1
|
Faral-Tello P, Pagotto R, Bollati-Fogolín M, Francia ME. Modeling the human placental barrier to understand Toxoplasma gondii´s vertical transmission. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1130901. [PMID: 36968102 PMCID: PMC10034043 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1130901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous apicomplexan parasite that can infect virtually any warm-blooded animal. Acquired infection during pregnancy and the placental breach, is at the core of the most devastating consequences of toxoplasmosis. T. gondii can severely impact the pregnancy’s outcome causing miscarriages, stillbirths, premature births, babies with hydrocephalus, microcephaly or intellectual disability, and other later onset neurological, ophthalmological or auditory diseases. To tackle T. gondii’s vertical transmission, it is important to understand the mechanisms underlying host-parasite interactions at the maternal-fetal interface. Nonetheless, the complexity of the human placenta and the ethical concerns associated with its study, have narrowed the modeling of parasite vertical transmission to animal models, encompassing several unavoidable experimental limitations. Some of these difficulties have been overcome by the development of different human cell lines and a variety of primary cultures obtained from human placentas. These cellular models, though extremely valuable, have limited ability to recreate what happens in vivo. During the last decades, the development of new biomaterials and the increase in stem cell knowledge have led to the generation of more physiologically relevant in vitro models. These cell cultures incorporate new dimensions and cellular diversity, emerging as promising tools for unraveling the poorly understood T. gondii´s infection mechanisms during pregnancy. Herein, we review the state of the art of 2D and 3D cultures to approach the biology of T. gondii pertaining to vertical transmission, highlighting the challenges and experimental opportunities of these up-and-coming experimental platforms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Faral-Tello
- Laboratory of Apicomplexan Biology, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Romina Pagotto
- Cell Biology Unit, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Maria E. Francia
- Laboratory of Apicomplexan Biology, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Parasitología y Micología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- *Correspondence: Maria E. Francia,
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Guimarães Gois PS, Franco PS, Cota Teixeira S, Guirelli PM, de Araújo TE, da Fonseca Batistão DW, de Oliveira FC, Lícia Santos Ferreira G, de Oliveira Gomes A, Favoreto S, Mineo JR, de Freitas Barbosa B, Ferro EAV. Polarisation of human macrophages towards an M1 subtype triggered by an atypical Brazilian strain of Toxoplasma gondii results in a reduction in parasite burden. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2022; 69. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2022.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
3
|
Calero-Bernal R, Fernández-Escobar M, Katzer F, Su C, Ortega-Mora LM. Unifying Virulence Evaluation in Toxoplasma gondii: A Timely Task. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:868727. [PMID: 35573788 PMCID: PMC9097680 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.868727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, a major zoonotic pathogen, possess a significant genetic and phenotypic diversity that have been proposed to be responsible for the variation in clinical outcomes, mainly related to reproductive failure and ocular and neurological signs. Different T. gondii haplogroups showed strong phenotypic differences in laboratory mouse infections, which provide a suitable model for mimicking acute and chronic infections. In addition, it has been observed that degrees of virulence might be related to the physiological status of the host and its genetic background. Currently, mortality rate (lethality) in outbred laboratory mice is the most significant phenotypic marker, which has been well defined for the three archetypal clonal types (I, II and III) of T. gondii; nevertheless, such a trait seems to be insufficient to discriminate between different degrees of virulence of field isolates. Many other non-lethal parameters, observed both in in vivo and in vitro experimental models, have been suggested as highly informative, yielding promising discriminatory power. Although intra-genotype variations have been observed in phenotypic characteristics, there is no clear picture of the phenotypes circulating worldwide; therefore, a global overview of T. gondii strain mortality in mice is presented here. Molecular characterization has been normalized to some extent, but this is not the case for the phenotypic characterization and definition of virulence. The present paper proposes a baseline (minimum required information) for the phenotypic characterization of T. gondii virulence and intends to highlight the needs for consistent methods when a panel of T. gondii isolates is evaluated for virulence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Calero-Bernal
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Rafael Calero-Bernal, ; Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora,
| | - Mercedes Fernández-Escobar
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Frank Katzer
- Disease Control Department, Moredun Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Chunlei Su
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Rafael Calero-Bernal, ; Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora,
