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Lyu F, Burzynski C, Fang YY, Tal A, Chen AY, Kisa J, Agrawal K, Kluger Y, Taylor HS, Tal R. Maternal CXCR4 deletion results in placental defects and pregnancy loss mediated by immune dysregulation. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e172216. [PMID: 37815869 PMCID: PMC10721256 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
CXCR4 is a key regulator of the development of NK cells and DCs, both of which play an important role in early placental development and immune tolerance at the maternal-fetal interface. However, the role of CXCR4 in pregnancy is not well understood. Our study demonstrates that adult-induced global genetic CXCR4 deletion, but not uterine-specific CXCR4 deletion, was associated with increased pregnancy resorptions and decreased litter size. CXCR4-deficient mice had decreased NK cells and increased granulocytes in the decidua, along with increased leukocyte numbers in peripheral blood. We found that CXCR4-deficient mice had abnormal decidual NK cell aggregates and NK cell infiltration into trophoblast areas beyond the giant cell layer. This was associated with low NK cell expression of granzyme B, a NK cell granule effector, indicative of NK cell dysfunction. Pregnancy failure in these mice was associated with abnormalities in placental vascular development and increased placental expression of inflammatory genes. Importantly, adoptive BM transfer of WT CXCR4+ BM cells into CXCR4-deficient mice rescued the reproductive deficits by normalizing NK cell function and mediating normal placental vascular development. Collectively, our study found an important role for maternal CXCR4 expression in immune cell function, placental development, and pregnancy maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Lyu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
| | - Chase Burzynski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
| | - Yuan yuan Fang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
| | - Aya Tal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
| | - Alice Y. Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
| | - Jacqueline Kisa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
| | - Kriti Agrawal
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Program of Applied Mathematics, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Yuval Kluger
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Program of Applied Mathematics, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hugh S. Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
| | - Reshef Tal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and
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de Andrade Vieira Alves F, Nunes PCG, Arruda LV, Salomão NG, Rabelo K. The Innate Immune Response in DENV- and CHIKV-Infected Placentas and the Consequences for the Fetuses: A Minireview. Viruses 2023; 15:1885. [PMID: 37766291 PMCID: PMC10535478 DOI: 10.3390/v15091885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) are arthropod-borne viruses belonging to the Flaviviridae and Togaviridae families, respectively. Infection by both viruses can lead to a mild indistinct fever or even lead to more severe forms of the diseases, which are characterized by a generalized inflammatory state and multiorgan involvement. Infected mothers are considered a high-risk group due to their immunosuppressed state and the possibility of vertical transmission. Thereby, infection by arboviruses during pregnancy portrays a major public health concern, especially in countries where epidemics of both diseases are regular and public health policies are left aside. Placental involvement during both infections has been already described and the presence of either DENV or CHIKV has been observed in constituent cells of the placenta. In spite of that, there is little knowledge regarding the intrinsic earlier immunological mechanisms that are developed by placental cells in response to infection by both arboviruses. Here, we approach some of the current information available in the literature about the exacerbated presence of cells involved in the innate immune defense of the placenta during DENV and CHIKV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe de Andrade Vieira Alves
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro/UERJ, Rio de Janeiro 20550170, RJ, Brazil; (F.d.A.V.A.); (L.V.A.)
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Priscila Conrado Guerra Nunes
- Laboratório de Imunologia Viral, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Laíza Vianna Arruda
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro/UERJ, Rio de Janeiro 20550170, RJ, Brazil; (F.d.A.V.A.); (L.V.A.)
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Natália Gedeão Salomão
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratório de Imunologia Viral, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Kíssila Rabelo
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro/UERJ, Rio de Janeiro 20550170, RJ, Brazil; (F.d.A.V.A.); (L.V.A.)
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Pesquisas Médicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040900, RJ, Brazil
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3
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Zhang S, Ding J, Zhang Y, Liu S, Yang J, Yin T. Regulation and Function of Chemokines at the Maternal–Fetal Interface. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:826053. [PMID: 35938162 PMCID: PMC9354654 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.826053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy requires the maternal immune system to tolerate the semi-allogeneic embryo. A good trophoblast function is also essential for successful embryo implantation and subsequent placental development. Chemokines are initially described in recruiting leukocytes. There are rich chemokines and chemokine receptor system at the maternal–fetal interface. Numerous studies have reported that they not only regulate trophoblast biological behaviors but also participate in the decidual immune response. At the same time, the chemokine system builds an important communication network between fetally derived trophoblast cells and maternally derived decidual cells. However, abnormal functions of chemokines or chemokine receptors are involved in a series of pregnancy complications. As growing evidence points to the roles of chemokines in pregnancy, there is a great need to summarize the available data on this topic. This review aimed to describe the recent research progress on the regulation and function of the main chemokines in pregnancy at the maternal–fetal interface. In addition, we also discussed the potential relationship between chemokines and pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sainan Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinli Ding
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Su Liu, ; Jing Yang, ; Tailang Yin,
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Su Liu, ; Jing Yang, ; Tailang Yin,
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Su Liu, ; Jing Yang, ; Tailang Yin,
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Krstic J, Deutsch A, Fuchs J, Gauster M, Gorsek Sparovec T, Hiden U, Krappinger JC, Moser G, Pansy K, Szmyra M, Gold D, Feichtinger J, Huppertz B. (Dis)similarities between the Decidual and Tumor Microenvironment. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10051065. [PMID: 35625802 PMCID: PMC9138511 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Placenta-specific trophoblast and tumor cells exhibit many common characteristics. Trophoblast cells invade maternal tissues while being tolerated by the maternal immune system. Similarly, tumor cells can invade surrounding tissues and escape the immune system. Importantly, both trophoblast and tumor cells are supported by an abetting microenvironment, which influences invasion, angiogenesis, and immune tolerance/evasion, among others. However, in contrast to tumor cells, the metabolic, proliferative, migrative, and invasive states of trophoblast cells are under tight regulatory control. In this review, we provide an overview of similarities and dissimilarities in regulatory processes that drive trophoblast and tumor cell fate, particularly focusing on the role of the abetting microenvironments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Krstic
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.K.); (J.F.); (M.G.); (J.C.K.); (G.M.); (B.H.)
| | - Alexander Deutsch
- Division of Hematology, Medical University of Graz, Stiftingtalstrasse 24, 8010 Graz, Austria; (A.D.); (K.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Julia Fuchs
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.K.); (J.F.); (M.G.); (J.C.K.); (G.M.); (B.H.)
