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Xodo S, Londero AP, Orsaria M, Marzinotto S, Colussi G, Cagnacci A, Mariuzzi L, Gri G. Examining the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Network in the Placental Tissues of Pregnancies Complicated by Pre-Eclampsia: An Explorative Case-Control Analysis. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2122. [PMID: 38004262 PMCID: PMC10672047 DOI: 10.3390/life13112122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality associated with pre-eclampsia, which are caused partly by premature delivery, affect a factual proportion of pregnancies. Despite its prevalence, the underlying causes of pre-eclampsia remain elusive, with emerging evidence implicating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in its pathogenesis. This study sought to elucidate the involvement of the AhR and its associated pathway in pre-eclampsia by comparing placental components of the AhR pathway in pregnant individuals with and without pre-eclampsia. This case-control investigation was conducted at the University Hospital of Udine from May 2021 to February 2023. The AhR was assessed using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, and its mRNA was evaluated using a Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR. Levels of mRNA expression were also estimated for other components of the AhR pathway (CYP1B1, IDO1, ARNT, TIPARP, S100A4, and AHRR). Our findings show decreased levels of expression of AhR, IDO1, ARNT, TiPARP, and S100A4 in the placental tissues of individuals with pre-eclampsia compared to controls (p < 0.05). The AhR exhibited a distinct localization within the syncytiotrophoblast (nuclei and cytoplasm) and CD45-positive cells (nuclei and cytoplasm). Furthermore, a significant positive correlation between the AhR and S100A4 (rho = 0.81) was observed in normal placentas, while CYP1B1 displayed a significant negative correlation with the AhR (rho = -0.72), within addition to its negative correlation with TiPARP (rho = -0.83). This study illuminates pre-eclampsia's molecular aberrations, suggesting new diagnostic, therapeutic, and mechanistic approaches. This study emphasizes the need for more research to validate and broaden these findings to improve the management of this complex pregnancy condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Xodo
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Ambrogio P. Londero
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Orsaria
- Institute of Pathology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.)
| | - Stefania Marzinotto
- Institute of Pathology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.)
| | - Gianluca Colussi
- Hypertension Unit, Department of Medicine, ASFO “Santa Maria degli Angeli” Hospital of Pordenone, 33170 Pordenone, Italy;
| | - Angelo Cagnacci
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Mariuzzi
- Institute of Pathology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.)
| | - Giorgia Gri
- DIMEC—Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
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Lyu Y, Xiu Q, Zuo H, Xu G, Cui X, Sun Z, Mi R, Wu L. Effect of vitamin A on the relationship between maternal thyroid hormones in early pregnancy and fetal growth: A prospective cohort study. Front Nutr 2022; 9:980853. [PMID: 36091237 PMCID: PMC9449534 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.980853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fetal growth patterns are influenced by maternal thyroid function and vitamin A level during pregnancy. Vitamin A presents interactions with thyroid tissues and hormonal systems. We examined whether vitamin A status modified the associations of maternal thyroid hormones in early pregnancy and fetal growth outcomes among euthyroid pregnant women in a prospective cohort study (n = 637). Methods We performed multiple linear regression and multinomial logistic regression analysis to investigate the effects of thyroid hormones in early pregnancy on fetal growth according to different levels of serum vitamin A based on median value. Results A 1 pmol/L increase in maternal free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels was associated with an increased birth weight of 0.080 kg (p = 0.023) in women with lower maternal vitamin A levels in early pregnancy. Increased maternal free thyroxine (FT4) was associated with decreased odds for both small size for gestational age (SGA) [odds ratios (OR) = 0.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.45–0.95] and large size for gestational age (LGA) (OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.45–0.98) in women with higher vitamin A level in early pregnancy after adjustment for maternal prepregnancy body mass index, gestational weight gain, maternal employed, parity, gestational week at sampling, and gestational diabetes mellitus. Conclusions In Chinese pregnant women without overt thyroid dysfunction, maternal FT4 in early pregnancy was positively associated with optimal fetal growth among women with higher serum vitamin A concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyu Lyu
- Experiment Center, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Qingyong Xiu
- Department of Pediatrics, Beijing Daxing Maternal and Child Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hanxiao Zuo
- Experiment Center, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Guangfei Xu
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaodai Cui