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ji WH, Li DD, Wei DP, Gu AQ, Yang Y, Peng JP. Cytochrome P450 26A1 Modulates the Polarization of Uterine Macrophages During the Peri-Implantation Period. Front Immunol 2021; 12:763067. [PMID: 34712245 PMCID: PMC8546204 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.763067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine M1/M2 macrophages activation states undergo dynamic changes throughout pregnancy, and inappropriate macrophages polarization can cause adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially during the peri-implantation period. Our previous studies have confirmed that Cytochrome P450 26A1 (CYP26A1) can affect embryo implantation by regulating uterine NK cells and DCs. The aim of this study was to investigate whether CYP26A1 regulates the polarization of uterine macrophages in early pregnancy. Here, we observed that Cyp26a1 was significantly upregulated in M1 as compared with M2 of uterine macrophages, Raw264.7 and iBMDM. Knockdown of CYP26A1 in mice uterine significantly decreased the number of embryo implantation sites and the proportion of CD45+F4/80+CD206− M1-like uterine macrophages. Primary uterine macrophages treated with anti-CYP26A1 antibody expressed significantly lower levels of M1 markers Nos2, Il1b, Il6 and Tnf-a. In CYP26A1 knockout Raw264.7 cells, the protein levels of M1 markers TNF-α, IL-6 and CD86 were significantly decreased as compared with the wild type cells. Moreover, CYP26A1 deficiency decreased the ability to produce nitric oxide and increased the phagocytosis capacity of Raw264.7 cells under M1 stimulation state. The re-introduction of CYP26A1 partially reversed the polarization levels of M1 in CYP26A1 knockout Raw264.7 cells. CYP26A1 may regulate the polarization of uterine macrophages to M1 through Stap1 and Slc7a2. In summary, these results indicate that CYP26A1 plays a significant role in macrophage polarization, and knockdown of CYP26A1 can cause insufficient M1 polarization during the peri-implantation period, which has adverse effects on blastocyst implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Heng Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Dan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Ping Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ai-Qin Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Pian Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Arranz-Solís D, Mukhopadhyay D, Saeij JJP. Toxoplasma Effectors that Affect Pregnancy Outcome. Trends Parasitol 2021; 37:283-295. [PMID: 33234405 PMCID: PMC7954850 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
As an immune-privileged organ, the placenta can tolerate the introduction of antigens without inducing a strong inflammatory response that would lead to abortion. However, for the control of intracellular pathogens, a strong Th1 response characterized by the production of interferon-γ is needed. Thus, invasion of the placenta by intracellular parasites puts the maternal immune system in a quandary: The proinflammatory response needed to eliminate the pathogen can also lead to abortion. Toxoplasma is a highly successful parasite that causes lifelong chronic infections and is a major cause of abortions in humans and livestock. Here, we discuss how Toxoplasma strain type and parasite effectors influence host cell signaling pathways, and we speculate about how this might affect the outcome of gestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Arranz-Solís
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Debanjan Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jeroen J P Saeij
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cui W, Wang C, Luo Q, Xing T, Shen J, Wang W. Toxoplasma gondii ROP16 I Deletion: The Exacerbated Impact on Adverse Pregnant Outcomes in Mice. Front Microbiol 2020; 10:3151. [PMID: 32082272 PMCID: PMC7005636 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.03151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Imbalance of Th1 and Th2 response at the maternal-fetal interface is considered as a radical event in the pathogenesis of immunity-related pregnant diseases. It has been demonstrated that the ROP16I, a rhoptry protein of Toxoplasma gondii, and the viable parasite with ROP16I may induce M2 macrophage polarization in host innate immunity and may be involved in the adverse pregnant outcomes. However, the mechanisms by which T. gondii-derived effectors subvert the immune tolerance in the pathology of pregnancy remain unclear. Here, we constructed the RH strain with ROP16I deletion (RHΔrop16) to explore the pathogenesis of abnormal pregnancy. We found that C57BL/6 mice infected with RHΔrop16 exhibited the increased resorption of fetuses and more severe adverse pathology of placentae at the early phase of gestation, as compared to the mice infected with RH wild type (RH WT) parasite. Additionally, RHΔrop16 strain infection significantly promoted M1 macrophage phenotypes of CD80 and CD86, and decreased CD206 expression of M2 macrophages, with upregulation of the iNOS and downregulation of the Arg-1 expression in placental homogenates. Simultaneously, the pro-inflammatory cytokines of IL-12 and TNF-α were elevated whereas the anti-inflammatory cytokine of TGF-β1 was dampened. Moreover, the p38α mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38α MAPK) was notably phosphorylated in placental macrophages infected with both RHΔrop16 and RH WT strains compared with the control. Taken together, our findings indicated that ROP16I deletion of type I RH strain may cause exacerbated adverse pregnant outcomes, which is attributable to subversion of the maternal immune tolerance due to the increased pro-inflammatory cytokines in the pregnant animals. The results also suggest that ROP16I might be a protective factor and other T. gondii-derived molecules might be involved in the M1-Th1 biased pathological process in aberrant pregnancy at the early phase of gestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen Cui