- Division of Biophysics, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Martin Gauster
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.K.); (J.F.); (M.G.); (J.C.K.); (G.M.); (B.H.)
| | - Tina Gorsek Sparovec
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 14, 8036 Graz, Austria; (T.G.S.); (U.H.); (D.G.)
| | - Ursula Hiden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 14, 8036 Graz, Austria; (T.G.S.); (U.H.); (D.G.)
| | - Julian Christopher Krappinger
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.K.); (J.F.); (M.G.); (J.C.K.); (G.M.); (B.H.)
| | - Gerit Moser
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.K.); (J.F.); (M.G.); (J.C.K.); (G.M.); (B.H.)
| | - Katrin Pansy
- Division of Hematology, Medical University of Graz, Stiftingtalstrasse 24, 8010 Graz, Austria; (A.D.); (K.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Marta Szmyra
- Division of Hematology, Medical University of Graz, Stiftingtalstrasse 24, 8010 Graz, Austria; (A.D.); (K.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Daniela Gold
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 14, 8036 Graz, Austria; (T.G.S.); (U.H.); (D.G.)
| | - Julia Feichtinger
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.K.); (J.F.); (M.G.); (J.C.K.); (G.M.); (B.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.K.); (J.F.); (M.G.); (J.C.K.); (G.M.); (B.H.)
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5
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Gokce S, Herki̇loglu D, Cevi̇k O, Turan V. Role of chemokines in early pregnancy loss. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:397. [PMID: 35495608 PMCID: PMC9047033 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to compare decidual protein levels and gene expression levels of chemokines between patients with early pregnancy loss and those with voluntary abortion. A total of 15 patients between 6 and 10 gestational weeks, who presented with negative fetal heartbeat to the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinics of Gaziosmanpasa Hospital (Yeni Yuzyil University, Istanbul, Turkey) and who had no additional systemic disease and 13 patients between 6 and 10 gestational weeks, who presented with positive fetal heartbeat for voluntary abortion were included in the present study. CX3CL1, CCL17, CXCR4, chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)5 protein expression levels were determined by ELISA and gene expression levels by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR in fresh materials recovered after therapeutic curettage. CX3CL1, CCL17, CXCR4, CXCL12 protein levels were significantly higher and ICAM protein level was significantly lower in pregrant women with missed abortion compared with those with voluntary abortion. While the amount of increase in mean CX3CL1, CCL17, CXCR4 and CXCL12 gene expression levels in the tissues of pregnant women with missed abortion was statistically higher than the pregnant women who underwent voluntary abortion, the amount of increase in ICAM5 gene expression was found to be lower (P<0.001) in those with missed abortion. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that CCL17, CX3CL1, CXCL12, CXCR4 and ICAM5 may be associated with missed abortion and may play an important role in placental invasion and the continuation of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sefi̇k Gokce
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gaziosmanpasa Hospital of Yeni Yuzyil University, Istanbul 34245, Turkey
| | - Di̇lsad Herki̇loglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gaziosmanpasa Hospital of Yeni Yuzyil University, Istanbul 34245, Turkey
| | - Ozge Cevi̇k
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Aydin 09010, Turkey
| | - Volkan Turan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Health and Technology University, Istanbul 34015, Turkey
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6
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Zhou H, Yang Y, Deng L, Yao Y, Liao X. A Potential Mechanism of Kidney-Tonifying Herbs Treating Unexplained Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion: Clinical Evidence From the Homogeneity of Embryo Implantation and Tumor Invasion. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:775245. [PMID: 35153745 PMCID: PMC8826263 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.775245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Kidney-tonifying herbs (KTHs) are widely used to treat unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, there is still a lack of systematic evaluation and mechanistic explanation for these treatments. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy, and to investigate the potential mechanisms, of KTH based on TCM for the treatment of URSA. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted within PubMed, Embase, China Biomedical Literature database, Web of Science (WOS), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, and the Wanfang database to find articles reporting on the Chinese herbal formula based around KTH for treating URSA, which were published between January 2010 and June 2021. A full bibliometric analysis was carried out; in addition, randomized controlled trial (RCT) articles were selected for systematic evaluation and meta-analysis. The drugs with the highest frequency of KTHs were screened for meta-analysis. Finally, network analysis and molecular docking were used to study the key components and potential pathway of KTHs in the treatment of URSA. Results: The meta-analysis included nine RCTs involving 1,054 subjects. Compared with the control groups, the clinical efficacy of TCM-based KTHs in the treatment of URSA patients significantly improved outcomes. Additionally, a component target pathway network was identified, which included 32 potential blood activating components and 113 main targets. Japonine, sopranol, lysine, and matrine were considered the most important bioactive molecules for KTHs. The key potential therapeutic pathway for URSA was a tumor-related signaling pathway. The target genes for URSA regulated by KTHs were highly similar to tumor biological processes such as the regulation of apoptotic signaling pathways, inflammatory responses, angiogenesis, and epithelial metabolic transition. Conclusion: KTH has great potential for treating URSA. Because the maintenance of pregnancy has a high similarity with tumor invasion, the research relating to tumor mechanisms should also be followed up as it may lead to new ideas and breakthroughs for research into URSA. At the same time, embryonic and decidual cells share a high degree of cellular heterogeneity and spatial structural complexity with tumor cells, and a single cell combined with spatial omics may be the best future approach for validating KTH mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Linwen Deng
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongqing Yao
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Liao
- Department of Information, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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7
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McIntosh SZ, Quinn KE, Ashley RL. CXCL12 May Drive Inflammatory Potential in the Ovine Corpus Luteum During Implantation. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:122-132. [PMID: 34755321 PMCID: PMC8677687 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00791-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Adequate corpus luteum (CL) function is paramount to successful pregnancy. Structural and functional CL integrity is controlled by diverse cell types that contribute and respond to the local cytokine milieu. The chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and receptor, CXCR4, are modulators of inflammation and cell survival, but little is understood about CXCL12-CXCR4 axis and CL functional regulation. Corpora lutea from control nonpregnant ewes (n = 5; day 10 estrous cycle (D10C)) and pregnant ewes (n = 5/day) on days 20 (D20P) and 30 (D30P) post-breeding were analyzed for gene and protein expression of CXCL12, CXCR4, and select inflammatory cytokines. In separate cell culture studies, cytokine production was evaluated following CXCL12 treatment. Abundance of CXCL12 and CXCR4 increased (P < 0.05) in pregnant ewes compared to nonpregnant ewes, as determined by a combination of quantitative PCR, immunoblot, and immunofluorescence microscopy. CXCR4 was detected in steroidogenic and nonsteroidogenic cells in ovine CL, and select pro-inflammatory mediators were greater in CL from pregnant ewes. In vitro studies revealed greater abundance of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) following CXCL12 administration (P = 0.05), while P4 levels in cell media were unchanged. Fully functional CL of pregnant ewes is characterized by increased abundance of inflammatory cytokines which may function in a luteotropic manner. We report concurrent increases in CXCL12, CXCR4, and select inflammatory mediators in ovine CL as early pregnancy progresses. We propose CXCL12 stimulates production of select cytokines, rather than P4 in the CL to assist in CL establishment and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacia Z McIntosh
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, MSC 3-I, PO Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA
| | - Kelsey E Quinn
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, MSC 3-I, PO Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA.,Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ryan L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, MSC 3-I, PO Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA.