- Experiment Center, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenfeng Sun
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Daxing Maternal and Child Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Mi
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Wu
- Department of Epidemiology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Lijun Wu
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Cheng S, Huang Z, Banerjee S, Jash S, Buxbaum JN, Sharma S. Evidence From Human Placenta, Endoplasmic Reticulum-Stressed Trophoblasts, and Transgenic Mice Links Transthyretin Proteinopathy to Preeclampsia. Hypertension 2022; 79:1738-1754. [PMID: 35607996 PMCID: PMC9308752 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.18916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We have demonstrated that protein aggregation plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia and identified several aggregated proteins in the circulation of preeclampsia patients, the most prominent of which is the serum protein TTR (transthyretin). However, the mechanisms that underlie protein aggregation remain poorly addressed. METHODS We examined TTR aggregates in hypoxia/reoxygenation-exposed primary human trophoblasts (PHTs) and the preeclampsia placenta using complementary approaches, including a novel protein aggregate detection assay. Mechanistic analysis was performed in hypoxia/reoxygenation-exposed PHTs and Ttr transgenic mice overexpressing transgene-encoded wild-type human TTR or Ttr-/- mice. High-resolution ultrasound analysis was used to measure placental blood flow in pregnant mice. RESULTS TTR aggregation was inducible in PHTs and the TCL-1 trophoblast cell line by endoplasmic reticulum stress inducers or autophagy-lysosomal disruptors. PHTs exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation showed increased intracellular BiP (binding immunoglobulin protein), phosphorylated IRE1α (inositol-requiring enzyme-1α), PDI (protein disulfide isomerase), and Ero-1, all markers of the unfolded protein response, and the apoptosis mediator caspase-3. Blockade of IRE1α inhibited hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced upregulation of Ero-1 in PHTs. Excessive unfolded protein response activation was observed in the early-onset preeclampsia placenta. Importantly, pregnant human TTR mice displayed aggregated TTR in the junctional zone of the placenta and severe preeclampsia-like features. High-resolution ultrasound analysis revealed low blood flow in uterine and umbilical arteries in human TTR mice compared with control mice. However, Ttr-/- mice did not show any pregnancy-associated abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS These observations in the preeclampsia placenta, cultured trophoblasts, and Ttr transgenic mice indicate that TTR aggregation is an important causal contributor to preeclampsia pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibin Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI (S.C., Z.H., S.B., S.J., S.S.)
| | - Zheping Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI (S.C., Z.H., S.B., S.J., S.S.)
| | - Sayani Banerjee
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI (S.C., Z.H., S.B., S.J., S.S.)
| | - Sukanta Jash
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI (S.C., Z.H., S.B., S.J., S.S.)
| | - Joel N Buxbaum
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA (J.N.B.).,Protego Biopharma, Inc, San Diego, CA (J.N.B.)
| | - Surendra Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI (S.C., Z.H., S.B., S.J., S.S.)
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Habib C, Maor I, Shoris I, Tsuprun S, Bader D, Riskin A. Umbilical Cord and Neonatal Transthyretin and Their Relationship to Growth and Nutrition in Preterm Infants. Rambam Maimonides Med J 2022; 13:RMMJ.10470. [PMID: 35482459 PMCID: PMC9049153 DOI: 10.5041/rmmj.10470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transthyretin (TTR), also known as prealbumin, has been suggested as an indicator of protein and nutritional status. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the maternal and umbilical cord (UC) TTR in relation to intrauterine growth, and the serum TTR of preterm infants in relation to nutritional status and growth. METHODS After application of exclusion criteria, 49 preterm infants (mean gestational age and birth-weight 32.9±2.9 weeks and 1822±556 g) were included in the study. Transthyretin was sampled at birth and on days 14, 28, and at discharge with growth parameters and nutritional laboratory test results. RESULTS Mean UC and maternal TTR were positively correlated (8.5±2.4 mg/dL and 20.4±7.0 mg/dL, r=0.31, P=0.07). Umbilical cord TTR was neither an index of maturity nor of intrauterine growth. Umbilical cord TTR was higher in females (9.4±2.6 versus 7.6±1.8 mg/dL, P=0.015). Maternal TTR was lower in twin pregnancies (16.8±4.9 versus 22.5±7.3 mg/dL, P=0.007). Although TTR levels gradually increased over time in correlation with post-menstrual and chronological ages (r=0.24, P=0.011 and r=0.40, P<0.001, respectively), there was no correlation to weight gain (r=0.10, P=0.41), nutritional status, protein intake, or nutritional laboratory test results. The only significant correlations were between TTR and glucose and triglycerides levels (r=0.51, P<0.001 for both). CONCLUSIONS Although TTR levels increased over time, we could not demonstrate significant correlations between TTR and indices of the nutritional status in preterm infants at birth or during the neonatal course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clair Habib
