The role of the invasive, placental trophoblast in human pregnancy

Toxic effects of dibutyl phthalate on trophoblast through mitochondria mediated cellular dysfunction

Dibutyl phthalate is a chemical commonly used as a plasticizer in the production of daily necessaries, such as cosmetics and toys. Although several toxic effects of dibutyl phthalate have been confirmed, those related to pregnancy are unknown. Trophoblasts are critical for fetal and placental development, and trophoblast damage may cause preeclampsia. This study aimed to confirm the toxic effect of dibutyl phthalate on trophoblasts. We used the human trophoblast cell line HTR-8/SVneo and human choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells as a placental trophoblast model to investigate the toxic effects of dibutyl phthalate. Both cell lines were treated with dibutyl phthalate (0-20 μg/mL) to verify the mechanisms regulating trophoblast function. Dibutyl phthalate treatment significantly reduced trophoblast viability, reduced invasion ability, and induced mitochondrial depolarization. Ultimately, dibutyl phthalate regulated the PI3K and MAPK signaling pathways and the expression of autophagy-related proteins ATG5, LC3B, and SQSTM1/p62. We concluded that dibutyl phthalate induced autophagy and effectively weakened trophoblast function. Additionally, we conducted experiments to assess the potential effects of monobutyl phthalate, a metabolite of dibutyl phthalate, on cellular mobility, penetration, and autophagy induction. Our results demonstrated that monobutyl phthalate impaired these functions and weakened the trophoblast barrier, after dibutyl phthalate metabolized. Thus, exposure to dibutyl phthalate and its metabolite monobutyl phthalate can damage trophoblast function, highlighting their potential as hazardous substances that impair trophoblast barrier integrity.

Effect of Granzyme K, FasL and Interferon-γ Expression in Placentas with Preeclampsia

This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic activity of decidual lymphocytes and the mRNA/protein expression of cytotoxic proteins in various cell types in the context of preeclampsia (PE) compared to those of healthy pregnancies. We analyzed fresh decidua basalis tissue and tissue embedded in paraffin (FFPE) from PE pregnancies (n = 15) and compared them with those of healthy pregnancies (n = 15) of the corresponding gestational age. Using double immunofluorescence staining, we observed differences in the intensity and distribution of staining for granzyme K (GZMK) and FasL in extravillous trophoblasts. RT-qPCR analysis of FFPE placental tissue showed that GZMK mRNA expression was statistically higher (p < 0.0001) in PE compared to that of healthy controls. On the contrary, there was a low expression (p < 0.001) of FasL mRNA in PE compared to controls, while there was no statistically significant difference for IFN-γ mRNA between PE and controls. Although the level of cytotoxic activity changed depending on the ratio of effector and target cells, there was no significant difference observed between PE and controls in this in vitro study. In conclusion, in PE, extravillous trophoblasts exhibited increased expression of GZMK and decreased expression of FasL. These changes may contribute to impaired trophoblast invasion. However, these alterations did not appear to affect the cytotoxic properties of decidual lymphocytes. Additionally, the possibility of cell sorter separation of decidual lymphocytes would greatly contribute to a better understanding of single cells' genetic profiles.

Specific expression and blood kinetics for relaxin 2, lipocalin 2, and tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 at the canine placenta and pregnant bloods

In general, humoral factors released from the placenta influence pregnancy progression, but the involvement of the canine placenta is often unidentified. We investigated specific genes in canine placentas and analyzed the blood dynamics of the translated proteins. Furthermore, RNAs are known to be released from placentas embedding in exosomes, a type of extracellular vesicles. Here, the presence of cell-free RNAs in pregnant serums was also confirmed. RNA specimens were purified from the normal healthy dog placentas and applied to RNA-Seq analysis. Expressions of frequent genes were confirmed by RT-PCR using placentas from other individuals and breeds. Relaxin (RLN) 2, lipocalin (LCN) 2, and tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) 2 were selected as high-expressed and placenta-specific genes. By western blot, the three factors were clearly detected in the pregnant serums. Quantitative analysis revealed that the amount of RLN2 increased significantly from non-pregnancy to day 41 of pregnancy. Regarding LCN2 and TFPI2, the protein serum levels elevated during pregnancy, but the statistical differences were not detected. Exosomes were found in all pregnant serums; however, the percentage was less than 6% in total extracellular vesicles. The cell-free RNA related to RLN2 was detected, but no elevation was confirmed during pregnancy. We found specific genes in the canine placenta and the transition of their translated protein into the blood. These factors may become useful tools for research on canine pregnancy and monitoring of reproductive management. Exosomes and cell-free RNA could not be found to be valid in canine reproduction.