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Vogtmann R, Heupel J, Herse F, Matin M, Hagmann H, Bendix I, Kräker K, Dechend R, Winterhager E, Kimmig R, Köninger A, Gellhaus A. Circulating Maternal sFLT1 (Soluble fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase-1) Is Sufficient to Impair Spiral Arterial Remodeling in a Preeclampsia Mouse Model. Hypertension 2021; 78:1067-1079. [PMID: 34397280 PMCID: PMC8415521 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.17567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. One driving factor for developing preeclampsia—a pregnancy disorder, often associated with poor spiral artery (SpA)-remodeling and fetal growth restriction—is the anti-angiogenic sFLT1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1), which is found to be highly upregulated in preeclampsia patients. The sFLT1-mediated endothelial dysfunction is a common theory for the manifestation of maternal preeclampsia symptoms. However, the influence of sFLT1 on SpA-remodeling and the link between placental and maternal preeclampsia symptoms is less understood. To dissect the hsFLT1 (human sFLT1) effects on maternal and/or fetoplacental physiology in preeclampsia, sFLT1-transgenic mice with systemic hsFLT1 overexpression from midgestation onwards were used. SpA-remodeling was analyzed on histological and molecular level in placental/mesometrial triangle tissues. Maternal kidney and aorta morphology was investigated, combined with blood pressure measurements via telemetry. hsFLT1 overexpression resulted in maternal hypertension, aortic wall thickening, and elastin breakdown. Furthermore, maternal kidneys showed glomerular endotheliosis, podocyte damage, and proteinuria. preeclampsia symptoms were combined with fetal growth restriction already at the end of the second trimester and SpA-remodeling was strongly impaired as shown by persisted vascular smooth muscle cells. This phenotype was associated with shallow trophoblast invasion, delayed presence of uterine natural killer cells, and altered lymphatic angiogenesis. Overall, this study showed that circulating maternal hsFLT1 is sufficient to induce typical maternal preeclampsia-like symptoms in mice and impair the SpA-remodeling independent from the fetoplacental compartment, revealing new insights into the interaction between the placental and maternal contribution of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Vogtmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany (R.V., J.H., R.K., A.K., A.G.)
| | - Jacqueline Heupel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany (R.V., J.H., R.K., A.K., A.G.)
| | - Florian Herse
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a cooperation of Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin, Germany (F.H., K.K., R.D.).,Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (F.H., K.K.)
| | - Mahsa Matin
- Department II of Internal Medicine-Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine-University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany and Cologne Cluster of Excellence on Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, Germany (M.M., H.H.)
| | - Henning Hagmann
- Department II of Internal Medicine-Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine-University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany and Cologne Cluster of Excellence on Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, Germany (M.M., H.H.)
| | - Ivo Bendix
- Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatology & Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany (I.B.)
| | - Kristin Kräker
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a cooperation of Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin, Germany (F.H., K.K., R.D.).,Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany (F.H., K.K.).,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany (K.K.)
| | - Ralf Dechend
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a cooperation of Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin, Germany (F.H., K.K., R.D.).,HELIOS Klinikum, Berlin, Germany (R.D.)
| | - Elke Winterhager
- Imaging Center Essen, EM Unit, University Hospital Essen, Germany (E.W.)
| | - Rainer Kimmig
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany (R.V., J.H., R.K., A.K., A.G.)
| | - Angela Köninger
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany (R.V., J.H., R.K., A.K., A.G.).,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinic of the Order of St. John, St. Hedwigs Clinic, Regensburg, Germany (A.K.)
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Essen, Germany (R.V., J.H., R.K., A.K., A.G.)
