10797688 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.89795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium, a vital component of the uterus, undergoes dynamic changes during the menstrual cycle to create a receptive environment for embryo implantation. Its remarkable regenerative capacity can be attributed to the presence of tissue-resident stem cell populations within the endometrium. Despite variations in characteristics among different subtypes, endometrial stem cells exhibit notably robust self-renewal capacity and the ability to differentiate into multiple lineages. This review offers a comprehensive insight into the current literature and recent advancements regarding the roles of various endometrial stem cell types during dynamic regeneration of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that dysfunction or depletion of endometrial stem cells may play critical roles in the development and progression of various endometrial disorders, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, infertility, and endometrial cancer. Therefore, we also highlight potential roles of endometrial stem cells in the development and progression of these endometrial diseases, including their ability to accumulate genetic mutations and express genes associated with endometrial diseases. Understanding the dynamic properties of the endometrium and the roles of endometrial stem cells in various endometrial disorders will shed light on potential therapeutic strategies for managing these conditions and improving women's fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Sun Hong
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 406-840, Republic of Korea
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Lee JW, Lee HY. Exploring distinct properties of endometrial stem cells through advanced single-cell analysis platforms. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:379. [PMID: 38124100 PMCID: PMC10734114 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03616-w] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a dynamic tissue that undergoes cyclic changes in response to ovarian hormones during the menstrual cycle. These changes are crucial for pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Endometrial stem cells play a pivotal role in endometrial regeneration and repair by differentiating into various cell types within the endometrium. However, their involvement in endometrial disorders such as endometriosis, infertility, and endometrial cancer is still not fully understood yet. Traditional bulk sequencing methods have limitations in capturing heterogeneity and complexity of endometrial stem cell populations. To overcome these limitations, recent single-cell analysis techniques, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq), single-cell ATAC sequencing (scATAC-Seq), and spatial transcriptomics, have emerged as valuable tools for studying endometrial stem cells. In this review, although there are still many technical limitations that require improvement, we will summarize the current state-of-the-art single-cell analysis techniques for endometrial stem cells and explore their relevance to related diseases. We will discuss studies utilizing various single-cell analysis platforms to identify and characterize distinct endometrial stem cell populations and investigate their dynamic changes in gene expression and epigenetic patterns during menstrual cycle and differentiation processes. These techniques enable the identification of rare cell populations, capture heterogeneity of cell populations within the endometrium, and provide potential targets for more effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Woo Lee
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 406-840, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwa-Yong Lee
- Division of Science Education, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea.
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3D bio-printed endometrial construct restores the full-thickness morphology and fertility of injured uterine endometrium. Acta Biomater 2023; 157:187-199. [PMID: 36521675 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Severe damage to the uterine endometrium, which results in scar formation and endometrial dysfunction, eventually leads to infertility or pregnancy-related complications. No effective therapeutic treatment is currently available for such injuries owing to the structural complexity, internal environment, and function of the uterus. Three-dimensional (3D) bio-printing to engineer biomimetic structural constructs provides a unique opportunity for tissue regeneration. Herein, using 3D extrusion-based bioprinting (EBB), we constructed a bilayer endometrial construct (EC) based on a sodium alginate-hyaluronic acid (Alg-HA) hydrogel for functional regeneration of the endometrium. The upper layer of the 3D bio-printed EC is a monolayer of endometrial epithelial cells (EECs), while the lower layer has a grid-like microstructure loaded with endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). In a partial full-thickness uterine excision rat model, our bilayer EC not only restored the morphology and structure of the endometrial wall (including organized luminal/ glandular epithelium, stroma, vasculature and the smooth muscle layer), but also significantly improved the reproductive outcome in the surgical area after implantation (75%, 12/16, p < 0.01). Therefore, repair of the uterine endometrium using the developed 3D bio-printed bilayer EC may represent an effective regenerative treatment for severe endometrial injury. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Achieving structural and functional recovery of the endometrium following severe injury is still a challenge. Here, we designed a 3D bio-printed endometrial construct (EC) to mimic the native bilayer structure and cellular components of the endometrium. The bio-printed EC consists of a dense upper layer with endometrial epithelial cells and a lower layer with endometrial stromal cells. In particular, the 3D bio-printed EC significantly improved the reproductive outcome in the surgical area (75%, 12/16) compared to that of the cell-loaded non-printed group (12.5%, 2/16). This study demonstrates that a biomimetic bilayer construct can facilitate endometrial repair and regeneration. Therefore, an endometrial cells-loaded 3D-bioprinted EC is a promising therapeutic option for patients suffering from severe endometrial damage.
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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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CRC Therapy Identifies Indian Hedgehog Signaling in Mouse Endometrial Epithelial Cells and Inhibition of Ihh-KLF9 as a Novel Strategy for Treating IUA. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244053. [PMID: 36552817 PMCID: PMC9776583 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) causes menstrual disturbance and infertility. There is no effective treatment available for moderate to severe IUA cases. Stem cell-based therapy has been investigated for treating IUA but is limited in clinical applications due to issues including the precise induction of differentiation, tumorigenesis, and unclear molecular mechanisms. In our recent study, we isolated and expanded the long-term cultures of conditional reprogrammed (CR) mouse endometrial epithelial cells. Treating IUA mice with these CR cells (CRCs) restored the morphology and structure of the endometrium and significantly improved the pregnancy rate. In this study, our data with high-throughput sequencing, CRISPR knockout Ihh-/-CRCs, and transplantation identified for the first time that the Indian hedgehog (Ihh) gene plays a critical role in the regulation of endometrial epithelial cell proliferation. We also found that aberrant activated Ihh-krüppel-like factor 9 (KLF9) signaling contributes to the inhibition of normal progesterone receptor (PR) function in IUA mice. Thus, we hypothesized that inhibition of the Ihh-KLF9 pathway may be a novel strategy to treat IUA. Our data demonstrated that treatment with the hedgehog signaling inhibitor Vismodegib restored the morphology, structure, and microenvironment of the endometrium, and greatly improved the pregnancy rate in IUA mice. This study suggests a promising application of hedgehog inhibitors as a targeted drug in the IUA clinic.
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Xia S, Wu M, Zhou X, Zhang X, Ye L, Zhang K, Kang Y, Liu J, Zhang Y, Wu W, Dong D, Chen H, Li H. Treating intrauterine adhesion using conditionally reprogrammed physiological endometrial epithelial cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:178. [PMID: 35505443 PMCID: PMC9066886 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02860-w] [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: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is unmet need for effective therapies of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) that are common cause of menstrual disturbance and infertility, since current clinical procedures do not improve prognosis for patients with moderate to severe IUA, with a recurrence rate of 23–50%. Stem cell-based therapy has emerged as a therapeutic option with unsolved issues for IUA patients in the past few years. Primary endometrial epithelial cells for cell therapy are largely hampered with the extremely limited proliferation capacity of uterine epithelial cells. This study was to evaluate whether IUA is curable with conditionally reprogrammed (CR) endometrial epithelial cells. Methods Mouse endometrial epithelial cells (MEECs) were isolated from C57BL female mice, and long-term cultures of MEECs were established and maintained with conditional reprogramming (CR) method. DNA damage response analysis, soft agar assay, and matrigel 3D culture were carried out to determine the normal biological characteristics of CR-MEECs. The tissue-specific differentiation potential of MEECs was analyzed with air–liquid interface (ALI) 3D culture, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, Masson’s trichrome and DAB staining, immunofluorescence assay. IUA mice were constructed and transplanted with CR-MEECs. Repair and mechanisms of MEECs transplantation in IUA mice were measured with qRT-PCR, Masson’s trichrome, and DAB staining. Results We first successfully established long-term cultures of MEECs using CR approach. CR-MEECs maintained a rapid and stable proliferation in this co-culture system. Our data confirmed that CR-MEECs retained normal biological characteristics and endometrium tissue-specific differentiation potential. CR-MEECs also expressed estrogen and progesterone receptors and maintained the exquisite sensitivity to sex hormones in vitro. Most importantly, allogeneic transplantation of CR-MEECs successfully repaired the injured endometrium and significantly improved the pregnancy rate of IUA mice. Conclusions Conditionally reprogrammed physiological endometrial epithelial cells provide a novel strategy in IUA clinics in a personalized or generalized manner and also serve as a physiological model to explore biology of endometrial epithelial cells and mechanisms of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Xia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Ming Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Xinhao Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Xiu Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Lina Ye
- Wuhan University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, Guangdong, China
| | - Kang Zhang
- Wuhan University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, Guangdong, China
| | - Yiyi Kang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Yunci Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Wang Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Dirong Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China.
| | - Hui Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China. .,Wuhan University Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, Guangdong, China.