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Provincial Laboratories of Pathogen Biology and Zoonoses Anhui, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Hefei, Hefei, China
| | - Qingli Luo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Provincial Laboratories of Pathogen Biology and Zoonoses Anhui, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Tian Xing
- The Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research of Anhui, College and Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Provincial Laboratories of Pathogen Biology and Zoonoses Anhui, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Provincial Laboratories of Pathogen Biology and Zoonoses Anhui, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tsai PY, Chen KR, Li YC, Kuo PL. NLRP7 Is Involved in the Differentiation of the Decidual Macrophages. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20235994. [PMID: 31795138 PMCID: PMC6929161 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophage polarization, regulated appropriately, may play important roles in successful pregnancy. In the face of the vital roles of decidua macrophages in pregnancy, it is insufficient to recognize the trigger of macrophage differentiation and polarization. We aimed to explore the link between the NLRP7 gene and macrophage polarization in human deciduas. Here, we enrolled the endometrial tissues from eight pregnant women in the first trimester. We found that NLRP7 was abundant in endometrial tissues and that NLRP7 was expressed in decidual macrophages of the first-trimester pregnancy. NLRP7 was predominately expressed in the decidual M2 macrophages, as compared with the M1 macrophages. Furthermore, our results suggest that NLRP7 is associated with decidual macrophage differentiation. NLRP7 over-expression suppresses the expression of M1 markers and enhances the expression of the M2 markers. Considering that NLRP7 relates to decidualization and macrophage differentiation, we propose that NLRP7 is a primate-specific multitasking gene to maintain endometrial hemostasis and reproductive success. This finding may pave the way for therapies of pathological pregnancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Yin Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70401, Taiwan; (P.-Y.T.); (K.-R.C.)
| | - Kuan-Ru Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70401, Taiwan; (P.-Y.T.); (K.-R.C.)
| | - Yueh-Chun Li
- Laboratory of cytogenetic research, Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung 40652, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (Y.-C.L.); (P.-L.K.); Tel.: +886-4-2234-7057 (Y.-C.L.); +886-6-235-3535-5222 (P.-L.K.)
| | - Pao-Lin Kuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70401, Taiwan; (P.-Y.T.); (K.-R.C.)
- Correspondence: (Y.-C.L.); (P.-L.K.); Tel.: +886-4-2234-7057 (Y.-C.L.); +886-6-235-3535-5222 (P.-L.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jašić M, Štifter S, Sindičić Dessardo N, Rukavina KM, Mustać E, Belci D. The relationship between histologic chorioamnionitis and decidual macrophage polarization and their influence on outcomes of neonates born before the 32nd gestational week. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 34:1535-1544. [PMID: 31258026 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2019.1638906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the relationship between histologic chorioamnionitis (HCA) and decidual macrophage (DM) polarization and their influence on outcomes of neonates born before the 32nd gestational week. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty-four neonates and their placentas were included in this retrospective case-control study and divided into two groups: with and without HCA present (HCA + and HCA-). Neonatal, maternal, and placental risk factors were explored and their influence on neonatal outcomes was examined. We used CD68 and iNOS as markers for polarized DMs type 1 (M1) and CD163, CD206 and arginase (Arg-1) for polarized DMs type 2 (M2). RESULTS HCA was present in 47 (56%) cases, and 37 (44%) cases were without the present HCA. There was no statistically significant difference in neonatal risk factors between the two groups (HCA + and HCA-). Higher rates of HCA (p = .042) were observed in mothers who received antepartum corticosteroid therapy. The frequency of vaginal deliveries in HCA + pregnancies was significantly higher than in HCA- pregnancies where deliveries by cesarean section were more frequently observed (p < .001). M2 DM were more abundant in the HCA + group (p = .035). Multiple regression model assessed the association between the presence of HCA, M1, and M2 DM with ROP stages. It has been observed that HCA is a risk factor for ROP stages (β coefficient = 0.34, rpartial = 0.246, p = .024). With the logistic regression model, the association between the presence of HCA, M1, and M2 DM with neonatal nCPAP respiratory support and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) was assessed. The presence of M2 macrophages in decidua is an independent risk factor for neonatal nCPAP respiratory support (coefficient -0.07, OR = 0.928, 95% CI 0.87-0.99, p = .024) and the presence of M1 macrophages in decidua increases the risk for NEC (coefficient 0.010, OR = 1.0108, 95% CI 1.00-1.02, p = .032). CONCLUSIONS The significantly more abundant presence of M2 DM was detected in HCA + placentas and their association with the increased risk for neonatal nCPAP respiratory support was observed. On the contrary, the presence of M1 DM increases the risk for NEC. The presence of HCA is a risk factor for ROP stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sanja Štifter
- Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | | | | | - Elvira Mustać
- Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Dragan Belci
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, Opca Bolnica Pula, Pula, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pandya Y, Penha-Gonçalves C. Maternal-Fetal Conflict During Infection: Lessons From a Mouse Model of Placental Malaria. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1126. [PMID: 31178840 PMCID: PMC6542978 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections that reach the placenta via maternal blood can target the fetal-placental barrier and are associated with reduced birth weight, increased stillbirth, miscarriage and perinatal mortality. Malaria during pregnancy can lead to infection of the placental tissue and to adverse effects on the unborn child even if the parasite is successfully cleared, indicating that placental sufficiency is significantly compromised. Human samples and animal models of placental malaria have been used to unravel mechanisms contributing to this insufficiency and have implicated molecular pathways related to inflammation, innate immunity and nutrient transport. Remarkably, fetal TLR4 was found to take part in placental responses that protect the fetus, in contrast to maternal TLR4 responses that presumably preserve the mother‘s health but result in reduced fetal viability. We propose that this conflict of fetal and maternal responses is a determinant of the clinical outcomes of placental malaria and that fetally derived trophoblasts are on the front lines of this conflict.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yash Pandya
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gene Expression Profiling of Placenta from Normal to Pathological Pregnancies. Placenta 2018. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.80551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
|
11
|
Avci S, Simsek M, Soylu H, Ustunel I. Misoprostol-Induced Modification of the Notch Signaling Pathway in the Human Cervix. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:909-917. [PMID: 30278829 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118799208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The complex and multifactorial mechanisms that initiate and sustain the early labor process in the human uterus and cervix are still not well defined. Cervical maturation or ripening is likely to play a key role in preparing for birth. Prostaglandins have many different functions, including the regulation of uterine contractility and structure during pregnancy. The prostaglandin E1 analogue misoprostol is frequently used as a uterotonic and cervical ripening agent. Notch is a transmembrane receptor family responsible for basic functions such as cell survival, cell-cell communication, and differentiation and decidualization in pregnancy. However, our understanding of the effect of Notch signaling on the cervical ripening process is limited. This study was conducted in 20 pregnant women aged at 12 to 20 weeks of gestation undergoing medical abortion for fetal or maternal indications. True-Cut needle biopsies were taken from the anterior cervix 4 hours after oral ingestion of 200-μg misoprostol or before the ingestion of misoprostol in the control group. Cervical expression of Notch receptors and ligands changed during the early phase of prostaglandin-induced preterm labor. Four hours after the administration of misoprostol, it was seen that N1 expression increased in muscle, while DLL1 and J2 expression increased in blood vessels, and N4 expression increased in macrophages. Knowing the mechanisms that initiate preterm birth is the most important step in planning the treatments and actions to prevent premature birth. As a signal that affects and perhaps directs preterm labor, Notch is prone to be an important actor in this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sema Avci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Simsek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Hakan Soylu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Duzce University School of Medicine, Duzce, Turkey
| | - Ismail Ustunel
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wei W, Zhang F, Chen H, Tang Y, Xing T, Luo Q, Yu L, Du J, Shen J, Zhang L. Toxoplasma gondii dense granule protein 15 induces apoptosis in choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells through endoplasmic reticulum stress. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:251. [PMID: 29665822 PMCID: PMC5904991 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2835-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii, a single-celled parasite commonly found in mammals, has been shown to induce trophoblast cell apoptosis and subsequently cause fetal damage and abortion. Although dense granule protein 15 (GRA15) has been identified as a key component in innate immunity to T. gondii infection and its pathogenesis, its role in host cell apoptosis remains unclarified. Methods Type II GRA15 (GRA15II) cDNA was inserted into a plasmid encoding enhanced green fluorescent protein (pEGFP). Choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells were transfected with either pEGFP or pEGFP-GRA15II and cultured for 24 h. Cell apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) responses were assessed. Inhibitors targeting inositol-requiring kinase 1α (IRE1α; 4μ8C, 100 nM) or c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK; SP6000125, 20 μM) were added 12 h after plasmid transfection, followed by testing the effect of GRA15II on ERS. Results When compared to pEGFP, pEGFP-GRA15II transfection facilitated cell apoptosis (P < 0.05), increased mRNA expression of caspase-3, caspase-4, 78-kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and X-box binding protein-1 (XBP1) (all P < 0.05), and promoted protein expression of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, Bax, CHOP, GRP78, phospho-JNK, and phospho-IRE1α (all P < 0.05). The 4μ8C and SP6000125 decreased apoptosis and protein expression of XBP1s, CHOP, TNF receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2), phosphorylated apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), cleaved caspase-3, phospho-JNK, and Bax (all P < 0.05) in pEGFP-GRA15II transfected cells. Conclusions Toxoplasma GRA15II induced ERS and subsequently caused apoptosis of choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Fangfang Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and the Key Laboratory of Microbiology (Anhui), School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - He Chen
- Laboratory of Clinical Diagnostics, the First Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and the Key Laboratory of Microbiology (Anhui), School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Tian Xing
- Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Research of Anhui Province, Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Qingli Luo
- Department of Pathogen Biology and the Key Laboratory of Microbiology (Anhui), School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Pathogen Biology and the Key Laboratory of Microbiology (Anhui), School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jian Du
- Department of Pathogen Biology and the Key Laboratory of Microbiology (Anhui), School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China. .,Department of Pathogen Biology and the Key Laboratory of Microbiology (Anhui), School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China. .,Laboratory of Clinical Diagnostics, the First Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Linjie Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pan M, Lyu C, Zhao J, Shen B. Sixty Years (1957-2017) of Research on Toxoplasmosis in China-An Overview. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1825. [PMID: 28993763 PMCID: PMC5622193 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous zoonotic pathogen belonging to apicomplexan parasites. Infection in humans and animals may cause abortion and other severe symptoms under certain circumstances, leading to great economical losses and public health problems. T. gondii was first discovered in China in 1955 and the corresponding work was published in 1957. Since then, a lot of work has been done on this parasite and the diseases it causes. This review summarizes the major progress made by Chinese scientists over the last 60 years, and gives our perspectives on what should be done in the near future. A wide variety of diagnostic approaches were designed, including the ones to detect T. gondii specific antibodies in host sera, and T. gondii specific antigens or DNA in tissue and environmental samples. Further work will be needed to translate some of the laboratory assays into reliable products for clinic uses. Epidemiological studies were extensively done in China and the sero-prevalence in humans increased over the years, but is still below the world average, likely due to the unique eating and cooking habits. Infection rates were shown to be fairly high in meat producing animals such as, pigs, sheep, and chickens, as well as in the definitive host cats. Numerous subunit vaccines in the form of recombinant proteins or DNA vaccines were developed, but none of them is satisfactory in the current form. Live attenuated parasites using genetically modified strains may be a better option for vaccine design. The strains isolated from China are dominated by the ToxoDB #9 genotype, but it likely contains multiple subtypes since different ToxoDB #9 strains exhibited phenotypic differences. Further studies are needed to understand the general biology, as well as the unique features of strains prevalent in China.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Congcong Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Junlong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine in Hubei ProvinceWuhan, China
- Hubei Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig ProductionWuhan, China
| | - Bang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine in Hubei ProvinceWuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