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Huang L, Li P, Feng T, Xiong F. Changes of dendritic cell and natural killer cell on the cord blood with idiopathic fetal growth restriction. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2021; 35:7526-7531. [PMID: 34380371 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2021.1951214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the characteristics of dendritic cells (DC) and natural killer cells (NK) in umbilical cord blood of pregnant patients diagnosed with idiopathic fetal growth restriction (IFGR). METHODS A prospective study cohort of IFGR patients was established who were in the third trimester (28-36 weeks), with a healthy, pregnant woman cohort selected as controls. Umbilical cord blood was collected. RESULTS The study included 50 pregnant women in the IFGR group and 50 pregnant women in the healthy, control group. The incidence of SGA in the IFGR group was 52.0%, and the incidence of preterm birth was 18.0%. The incidence of neonatal complications in neonates with live birth in the IFGR group was 12.0%. The birth weight, body length and placental weight of the newborns in the IFGR group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < .05). Flow cytometry revealed no significant difference in the proportion or maturity of DC in umbilical cord blood between IFGR group and control group (p > .05). The proportion of NK cells in umbilical cord blood of IFGR group was significantly higher than that of normal control group. The proportion of CD56dimCD16+ NK cells was also significantly higher than that of the normal control group (p < .05), but the expression of NK cell surface killing activator receptor NKG2D and inhibitory receptor NKG2A was not statistically significant (p > .05). CONCLUSION The number and proportion of DC cells in cord blood may not be the key factors affecting the outcomes observed during FGR pregnancies. However, we found the proportion of NK cells in cord blood to be significantly increased, as well as the ratio of CD56dimCD16 + NK to CD56highCD16-NK to be imbalanced, which may be one of the pathogenesis of the pathological pregnancy leading to IFGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Ting Feng
- Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Fei Xiong
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Obstetric and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, Chengdu, PR China
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10
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Does the Act of Copulation per se, without Considering Seminal Deposition, Change the Expression of Genes in the Porcine Female Genital Tract? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155477. [PMID: 32751869 PMCID: PMC7432858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Semen—through its specific sperm and seminal plasma (SP) constituents—induces changes of gene expression in the internal genital tract of pigs, particularly in the functional sperm reservoir at the utero-tubal junction (UTJ). Although seminal effects are similarly elicited by artificial insemination (AI), major changes in gene expression are registered after natural mating, a fact suggesting the act of copulation induces per se changes in genes that AI does not affect. The present study explored which pathways were solely influenced by copulation, affecting the differential expression of genes (DEGs) of the pre/peri-ovulatory genital tract (cervix, distal uterus, proximal uterus and UTJ) of estrus sows, 24 h after various procedures were performed to compare natural mating with AI of semen (control 1), sperm-free SP harvested from the sperm-peak fraction (control 2), sperm-free SP harvested from the whole ejaculate (control 3) or saline-extender BTS (control 4), using a microarray chip (GeneChip® porcine gene 1.0 st array). Genes related to neuroendocrine responses (ADRA1, ADRA2, GABRB2, CACNB2), smooth muscle contractility (WNT7A), angiogenesis and vascular remodeling (poFUT1, NTN4) were, among others, overrepresented with distal and proximal uterine segments exhibiting the highest number of DEGs. The findings provide novel evidence that relevant transcriptomic changes in the porcine female reproductive tract occur in direct response to the specific act of copulation, being semen-independent.
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11
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Freitag N, Tirado-Gonzalez I, Barrientos G, Powell KL, Boehm-Sturm P, Koch SP, Hecher K, Staff AC, Arck PC, Diemert A, Blois SM. Galectin-3 deficiency in pregnancy increases the risk of fetal growth restriction (FGR) via placental insufficiency. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:560. [PMID: 32703931 PMCID: PMC7378206 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02791-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is the most common pregnancy complication in developed countries. Pregnancies affected by FGR, frequently concur with complications and high risk of neonatal morbidity and mortality. To date, no approved treatment is available for pregnant women affected with FGR. The objective of this study was to investigate the contribution of galectin-3 (gal-3), a β-galactoside binding protein involved in pregnancy, placental function and fetal growth. We demonstrated that lack of gal-3 during mouse pregnancy leads to placental dysfunction and drives FGR in the absence of a maternal preeclampsia syndrome. Analysis of gal-3 deficient dams revealed placental inflammation and malperfusion, as well as uterine natural killer cell infiltration with aberrant activation. Our results also show that FGR is associated with a failure to increase maternal circulating gal-3 levels during the second and third trimester in human pregnancies. Placentas from human pregnancies affected by FGR displayed lower gal-3 expression, which correlated with placental dysfunction. These data highlight the importance of gal-3 in the promotion of proper placental function, as its absence leads to placental disease and subsequent FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Freitag
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Irene Tirado-Gonzalez
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Katie L Powell
- Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW, 2065, Australia
| | - Philipp Boehm-Sturm
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universitätzu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Experimental Neurology, Center for Stroke Research, Berlin, Germany.,NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence and Charité Core Facility 7 T Experimental MRIs, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan P Koch
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universitätzu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Experimental Neurology, Center for Stroke Research, Berlin, Germany.,NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence and Charité Core Facility 7 T Experimental MRIs, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kurt Hecher
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20251, Germany
| | - Anne C Staff
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Petra C Arck
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20251, Germany
| | - Anke Diemert
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20251, Germany
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany. .,Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, Hamburg, 20251, Germany.