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Chemerin Effect on the Endometrial Proteome of the Domestic Pig during Implantation Obtained by LC-MS/MS Analysis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071161. [PMID: 35406725 PMCID: PMC8997736 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071161] [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: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemerin (CHEM) is a hormone mainly expressed in adipocytes involved in the regulation of energy homeostasis and inflammatory response. CHEM expression has been demonstrated in the structures of the porcine hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, as well as in the uterus, trophoblasts and conceptuses of pigs. In this study, we performed high-throughput proteomic analyses (liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, LC-MS/MS) to examine the influence of CHEM (400 ng/mL) on differentially regulated proteins (DRPs) in the porcine endometrial tissue explants during implantation (15 to 16 days of gestation). Among all 352 DRPs, 164 were up-regulated and 188 were down-regulated in CHEM-treated group. DRPs were assigned to 47 gene ontology (GO) terms (p-adjusted < 0.05). Validation of four DRPs (IFIT5, TGFβ1, ACO1 and PGRMC1) by Western blot analysis confirmed the veracity and accuracy of the LC-MS/MS method used in the present study. We suggest that CHEM, by modulating various protein expressions, takes part in the endometrial cell proliferation, migration and invasion at the time of implantation. It also regulates the endometrial immune response, sensitivity to P4 and the formation of new blood vessels. Additionally, CHEM appears to be an important factor involved in endothelial cell dysfunction during the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. The identification of a large number of DRPs under the influence of CHEM provides a valuable resource for understanding the molecular mechanisms of this hormone action during implantation, which is a prerequisite for better control of pig reproduction.
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Yang Y, Zhu QY, Liu JL. Deciphering mouse uterine receptivity for embryo implantation at single-cell resolution. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e13128. [PMID: 34558134 PMCID: PMC8560620 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Mice are widely used as an animal model for studying human uterine receptivity for embryo implantation. Although transcriptional changes related to mouse uterine receptivity have been determined by using bulk RNA‐seq, the data are of limited value because the uterus is a complex organ consisting of many cell types. Here, we aimed to decipher mouse uterine receptivity for embryo implantation at single‐cell resolution. Materials and methods Single‐cell RNA sequencing was performed for the pre‐receptive and the receptive mouse uterus. Gene expression profiles in luminal epithelium and glandular epithelium were validated by comparing against a published laser capture microdissection (LCM)‐coupled microarray dataset. Results We revealed 19 distinct cell clusters, including 3 stromal cell clusters, 2 epithelial cell clusters, 1 smooth muscle cell cluster, 4 endothelial cell clusters and 8 immune cell clusters. We identified global gene expression changes associated with uterine receptivity in each cell type. Additionally, we predicted signalling interactions for distinct cell types to understand the crosstalk between the blastocyst and the receptive uterus. Conclusion Our data provide a valuable resource for deciphering the molecular mechanism underlying uterine receptivity in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qiu-Yang Zhu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji-Long Liu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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Improved Models of Human Endometrial Organoids Based on Hydrogels from Decellularized Endometrium. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060504. [PMID: 34205034 PMCID: PMC8229407 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids are three-dimensional (3D) multicellular tissue models that mimic their corresponding in vivo tissue. Successful efforts have derived organoids from primary tissues such as intestine, liver, and pancreas. For human uterine endometrium, the recent generation of 3D structures from primary endometrial cells is inspiring new studies of this important tissue using precise preclinical models. To improve on these 3D models, we decellularized pig endometrium containing tissue-specific extracellular matrix and generated a hydrogel (EndoECM). Next, we derived three lines of human endometrial organoids and cultured them in optimal and suboptimal culture expansion media with or without EndoECM (0.01 mg/mL) as a soluble additive. We characterized the resultant organoids to verify their epithelial origin, long-term chromosomal stability, and stemness properties. Lastly, we determined their proliferation potential under different culture conditions using proliferation rates and immunohistochemical methods. Our results demonstrate the importance of a bioactive environment for the maintenance and proliferation of human endometrial organoids.
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Lv Q, Wang L, Luo X, Chen X. Adult stem cells in endometrial regeneration: Molecular insights and clinical applications. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:379-394. [PMID: 34014590 PMCID: PMC8362170 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial damage is an important cause of female reproductive problems, manifested as menstrual abnormalities, infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and other complications. These conditions are collectively termed "Asherman syndrome" (AS) and are typically associated with recurrent induced pregnancy terminations, repeated diagnostic curettage and intrauterine infections. Cancer treatment also has unexpected detrimental side effects on endometrial function in survivors independently of ovarian effects. Endometrial stem cells act in the regeneration of the endometrium and in repair through direct differentiation or paracrine effects. Nonendometrial adult stem cells, such as bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells, with autologous and allogenic applications, can also repair injured endometrial tissue in animal models of AS and in human studies. However, there remains a lack of research on the repair of the damaged endometrium after the reversal of tumors, especially endometrial cancers. Here, we review the biological mechanisms of endometrial regeneration, and research progress and challenges for adult stem cell therapy for damaged endometrium, and discuss the potential applications of their use for endometrial repair after cancer remission, especially in endometrial cancers. Successful application of such cells will improve reproductive parameters in patients with AS or cancer. Significance: The endometrium is the fertile ground for embryos, but damage to the endometrium will greatly impair female fertility. Adult stem cells combined with tissue engineering scaffold materials or not have made great progress in repairing the injured endometrium due to benign lesions. However, due to the lack of research on the repair of the damaged endometrium caused by malignant tumors or tumor therapies, the safety and effectiveness of such stem cell-based therapies need to be further explored. This review focuses on the molecular insights and clinical application potential of adult stem cells in endometrial regeneration and discusses the possible challenges or difficulties that need to be overcome in stem cell-based therapies for tumor survivors. The development of adult stem cell-related new programs will help repair damaged endometrium safely and effectively and meet fertility needs in tumor survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoying Lv
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xuezhen Luo
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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14
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Jiang X, Li X, Fei X, Shen J, Chen J, Guo M, Li Y. Endometrial membrane organoids from human embryonic stem cell combined with the 3D Matrigel for endometrium regeneration in asherman syndrome. Bioact Mater 2021; 6:3935-3946. [PMID: 33937593 PMCID: PMC8079828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Asherman's syndrome (AS), a leading cause of uterine infertility worldwide, is characterized by scarring of the uterine surfaces lacking endometrial epithelial cells, which prevents endometrial regeneration. Current research on cell therapy for AS focuses on mesenchymal and adult stem cells from the endometrium. However, insufficient number, lack of purity, and rapid senescence of endometrial epithelial progenitor cells (EEPCs) during experimental processes restrict their use in cell therapies. In this study, we induced human embryonic stem cells-9 (H9-ESC) into EEPCs by optimizing the induction factors from the definitive endoderm. EEPCs, which act as endometrial epithelial cells, accompanied by human endometrial stromal cells provide a niche environment for the development of endometrial membrane organoids (EMOs) in an in vitro 3D culture model. To investigate the function of EMOs, we transplanted tissue-engineered constructs with EMOs into an in vivo rat AS model. The implantation of EMOs into the damaged endometrium facilitates endometrial regeneration and angiogenesis. Implanting EMOs developed from human embryonic stem cells into the endometrium might prove useful for "endometrial re-engineering" in the treatment of Asherman's syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Jiang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
| | - Xingmiao Li
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
| | - Xiangwei Fei
- Key Laboratory of Women′s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
| | - Jiajie Shen
- Key Laboratory of Women′s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
| | - Jianhua Chen
- Department of Pathology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
| | - Meijun Guo
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
| | - Yangyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Women′s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 310006, China
- Corresponding author.