He X, Gong P, Wei Z, Liu W, Wang W, Li J, Yang Z, Zhang X. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ-mediated polarization of macrophages in Neospora caninum infection. Exp Parasitol 2017; 178:37-44. [PMID: 28527905 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neospora caninum is an apicomplexan parasite closely related Toxoplasma gondii, which causes neurological disease and abortion in multiple animal species. Macrophage polarization plays an important role in host immune responses to parasites infection, such as Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania, Trypanosoma cruzi. However, the dynamics of macrophage polarization, as well as the possible mechanism that regulate macrophage polarization, during N. caninum infection remains unclear. METHODS The M1 and M2-phenotypic markers of peritoneal macrophages from mice infected with tachyzoites of Nc-1 were analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM) analysis. Then J774A.1 cells were respectively treated with GW9662 and RGZ, and stimulated by tachyzoites of Nc-1. M1 and M2-phenotypic markers were determined by FCM and ELISA. And the activations of PPAR-γ and NF-κB were determined by Western blotting. RESULTS In this study, our data showed that macrophages were preferentially differentiated into the M1 type during the acute stage of N. caninum infection, while the level of M2 macrophages significantly increased during the chronic stage of infection. In vitro study, compared with the GW9662 group and RGZ group, N. caninum can promote M2-polarized phenotype through up-regulate the activity of PPAR-γ and inhibting NF-κB activation. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study demonstrated that macrophages are plastic since M1 differentiated macrophages can express M2 markers with N. caninum infection through up-regulating the activity of PPAR-γ and inhibting NF-κB activation and may be providing new insights for the prevention and treatment of N. caninum infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuexiu He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Zhengkai Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Weijian Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Weili Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Zhengtao Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
| | - Xichen Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chen J, Huang C, Zhu D, Shen P, Duan Y, Wang J, Yang C, Wu L. Chinese 1 strain of Toxoplasma gondii excreted-secreted antigens negatively modulate Foxp3 via inhibition of the TGFßRII/Smad2/Smad3/Smad4 pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 21:1944-1953. [PMID: 28300338 PMCID: PMC5571543 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic intracellular parasite and is considered an important aetiological factor in the process of abortion, especially as occurs in early gestation. Chinese 1 strain of T. gondii is a dominant genotype prevalent in China. Although it is known that early foetal resorption triggered by RH strain of T. gondii is attributable to immune mechanisms rather than its direct effect in uterus, the underlying mechanism of the abortion caused by Chinese 1 strain remains unclear. This study was designed to investigate the effect of excreted–secreted antigens (ESA) of Chinese 1 strain of T. gondii on the expression of forkhead box transcription factor (Foxp3) as it pertains to early pregnancy and abortion. ESA caused a marked inhibition in the expression of Foxp3 both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, ESA negatively modulated Smad2 and Smad3 at the posttranslational level. Smad2 siRNA cooperated with ESA to further suppress the level of Foxp3. This inhibitory effect on Foxp3 expression was partially abrogated by overexpression of Smad2, Smad3 and Smad4. Additionally, ESA attenuated the expression of TGFßRII, whereas TGFßRII agonist could profoundly reversed the decreased Foxp3 triggered by ESA. Collectively, the findings suggested that ESA restricted Foxp3 expression by inhibiting TGFßRII/Smad2/Smad3/Smad4 signalling, ultimately resulting in abortion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinling Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Caiqun Huang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dandan Zhu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pei Shen
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yinong Duan
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianxin Wang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunzhao Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liting Wu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang YH, He M, Wang Y, Liao AH. Modulators of the Balance between M1 and M2 Macrophages during Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2017; 8:120. [PMID: 28232836 PMCID: PMC5299000 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are a subset of mononuclear phagocytes of the innate immune system with high plasticity and heterogeneity. At the maternal–fetal interface, macrophages are present in all stages of pregnancy and involved in a variety of activities, including regulation of immune cell activities, decidualization, placental cell invasion, angiogenesis, parturition, and postpartum uterine involution. The activation state and function of uterine–placental macrophages are largely dependent on the local tissue microenvironment. However, disruption of the uterine microenvironment can have profound effects on macrophage activity and subsequently impact pregnancy outcome. Thus, appropriately and timely regulated macrophage polarization has been considered a key determinant of successful pregnancy. Targeting macrophage polarization might be an efficient strategy for maintaining maternal–fetal immune homeostasis and a normal pregnancy. Here, we will review the latest findings regarding the modulators regulating macrophage polarization in healthy pregnancies and pregnancy complications, which might provide a basis for macrophage-centered therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Hong Zhang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan , P.R. China
| | - Ming He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province , Wuhan , P.R. China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province , Wuhan , P.R. China