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12
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Borowski S, Tirado-Gonzalez I, Freitag N, Garcia MG, Barrientos G, Blois SM. Altered Glycosylation Contributes to Placental Dysfunction Upon Early Disruption of the NK Cell-DC Dynamics. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1316. [PMID: 32760395 PMCID: PMC7372038 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune cells [e. g., dendritic cells (DC) and natural killer (NK) cells] are critical players during the pre-placentation stage for successful mammalian pregnancy. Proper placental and fetal development relies on balanced DC-NK cell interactions regulating immune cell homing, maternal vascular expansion, and trophoblast functions. Previously, we showed that in vivo disruption of the uterine NK cell-DC balance interferes with the decidualization process, with subsequent impact on placental and fetal development leading to fetal growth restriction. Glycans are essential determinants of reproductive health and the glycocode expressed in a particular compartment (e.g., placenta) is highly dependent on the cell type and its developmental and pathological state. Here, we aimed to investigate the maternal and placental glycovariation during the pre- and post-placentation period associated with disruption of the NK cell-DC dynamics during early pregnancy. We observed that depletion of NK cells was associated with significant increases of O- and N-linked glycosylation and sialylation in the decidual vascular zone during the pre-placental period, followed by downregulation of core 1 and poly-LacNAc extended O-glycans and increased expression of branched N-glycans affecting mainly the placental giant cells and spongiotrophoblasts of the junctional zone. On the other hand, expansion of DC induced a milder increase of Tn antigen (truncated form of mucin-type O-glycans) and branched N-glycan expression in the vascular zone, with only modest changes in the glycosylation pattern during the post-placentation period. In both groups, this spatiotemporal variation in the glycosylation pattern of the implantation site was accompanied by corresponding changes in galectin-1 expression. Our results show that pre- and post- placentation implantation sites have a differential glycopattern upon disruption of the NK cell-DC dynamics, suggesting that immune imbalance early in gestation impacts placentation and fetal development by directly influencing the placental glycocode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Borowski
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, AG GlycoImmunology, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Irene Tirado-Gonzalez
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nancy Freitag
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, AG GlycoImmunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mariana G Garcia
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, CONICET, Universidad Austral, Derqui-Pilar, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, A Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, AG GlycoImmunology, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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13
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Ao D, Li DJ, Li MQ. CXCL12 in normal and pathological pregnancies: A review. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13280. [PMID: 32485053 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The survival of allogeneic fetuses during pregnancy is a rather paradoxical phenomenon with a complex mechanism. Chemokine ligand12 (CXCL12) and its receptors CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR)4 and 7 are extensively found in placenta tissues and cells, including trophoblast cells, vascular endothelial cells, and decidual stromal and decidual immune cells (eg, NK cells and regulatory T cells). Evidence has illustrated that the CXClL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis could enhance the cross talk at the maternal-fetal interface through multiple processes, such as invasion and placental angiogenesis, which appears to be critical signaling components in placentation and fetal outcome. In addition, an increasing number of studies have demonstrated that the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis also stands out for its pleiotropic roles in several pregnancy-associated diseases (eg, recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA), pre-eclampsia (PE), and preterm labor). In the present review, the different biological properties and signaling in physiological and pathological pregnancy conditions of CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis were discussed, with the aim of obtaining a further understanding of the regulatory mechanisms and highlighting their potential as a target for therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deng Ao
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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14
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Zheng J, Qu D, Wang C, Ding L, Zhou W. Involvement of CXCL12/CXCR4 in the motility of human first-trimester endometrial epithelial cells through an autocrine mechanism by activating PI3K/AKT signaling. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:87. [PMID: 32041571 PMCID: PMC7011269 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-2788-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background CXCL12(chemokine ligand 12, CXCL12) and its receptors CXCR4 are widely expressed in maternal-fetal interface and plays an adjust role in materno-fetal dialogue and immune tolerance during early pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate the role and mechanism of self-derived CXCL12 in modulating the functions of human first-trimester endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) and to identify the potential protein kinase signaling pathways involved in the CXCL12/CXCR4’s effect on EECs. Methods The expression of CXCL12 and CXCR4 in EECs was measured by using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effects of EEC-conditioned medium (EEC-CM) and recombinant human CXCL12 (rhCXCL12) on EEC migration and invasion in vitro were evaluated with migration and invasion assays. In-cell western blot analysis was used to examine the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERKs) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) after CXCL12 treatment. Results CXCL12 and CXCR4 were both expressed in human first-trimester EECs at the mRNA and protein level. Both EEC-CM and rhCXCL12 significantly increased the migration and invasion of EECs (P < 0.05), which could be blocked by neutralizing antibodies against CXCR4 (P < 0.05) or CXCL12 (P < 0.05), respectively. CXCL12 activated both PI3K/AKT and ERK1/2 signaling and CXCR4 neutralizing antibody effectively reduced CXCL12-induced phosphorylation of AKT and ERK1/2. LY294002, a PI3K-AKT inhibitor, was able to reverse the promotive effect of EEC-CM or rhCXCL12 on EEC migration and invasion. Conclusions Human first-trimester EECs promoted their own migration and invasion through the autocrine mechanism with CXCL12/CXCR4 axis involvement by activating PI3K/AKT signaling. This study contributes to a better understanding of the epithelium function mediated by chemokine and chemokine receptor during normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Zheng
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Danni Qu
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Ding
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhui Zhou
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Sang Y, Li Y, Xu L, Li D, Du M. Regulatory mechanisms of endometrial decidualization and pregnancy-related diseases. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2020; 52:105-115. [PMID: 31854442 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmz146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization is one of the earliest changes by which the uterus adapts to pregnancy. During this period, the endometrium undergoes complex changes in its biochemistry, physiology, and function at various levels, providing a suitable microenvironment for embryo implantation and development. Favorable decidualization lays an essential foundation for subsequent gestation, without which pregnancy failure or pregnancy complications may occur. The interaction between pregnancy-related hormones and cytokines produced by embryonic and uterine cells is known to be essential for decidualization, in which some transcription factors also play pivotal roles. Increasing evidence has revealed the importance of metabolism in regulating decidualization. Here, we summarize and discuss these crucial elements in decidualization and the relationship between decidualization and pregnancy complications. A better comprehension of these issues should help to improve the prediction of pregnancy outcomes and the use of appropriate intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Sang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yanhong Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Ling Xu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Dajin Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Meirong Du
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510180, China
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16
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Shi JW, Yang HL, Fan DX, Yang SL, Qiu XM, Wang Y, Lai ZZ, Ha SY, Ruan LY, Shen HH, Zhou WJ, Li MQ. The role of CXC chemokine ligand 16 in physiological and pathological pregnancies. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 83:e13223. [PMID: 31972050 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The survival and development of a semi-allogeneic fetus during pregnancy require the involvement of a series of cytokines and immune cells. Chemokines are a type of special cytokine those were originally described as having a role in leukocyte trafficking. CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL) 16 is a member of the chemokine family, and CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) 6 is its sole receptor. Emerging evidence has shown that CXCL16/CXCR6 is expressed at the maternal-fetal interface, by cell types that include trophoblast cells, decidual stroma cells, and decidual immune cells (eg, monocytes, γδT cells, and natural killer T (NKT) cells). The regulation of expression of CXCL16 is quite complex, and this process involves a multitude of factors. CXCL16 exerts a critical role in the establishment of a successful pregnancy through a series of molecular interactions at the maternal-fetal interface. However, an abnormal expression of CXCL16 is associated with certain pathological states associated with pregnancy, including recurrent miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In the present review, the expression and pleiotropic roles of CXCL16 under conditions of physiological and pathological pregnancy are systematically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wei Shi