- Genetics Institute and Pediatric Metabolic Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Irit Maor
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Irit Shoris
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Svetlana Tsuprun
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - David Bader
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Arieh Riskin
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
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Carvalho DP, Dias AF, Sferruzzi-Perri AN, Ortiga-Carvalho TM. Gaps in the knowledge of thyroid hormones and placental biology. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:1033-1048. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) are required for the growth and development of the foetus, stimulating anabolism and oxygen consumption from the early stages of pregnancy to the period of foetal differentiation close to delivery. Maternal changes in the hypothalamic–pituitary thyroid axis are also well known. In contrast, several open questions remain regarding the relationships between the placenta and the maternal and foetal TH systems. The exact mechanism by which the placenta participates in regulating the TH concentration in the foetus and mother and the role of TH in the placenta are still poorly studied. In this review, we aim to summarize the available data in the area and highlight significant gaps in our understanding of the ontogeny and cell-specific localization of TH transporters, TH receptors and TH metabolic enzymes in the placenta in both human and rodent models. Significant deficiencies also exist in knowledge of the contribution of genomic and nongenomic effects of TH on the placenta and finally how the placenta reacts during pregnancy when the mother has thyroid disease. By addressing these key knowledge gaps, improved pregnancy outcomes and management of women with thyroid alterations may be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Pereira Carvalho
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Laboratório de Endocrinologia Translacional, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ariane Fontes Dias
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Laboratório de Endocrinologia Translacional, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Amanda Nancy Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Tania Maria Ortiga-Carvalho
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Laboratório de Endocrinologia Translacional, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Fruscalzo A, Viola L, Orsaria M, Marzinotto S, Bulfoni M, Driul L, Londero AP, Mariuzzi L. STRA6 and Placental Retinoid Metabolism in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. J Pers Med 2021; 11:1301. [PMID: 34945773 PMCID: PMC8708334 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11121301] [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: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent reports indicate the potential role of the stimulated by retinoic acid 6 (STRA6) protein in developing insulin resistance. The study's objective was to assess placental STRA6 expression and staining pattern in human pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The expression pattern of further relevant genes involved in retinoid metabolism was also evaluated. METHODS A retrospective case-control study on paraffin-embedded placental tissue. Twenty-two human pregnancies affected by GDM, namely, 11 insulin-treated (iGDM) and 11 diet-controlled (dGDM), were compared with 22 normal-developed pregnancies (controls). An RT-PCR was performed in a random sample of 18 patients (six iGDM, six dGDM, and six controls) to assess RNA expression of STRA6 and further markers of retinoid metabolism. A semi-quantitative intensity evaluation at immunohistochemistry was performed for STRA6 in all 44 recruited patients. RESULTS STRA6 showed a decreased placental staining (9.09% vs. 68.18% positively stained samples, p < 0.05) and augmented RNA expression in dGDM patients than controls (ΔCT expression 0.473, IQR 0.403-0.566 vs. 0.149, IQR 0.092-0.276, p < 0.05). The protein staining pattern in patients affected by iGDM was comparable to controls. A reduced RNA expression of LPL, LRP1, VLDLR, and MTTP besides an augmented expression of LDLR was found in dGDM, while overexpression of LRP1 and LPL was found in iGDM patients. Unlike in the control group, significant positive correlations were found between RXRα and the proteins involved in the intracellular uptake of ROH, such as STRA6, LRP1, LRP2, and VLDLR. CONCLUSIONS An altered placental expression and staining pattern of STRA6 were found in pregnancies complicated by GDM compared to the controls. These changes were coupled to an altered expression pattern of several other genes involved in the retinoid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arrigo Fruscalzo
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Fribourg, 1708 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Luigi Viola
- Clinic of Radiology, University Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Maria Orsaria
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Stefania Marzinotto
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Michela Bulfoni
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Lorenza Driul
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (L.D.); (A.P.L.)
| | - Ambrogio P. Londero
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (L.D.); (A.P.L.)