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan , P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Qiu J, Wang L, Zhang R, Ge K, Guo H, Liu X, Liu J, Kong D, Wang Y. Identification of a TNF-α inducer MIC3 originating from the microneme of non-cystogenic, virulent Toxoplasma gondii. Sci Rep 2016; 6:39407. [PMID: 28000706 PMCID: PMC5175157 DOI: 10.1038/srep39407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic parasite with avirulent cystogenic and highly virulent non-cystogenic isolates. Although non-cystogenic strains are considered the most virulent, there are also marked genetic and virulence differences among these strains. Excretory-secretory antigens (ESAs) of T. gondii are critical for the invasion process and the immune response of the host. To better understand the differences in virulence between non-cystogenic T. gondii isolates, we studied ESAs of the RH strain (Type I), and the very prevalent in China, but less virulent TgCtwh3 strain (Chinese 1). ESAs of RH and TgCtwh3 triggered different levels of TNF-α production and macrophage M1 polarization. Using iTRAQ analysis, 27 differentially expressed proteins originating from secretory organelles and surface were quantified. Of these proteins, 11 microneme-associated proteins (MICs), 6 rhoptry proteins, 2 dense granule proteins and 5 surface proteins were more abundant in RH than in TgCtwh3. The protein-protein correlation network was employed to identify the important functional node protein MIC3, which was upregulated 5-fold in RH compared with TgCtwh3. MIC3 was experimentally confirmed to evoke a TNF-α secretory response, and it also induced macrophage M1 polarization. This result suggests that MIC3 is a potentially useful immunomodulator that induces TNF-α secretion and macrophage M1 polarization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingfan Qiu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Ke Ge
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Hongfei Guo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xinjian Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Jinfeng Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Delong Kong
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Toxoplasma gondii isolate with genotype Chinese 1 triggers trophoblast apoptosis through oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in mice. Exp Parasitol 2015; 154:51-61. [PMID: 25913086 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Revised: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Congenital toxoplasmosis may result in abortion, severe mental retardation and neurologic damage in the offspring. Placental damage is considered as the key event in this disease. Here we show that maternal infection with Toxoplasma gondii Wh3 isolate of genotype Chinese 1, which is predominantly prevalent in China, induced trophoblast apoptosis of pregnant mouse. PCR array analysis of 84 key genes in the biogenesis and functions of mouse mitochondrion revealed that ten genes were up-regulated at least 2-fold in the Wh3 infection group, compared with those in the control. The elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), as well as the decreased glutathione (GSH), were observed in the infected mice. The mRNA levels of NADPH oxidase 1 and glutathione peroxidase 6 (GPx6) were significantly increased. The production of excessive ROS was NADPH oxidase-dependent, which contributed to mitochondrial structural damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in placentas, followed by the cleavage of caspase-9 and caspase-3, and finally resulted in apoptosis of trophoblasts. All the above-mentioned phenomena were inhibited by pretreatment with the antioxidant of N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Taken together, we concluded that Wh3 infection during pregnancy may contribute to trophoblast apoptosis by oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and activation of the downstream signaling pathway.
Collapse
|
19
|
Brown MB, von Chamier M, Allam AB, Reyes L. M1/M2 macrophage polarity in normal and complicated pregnancy. Front Immunol 2014; 5:606. [PMID: 25505471 PMCID: PMC4241843 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue macrophages play an important role in all stages of pregnancy, including uterine stromal remodeling (decidualization) before embryo implantation, parturition, and post-partum uterine involution. The activation state and function of utero-placental macrophages are largely dependent on the local tissue microenvironment. Thus, macrophages are involved in a variety of activities such as regulation of immune cell activities, placental cell invasion, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. Disruption of the uterine microenvironment, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy (decidualization, implantation, and placentation) can have profound effects on macrophage activity and subsequently impact pregnancy outcome. In this review, we will provide an overview of the temporal and spatial regulation of utero-placental macrophage activation during normal pregnancy in human beings and rodents with a focus on more recent findings. We will also discuss the role of M1/M2 dysregulation within the intrauterine environment during adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary B Brown
- D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, FL , USA
| | - Maria von Chamier
- D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, FL , USA
| | - Ayman B Allam
- D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, FL , USA
| | - Leticia Reyes
- D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, Department of Infectious Disease and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, FL , USA
| |
Collapse
|