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15
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de Miguel-Gómez L, López-Martínez S, Francés-Herrero E, Rodríguez-Eguren A, Pellicer A, Cervelló I. Stem Cells and the Endometrium: From the Discovery of Adult Stem Cells to Pre-Clinical Models. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030595. [PMID: 33800355 PMCID: PMC7998473 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult stem cells (ASCs) were long suspected to exist in the endometrium. Indeed, several types of endometrial ASCs were identified in rodents and humans through diverse isolation and characterization techniques. Putative stromal and epithelial stem cell niches were identified in murine models using label-retention techniques. In humans, functional methods (clonogenicity, long-term culture, and multi-lineage differentiation assays) and stem cell markers (CD146, SUSD2/W5C5, LGR5, NTPDase2, SSEA-1, or N-cadherin) facilitated the identification of three main types of endogenous endometrial ASCs: stromal, epithelial progenitor, and endothelial stem cells. Further, exogenous populations of stem cells derived from bone marrow may act as key effectors of the endometrial ASC niche. These findings are promoting the development of stem cell therapies for endometrial pathologies, with an evolution towards paracrine approaches. At the same time, promising therapeutic alternatives based on bioengineering have been proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía de Miguel-Gómez
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Sara López-Martínez
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
| | - Emilio Francés-Herrero
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Adolfo Rodríguez-Eguren
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- IVIRMA Rome Parioli, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Cervelló
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.d.M.-G.); (S.L.-M.); (E.F.-H.); (A.R.-E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-963-903-305
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16
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Saguyod SJU, Alhallak I, Simmen RCM, Velarde MC. Metformin regulation of progesterone receptor isoform-B expression in human endometrial cancer cells is glucose-dependent. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:249. [PMID: 32994812 PMCID: PMC7509689 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.12112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin (MET) constitutes the first-line treatment against type 2 diabetes. Growing evidence linking insulin resistance and cancer risk has expanded the therapeutic potential of MET to several cancer types. However, the oncostatic mechanisms of MET are not well understood. MET has been shown to promote the expression of progesterone receptor (PGR) and other antitumor biomarkers in patients with non-diabetic endometrial cancer (EC) and in Ishikawa EC cells cultured in normal glucose (5.5 mM) media. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the effects of MET on EC cells under conditions simulating diabetes. Ishikawa cells treated with 10 nM 17β-estradiol (E2) and/or 100 µM MET and exposed to normal and high (17.5 mM) concentrations of glucose were evaluated for proliferative and PGR expression status. Under normal glucose conditions, MET attenuated E2-induced cell proliferation and cyclin D1 gene expression, and increased total PGR and PGR-B transcript levels. MET inhibited Ishikawa cell spheroid formation only in the absence of E2 treatment. In E2-treated cells under high glucose conditions, MET showed no effects on cell proliferation and spheroid formation, and increased total PGR but not PGR-B transcript levels. Transfection with Krüppel-like factor 9 small interfering RNA increased PGR-A transcript levels, irrespective of glucose environment. Medroxyprogesterone acetate downregulated PGR-A expression more effectively with metformin under high compared with normal glucose conditions. To evaluate the potential mechanisms underlying the targeting of PGR by MET, E2-treated cells were incubated with MET and the AMPK inhibitor Compound C, or with the AMPK activator 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR), under normal glucose conditions. Compound C abrogated the effects of MET on PGR-B while AICAR increased PGR-B transcript levels, albeit less effectively compared with MET. The present results demonstrate the glucose-dependent effects of MET on PGR-B isoform expression, which may inform the response to progestin therapy in diabetic women with EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Jade U Saguyod
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, PH 1101, Philippines
| | - Iad Alhallak
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Rosalia C M Simmen
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA.,The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Michael C Velarde
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, PH 1101, Philippines
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17
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Lan T, Mu C, Wang Z, Wang Y, Li Y, Mai Y, Li S, Xu H, Gu B, Luo L, Ma P. Diagnostic and Prognostic Values of Serum EpCAM, TGM2, and HE4 Levels in Endometrial Cancer. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1697. [PMID: 33014844 PMCID: PMC7498689 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic values of EpCAM, TGM2, and HE4 in endometrial cancer (EC). Methods: In this study, 42 patients diagnosed with EC (EC group), 41 patients diagnosed with myoma (benign group), and 43 healthy women (healthy group), who applied to Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University between March 2018 - September 2019 were recruited. Serum EpCAM, TGM2, and IL-33 levels were measured by ELISA, while serum HE4 and CA-125 levels were measured by ECLIA. The serum markers listed above were also measured in 12 paired pre- and post-operative EC patients. The diagnostic and prognostic values of serum markers were analyzed. Results: The serum EpCAM, TGM2, HE4, CA-125, and IL-33 levels were significantly higher in the EC group. The sensitivity and specificity of combined detection of EpCAM and HE4 was 92.86 and 69.05%, which were significantly higher than using a single marker or other combinations. Among these markers, serum HE4 levels were significantly higher in patients with myometrial invasion, metastasis, and lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.006, p = 0.0004, p = 0.0004, respectively). And serum TGM2 levels were significantly decreased in post-operative than that of pre-operative EC patients (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The combination of EpCAM and HE4 showed the highest specificity and sensitivity in the diagnosis of EC. HE4 was successful in the detection of high-risk individuals preoperatively. Additionally, TGM2 might be a prognostic factor for EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Lan
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Chunyan Mu
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Zhongcheng Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ying Li
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yueqin Mai
- Air Force Jinan Base Security Department Outpatient Department, Jinan, China
| | - Shibao Li
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Bing Gu
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Lan Luo
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Ping Ma
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
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18
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Casals JB, Pieri NCG, Roballo KCS, Bressan FF, Favaron PO, Martins DDS, Ambrósio CE. Pluripotent stem cells proliferation is associated with placentation in dogs. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200040. [PMID: 33029216 PMCID: PMC7534554 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells have been studied as source of cells for regenerative medicine and acquire or genetic diseases, as an innovative therapy. Most tissues have stem cells populations, however in few quantities or impossible to be used during adult life, which lead to scientists look for new sources. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the presence of pluripotent cells in the uterus and placenta, following up non-pregnant, pregnant (begin, middle, and final), and postpartum periods in dogs. The uteri were obtained from social castration programs for population control in Pirassununga, Sao Paulo, Brazil. It was collected 20 uteri at different stages. The samples were fixed and processed for immunohistochemical analysis of NANOG, OCT4 and SOX2 expression, knowing as pluripotent stem cells makers. Our results showed positive expression for NANOG, OCT4 and SOX2 in all stages of gestation and nonpregnant uterus; however, we highlight some quantitative different between stages. OCT4 showed more expression in non-pregnant uterus than NANOG and SOX2, and its expression increased in pregnant uterus. In pregnant uterus there was more expression of NANOG than OCT4 and SOX2. Interesting, no difference was found between these markers in the other periods. In conclusion, it was possible to identify pluripotent stem cells in all periods in dog placenta and uterus, however during the early stage of pregnancy we observed more pluripotent stem cells than in all the others periods confirming the high plasticity and regeneration capacity of the uterine tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Barbosa Casals