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Li Yang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Deng-Xuan Fan
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao-Liang Yang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Min Qiu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Lai
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu-Yu Ruan
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Hui Shen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jie Zhou
- Center of Reproductive Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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17
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Schumacher A, Zenclussen AC. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin-Mediated Immune Responses That Facilitate Embryo Implantation and Placentation. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2896. [PMID: 31921157 PMCID: PMC6914810 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) serves as one of the first signals provided by the embryo to the mother. Exactly at the time when the first step of the implantation process is initiated and the blastocyst adheres to the maternal endometrium, the embryonic tissue starts to actively secrete hCG. Shortly thereafter, the hormone can be detected in the maternal circulation where its concentration steadily increases throughout early pregnancy as it is continuously released by the forming placenta. Accumulating evidence underlines the critical function of hCG for embryo implantation and placentation. hCG not only regulates biological aspects of these early pregnancy events but also supports maternal immune cells in their function as helpers in the establishment of an adequate embryo-endometrial relationship. In view of its early presence in the maternal circulation, hCG has the potential to influence both local uterine immune cell populations as well as peripheral ones. The current review aims to summarize recent literature on the participation of innate and adaptive immune cells in embryo implantation and placentation with a specific focus on their regulation by hCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ana C Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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18
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Han J, Jeong W, Gu MJ, Yoo I, Yun CH, Kim J, Ka H. Cysteine-X-cysteine motif chemokine ligand 12 and its receptor CXCR4: expression, regulation, and possible function at the maternal-conceptus interface during early pregnancy in pigs. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:1137-1148. [PMID: 29945222 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cysteine-X-cysteine (CXC) motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its receptor, CXC chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), are involved in regulating the proliferation, migration, and survival of trophoblast cells and the maternal immune response in humans and mice. The present study examined the expression, regulation, and function of CXCL12 and CXCR4 at the maternal-conceptus interface during pregnancy in pigs. The endometrium expressed CXCL12 and CXCR4 mRNAs with the greatest CXCL12 abundance on Day 15 of pregnancy. CXCL12 protein was localized mainly in endometrial epithelial cells, while CXCR4 protein was localized in subepithelial stromal cells, vascular endothelial cells, and immune cells in blood vessels in the endometrium during the estrous cycle and pregnancy. CXCL12 protein was detected in uterine flushing on Day 15 of pregnancy. The conceptus during early pregnancy and chorioallantoic tissues during mid-to-late pregnancy expressed CXCL12 and CXCR4. Interferon-γ increased the abundance of CXCL12, but not CXCR4 mRNA in endometrial explants. Recombinant CXCL12 (rCXCL12) protein dose-dependently increased migration of cultured porcine trophectoderm cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Furthermore, rCXCL12 caused migration of T cells, but not natural killer cells, in PBMCs. This study revealed that interferon-γ-induced CXCL12 and its receptor, CXCR4, were expressed at the maternal-conceptus interface and increased the migration of trophectoderm cells and T cells at the time of implantation in pigs. These results suggest that CXCL12 may be critical for the establishment of pregnancy by regulating trophoblast migration and T cell recruitment into the endometrium during the implantation period in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisoo Han
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooyoung Jeong
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jeong Gu
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute for Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Inkyu Yoo
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol-Heui Yun
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute for Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyoung Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hakhyun Ka
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
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19
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McIntosh SZ, Maxam CJ, Maestas MM, Quinn KE, Ashley RL. Intrauterine inhibition of chemokine receptor 4 signaling modulates local and systemic inflammation in ovine pregnancy. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 82:e13181. [PMID: 31420980 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Chemokines help coordinate inflammation within the fetal-maternal microenvironment during gestation. The chemokine CXCL12 signaling through its receptor CXCR4 regulates inflammatory activity, but this phenomenon is not well understood during pregnancy, and there are no reports exploring the role of this pair in peripheral immune tolerance during gestation. Herein, we hypothesize that intrauterine CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling governs local and systemic immunomodulatory dynamics during early gestation in ewes. METHOD OF STUDY Osmotic pumps were surgically installed for intrauterine infusion of a CXCR4 inhibitor, AMD3100, beginning on day 12 post-breeding in sheep. Endometrial tissues were collected on day 35 of gestation and evaluated for inflammatory potential, Akt pathway activation, and autophagy induction. Demonstrative of peripheral immune activity, levels of select cytokines were assessed in daily blood samples collected throughout the study, as well as in corpus luteum and spleen on day 35. RESULTS Anti-inflammatory IL10 was primarily localized to endometrial glandular epithelium with lower abundance when CXCR4 was antagonized. Inhibition of CXCR4 at the fetal-maternal interface resulted in less activation of Akt in endometrium, while evidence of autophagy induction was greater. Corpora lutea from ewes receiving intrauterine AMD3100 exhibited lower interferon-gamma (IFNG) expression. Blood inflammatory potential was differentially altered in a temporal fashion throughout infusion. IL10 abundance in spleen was greater following CXCR4 inhibition at the fetal-maternal interface, while IFNG was less. CONCLUSION Intrauterine CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling governs endometrial and systemic inflammation; disruption of this axis may have detrimental impacts on offspring and maternal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacia Z McIntosh
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Clara J Maxam
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Marlie M Maestas
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Kelsey E Quinn
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Ryan L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
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20
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Olmos-Ortiz A, Flores-Espinosa P, Mancilla-Herrera I, Vega-Sánchez R, Díaz L, Zaga-Clavellina V. Innate Immune Cells and Toll-like Receptor-Dependent Responses at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153654. [PMID: 31357391 PMCID: PMC6695670 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the placenta, the mother and the fetus exploit several mechanisms in order to avoid fetal rejection and to maintain an immunotolerant environment throughout nine months. During this time, immune cells from the fetal and maternal compartments interact to provide an adequate defense in case of an infection and to promote a tolerogenic milieu for the fetus to develop peacefully. Trophoblasts and decidual cells, together with resident natural killer cells, dendritic cells, Hofbauer cells and other macrophages, among other cell types, contribute to the modulation of the uterine environment to sustain a successful pregnancy. In this review, the authors outlined some of the various roles that the innate immune system plays at the maternal-fetal interface. First, the cell populations that are recruited into gestational tissues and their immune mechanisms were examined. In the second part, the Toll-like receptor (TLR)-dependent immune responses at the maternal-fetal interface was summarized, in terms of their specific cytokine/chemokine/antimicrobial peptide expression profiles throughout pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Ismael Mancilla-Herrera
- Departamento de Infectología e Inmunología, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Rodrigo Vega-Sánchez
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bioprogramación, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Lorenza Díaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico
| | - Verónica Zaga-Clavellina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico.