Resolving the gene expression maps of human first-trimester chorionic villi with spatial transcriptome

The placenta is important for fetal development in mammals, and spatial transcriptomic profiling of placenta helps to resolve its structure and function. In this study, we described the landscape of spatial transcriptome of human placental villi obtained from two pregnant women at the first trimester using the modified Stereo-seq method applied for paraformaldehyde (PFA) fixation samples. The PFA fixation of human placenta villi was better than fresh villi embedded in optimum cutting temperature (OCT) compound, since it greatly improved tissue morphology and the specificity of RNA signals. The main cell types in chorionic villi such as syncytiotrophoblasts (SCT), villous cytotrophoblasts (VCT), fibroblasts (FB), and extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) were identified with the spatial transcriptome data, whereas the minor cell types of Hofbauer cells (HB) and endothelial cells (Endo) were spatially located by deconvolution of scRNA-seq data. We demonstrated that the Stereo-seq data of human villi could be used for sophisticated analyses such as spatial cell-communication and regulatory activity. We found that the SCT and VCT exhibited the most ligand-receptor pairs that could increase differentiation of the SCT, and that the spatial localization of specific regulons in different cell types was associated with the pathways related to hormones transport and secretion, regulation of mitotic cell cycle, and nutrient transport pathway in SCT. In EVT, regulatory pathways such as the epithelial to mesenchyme transition, epithelial development and differentiation, and extracellular matrix organization were identified. Finally, viral receptors and drug transporters were identified in villi according to the pathway analysis, which could help to explain the vertical transmission of several infectious diseases and drug metabolism efficacy. Our study provides a valuable resource for further investigation of the placenta development, physiology and pathology in a spatial context.

Functional HLA-C expressing trophoblast spheroids as a model to study placental-maternal immune interactions during human implantation

In healthy couples over half of the conceptions result in failed pregnancy and around 30% of them occur during implantation defining it as a rate-limiting step for the success of native and in vitro fertilization. The understanding of the factors regulating each step of implantation and immune recognition is critical for the pregnancy outcome. Creation of 3D-cell culture models, such as spheroids and organoids, is in the focus of placental tissue engineering in attempt to resemble the in vivo complexity of the maternal-fetal interface and to overcome the need of laboratory animals and human embryos. We constructed stable, reliable, and reproducible trophoblast Sw71 spheroids which are functional independently of the serum level in the culture media. These models resemble the hatched human blastocyst in size, shape and function and are useful for in vitro studies of the in vivo concealed human implantation. Since Sw71 spheroids produce HLA-C, the only classical MHC molecule indispensable for establishment of the immune tolerance and proper human implantation, they are applicable for the evaluation not only of implantation itself but also of maternal-trophoblasts immune interactions. In addition, Sw71-blastocyst-like spheroids are manipulable in low-volume platform, easy to monitor and analyze automatically under treatment with favorable/detrimental factors.

Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Donation from Healthy Female Donors During Pregnancy: A Report of 10 Cases

The golden rule when collecting hematopoietic progenitors (HPs) from healthy volunteers is "donor safety." Pregnancy is an absolute contraindication for HP collection from unrelated donors; however, collection from a related pregnant donor is sometimes considered based on the urgency of the indication for transplantation and the available alternatives. Data on the safety and efficacy of this practice are limited. We conducted a retrospective chart review of an institution's transplantation database to characterize the safety and efficacy of HP donation from pregnant donors. Ten cases of HP donation from pregnant donors were identified, including 6 bone marrow grafts and 4 peripheral blood stem cell grafts. The median age of donors was 27.5 years. The median volume of the collected product was 521 mL (range, 128 to 1160 mL), the median number of total nucleated cells (TNCs) in the graft was 252 × 10⁸ (range, 30.5 to 794 × 10⁸), the median TNC concentration in the graft was 37 × 10⁶ per mL (range, 4.7 to 214.6 × 10⁶ per mL). The median number of CD34 cells in the graft was 142 × 10⁶ (range, 6 to 763 × 10⁶), and the median CD34 concentration in the graft was 20 × 10⁴ per mL (range, 2 to 206 × 10⁴ per mL). There were no safety issues or signals related to the procedure. HP collection from pregnant donors is relatively safe. This case series provides valuable information for practicing transplant physicians on how to counsel pregnant donors when this scenario is encountered in clinical practice.

MNSFβ Promotes the Proliferation and Migration of Human Extravillous Trophoblast Cells and the Villus Expression Level of MNSFβ Is Decreased in Recurrent Miscarriage Patients

AIMS

The invasion of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells into maternal decidua is essential for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Derangement of EVT cell invasion might cause pregnancy complications including recurrent miscarriage (RM). We previously reported that deficiency of monoclonal nonspecific suppressor factor beta (MNSFβ) led to the early pregnancy failure in mice and the decidual MNSFβ expression level in RM patients was significantly decreased, but the underlying molecular mechanism of the role that MNSFβ played at the maternal-fetal interface remains unclear. Thus, in the present study, we determined effects of downregulated MNSFβ expression on human EVT cell activities.