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Naira Caroline Godoy Pieri
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Kelly Cristine Santos Roballo
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil.,School of Pharmacy, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Phelipe Oliveira Favaron
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Daniele Dos Santos Martins
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Carlos Eduardo Ambrósio
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
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19
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Oliveira CARD, Dos Reis Araujo T, Aguiar GDS, da Silva Junior JA, Vettorazzi JF, Freitas IN, Oliveira KMD, Boschero AC, Bonfleur ML, Clarke JR, Henriques HN, Ribeiro RA. Combined oral contraceptive in female mice causes hyperinsulinemia due to β-cell hypersecretion and reduction in insulin clearance. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 190:54-63. [PMID: 30923014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Oral contraception is the most commonly used interventional method in the world. However, several women employ the continuous use of these hormones to avoid pre- and menstruation discomforts. Some studies indicate that oral contraceptives are associated with disturbances in glycemia and the effects of the use of a continuous regime are poorly elucidated. Herein, we evaluated the effects of the continuous administration of a combined oral contraceptive (COC) composed by ethinyl estradiol (EE) and drospirenone (DRSP) on glucose homeostasis in female mice. Adult Swiss mice received 0.6 μg EE and 60 μg DRSP (COC group) or vehicle [control (CTL)] daily by gavage for 35 days. COC treatment had no effect on body weight or adiposity, but increased uterus weight and induced hepatomegaly. Importantly, COC females displayed normal glycemia and glucose tolerance, but hyperinsulinemia and lower plasma C-peptide/insulin ratio, indicating reduced insulin clearance. Furthermore, COC mice displayed reduced protein content of the β subunit of the insulin receptor (IRβ) in the liver. Additionally, pancreatic islets isolated from COC mice secreted more insulin in response to increasing glucose concentrations. This effect was associated with the activity of steroid hormones, since INS-1E cells incubated with EE plus DRSP also secreted more insulin. Therefore, we provide the first evidence that the continuous administration of EE and DRSP lead to hyperinsulinemia, due to enhancement of insulin secretion and the reduction of insulin degradation, which possibly lead to the down-regulation of hepatic IRβ. These findings suggest that the continuous administration of COC could cause insulin resistance with the prolongation of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thiago Dos Reis Araujo
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Gésily de Souza Aguiar
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Campus UFRJ-Macaé Professor Aloísio Teixeira, Macaé, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Jean Franciesco Vettorazzi
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Israelle Netto Freitas
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Kênia Moreno de Oliveira
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Campus UFRJ-Macaé Professor Aloísio Teixeira, Macaé, RJ, Brazil
| | - Antonio Carlos Boschero
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Lúcia Bonfleur
- Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, PR, Brazil
| | - Júlia Rosauro Clarke
- Núcleo de Neurociências da Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Campus UFRJ-Ilha do Fundão, RJ, Brazil
| | - Helene Nara Henriques
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Campus UFRJ-Macaé Professor Aloísio Teixeira, Macaé, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rosane Aparecida Ribeiro
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Campus UFRJ-Macaé Professor Aloísio Teixeira, Macaé, RJ, Brazil.
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20
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Pepe G, Locati M, Della Torre S, Mornata F, Cignarella A, Maggi A, Vegeto E. The estrogen-macrophage interplay in the homeostasis of the female reproductive tract. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 24:652-672. [PMID: 30256960 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogens are known to orchestrate reproductive events and to regulate the immune system during infections and following tissue damage. Recent findings suggest that, in the absence of any danger signal, estrogens trigger the physiological expansion and functional specialization of macrophages, which are immune cells that populate the female reproductive tract (FRT) and are increasingly being recognized to participate in tissue homeostasis beyond their immune activity against infections. Although estrogens are the only female gonadal hormones that directly target macrophages, a comprehensive view of this endocrine-immune communication and its involvement in the FRT is still missing. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Recent accomplishments encourage a revision of the literature on the ability of macrophages to respond to estrogens and induce tissue-specific functions required for reproductive events, with the aim to envision macrophages as key players in FRT homeostasis and mediators of the regenerative and trophic actions of estrogens. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a systematic search using PubMed and Ovid for human, animal (rodents) and cellular studies published until 2018 on estrogen action in macrophages and the activity of these cells in the FRT. OUTCOMES Our search identified the remarkable ability of macrophages to activate biochemical processes in response to estrogens in cell culture experiments. The distribution at specific locations, interaction with selected cells and acquisition of distinct phenotypes of macrophages in the FRT, as well as the cyclic renewal of these properties at each ovarian cycle, demonstrate the involvement of these cells in the homeostasis of reproductive events. Moreover, current evidence suggests an association between estrogen-macrophage signaling and the generation of a tolerant and regenerative environment in the FRT, although a causative link is still missing. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Dysregulation of the functions and estrogen responsiveness of FRT macrophages may be involved in infertility and estrogen- and macrophage-dependent gynecological diseases, such as ovarian cancer and endometriosis. Thus, more research is needed on the physiology and pharmacological control of this endocrine-immune interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Pepe
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Locati
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Segrate, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, via fratelli Cervi, Segrate, Italy
| | - Sara Della Torre
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Mornata
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Cignarella
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Largo Meneghetti 2, Padua, Italy
| | - Adriana Maggi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Vegeto
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, via Balzaretti, 9 Milan, Italy
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21
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Bipotent stem cells support the cyclical regeneration of endometrial epithelium of the murine uterus. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:6848-6857. [PMID: 30872480 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1814597116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrial epithelium of the uterus regenerates periodically. The cellular source of newly regenerated endometrial epithelia during a mouse estrous cycle or a human menstrual cycle is presently unknown. Here, I have used single-cell lineage tracing in the whole mouse uterus to demonstrate that epithelial stem cells exist in the mouse uterus. These uterine epithelial stem cells provide a resident cellular supply that fuels endometrial epithelial regeneration. They are able to survive cyclical uterine tissue loss and persistently generate all endometrial epithelial lineages, including the functionally distinct luminal and glandular epithelia, to maintain uterine cycling. The uterine epithelial stem cell population also supports the regeneration of uterine endometrial epithelium post parturition. The 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine pulse-chase experiments further reveal that this stem cell population may reside in the intersection zone between luminal and glandular epithelial compartments. This tissue distribution allows these bipotent uterine epithelial stem cells to bidirectionally differentiate to maintain homeostasis and regeneration of mouse endometrial epithelium under physiological conditions. Thus, uterine function over the reproductive lifespan of a mouse relies on stem cell-maintained rhythmic endometrial regeneration.