- Ennergi Research (Non-Profit Organisation), 33050 Lestizza, Italy
| | - Laura Mariuzzi
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.); (S.M.); (M.B.); (L.M.)
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Visentin S, Londero AP, Santoro L, Pizzi S, Andolfatto M, Venturini M, Saraggi D, Coati I, Sacchi D, Rugge M, Cosmi E. Abnormal umbilical cord insertions in singleton deliveries: placental histology and neonatal outcomes. J Clin Pathol 2021; 75:751-758. [PMID: 34083414 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2020-207342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to identify any microscopic features associated with abnormal (membranous/velamentous or marginal) placental cord insertions and to analyse their adverse neonatal outcomes. METHODS We retrospectively analysed the records-including pathological findings, clinical information and pregnancy outcomes-for 1060 singleton pregnancies, involving newborn delivered after 24 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Marginal cord insertions were identified in 26.60% of cases and membranous cord insertions in 2.64%. Subchorionic vessel thrombus was more prevalent in marginal or membranous insertions (0.97%) than in normal cord insertions (0.27%) (p=0.129). Intervillous thrombi (13.73% vs 8.41%, p<0.05) and chorioamnionitis (8.53% vs 5.48%, p=0.089) were more prevalent in normal cord insertions. Premature rupture of membranes was significantly more commonly associated with abnormal (marginal 15.25% and membranous 17.86%) than with normal (9.87%) insertions (p<0.05). Pre-eclampsia was more common in the group with membranous cord insertions (7.14%) than in the other groups (marginal 0.35%; normal 0.80%) (p<0.05). Marginal and membranous placental cord insertions were associated with earlier gestational age at delivery and smaller fetuses than in the group with normal insertions. Intrauterine fetal demise, cardiac malformations and pregestational diabetes were also more common among cases of abnormal cord insertions. CONCLUSIONS Subchorionic vessel thrombus and adverse pregnancy-related outcomes were more prevalent in cases of marginal/membranous cord insertion than for normal insertions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivlia Visentin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Padua University Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Ambrogio P Londero
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Udine University Health Integrated Agency, Udine, Italy .,Ennergi Research, Lestizza, Italy
| | - Luisa Santoro
- Department of Medicine DIMED, Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua University, Padova, Italy
| | - Sara Pizzi
- Department of Medicine DIMED, Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua University, Padova, Italy
| | - Matteo Andolfatto
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Padua University Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Venturini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Padua University Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Deborah Saraggi
- Department of Medicine DIMED, Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua University, Padova, Italy
| | - Irene Coati
- Department of Medicine DIMED, Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua University, Padova, Italy
| | - Diana Sacchi
- Department of Medicine DIMED, Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua University, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Rugge
- Department of Medicine DIMED, Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua University, Padova, Italy
| | - Erich Cosmi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Padua University Hospital, Padova, Italy
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Fruscalzo A, Londero AP, Orsaria M, Marzinotto S, Driul L, Di Loreto C, Mariuzzi L. Placental fibronectin staining is unaffected in pregnancies complicated by late-onset intrauterine growth restriction and small for gestational age fetuses. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2019; 148:253-260. [PMID: 31743426 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the placental staining pattern of fibronectin, an extracellular matrix protein essential for trophoblastic invasion, in pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction. METHODS This was a retrospective study conducted at the University of Udine, including the placentas of women with pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction collected between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2010. Fibronectin was evaluated in placental tissue micro-array by immunohistochemistry, describing localization and intensity of staining. RESULTS The study included the placentas of 36 women with early-onset (delivery <34 weeks of gestation) pre-eclampsia; 6 with early-onset HELLP syndrome; 17 with early-onset intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR); 14 with late-onset (delivery ≥34 weeks of gestation) pre-eclampsia; 35 with late-onset IUGR; 18 with small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses (birth weight <10th percentile); and 64 controls. Fibronectin was present both at the cell surface and in the cytoplasm. Cytoplasm staining intensity resulted higher in early forms of pregnancy-related complications compared to controls, although this was statistically significant (P<0.05) only for early-onset pre-eclampsia (P=0.085 for HELLP syndrome; P=0.091 for IUGR). Also, late-onset forms of pre-eclampsia had stronger cytoplasmic and pericellular staining compared to controls (P<0.05). Interestingly, staining of both late-onset IUGR and SGA was comparable to controls. CONCLUSION Fibronectin appeared to be unaffected in women with late-onset IUGR and SGA fetuses, suggesting a peculiar common pathogenetic pattern in these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arrigo Fruscalzo