METHODS

The MNSFβ expression in first-trimester human decidual and placental villus tissues was detected, respectively, by immunofluorescence or immunohistochemical analyses. The MNSFβ expression level in the immortalized first-trimester human EVT cell line HTR8/SVneo was downregulated by transfecting the small interfering RNA against MNSFβ and upregulated by transfecting the recombinant pDsRed-MNSFβ plasmids. The proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis activities of HTR8/SVneo cells were, respectively, determined by cytometry assay, scratch test, transwell assay, and FITC/PI staining. The expression levels of P53, RhoA, Bcl-2, Bax, and MMP-9 in HTR8/SVneo cells, as well as the expression levels of MNSFβ and RhoA in placental villi of RM patients and physically normal pregnant women (NP), were examined by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

MNSFβ protein signals were observed in first-trimester human villus and extravillous trophoblast cells. The downregulated MNSFβ expression significantly attenuated the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of HTR8/SVneo cells, accompanied with the obviously decreased expression levels of P53, RhoA, Bcl-2, Bax, and MMP-9, whereas the upregulated MNSFβ expression in HTR8/SVneo cells represented the inverse effects. Furthermore, expression levels of MNSFβ and RhoA in first-trimester human placental villus tissues of RM patients were significantly decreased compared to that of NP women.

CONCLUSION

These data suggested that MNSFβ promotes proliferation and migration of human EVT cells, probably via the P53 signaling pathway, and the deficiency of MNSFβ in placental villi might lead to early pregnancy loss by reducing proliferation and invasion activities of EVTs.

Differential placental methylation in preeclampsia, preterm and term pregnancies

INTRODUCTION

Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Recently, the role of epigenetic modifications in preeclampsia has been a focus of research. This study was to identified genes or pathways that may be associated with PE, and discuss whether the changes in the methylation level of these genes is related to the pathogenesis of PE.

METHODS

The methylation levels of placental tissues between PE (n = 4), preterm birth (PB, n = 4) and term birth (TB, n = 4) were detected by Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation850 K BeadChip. Pyrosequencing and qRT-PCR were used to validated the methylation and expression levels of the genes with the most significant differences.

RESULTS

The global methylation levels of placenta tissues in PE and PB were both higher compared to TB. After eliminated the effect of gestational age, there were 808 gene probes differentially methylated in PE compared to PB. We found 137 genes with 130 genes hypermethylated and 7 genes hypomethylated. CMIP, BLCAP and MICA genes were with the most significant differential methylation. The expression level of CMIP and BLCAP were both negatively correlated to the methylation levels, while the expression level of MICA was not related to its methylation levels.

CONCLUSION

The methylation levels in placenta tissues were associated with gestational ages. We indicated the expression levels of the significantly methylated genes were negatively correlated with the methylation levels, further functional researches were still needed to find out whether they are associated with the onset of preeclampsia.

Effect of Chlorpyrifos on human extravillous-like trophoblast cells

An increased risk of pregnancy disorders has been reported in women and animal models exposed to organophosphate pesticides. However, less information is available on impacts to human placental function. Here, we addressed the impact of chlorpyrifos (CPF) on extravillous cytotrophoblasts (evCTB) employing HTR8/SVneo cells as an in vitro model. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were not affected by CPF under conditions where cell viability was not compromised; however, we observed reduced expression of genes for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1, hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma, and the β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin. These results are the first effects reported by organophosphate pesticide in evCTB cells and show altered expression of several genes important for placental development that could serve as potential biomarkers for future research.

LncRNA MEG3 inhibits trophoblast invasion and trophoblast-mediated VSMC loss in uterine spiral artery remodeling

Extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) migrate into uterine decidua and induce vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) loss through mechanisms thought to involve migration and apoptosis, achieving complete spiral artery remodeling. Long noncoding RNA maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) can regulate diverse cellular processes, such as proliferation and migration, and has been discovered highly expressed in human placenta tissues. However, little is known about the role of MEG3 in modulating EVT functions and EVT-induced VSMC loss. In this study, we first examined the location of MEG3 in human first-trimester placenta by in situ hybridization. Then, exogenous upregulation of MEG3 in HTR-8/SVneo cells was performed to investigate the effects of MEG3 on EVT motility and EVT capacity to displace VSMCs. Meanwhile, the molecules mediating EVT-induced VSMC loss, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Fas ligand (FasL), and tumor necrosis factor-α-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) were detected at transcriptional and translational levels. Finally, VSMCs were cocultured with MEG3-upregulated HTR-8/SVneo to explore the role of MEG3 on EVT-mediated VSMC migration and apoptosis. Results showed that MEG3 was expressed in trophoblasts in placental villi and decidua, and MEG3 enhancement inhibited HTR-8/SVneo migration and invasion. Meanwhile, the displacement of VSMCs by HTR-8/SVneo and the expression of TNF-α, FasL and TRAIL in HTR-8/SVneo were reduced following MEG3 overexpression in HTR-8/SVneo. Furthermore, HTR-8/SVneo with MEG3 upregulation impaired VSMC migration and apoptosis. The PI3K/Akt pathway, which is possibly downstream, was inactivated in MEG3-upregulated HTR-8/SVneo. These findings suggest that MEG3 might be a negative regulator of spiral artery remodeling via suppressing EVT invasion and EVT-mediated VSMC loss.