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22
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Cousins FL, O DF, Ong YR, Breault DT, Deane JA, Gargett CE. Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Expression in Mouse Endometrium During Reepithelialization and Regeneration in a Menses-Like Model. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 28:1-12. [PMID: 30358490 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The regenerative capacity of the endometrium has been attributed to resident stem/progenitor cells. A number of stem/progenitor markers have been reported for human endometrial stem/progenitor cells; however, the lack of convenient markers in the mouse has made experimental investigation into endometrial regeneration difficult. We recently identified endometrial epithelial, endothelial, and immune cells, which express a reporter for the stem/progenitor marker, mouse telomerase reverse transcriptase (mTert). In this study, we investigate the expression pattern of a green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter for mTert promoter activity (mTert-GFP) in endometrial regeneration following a menses-like event. mTert-GFP expression marks subepithelial populations of T cells and mature macrophages and may play a role in immune cell regulated repair. Clusters of mTert-GFP-positive epithelial cells were identified close to areas of reepithelialization and possibly highlight a role for mTert in the repair and regeneration of the endometrial epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L Cousins
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Clayton, Australia
| | - Dorien F O
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Yih Rue Ong
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - David T Breault
- 3 Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James A Deane
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Clayton, Australia
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Clayton, Australia
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23
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Patterson AL, George JW, Chatterjee A, Carpenter T, Wolfrum E, Pru JK, Teixeira JM. Label-Retaining, Putative Mesenchymal Stem Cells Contribute to Murine Myometrial Repair During Uterine Involution. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:1715-1728. [PMID: 30328770 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine remodeling during pregnancy is a fundamental, dynamic process required for successful propagation of eutherian species. The uterus can increase in size up to 40-fold during pregnancy, which is largely attributed to expansion of the myometrium by hyperplasia and hypertrophy. After pregnancy, the uterus repairs the remodeled or "damaged" tissue during uterine involution (INV). Little is known about this repair process, particularly the role of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize putative mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells in the murine myometrium using a combination of label retention and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) marker expression and a pregnancy and uterine INV model. Tet-off transgenic mice with the Cre-lox system were used to specifically label mesenchymal cells (ie, myometrial and endometrial stromal cells) within the uterus while avoiding other cell types (eg, epithelial, immune, and endothelial cells) to identify slowly dividing cells and assess their stem cell qualities. We identified myometrial label-retaining cells (LRCs) that persisted for at least 3 months, expressed CD146 and CD140b (MSC markers), and proliferated at a higher rate during uterine INV compared with nonlabeled cells. The LRCs did not appear to express either estrogen receptor alpha or progesterone receptor, nor did the number of LRCs change at different estrous stages or in response to exogenous estradiol or progesterone administration, suggesting that LRCs were not involved in normal estrous cycling. The results from this study provide important insight into putative stem/progenitor cells in the myometrium and their possible role in uterine physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Patterson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Jitu W George
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Anindita Chatterjee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Tyler Carpenter
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Emily Wolfrum
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - James K Pru
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
| | - Jose M Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
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24
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Endometrial Stem Cells in Farm Animals: Potential Role in Uterine Physiology and Pathology. Bioengineering (Basel) 2018; 5:bioengineering5030075. [PMID: 30231577 PMCID: PMC6163755 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering5030075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is an accessible source of mesenchymal stem cells. Most investigations of endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) have been conducted in humans. In animals, particularly in livestock, eMSC research is scarce. Such cells have been described in the bovine, ovine, caprine, porcine, and equine endometrium. Here we provide the state of the art of eMSCs in farm animals with a focus on the bovine species. In bovines, eMSCs have been identified during the phases of the estrous cycle, during which their functionality and the presence of eMSC-specific markers has been shown to change. Moreover, postpartum inflammation related to endometritis affects the presence and functionality of eMSCs, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) may be the mediator of such changes. We demonstrated that exposure to PGE2 in vitro modifies the transcriptomic profile of eMSCs, showing its potential role in the fate of stem cell activation, migration, and homing during pathological uterine inflammation in endometritis and in healthy puerperal endometrium. Farm animal research on eMSCs can be of great value in translational research for certain uterine pathologies and for immunomodulation of local responses to pathogens, hormones, and other substances. Further research is necessary in areas such as in vivo location of the niches and their immunomodulatory and anti-infective properties.
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25
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Development and characterization of a polarized human endometrial cell epithelia in an air-liquid interface state. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:209. [PMID: 30092834 PMCID: PMC6085666 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0962-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endometrial epithelia undergo injury repair and regeneration with the menstrual cycle; however, mechanisms underpinning the roles of endometrial epithelial cells in endometrial lesions and regeneration remain incompletely understood, mainly owing to the difficulty in the isolation and expansion of primary endometrial epithelial cells and the lack of reliable models for in vitro and in vivo studies. In this report, we sought to improve methods for the isolation and expansion of human endometrial epithelial cells with a Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor–modified medium and subsequently characterize endometrial epithelium generated with primary cells cultured in an air–liquid interface (ALI) state. Immunocytochemistry staining revealed the expression of epithelial cellular adhesion molecule (EpCam) and stage-specific embryonic antigen-1 (SSEA-1) but a lack of CD13 in endometrial epithelial cells. Meanwhile, a large number of proliferative Ki67+ cells were observed in isolated epithelial cells. Importantly, the EpCam+/CD13− cells were capable of forming spheroids, a characteristic of epithelial stem/progenitor cells. Interestingly, these cells also exhibited a capacity to reconstitute epithelial layers in an ALI state. Morphological analysis revealed mucosal secretion of differentiated epithelial cells with cilia and microvilli in ALI epithelial cells as determined by electronic microscopy. Immunoblotting assay further demonstrated the expression of endometrial epithelial cell markers keratin 17/19 and EpCam and stem cell marker OCT3/4 but not stromal cell marker Vimentin protein and CD13 in cell expansions. Furthermore, molecular analysis also showed that the exposure of cells to estrogen elevated the expression of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptors in ALI cultures. Our results shed light on the possibility of expanding sufficient numbers of endometrial epithelial cells for stem cell biology studies, and they provide a feasible and alternative model that can recapitulate the characteristics and physiology of endometrial epithelium in vivo.
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26
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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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27
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Wen KC, Sung PL, Chou YT, Pan CM, Wang PH, Lee OKS, Wu CW. The role of EpCAM in tumor progression and the clinical prognosis of endometrial carcinoma. Gynecol Oncol 2018; 148:383-392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2017.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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28
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Figueira MI, Cardoso HJ, Correia S, Maia CJ, Socorro S. The stem cell factor (SCF)/c-KIT system in carcinogenesis of reproductive tissues: What does the hormonal regulation tell us? Cancer Lett 2017; 405:10-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2017.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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29
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Tyagi A, Vishnoi K, Kaur H, Srivastava Y, Roy BG, Das BC, Bharti AC. Cervical cancer stem cells manifest radioresistance: Association with upregulated AP-1 activity. Sci Rep 2017; 7:4781. [PMID: 28684765 PMCID: PMC5500478 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05162-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor AP-1 plays a central role in HPV-mediated cervical carcinogenesis. AP-1 has also been implicated in chemo-radio-resistance but the mechanism(s) remained unexplored. In the present study, cervical cancer stem-like cells (CaCxSLCs) isolated and enriched from cervical cancer cell lines SiHa and C33a demonstrated an elevated AP-1 DNA-binding activity in comparison to non-stem cervical cancer cells. Upon UV-irradiation, CaCxSLCs showed a UV exposure duration-dependent higher proliferation and highly increased AP-1 activity whereas it was completely abolished in non-stem cancer cells. CaCxSLCs also showed differential overexpression of c-Fos and c-Jun at transcript as well as in protein level. The loss of AP-1 activity and expression was accompanied by decrease in cell viability and proliferation in UV-irradiated non-stem cancer cells. Interestingly, CaCxSLCs treated with curcumin prior to UV-irradiation abolished AP-1 activity and a concomitant reduction in SP cells leading to abrogation of sphere forming ability, loss of proliferation, induction of apoptosis and the cells were poorly tumorigenic. The curcumin pre-treatment abolished the expression of c-Fos and c-Jun but upregulated Fra-1 expression in UV-irradiated CaCxSLCs. Thus, the study suggests a critical role of AP-1 protein in the manifestation of radioresistance but targeting with curcumin helps in radiosensitizing CaCxSLCs through upregulation of Fra-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tyagi
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, B.R. Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India.,Division of Molecular Oncology, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), Noida, 201301, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Stem Cell and Cancer Research Lab, Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201313, India
| | - Kanchan Vishnoi
- Division of Molecular Oncology, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), Noida, 201301, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Harsimrut Kaur
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, B.R. Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Yogesh Srivastava
- Division of Molecular Oncology, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), Noida, 201301, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bal Gangadhar Roy
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Defence Research Development Organization, Delhi, 110 054, India
| | - Bhudev C Das
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, B.R. Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India. .,Stem Cell and Cancer Research Lab, Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201313, India.
| | - Alok C Bharti
- Division of Molecular Oncology, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), Noida, 201301, Uttar Pradesh, India. .,Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India.