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christophorus-Kliniken, Coesfeld, Germany.,Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ambrogio P Londero
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Maria Orsaria
- Institute of Pathology, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Lorenza Driul
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Carla Di Loreto
- Institute of Pathology, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Laura Mariuzzi
- Institute of Pathology, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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Eerdekens A, Verhaeghe J, Darras V, Naulaers G, Van den Berghe G, Langouche L, Vanhole C. The placenta in fetal thyroid hormone delivery: from normal physiology to adaptive mechanisms in complicated pregnancies. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 33:3857-3866. [PMID: 30821546 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2019.1586875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Context: Thyroid hormones are indispensable for normal fetal development. Since the fetus depends to a large extent on maternal thyroid hormone supply through the placenta, this challenges maternal thyroid economy. Several molecular mechanisms are involved in placental thyroid hormone transport and metabolism. Chronic pregnancy complications, associated with utero-placental hypoxia, trigger the development of accelerated placental maturation in order to improve fetal-placental exchange to strengthen the offspring's chance of survival. This review provides an overview of normal maternal-fetal thyroid hormone supply and explores the presence of placental adaptive mechanisms in complicated pregnancies with chronical utero-placental hypoxia to improve the thyroid hormone supply to the fetus under pressure, to end with reflections about the long term health consequences.Evidence acquisition: This work is based on a comprehensive literature review of the PubMed and Embase database, including relevant articles from 1969 to June 2018.Conclusions: The placenta is actively involved in fetal thyroid hormone delivery through a combination of stimulatory and inhibitory mechanisms. Parallel with histological adaptations to improve transplacental fetal-maternal exchange, there are indications of placental adaptive mechanisms in thyroid hormone transport and metabolism in case of complicated pregnancies, from animal models and in-vitro experiments. Evidence from human in-vivo studies is limited due to heterogeneity in study populations, small study samples, and technical limitations. Further research is necessary to reveal the role of the placenta in pathological circumstances. The placenta might thus be considered as the infants' black box of pregnancy. Results will contribute to more insights in the concept of fetal programming, which lays the foundations of optimum health, growth, and neurodevelopment across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Eerdekens
- Neonatology, Universitaire Ziekenhuizen Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Verhaeghe
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universitaire Ziekenhuizen Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Darras
- Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gunnar Naulaers
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Lies Langouche
- Laboratory of Intensive Care Medicine, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christine Vanhole
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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10
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Saha S, Chakraborty S, Bhattacharya A, Biswas A, Ain R. MicroRNA regulation of Transthyretin in trophoblast differentiation and Intra-Uterine Growth Restriction. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16548. [PMID: 29185488 PMCID: PMC5707432 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16566-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental trophoblast cells produce various cytokines, transporters vital to normal embryogenesis. Transthyretin (TTR) aids trans-placental passage of maternal thyroxin (TH) to fetal circulation. Inadequate TH delivery leads to developmental abnormality. Regulation of TTR biosynthesis in placenta is critical for normal embryo development. We showed here that TTR transcripts were expressed more in fetal placenta. Using bioinformatic analysis and confirmation with dual-luciferase reporter assays, we found that miR-200a-3p and miR-141-3p inhibited TTR expression by directly binding to the 3'UTR of TTR, which is reversed by mutation in the microRNA binding site. Differentiation of human trophoblast BeWo cells was associated with decreased TTR transcript and protein levels with concomitant increase in the levels of both microRNAs. Interestingly, ectopic overexpression of the microRNA mimics abrogated thyroxin uptake by BeWo cells, which was reversed by the corresponding inhibitors. Furthermore, in a rat model of intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR), TTR expression decreased significantly in placenta with reciprocal rise in miR-141-3p but not 200a-3p. In human IUGR placenta, TTR transcript and protein levels were significantly lower associated with high expression of miR-141-3p but not 200a-3p. These data provides new insight into physiological role of miR-141-3p in regulating TTR during trophoblast differentiation and IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarbani Saha
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Shreeta Chakraborty
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | | | - Arati Biswas
- Calcutta National Medical College, Kolkata, 700014, India
| | - Rupasri Ain
- Division of Cell Biology and Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, 700032, India.