The effects of flavonoids on human first trimester trophoblast spheroidal stem cell self-renewal, invasion and JNK/p38 MAPK activation: Understanding the cytoprotective effects of these phytonutrients against oxidative stress

Adequate invasion and complete remodelling of the maternal spiral arteries by the invading extravillous trophoblasts are the major determinants of a successful pregnancy. Increase in oxidative stress during pregnancy has been linked to the reduction in trophoblast invasion and incomplete conversion of the maternal spiral arteries, resulting in pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and spontaneous miscarriages resulting in foetal/maternal mortality. The use of antioxidant therapy (vitamin C and E) and other preventative treatments (such as low dose aspirin) have been ineffective in preventing pre-eclampsia. Also, as the majority of antihypertensive drugs pose side effects, choosing an appropriate treatment would depend upon the efficacy and safety of mother/foetus. Since pre-eclampsia is mainly linked to placental oxidative stress, new diet-based antioxidants can be of use to prevent this condition. The antioxidant properties of flavonoids (naturally occurring phenolic compounds which are ubiquitously distributed in fruits and vegetables) have been well documented in non-trophoblast cells. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of flavonoids (quercetin, hesperidin) and their metabolites (Quercetin 3-O-β-glucuronide and hesperetin), either alone or in combination, on first trimester trophoblast cell line HTR-8/SVneo during oxidative stress. The data obtained from this study indicate that selected flavonoids, their respective metabolites significantly reduced the levels of reduced glutathione (p < 0.0001) during HR-induced oxidative stress. These flavonoids also inhibited the activation of pro-apoptotic kinases (p38 MAPK and c-Jun N-terminal kinase) during HR-induced phosphorylation. In addition, they enhanced spheroid stem-like cell generation from HTR8/SVneo cells, aiding their invasion. Our data suggest that dietary intake of food rich in quercetin or hesperidin during early pregnancy can significantly improve trophoblast (placenta) health and function against oxidative stress.

An insight into the role of the death receptor CD95 throughout pregnancy: Guardian, facilitator, or foe

The prototype death receptor CD95 (Fas) and its ligand, CD95L (FasL), have been thoroughly studied due to their role in immune homeostasis and elimination of infected and transformed cells. The fact that CD95 is present in female reproductive cells and modulated during embryogenesis and pregnancy has raised interest in its role in immune tolerance to the fetoplacental unit. CD95 has been shown to be critical for proper embryonic formation and survival. Moreover, altered expression of CD95 or its ligand causes autoimmunity and has also been directly involved in recurrent pregnancy losses and pregnancy disorders. The objective of this review is to summarize studies that evaluate the mechanisms involved in the activation of CD95 to provide an updated global view of its effect on the regulation of the maternal immune system. Modulation of the CD95 system components may be the immune basis of several common pregnancy disorders.

Increased placental expression of Placental Protein 5 (PP5) / Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor-2 (TFPI-2) in women with preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome: Relevance to impaired trophoblast invasion?

INTRODUCTION

Placental Protein 5 (PP5)/Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor-2 (TFPI-2) is an extracellular matrix-associated protein mainly expressed by the syncytiotrophoblast that may regulate trophoblast invasion. Our aim was to study placental PP5/TFPI-2 expression and its relation to placental pathology in various forms of preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome.

METHODS

Placental and maternal blood specimens were collected at the time of delivery from the same women in the following groups: 1) early controls; 2) early preeclampsia; 3) early preeclampsia with HELLP syndrome; 4) late controls; and 5) late preeclampsia. After histopathological examination, placental specimens were immunostained with polyclonal anti-PP5/TFPI-2 antibody on Western blot and tissue microarray immunohistochemistry. Placental PP5/TFPI-2 immunoscores were assessed manually and with a semi-automated method. Maternal sera were immunoassayed for PP5/TFPI-2.