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30
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Wu B, An C, Li Y, Yin Z, Gong L, Li Z, Liu Y, Heng BC, Zhang D, Ouyang H, Zou X. Reconstructing Lineage Hierarchies of Mouse Uterus Epithelial Development Using Single-Cell Analysis. Stem Cell Reports 2017. [PMID: 28625536 PMCID: PMC5511104 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2017.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrial layer comprises luminal and glandular epithelia that both develop from the same simple layer of fetal uterine epithelium. Mechanisms of uterine epithelial progenitor self-renewal and differentiation are unclear. This study aims to systematically analyze the molecular and cellular mechanisms of uterine epithelial development by single-cell analysis. An integrated set of single-cell transcriptomic data of uterine epithelial progenitors and their differentiated progenies is provided. Additionally the unique molecular signatures of these cells, characterized by sequential upregulation of specific epigenetic and metabolic activities, and activation of unique signaling pathways and transcription factors, were also investigated. Finally a unique subpopulation of early progenitor, as well as differentiated luminal and glandular lineages, were identified. A complex cellular hierarchy of uterine epithelial development was thus delineated. Our study therefore systematically decoded molecular markers and a cellular program of uterine epithelial development that sheds light on uterine developmental biology. Single-cell transcriptome of mouse uterine epithelial development is provided Epithelial progenitors during early development of uterine epithelia is identified Molecular cascades orchestrating uterine epithelial development are dissected Cellular hierarchical map of uterine epithelial development is reconstructed
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingbing Wu
- Department of Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qing Chun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China
| | - Chengrui An
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qing Chun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China
| | - Zi Yin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China
| | - Lin Gong
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China
| | - Zhenli Li
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China
| | - Yixiao Liu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China
| | - Boon Chin Heng
- Department of Endodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China
| | - Hongwei Ouyang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China.
| | - Xiaohui Zou
- Department of Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qing Chun Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China; Dr.Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regeneration Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, PR China.
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31
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Boretto M, Cox B, Noben M, Hendriks N, Fassbender A, Roose H, Amant F, Timmerman D, Tomassetti C, Vanhie A, Meuleman C, Ferrante M, Vankelecom H. Development of organoids from mouse and human endometrium showing endometrial epithelium physiology and long-term expandability. Development 2017; 144:1775-1786. [PMID: 28442471 DOI: 10.1242/dev.148478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The endometrium, which is of crucial importance for reproduction, undergoes dynamic cyclic tissue remodeling. Knowledge of its molecular and cellular regulation is poor, primarily owing to a lack of study models. Here, we have established a novel and promising organoid model from both mouse and human endometrium. Dissociated endometrial tissue, embedded in Matrigel under WNT-activating conditions, swiftly formed organoid structures that showed long-term expansion capacity, and reproduced the molecular and histological phenotype of the tissue's epithelium. The supplemented WNT level determined the type of mouse endometrial organoids obtained: high WNT yielded cystic organoids displaying a more differentiated phenotype than the dense organoids obtained in low WNT. The organoids phenocopied physiological responses of endometrial epithelium to hormones, including increased cell proliferation under estrogen and maturation upon progesterone. Moreover, the human endometrial organoids replicated the menstrual cycle under hormonal treatment at both the morpho-histological and molecular levels. Together, we established an organoid culture system for endometrium, reproducing tissue epithelium physiology and allowing long-term expansion. This novel model provides a powerful tool for studying mechanisms underlying the biology as well as the pathology of this key reproductive organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Boretto
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Benoit Cox
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Manuel Noben
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Translational Research in Gastrointestinal Disorders, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nikolai Hendriks
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Translational Research in Gastrointestinal Disorders, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amelie Fassbender
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Organ Systems, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Heleen Roose
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Amant
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Leuven (UZ Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,PDTX Platform/TRACE, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Center Gynecologic Oncology Amsterdam (CGOA), Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk Timmerman
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Organ Systems, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Leuven (UZ Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Carla Tomassetti
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Organ Systems, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Leuven (UZ Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Arne Vanhie
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Organ Systems, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Leuven (UZ Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christel Meuleman
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Organ Systems, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Leuven (UZ Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marc Ferrante
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Translational Research in Gastrointestinal Disorders, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hugo Vankelecom
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Unit of Stem Cell Research, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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32
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Mas A, Stone L, O'Connor PM, Yang Q, Kleven D, Simon C, Walker CL, Al-Hendy A. Developmental Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors Expands Murine Myometrial Stem Cell Compartment as a Prerequisite to Leiomyoma Tumorigenesis. Stem Cells 2016; 35:666-678. [PMID: 27739139 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence and major negative impact of uterine fibroids (UFs) on women's health, their pathogenesis remains largely unknown. While tumor-initiating cells have been previously isolated from UFs, the cell of origin for these tumors in normal myometrium has not been identified. We isolated cells with Stro1/CD44 surface markers from normal myometrium expressing stem cell markers Oct-4/c-kit/nanog that exhibited the properties of myometrial stem/progenitor-like cells (MSCs). Using a murine model for UFs, we showed that the cervix was a hypoxic "niche" and primary site (96%) for fibroid development in these animals. The pool size of these MSCs also responded to environmental cues, contracting with age and expanding in response to developmental environmental exposures that promote fibroid development. Translating these findings to women, the number of MSCs in unaffected human myometrium correlated with risk for developing UFs. Caucasian (CC) women with fibroids had increased numbers of MSCs relative to CC women without fibroids, and African-American (AA) women at highest risk for these tumors had the highest number of MSCs: AA-with fibroids > CC-with fibroids > AA-without fibroids > CC-without fibroids. These data identify Stro1+ /CD44+ MSCs as MSC/progenitor cell for UFs, and a target for ethnic and environmental factors that increase UF risk. Stem Cells 2017;35:666-678.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymara Mas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Leyland Stone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Paul M O'Connor
- Department of Physiology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Daniel Kleven
- Department of Pathology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Carlos Simon
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valencia University, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Cheryl L Walker
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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33
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Tyagi A, Vishnoi K, Mahata S, Verma G, Srivastava Y, Masaldan S, Roy BG, Bharti AC, Das BC. Cervical Cancer Stem Cells Selectively Overexpress HPV Oncoprotein E6 that Controls Stemness and Self-Renewal through Upregulation of HES1. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 22:4170-84. [PMID: 26988248 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-15-2574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Perturbation of keratinocyte differentiation by E6/E7 oncoproteins of high-risk human papillomaviruses that drive oncogenic transformation of cells in squamocolumnar junction of the uterine cervix may confer "stem-cell like" characteristics. However, the crosstalk between E6/E7 and stem cell signaling during cervical carcinogenesis is not well understood. We therefore examined the role of viral oncoproteins in stem cell signaling and maintenance of stemness in cervical cancer. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Isolation and enrichment of cervical cancer stem-like cells (CaCxSLCs) was done from cervical primary tumors and cancer cell lines by novel sequential gating using a set of functional and phenotypic markers (ABCG2, CD49f, CD71, CD133) in defined conditioned media for assessing sphere formation and expression of self-renewal and stemness markers by FACS, confocal microscopy, and qRT-PCR. Differential expression level and DNA-binding activity of Notch1 and its downstream targets in CaCxSLCs as well as silencing of HPVE6/Hes1 by siRNA was evaluated by gel retardation assay, FACS, immunoblotting, and qRT-PCR followed by in silico and in vivo xenograft analysis. RESULTS CaCxSLCs showed spheroid-forming ability, expressed self-renewal and stemness markers Oct4, Sox2, Nanog, Lrig1, and CD133, and selectively overexpressed E6 and HES1 transcripts in both cervical primary tumors and cancer cell lines. The enriched CaCxSLCs were highly tumorigenic and did recapitulate primary tumor histology in nude mice. siRNA silencing of HPVE6 or Hes1 abolished sphere formation, downregulated AP-1-STAT3 signaling, and induced redifferentiation. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest the possible mechanism by which HPVE6 potentially regulate and maintain stem-like cancer cells through Hes1. Clin Cancer Res; 22(16); 4170-84. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tyagi
- Stem Cell and Cancer Research Laboratory, Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University Campus, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Molecular Oncology Laboratory, B.R. Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Kanchan Vishnoi
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sutapa Mahata
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Gaurav Verma
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Yogesh Srivastava
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shashank Masaldan
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bal Gangadhar Roy
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Alok C Bharti
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology (ICMR), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India.
| | - Bhudev C Das
- Stem Cell and Cancer Research Laboratory, Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University Campus, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Molecular Oncology Laboratory, B.R. Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research (ACBR), University of Delhi, Delhi, India.