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Aggregated transthyretin is specifically packaged into placental nano-vesicles in preeclampsia. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6694. [PMID: 28751735 PMCID: PMC5532246 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07017-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In preeclampsia, the serum levels of transthyretin, a carrier protein for thyroxine, are elevated. Transthyretin isolated from preeclamptic serum is also aggregated and can induce preeclampsia-like symptoms in pregnant IL10-/- mice. Using western blotting, immunofluorescence, ELISA and qRT-PCR, we investigated the production of transthyretin by preeclamptic placentae and whether transthyretin is carried into the maternal circulation via placental extracellular vesicles. Both total and aggregated transthyretin were present in higher levels in preeclamptic placentae compared to normotensive placentae (p < 0.05, n = 7), however the levels of transythretin mRNA were not significantly different (n = 8). Preeclamptic placentae secreted similar levels of total transthyretin compared to normotensive placentae (2352 ± 2949 ng/mL vs. 3250 ± 1864 ng/mL, mean ± SD, p > 0.05, n = 8), however in preeclampsia, a significant proportion is vesicle-associated (~48% vs 0%). Increased levels of aggregated transthyretin were specifically associated to preeclamptic nano-vesicles (p < 0.02, n = 8). This study showed that the placenta actively produces transthyretin and in preeclampsia, a significant amount is extruded into the maternal circulation via placental exracellular vesicles. The increased aggregation of transthyretin in preeclampsia occurs at the post-transcriptional level and while preeclamptic nano-vesicles may be removing a toxic aggregated protein from the placenta, they may also be delivering aggregated transthyretin to specific maternal organs, contributing to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
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12
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First trimester TTR-RBP4-ROH complex and angiogenic factors in the prediction of small for gestational age infant’s outcome. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 295:1157-1165. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4338-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Gong L, Zhu L, Wang S, Zhang Z. Transthyretin regulates the migration and invasion of JEG-3 cells. Oncol Lett 2016; 13:1242-1246. [PMID: 28454241 PMCID: PMC5403309 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.5545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific disorder characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria that occurs after 20 weeks of gestation. It involves several organs and continues to be a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Shallow trophoblast invasion is a common pathological feature of PE. Transthyretin (TTR) is a 56-kDa homotetrameric protein that binds thyroid hormone and retinol binding protein. Dysregulated TTR expression has been found in cases of PE. The aim of the present study was to determine the functional role of TTR in the migration and invasion of JEG-3 choriocarcinoma cells. JEG-3 cells were transfected with a plasmid construct expressing TTR (pCMV-Myc-TTR) or an empty plasmid (pCMV-Myc). Cell migration and invasion capacities were assessed by Transwell migration and invasion assays, respectively. These experiments demonstrated that TTR overexpression significantly increased the migration and invasion potential of JEG-3 cells. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-containing endopeptidases capable of degrading a wide range of extracellular matrix components. Western blot analysis revealed that TTR overexpression resulted in significantly increased levels of MMP2 and MMP9 in JEG-3 cells. In conclusion, our findings suggest an important role for TTR in regulating trophoblast invasion and migration, representing a possible underlying pathological and molecular mechanisms of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyun Gong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, P.R. China
| | - Shuzhen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, P.R. China
| | - Zhenyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, P.R. China
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Stubert J, Kleber T, Bolz M, Külz T, Dieterich M, Richter DU, Reimer T. Acute-phase proteins in prediction of preeclampsia in patients with abnormal midtrimester uterine Doppler velocimetry. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2016; 294:1151-1160. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-016-4138-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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15