RESULTS

PP5/TFPI-2 was localized to the cytoplasm of syncytiotrophoblast. Manual and semi-automated PP5/TFPI-2 immunoscores were higher in early preeclampsia with or without HELLP syndrome but not in late preeclampsia than in respective controls. In patients with preeclampsia, the correlation of placental PP5/TFPI-2 expression with maternal vascular malperfusion score of the placenta was positive while it was negative with birthweight and placental weight. Maternal serum PP5/TFPI-2 concentration was higher in early preeclampsia and it tended to be higher in early preeclampsia with HELLP syndrome than in early controls.

DISCUSSION

Our findings suggest that an increased placental PP5/TFPI-2 expression may be associated with abnormal placentation in early preeclampsia, with or without HELLP syndrome.

Effects of selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in JEG-3 and HIPEC cell models of the extravillous trophoblast

INTRODUCTION

Between 2 and 10% of pregnant women are treated with selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for depression. The extravillous trophoblasts (evTBs), which migrate and invade maternal tissues, are crucial for embryo implantation and remodeling of maternal spiral arteries. Poor migration/invasion of evTBs can cause serious pregnancy complications, yet the effects of SSRIs on these processes has never been studied. To determine the effects of five SSRIs (fluoxetine, norfluoxetine, citalopram, sertraline and venlafaxine) on migration/invasion, we used JEG-3 and HIPEC cells as evTB models.

METHODS

Cells were treated with increasing concentrations (0.03-10 μM) of SSRIs. Cell proliferation was monitored using an impedance-based system and cell cycle by flow cytometry. Migration was determined using a scratch test, and metalloproteinase (MMP) activities, by zymography. Invasion markers were determined by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

Fluoxetine and sertraline (10 μM) significantly decreased cell proliferation by 94% and by 100%, respectively, in JEG-3 cells, and by 58.6% and 100%, respectively, in HIPEC cells. Norfluoxetine increased MMP-9 activity in JEG-3 cells by 2.0% at 0.03 μM and by 43.9% at 3 μM, but decreased MMP-9 activity in HIPEC cells by 63.7% at 3 μM. Sertraline at 0.03 μM increased mRNA level of TIMP-1 in JEG-3 cells by 36% and that of ADAM-10 by 85% and 115% at 0.3 and 3 μM, respectively. In HIPEC cells, venlafaxine at 0.03 and 0.3 μM, increased ADAM-10 mRNA levels by 156% and 167%, respectively.

DISCUSSION

This study shows that SSRIs may affect evTBs homeostasis at therapeutic levels and provides guidance for future research.

Avobenzone suppresses proliferative activity of human trophoblast cells and induces apoptosis mediated by mitochondrial disruption

Avobenzone is widely used in various personal care products, is present in swimming pools, and is toxic to aquatic organisms. However, it is unclear how avobenzone affects human trophoblast cells. Results of the present study demonstrated that avobenzone inhibited the proliferation of HTR8/SVneo cells, the immortalized human trophoblast cell line, and inhibited the expression of PCNA. In addition, avobenzone increased the activity of AKT and ERK1/2 in HTR8/SVneo cells. When LY294002 (AKT inhibitor) and U0126 (ERK1/2 inhibitor) were treated with avobenzone, the anti-proliferative effect of avobenzone was alleviated. Moreover, avobenzone promoted Ca²⁺ overload into the mitochondria and induced depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane. Expression of IFI27, which is located in the mitochondria, was elevated by avobenzone via inhibition of expression through siRNA transfection against IFI27, but did not alter cell properties. This study suggests that avobenzone induces mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated apoptosis leading to abnormal placentation during early pregnancy.

Oleic acid stimulation of motility of human extravillous trophoblast cells is mediated by stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 activity

STUDY QUESTION

Do fatty acids regulate development and motility of human extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs)?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Oleic acid is a promising lipid molecule that has beneficial effects on motility and development of human EVTs.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Fatty acid uptake into trophoblast cells is important for maintaining cellular events during pregnancy, but the molecular mechanisms of action of various fatty acids, including trans fatty acids, saturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids, in EVT cell lines are not clear.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Effects of oleic acid, elaidic acid, palmitic acid and stearic acid on HTR8/SVneo cells were assessed in diverse assays in a dose- and time-dependent manner.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Effects of fatty acids on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis (Annexin V expression, propidium iodide staining, TUNEL and invasion assays) of HTR8/SVneo cells were determined. Signal transduction pathways in HTR8/SVneo cells in response to fatty acids were determined by Western blot analyses. Regulation of fatty acids on oxidative conditions in EVTs were determined and validated by measurement of production of cellular reactive oxygen species, intracellular concentrations of free Ca2+and lipid peroxidation assays.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

In present study, we confirmed different effects of oleic acid and elaidic acid on migration, invasion, proliferation and apoptosis of the EVT cell line, HTR8/SVneo. We also investigated stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD1) to determine if its activity contributed to oleic acid-induced migration of HTR8/SVneo cells. Next, we analyzed cell signaling molecules mediated by oleic acid and elaidic acid treatment, including MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways in HTR8/SVneo cells. We further established whether selective inhibition of signaling molecules altered the ability of fatty acids to cause changes in migration and proliferation of HTR8/SVneo cells. Last, we examined the regulatory effects of oleic acid and SCD1 on oxidative stress in HTR8/SVneo cells.