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Deane JA, Ong YR, Cain JE, Jayasekara WSN, Tiwari A, Carlone DL, Watkins DN, Breault DT, Gargett CE. The mouse endometrium contains epithelial, endothelial and leucocyte populations expressing the stem cell marker telomerase reverse transcriptase. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:272-84. [PMID: 26740067 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS The mouse endometrium harbours stem/progenitor cells that express the stem cell marker mouse telomerase reverse transcriptase (mTert). STUDY FINDING We used a mouse carrying a transgenic reporter for mTert promoter activity to identify rare endometrial populations of epithelial and endothelial cells that express mTert. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Stem/progenitor cells are hypothesized to be responsible for the remarkable regenerative capacity of the endometrium, but the lack of convenient endometrial stem/progenitor markers in the mouse has hampered investigations into the identity of these cells. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS A mouse containing a green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter under the control of the telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter (mTert-GFP) was used to identify potential stem/progenitor cells in the endometrium. mTert promoter activity was determined using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry to identify GFP(+) cells. GFP(+) cells were examined for epithelial, stromal, endothelial, leucocyte and proliferation markers and bromodeoxyuridine retention to determine their identity. The endometrium of ovariectomized mice was compared to that of intact cycling mice to establish the role of ovarian hormones in maintaining mTert-expressing cells. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We found that mTert-GFP is expressed by rare luminal and glandular epithelial cells (0.3% of epithelial cells by flow cytometry), rare CD45(-) cells in the stromal compartment (0.028 ± 0.010% of stromal cells by microscopy) and many CD45(+) leucocytes. Ovariectomy resulted in significant decrease of mTert-GFP(+) epithelial cells (P = 0.029 for luminal epithelium; P = 0.034 for glandular epithelium) and a decrease in the percentage of mTert-GFP(+) CD45(+) leucocytes in the stromal compartment (P = 0.015). However, CD45(-) mTert-GFP(+) cells in the stromal compartment were maintained in ovariectomized mice. This population is enriched for cells bearing the endothelial marker CD31 (10.3% of CD90(-) CD45(-) and 97.8% CD90(+) CD45(-) by flow cytometry). CD45(-) mTert-GFP(+) cells also immunostained for the endothelial marker von Willebrand factor. These results suggest that the endometrial epithelium and vasculature are foci of stem/progenitor activity and provide a system to investigate molecular mechanisms involved in endometrial regeneration and repair. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The stem/progenitor activity of endometrial mTert-GFP(+) cells needs to be experimentally verified. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The identification and characterization of mTert-expressing progenitor cells in the mouse will facilitate the identification of equivalent populations in the human endometrium that are likely to be involved in endometrial function, fertility and disease. LARGE-SCALE DATA Not applicable. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This study was funded by National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia grants (1085435, C.E.G., J.A.D.), 1021127 (C.E.G.), NHMRC Senior Research Fellowship (1042298, C.E.G.), the Victorian Infrastructure Support Program, U.S. National Institutes of Health grant R01 DK084056 (D.T.B.) and the Harvard Stem Cell Institute (D.T.B.). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Deane
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St., Clayton, Victoria, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Y Rue Ong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St., Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason E Cain
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - W Samantha N Jayasekara
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Abhilasha Tiwari
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St., Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Diana L Carlone
- Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School/Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D Neil Watkins
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia Present address: The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia Present address: UNSW Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, St Vincent's Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David T Breault
- Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School/Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright St., Clayton, Victoria, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Gargett CE, Schwab KE, Deane JA. Endometrial stem/progenitor cells: the first 10 years. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 22:137-63. [PMID: 26552890 PMCID: PMC4755439 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existence of stem/progenitor cells in the endometrium was postulated many years ago, but the first functional evidence was only published in 2004. The identification of rare epithelial and stromal populations of clonogenic cells in human endometrium has opened an active area of research on endometrial stem/progenitor cells in the subsequent 10 years. METHODS The published literature was searched using the PubMed database with the search terms ‘endometrial stem cells and menstrual blood stem cells' until December 2014. RESULTS Endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells have been identified as clonogenic cells in human and as label-retaining or CD44+ cells in mouse endometrium, but their characterization has been modest. In contrast, endometrial mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have been well characterized and show similar properties to bone marrow MSCs. Specific markers for their enrichment have been identified, CD146+PDGFRβ+ (platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta) and SUSD2+ (sushi domain containing-2), which detected their perivascular location and likely pericyte identity in endometrial basalis and functionalis vessels. Transcriptomics and secretomics of SUSD2+ cells confirm their perivascular phenotype. Stromal fibroblasts cultured from endometrial tissue or menstrual blood also have some MSC characteristics and demonstrate broad multilineage differentiation potential for mesodermal, endodermal and ectodermal lineages, indicating their plasticity. Side population (SP) cells are a mixed population, although predominantly vascular cells, which exhibit adult stem cell properties, including tissue reconstitution. There is some evidence that bone marrow cells contribute a small population of endometrial epithelial and stromal cells. The discovery of specific markers for endometrial stem/progenitor cells has enabled the examination of their role in endometrial proliferative disorders, including endometriosis, adenomyosis and Asherman's syndrome. Endometrial MSCs (eMSCs) and menstrual blood stromal fibroblasts are an attractive source of MSCs for regenerative medicine because of their relative ease of acquisition with minimal morbidity. Their homologous and non-homologous use as autologous and allogeneic cells for therapeutic purposes is currently being assessed in preclinical animal models of pelvic organ prolapse and phase I/II clinical trials for cardiac failure. eMSCs and stromal fibroblasts also exhibit non-stem cell-associated immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, further emphasizing their desirable properties for cell-based therapies. CONCLUSIONS Much has been learnt about endometrial stem/progenitor cells in the 10 years since their discovery, although several unresolved issues remain. These include rationalizing the terminology and diagnostic characteristics used for distinguishing perivascular stem/progenitor cells from stromal fibroblasts, which also have considerable differentiation potential. The hierarchical relationship between clonogenic epithelial progenitor cells, endometrial and decidual SP cells, CD146+PDGFR-β+ and SUSD2+ cells and menstrual blood stromal fibroblasts still needs to be resolved. Developing more genetic animal models for investigating the role of endometrial stem/progenitor cells in endometrial disorders is required, as well as elucidating which bone marrow cells contribute to endometrial tissue. Deep sequencing and epigenetic profiling of enriched populations of endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their differentiated progeny at the population and single-cell level will shed new light on the regulation and function of endometrial stem/progenitor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kjiana E Schwab
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - James A Deane
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton 3168, Victoria, Australia
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An apoptosis-enhancing drug overcomes platinum resistance in a tumour-initiating subpopulation of ovarian cancer. Nat Commun 2015; 6:7956. [PMID: 26234182 PMCID: PMC4532886 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms8956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian cancers (HGSCs) are deadly malignancies that relapse despite carboplatin chemotherapy. Here we show that 16 independent primary HGSC samples contain a CA125-negative population enriched for carboplatin-resistant cancer initiating cells. Transcriptome analysis reveals upregulation of homologous recombination DNA repair and anti-apoptotic signals in this population. While treatment with carboplatin enriches for CA125-negative cells, co-treatment with carboplatin and birinapant eliminates these cells in HGSCs expressing high levels of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein cIAP in the CA125-negative population. Birinapant sensitizes CA125-negative cells to carboplatin by mediating degradation of cIAP causing cleavage of caspase 8 and restoration of apoptosis. This co-therapy significantly improves disease-free survival in vivo compared with either therapy alone in tumour-bearing mice. These findings suggest that therapeutic strategies that target CA125-negative cells may be useful in the treatment of HGSC. Despite normalization of the CA125 serum biomarker at the completion of carboplatin therapy the vast majority of patients with high grade serous ovarian cancers relapse. Here, Janzen et al., identify a sub-population of tumor cells that are CA125 negative, cancer initiating and platinum resistant but readily eliminated with the addition of apoptosis enhancing drugs to carboplatin.