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21
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Schumacher A, Sharkey DJ, Robertson SA, Zenclussen AC. Immune Cells at the Fetomaternal Interface: How the Microenvironment Modulates Immune Cells To Foster Fetal Development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 201:325-334. [PMID: 29987001 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells adapt their phenotypic and functional characteristics in response to the tissue microenvironment within which they traffic and reside. The fetomaternal interface, consisting of placental trophoblasts and the maternal decidua, is a highly specialized tissue with a unique and time-limited function: to nourish and support development of the semiallogeneic fetus and protect it from inflammatory or immune-mediated injury. It is therefore important to understand how immune cells within these tissues are educated and adapt to fulfill their biological functions. This review article focuses on the local regulatory mechanisms ensuring that both innate and adaptive immune cells appropriately support the early events of implantation and placental development through direct involvement in promoting immune tolerance of fetal alloantigens, suppressing inflammation, and remodeling of maternal uterine vessels to facilitate optimal placental function and fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany; and
| | - David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Ana C Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany; and
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22
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Li Y, Lopez GE, Vazquez J, Sun Y, Chavarria M, Lindner PN, Fredrickson S, Karst N, Stanic AK. Decidual-Placental Immune Landscape During Syngeneic Murine Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2087. [PMID: 30283441 PMCID: PMC6156255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Adaptive immune system, principally governed by the T cells-dendritic cells (DCs) nexus, is an essential mediator of gestational fetal tolerance and protection against infection. However, the exact composition and dynamics of DCs and T cell subsets in gestational tissues are not well understood. These are controlled in human physiology by a complex interplay of alloantigen distribution and presentation, cellular/humoral active and passive tolerance, hormones/chemokines/angiogenic factors and their gradients, systemic and local microbial communities. Reductive discrimination of these factors in physiology and pathology of model systems and humans requires simplification of the model and increased resolution of interrogative technologies. As a baseline, we have studied the gestational tissue dynamics in the syngeneic C57BL/6 mice, as the simplest immunological environment, and focused on validating the approach to increased data density and computational analysis pipeline afforded by highly polychromatic flow cytometry and machine learning interpretation. We mapped DC and T cell subsets, and comprehensively examined their maternal (decidual)-fetal (placental) interface dynamics. Both frequency and composition of decidual DCs changed across gestation, with a dramatic increase in myeloid DCs in early pregnancy, and exclusion of plasmacytoid DCs. CD4+ T cells, in contrast, were lower at all gestational ages and an unusual CD4-CD8-TCRαβ+group was prominent at mid-pregnancy. Dimensionality reduction with machine learning-aided clustering revealed that CD4-CD8- T cells were phenotypically different from CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Additionally, divergence between maternal decidual and fetal placental compartment was prominent, with absence of DCs from the placenta, but not decidua or embryo. These results provide a novel framework and a syngeneic baseline on which the specific role of alloantigen/tolerance, polymicrobial environment, and models of pregnancy pathology can be precisely modeled and analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Gladys E. Lopez
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jessica Vazquez
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Yan Sun
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Provincial Maternity and Children's Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Melina Chavarria
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Payton N. Lindner
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Samantha Fredrickson
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Nathan Karst
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Aleksandar K. Stanic
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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23
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Liu G, Lu P, Chen L, Zhang W, Wang M, Li D, Zhang X. B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 10 promotes angiogenesis in an experimental corneal neovascularization model. Eye (Lond) 2018; 32:1220-1231. [PMID: 29515217 PMCID: PMC6043546 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-018-0039-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Corneal neovascularization (CrNV) arises from many causes including corneal inflammatory, infectious, or traumatic insult, and frequently leads to impaired vision. This study seeks to determine the role of B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 10 (BCL-10) in the development of experimental CrNV. METHODS Corneas from BCL-10 knockout (KO) mice and wild-type (WT) mice were burned by sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to create the CrNV model and neovascular formation in the corneas was assessed 2 weeks later. Intracorneal macrophage accumulation and the expression of angiogenic factors were quantified by flow cytometric analysis (FCM) and real-time PCR, respectively. RESULTS The amount of CrNV was determined 2 weeks after alkali burn. Compared to WT mice, the amount of CrNV in BCL-10 KO mice was significantly decreased. FCM revealed that F4/80-positive macrophages were markedly decreased in BCL-10 KO mice compared with WT mice. Reverse transcription PCR showed that the mRNA expression levels of intracorneal vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 were reduced in BCL-10 KO mice compared with WT mice. CONCLUSION BCL-10 KO mice exhibited reduced alkali-induced CrNV by suppressing intracorneal macrophage infiltration, which subsequently led to decreased VEGF-A and bFGF expression, suggesting that BCL-10 may become a potential clinical intervening target of CrNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaoqin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Peirong Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wenpeng Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Mengjiao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xueguang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Tumor Immunology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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24