LARGE SCALE DATA

N/A.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

The lack of in vivo animal studies is a major limitation of this research. Effectiveness of oleic acid to stimulate migration of human EVT cells requires further investigation.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Our results suggest that oleic acid can play an important role in promoting invasion of human EVT cell lines while both trans fatty acids and saturated fatty acids are not conducive to normal placentation. This may have implications for the prevention of pre-eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction.

STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This work was supported by a grant from the Korea Health Technology R&D Project through the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), funded by the Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea (No. HI15C0810) awarded to G.S. and (No. HI17C0929) awarded to W.L. There are no conflicts of interest.

Intrauterine growth retardation-associated syncytin b hypermethylation in maternal rat blood revealed by DNA methylation array analysis

BackgroundEmerging evidence suggests that DNA methylation in maternal blood is a promising target for intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) screening, a common developmental toxicity. Here, we aimed to screen out IUGR-related DNA methylation status in maternal blood via high-throughput profiling.MethodsPregnant Wistar rats were subcutaneously administered nicotine (1 mg/kg) twice per day from gestational day (GD) 11 to GD20 to establish the IUGR model. MeDIP array assays and the following GO analysis were used to evaluate DNA methylation status in maternal blood. One placental development-associated gene was selected for further confirmation.ResultsGenes regulating the development of multiple organs and major body systems had changed DNA methylation frequencies in the maternal blood of IUGR rats. Placental development, which can affect the development of multiple fetal organs and induce IUGR, is a hypermethylated cluster consisting of four significantly changed genes, including syncytin b (Synb), Lrrc15, Met, and Tex19.1. With the most significant change, Synb hypermethylation in maternal blood was confirmed by bisulfite-sequencing PCR (BSP). Moreover, decreased Synb expression and histological changes were observed in IUGR placentae.ConclusionThe IUGR-associated DNA methylation profile in maternal blood, such as placenta-related Synb hypermethylation, provides evidence for further studies on possible IUGR biomarkers.

PIM kinases 1, 2 and 3 in intracellular LIF signaling, proliferation and apoptosis in trophoblastic cells

Proviral insertion in murine (PIM) lymphoma proteins are mainly regulated by the Janus Kinase/Signal Transducer Activator of Transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway, which can be activated by members of the Interleukin-6 (IL-6) family, including Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF). Aim of the study was to compare PIM1, PIM2 and PIM3 expression and potential cellular functions in human first and third trimester trophoblast cells, the immortalized first trimester extravillous trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo and the choriocarcinoma cell line JEG-3. Expression was analyzed by qPCR and immunochemical staining. Functions were evaluated by PIM inhibition followed by analysis of kinetics of cell viability as assessed by MTS assay, proliferation by BrdU assay, and apoptosis by Western blotting for BAD, BCL-XL, (cleaved) PARP, CASP3 and c-MYC. Apoptosis and necrosis were tested by flow cytometry (annexin V/propidium iodide staining). All analyzed PIM kinases are expressed in primary trophoblast cells and both cell lines and are regulated upon stimulation with LIF. Inhibition of PIM kinases significantly reduces viability and proliferation and induces apoptosis. Simultaneously, phosphorylation of c-MYC was reduced. These results demonstrate the involvement of PIM kinases in LIF-induced regulation in different trophoblastic cell lines which may indicate similar functions in primary cells.

dNK derived IFN-γ mediates VSMC migration and apoptosis via the induction of LncRNA MEG3: A role in uterovascular transformation

INTRODUCTION

Appropriate spiral artery remodeling is critical for successful fetal development and pregnancy outcomes. The vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) loss and separation, involving cell apoptosis and migration, plays an important role in this process. Decidual natural killer cells (dNK)-derived interferon gamma (IFN-γ), a key regulator of uterine arterial remodeling, can facilitate separation of VSMC layers, however, the specific mechanisms of it action are unknown. Long non-coding RNA MEG3 functions as tumor suppressor by regulating apoptosis and migration. Moreover, IFN-γ has been shown to influence cell vitality through regulating MEG3 expression. However, the functional role of dNK derived IFN-γ and MEG3 on VSMC viability, as well as the relationship between IFN-γ and MEG3 in VSMCs, has not been completely elaborated.