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Mutlu L, Hufnagel D, Taylor HS. The endometrium as a source of mesenchymal stem cells for regenerative medicine. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:138. [PMID: 25904012 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.126771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapies have opened new frontiers in medicine with the possibility of regenerating lost or damaged cells. Embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells, and mesenchymal stem cells have been used to derive mature cell types for tissue regeneration and repair. However, the endometrium has emerged as an attractive, novel source of adult stem cells that are easily accessed and demonstrate remarkable differentiation capacity. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of endometrial stem cells and their therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levent Mutlu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Demetra Hufnagel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Bassi MA, Arias V, D'Amico Filho N, Gueuvoghlanian-Silva BY, Abrao MS, Podgaec S. Deep Invasive Endometriosis Lesions of the Rectosigmoid May Be Related to Alterations in Cell Kinetics. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1122-8. [PMID: 25721913 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115574341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to analyze cell kinetics through expression and apoptosis of topoisomerase 2-α (TOP2A), p53, and c-erb2 in rectosigmoid endometriotic lesions and in healthy endometrial tissue and to establish correlations between such findings and clinical data in patients with rectosigmoid endometriosis. METHODS Sixty patients with rectosigmoid endometriosis and 20 control women without endometriosis were included. Immunohistochemical assays were used to measure expression of TOP2A, p53, and c-erB-2. Apoptosis was quantified by directly counting the apoptotic bodies. FINDINGS The number of lesions was positively correlated with expression of TOP2A in the lesion. There was also significant correlation between the lesions' size and number and cell turnover index. Apoptosis index (AI) was the same for endometriosis lesions and eutopic endometrium. Expression of TOP2A was significantly lower in the endometriosis group compared to the controls. CONCLUSIONS Changes in cell proliferation but not in the AI in rectosigmoid endometriosis are indicative of an imbalance in cell kinetics that may lead to the development of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Antonio Bassi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Victor Arias
- Department of Pathology, Perola Byington Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Mauricio Simoes Abrao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergio Podgaec
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil Jewish Teaching and Research Institute, Albert Einstein Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
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Hapangama D, Kamal A, Bulmer J. Estrogen receptor β: the guardian of the endometrium. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 21:174-93. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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Janzen DM, Paik DY, Rosales MA, Yep B, Cheng D, Witte ON, Kayadibi H, Ryan CM, Jung ME, Faull K, Memarzadeh S. Low levels of circulating estrogen sensitize PTEN-null endometrial tumors to PARP inhibition in vivo. Mol Cancer Ther 2013; 12:2917-28. [PMID: 24222661 PMCID: PMC3904550 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-13-0572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Earlier in vitro work demonstrated that PARP inhibition induces cell death in PTEN-null endometrial cancer cell lines, but the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of these agents against endometrial cancer remains unknown. Here, we test the efficacy of AZD2281 (olaparib), an oral PARP inhibitor, in the therapy of PTEN-null endometrial tumors in a preclinical endometrial cancer mouse model. Primary endometrial tumors were generated by epithelial loss of PTEN using an in vivo model. This model recapitulates epithelial-specific loss of PTEN seen in human tumors, and histologically resembles endometrioid carcinomas, the predominant subtype of human endometrial cancers. Olaparib was administered orally to tumor-bearing mice in two hormonal extremes: high or low estrogen. Olaparib treatment achieved a significant reduction in tumor size in a low estrogenic milieu. In striking contrast, no response to olaparib was seen in tumors exposed to high levels of estrogen. Two key observations were made when estrogen levels were dropped: (i) the serum concentration of olaparib was significantly increased, resulting in sustained PARP inhibition at the tumor bed; and (ii) the homologous recombination pathway was compromised, as evidenced by decreased Rad51 protein expression and function. These two mechanisms may account for the sensitization of PTEN-null tumors to olaparib with estrogen deprivation. Results of this preclinical trial suggest that orally administered PARP inhibitors in a low estrogenic hormonal milieu can effectively target PTEN-null endometrial tumors. Extension of this work to clinical trials could personalize the therapy of women afflicted with advanced endometrial cancer using well-tolerated orally administered therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna M Janzen
- Corresponding Author: Sanaz Memarzadeh, University of California, Los Angeles, 555 Westwood Plaza, Level B, Box 957243, 1015 Terasaki Life Sciences Building, Los Angeles, CA 90095.
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He F, Zhang W, Zhang H. Apoptotic signaling pathways in uteri of rats with endometrial hyperplasia induced by ovariectomy combined with estrogen. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2013; 76:51-6. [PMID: 23751213 DOI: 10.1159/000351109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To explore a new reliable method inducing an animal model similar to the morphology and apoptotic signaling pathways in endometrial hyperplasia patients. METHODS After the rats were ovariectomized, estradiol benzoate (60 µg/100 g) was intramuscularly injected on alternate days for 4 weeks. The morphology in the uterus was observed under a light microscope and by electron microscopy. The expression levels of survivin/caspase-3 and Fas/FasL were checked by immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS After the models were induced, the edema and hypertrophy in uteri were observed 4 weeks later. The glands in the endometrium had increased, indented hyperplasia of glandular cells appeared, and a pseudo-stratified phenomenon occurred. Under a transmission electron microscope, free ribosomes had markedly increased and the nucleus was enlarged in the cytoplasm. Compared with the control group, the expression of survivin increased (p < 0.05) while that of caspase-3 and Fas/FasL declined (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In the rat model of endometrial hyperplasia induced by ovariectomy with pharmacological estrogen add-back treatment, survivin, caspase-3 and Fas/FasL signaling pathways play an important role in regulating the apoptosis of glandular cells in uteri.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengjie He
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China.
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Janzen DM, Rosales MA, Paik DY, Lee DS, Smith DA, Witte ON, Iruela-Arispe ML, Memarzadeh S. Progesterone receptor signaling in the microenvironment of endometrial cancer influences its response to hormonal therapy. Cancer Res 2013; 73:4697-710. [PMID: 23744837 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-13-0930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone, an agonist for the progesterone receptor (PR), can be an efficacious and well-tolerated treatment in endometrial cancer. The clinical use of progesterone is limited because of the lack of biomarkers that predict hormone sensitivity. Despite its efficacy in cancer therapy, mechanisms and site of action for progesterone remain unknown. Using an in vivo endometrial cancer mouse model driven by clinically relevant genetic changes but dichotomous responses to hormonal therapy, we show that signaling through stromal PR is necessary and sufficient for progesterone antitumor effects. Endometrial cancers resulting from epithelial loss of PTEN (PTENKO) were hormone sensitive and had abundant expression of stromal PR. Stromal deletion of PR as a single genetic change in these tumors induced progesterone resistance indicating that paracrine signaling through the stroma is essential for the progesterone therapeutic effects. A hormone-refractory endometrial tumor with low levels of stromal PR developed when activation of KRAS was coupled with PTEN-loss (PTENKO/Kras). The innate progesterone resistance in PTENKO/Kras tumors stemmed from methylation of PR in the tumor microenvironment. Add-back of stromal PR expressed from a constitutively active promoter sensitized these tumors to progesterone therapy. Results show that signaling through stromal PR is sufficient for inducing hormone responsiveness. Our findings suggest that epigenetic derepression of stromal PR could be a potential therapeutic target for sensitizing hormone-refractory endometrial tumors to progesterone therapy. On the basis of these results, stromal expression of PR may emerge as a reliable biomarker in predicting response to hormonal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna M Janzen
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, and Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, USA
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