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Londero AP, Orsaria M, Marzinotto S, Grassi T, Fruscalzo A, Calcagno A, Bertozzi S, Nardini N, Stella E, Lellé RJ, Driul L, Tell G, Mariuzzi L. Placental aging and oxidation damage in a tissue micro-array model: an immunohistochemistry study. Histochem Cell Biol 2016; 146:191-204. [PMID: 27106773 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-016-1435-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate the expression of markers correlated with cellular senescence and DNA damage (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxy-guanosine (8-OHdG), p53, p21, APE1/Ref-1 (APE1), interleukin (IL-6 and IL-8) in placentas from healthy and pathologic pregnancies. This retrospective study considered a placental tissue micro-array containing 92 controls from different gestational ages and 158 pathological cases including preeclampsia (PE), HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count), small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) occurring at different gestational ages. In this study, we demonstrated a significant influence of gestational age on the expression in the trophoblast of 8-OHdG, p53, p21, APE1, and IL-6. In placentas of cases affected by PE, HELLP, or IUGR, there was an increased expression of 8-OHdG, p53, APE1, and IL-6 compared to controls (only IL-8 was significantly decreased in cases). In both groups of pathology between 22- and 34-week gestation and after 34-week gestation, APE1 levels were higher in the trophoblast of women affected by hypertensive disorders of pregnancy than women carrying an IUGR fetus. The cytoplasmic expression of 8-OHdG was increased in placentas in IUGR cases compared to PE or HELLP pregnancies. In cases after 34-week gestation, p21 was higher in SGA and IUGR than in controls and late PE. Moreover, p53 was increased after 34-week gestation in IUGR pregnancies. Placentas from pathological pregnancies had an altered expression of 8-OHdG, p53, p21, APE1, IL-6, and IL-8. The alterations of intracellular pathways involving these elements may be the cause or the consequence of placental dysfunction, but in any case reflect an impaired placental function, possibly due to increased aging velocity in pathologic cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambrogio P Londero
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deparment of Experimental Clinical and Medical Science, University of Udine, Piazzale SM della Misericordia, 15, 33100, Udine, Italy. .,Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, S. Polo Hospital, 34074, Monfalcone, GO, Italy.
| | - Maria Orsaria
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Stefania Marzinotto
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Tiziana Grassi
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deparment of Experimental Clinical and Medical Science, University of Udine, Piazzale SM della Misericordia, 15, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Arrigo Fruscalzo
- Frauenklinik, St Franziskus Hospital, Münster, Germany.,Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude: A1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Angelo Calcagno
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deparment of Experimental Clinical and Medical Science, University of Udine, Piazzale SM della Misericordia, 15, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Serena Bertozzi
- Department of Surgical Oncology, IRCCS CRO, 33081, Aviano, PN, Italy
| | - Nastassia Nardini
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Enrica Stella
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deparment of Experimental Clinical and Medical Science, University of Udine, Piazzale SM della Misericordia, 15, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Ralph J Lellé
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude: A1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Lorenza Driul
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Deparment of Experimental Clinical and Medical Science, University of Udine, Piazzale SM della Misericordia, 15, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tell
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
| | - Laura Mariuzzi
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Udine, 33100, Udine, Italy
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Second trimester amniotic fluid retinol in patients developing preeclampsia. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2014; 291:831-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-014-3477-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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17
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Landers K, Mortimer R, Richard K. Transthyretin and the human placenta. Placenta 2013; 34:513-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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18
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Taatjes DJ, Roth J. The Histochemistry and Cell Biology compendium: a review of 2012. Histochem Cell Biol 2013; 139:815-46. [PMID: 23665922 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-013-1098-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The year 2012 was another exciting year for Histochemistry and Cell Biology. Innovations in immunohistochemical techniques and microscopy-based imaging have provided the means for advances in the field of cell biology. Over 130 manuscripts were published in the journal during 2012, representing methodological advancements, pathobiology of disease, and cell and tissue biology. This annual review of the manuscripts published in the previous year in Histochemistry and Cell Biology serves as an abbreviated reference for the readership to quickly peruse and discern trends in the field over the past year. The review has been broadly divided into multiple sections encompassing topics such as method advancements, subcellular components, extracellular matrix, and organ systems. We hope that the creation of this subdivision will serve to guide the reader to a specific topic of interest, while simultaneously providing a concise and easily accessible encapsulation of other topics in the broad area of Histochemistry and Cell Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas J Taatjes
- Department of Pathology and Microscopy Imaging Center, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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