METHODS

The up-regulation strategies and reagent treatment were employed to detect the effects of MEG3 and dNK/IFN-γ on VSMC proliferation, apoptosis and migration. At the same time, MEG3, p53 and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) expressions were investigated.

RESULTS

dNK/IFN-γ treatment led to up-regulation of MEG3 expression in VSMCs. Both MEG3 over-expression and dNK/IFN-γ treatment inhibited VSMC proliferation, stimulated VSMC migration and resulted in a small but significant induction of VSMC apoptosis, as well as promoted p53 and MMP-2 expression in VSMCs.

DISCUSSION

MEG3 is regulated by dNK-derived IFN-γ and regulates VSMC migration and apoptosis. Therefore, it may be an important positive regulator in VSMC loss from the maternal uterine spiral arteries during vascular transformation.

Establishment and Characterization of a Telomerase-Immortalized Sheep Trophoblast Cell Line

The primary sheep trophoblast cells (STCs) have a finite lifespan in culture. This feature limits the scope for long-term in vitro studies with STCs. This study was an attempt to establish and characterize a telomerase-immortalized sheep trophoblast cell line. STCs were isolated and purified by using Percoll and specific immunoaffinity purification, respectively. The purified STCs were transfected with a plasmid carrying sequences of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) to create immortalized sheep trophoblast cell line (hTERT-STCs). hTERT-STCs showed a stable expression of hTERT gene, serially passaged for a year, and showed active proliferation without signs of senescence. Cytokeratin 7 (CK-7), secreted human chorionic gonadotrophin subunit β (CG-β), placental lactogen (PL), and endogenous jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (enJSRV) envelope genes were expressed in hTERT-STCs. Transwell cell invasion assay indicated that hTERT-STCs still possessed the same invasive characteristics as normal primary sheep trophoblast cells. hTERT-STCs could not grow in soft agar and did not develop into tumors in nude mice. In this study, we established a strain of immortalized sheep trophoblast cell line which could be gainfully employed in the future as an experimental model to study trophoblast cells with secretory function, invasive features, and probable biological function of enJSRV envelope genes.

Localization of folate metabolic enzymes, methionine synthase and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase in human placenta

BACKGROUND

Normal fetal development requires adequate folate levels during pregnancy. Although folate metabolic enzymes have important roles in the maintenance of normal fetal development, the location of folate metabolic enzymes, methionine synthase (MTR) and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), has not been previously examined.

METHODS

We investigated the expression of MTR and MTHFR in human term placenta obtained from normal and pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) patients.

RESULTS

MTR is expressed in the villous syncytiotrophoblast and MTHFR is expressed in the extravillous trophoblast. There was no difference in the quantity and location of these enzymes between control and PIH patients.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that MTR in the villous trophoblast participates in the metabolism of homocysteine by using folate, and MTHFR in the extravillous trophoblast is associated with extratrophoblast invasion.

Swainsonine induces apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway and caspase activation in goat trophoblasts

The indolizidine alkaloid swainsonine (SW) has been reported to impair placentae and ultimately cause abortion in pregnant goats. Up to now, however, the precise effects of SW on goat trophoblast cells (GTCs) are still unclear. In this study, the cytotoxicity effects of SW on GTCs were detected and evaluated by MTT assay, AO/EB double staining, DNA fragmentation assay and flow cytometry analysis. Results showed that SW treatment significantly suppressed GTCs viability and induced typical apoptotic features in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. SW treatment increased Bax protein levels, reduced Bcl-2 protein levels, induced Bax translocation to mitochondria, and triggered the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria into cytosol, which in turn activated caspase-9 and caspase-3, and cleaved PARP, resulting in GTCs apoptosis. However, caspase-8 activity and the level of Bid did not exhibit significant changes in the process of SW-induced apoptosis. In addition, TUNEL assay suggested that SW induced GTCs apoptosis but not other cells in goat placenta cotyledons. Taken together, these data suggest that SW selectively induces GTCs apoptosis via the activation of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway in goat placenta cotyledons, which might contribute to placentae impairment and abortion in pregnant goats fed with SW-containing plants. These findings may provide new insights to understand the mechanisms involved in SW-caused goat's abortion.

Decidual angiogenesis and placental orientation are altered in mice heterozygous for a dominant loss-of-function Gja1 (connexin43) mutation

Connexin43 (CX43), encoded by Gja1 in the mouse, is highly expressed in decidual cells and is known to be important for the transformation of stromal cells into the compact decidua and for neoangiogenesis. Here we investigated if the dominant Gja1(Jrt) mutation encoding CX43(G60S) in mice, which results in a phenotype resembling oculodentodigital dysplasia in humans, has an impact on decidualization, angiogenesis, and implantation. We found a reduced mean weight of fetuses at Gestational Day 17.5 in dams carrying this mutation, with the growth deficiency being independent of fetal genotype. Although the mutant implantation sites exhibited a reduction in CX43 protein, with most immunoreactivity being cytoplasmic, the decidua was morphologically intact at Embryonic Days 5.5 to 7.5. However, the mutation resulted in enhanced and irregular angiogenesis and an increased level of expression of the angiogenic factor-encoding genes Vegfa, Flt1, Kdr, and Fgf2 as well as the prolactin-related gene Prl6a. Moreover, immunolocalization of VEGFA, FLT1, and KDR revealed a homogeneous distribution pattern in the mesometrial as well as antimesometrial decidua of the mutants. Most obviously, uterine NK cells are drastically diminished in the mesometrial decidua of the mutant mice. Invasion of ectoplacental cone cells was disoriented, and placentation was established more laterally in the implantation chambers. It was concluded that the CX43(G60S) mutant impairs control of decidual angiogenesis, leading to dysmorphic placentation and fetal growth restriction. This phenomenon could contribute to the reduced fetal weights and viability of pups born of Gja1(Jrt)/+ dams.

The isolation and characterization of a telomerase immortalized goat trophoblast cell line

Trophoblast cells play vital roles in the processes of embryonic implantation and placentation. Many toxicological compounds can induce the malfunction of trophoblast cells, resulting in implantation failure or early embryonic loss. The finite lifespan of primary trophoblast cells limits investigation of the long-term effects of some toxicological compounds on trophoblast cells in vitro. In this study, primary goat trophoblast cells were purified by density gradient centrifugation and specific immuno-affinity purification. Then, the purified cells were immortalized through transfection of a plasmid containing the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene. hTERT-transfected goat trophoblast cells (hTERT-GTCs) could steadily express hTERT gene and exhibit higher telomerase activity, and persistently proliferate without any signs of senescence up to 50 passages. The immortalized goat trophoblast cells still possessed the basic and key properties of normal primary goat trophoblast cells to express the specific intracellular marker cytokeratin 7 (CK-7) and secrete chorionic gonadotrophin β-subunit (CG-β) and placental lactogen (PL). Further studies showed that the immortalized goat trophoblast cells expressed vimentin and non-classical MHC class I antigen and exhibited invasive phenotype, suggesting that the immortalized goat trophoblasts resembled human extravillous trophoblasts. In addition, this cell line did not show neoplastic transformation either in vivo or in vitro. We concluded the immortalized goat trophoblast cells by hTERT transfection retained the basic and key characteristics of primary trophoblast cells and may provide a useful model to study the effects of some toxicological compounds on trophoblast cells.

Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor for hematopoietic stem cell donation from healthy female donors during pregnancy and lactation: what do we know?

BACKGROUND Hematopoietic growth factors (HGFs) are mostly used as supportive measures to reduce infectious complications associated with neutropenia. Over the past decade, the use of HGFs became a common method for mobilizing human CD34+ stem cells, either for autologous or allogeneic transplantation. However, since their introduction the long-term safety of the procedure has become a major focus of discussion and research. Most information refers to healthy normal donors and data concerning pregnant and lactating women are scarce. The clinical question, which is the core of this review, is whether stem cell donation, preceded by administration of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) for mobilization, is a safe procedure for pregnant donors. METHODS Literature searches were performed in Pubmed for English language articles published before the end of May 2012, focusing on G-CSF administration during pregnancy, lactation and hematopoietic stem cell donation. Searches included animal and human studies. RESULTS Data from animals (n = 15 studies) and women (n = 46 studies) indicate that G-CSF crosses the placenta, stimulates fetal granulopoiesis, improves neonatal survival mostly for very immature infants, promotes trophoblast growth and placental metabolism and has an anti-abortive role. Granulocyte macrophage-CSF is a key cytokine in the maternal immune tolerance towards the implanted embryo and exerts protective long-term programming effects to preimplantation embryos. The available data suggest that probably CSFs should not be administered during the time of most active organogenesis (first trimester), except perhaps for the first week during which implantation takes place. Provided CSF is administered during the second and third trimesters, it appears to be safe, and pregnant women receiving the CSF treatment can become hematopoietic stem cell donors. There are also risks related to the anesthesia, which is required for the bone marrow aspiration. During lactation, there should be a period of at least 3 days to allow for clearance of CSF from milk before resuming breast feeding. With regard to teratogenicity or leukaemogenity, in non-pregnant or non-lactating women reports show that CSF administration is associated with a risk for leukemia; however, this risk is not higher compared with the control population. CONCLUSIONS The information available to date indicates that administration of CSF in general, and G-CSF in particular, is safe and healthy pregnant women can serve as donors of either bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells. However, the clinical experience is rather limited and therefore until more data become available, G-CSF should not be used during pregnancy and lactation when other therapeutic options, instead of stem cell transplantation, are available.