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Barrientos G, Pussetto M, Rose M, Staff AC, Blois SM, Toblli JE. Defective trophoblast invasion underlies fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia-like symptoms in the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:509-519. [PMID: 28402512 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the impact of chronic hypertension on placental development, fetal growth and maternal outcome in the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHRSP)? SUMMARY ANSWER SHRSP showed an impaired remodeling of the spiral arteries and abnormal pattern of trophoblast invasion during placentation, which were associated with subsequent maternal glomerular injury and increased baseline hypertension as well as placental insufficiency and asymmetric fetal growth restriction (FGR). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A hallmark in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE) is abnormal placentation with defective remodeling of the spiral arteries preceding the onset of the maternal syndrome. Pregnancies affected by chronic hypertension display an increased risk for PE, often associated with poor maternal and fetal outcomes. However, the impact of chronic hypertension on the placentation process as well as the nature of the factors promoting the development of PE in pregnant hypertensive women remain elusive. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Timed pregnancies [n = 5] were established by mating 10-12-week-old SHRSP and Wistar Kyoto (WKY, normotensive controls) females with congenic males. Maternal systolic blood pressures (SBPs) were recorded pre-mating, throughout pregnancy (GD1-19) and post-partum by the tail-cuff method. On selected dates, 24 h urine- and blood samples were collected, and animals were euthanized for isolation of implantation sites and kidneys for morphometrical analyses. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The 24 h proteinuria and the albumin:creatinine ratio were used for evaluation of maternal renal function. Renal injury was assessed on periodic acid Schiff, Masson's trichrome and Sirius red stainings. Placental and fetal weights were recorded on gestation day (GD)18 and GD20, followed by determination of fetal cephalization indexes and developmental stage, according to the Witschi scale. Morphometric analyses of placental development were conducted on hematoxylin-eosin stained tissue sections collected on GD14 and GD18, and complemented with immunohistochemical evaluation of isolectin B4 binding for assessment of placental vascularization. Analyses of vascular wall alpha actin content, perforin-positive natural killer (NK) cells and cytokeratin expression by immunohistochemistry were used for evaluation of spiral artery remodeling and trophoblast invasion. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE SHRSP females presented significantly increased SBP records from GD13 to GD17 (SBPGD13 = 183.9 ± 3.9 mmHg, P < 0.005 versus baseline) and increased proteinuria at GD18 (P < 0.01 versus WKY). Histological examination of GD18 kidneys revealed glomerular enlargement and mesangial matrix expansion, which were not evident in pregnant WKY or age-matched virgin SHRSP. At GD20, SHRSP displayed a significant reduction of placental mass (P < 0.01 versus WKY) and signs of placental insufficiency (i.e. hypertrophy and reduced branching morphogenesis of the labyrinth layer), associated with decreased offspring weights and increased cephalization index (both P < 0.001 versus WKY) indicating asymmetric FGR. Notably, SHRSP placentas displayed an incomplete remodeling of spiral arteries starting as early as GD14, with luminal narrowing and reduced densities of perivascular NK cells followed by decreased infiltration of endovascular trophoblasts at GD18. LARGE SCALE DATA n/a. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A pitfall of the present study is the differences in the blood pressure profiles between rats and humans (i.e. unlike pregnancies affected by PE, blood pressure in SHRSP and other hypertensive rat models decreases pre-delivery), which limits extrapolation of the results. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings provide new insights on the role of chronic hypertension as a risk factor for PE by interfering with early events during the placentation process. The SHRSP strain represents an attractive model for further studies aimed at addressing the relative contribution of intrinsic (i.e. placental) and extrinsic (i.e. decidual/vascular) factors to defective spiral artery remodeling in pregnancies affected by PE. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by research grants from Fundación Florencio Fiorini to G.B., from Charité Stiftung to S.M.B. and University of Buenos Aires (UBACyt) to J.T. The authors have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Barrientos
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Hospital Alemán, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, CONICET. Av. Pueyrredon 1640 (C1118AAT), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Charité-Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Pussetto
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Hospital Alemán, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, CONICET. Av. Pueyrredon 1640 (C1118AAT), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Rose
- Charité-Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - A C Staff
- Department of Obstetrics and Department of Gynaecology, Women's Division, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - S M Blois
- Charité-Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - J E Toblli
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Hospital Alemán, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, CONICET. Av. Pueyrredon 1640 (C1118AAT), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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25
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Sanchez NS, Quinn KE, Ashley AK, Ashley RL. In the ovine pituitary, CXCR4 is localized in gonadotropes and somatotropes and increases with elevated serum progesterone. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2018; 62:88-97. [PMID: 29157995 PMCID: PMC5728413 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary is the central endocrine regulator of reproduction and in addition to various hormones regulating its actions, other molecules, such as chemokines, influence pituitary physiology as well. Despite reports over 2 decades ago that chemokines regulate the pituitary, much of the basic biology discerning chemokine action in the pituitary is unclear. A small number of chemokines and their receptors have been localized to the pituitary, yet chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its receptor, CXCR4, have received the most attention as both are increased in human pituitary adenomas. This chemokine duo was also reported in normal human and rat pituitary, suggestive of a functional role and that this chemokine axis might function in pituitaries from other mammalian species. To date, reports of CXCL12 and CXCR4 in pituitary from livestock are lacking, and research on pituitary during pregnancy in any mammalian species is limited. Moreover, progesterone regulates CXCR4 expression in a tissue-dependent manner, but whether differing concentrations of progesterone reaching the pituitary modulate CXCL12 or CXCR4 is not known. To address these gaps, our first objective was to determine if CXCL12 and CXCR4 expression and protein abundance differ in sheep pituitary during early gestation (days 20, 25, and 30 of gestation) compared to nonpregnant ewes. The second objective was to determine if CXCL12 or CXCR4 production was altered in the ovine pituitary when circulating progesterone concentrations are elevated. The expression of CXCL12 messenger RNA decreased on day 20 of gestation compared to nonpregnant ewes; CXCL12 protein was similar across all days tested. In nonpregnant and pregnant ewes, CXCR4 was localized to somatotropes and gonadotropes on all days tested. Abundance of CXCR4 increased in the pituitary tissue of pregnant ewes with elevated circulating progesterone compared with pregnant ewes with normal circulating progesterone concentrations (control). The present study details CXCL12 and CXCR4 in normal ovine pituitary and reveals that gonadotropes and somatotropes may be regulated by CXCL12/CXCR4, underscoring this signaling axis as a potential new class of modulator in endocrine functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S Sanchez
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - K E Quinn
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - A K Ashley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - R L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA.
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Woidacki K, Meyer N, Schumacher A, Goldschmidt A, Maurer M, Zenclussen AC. Transfer of regulatory T cells into abortion-prone mice promotes the expansion of uterine mast cells and normalizes early pregnancy angiogenesis. Sci Rep 2015; 5:13938. [PMID: 26355667 PMCID: PMC4565045 DOI: 10.1038/srep13938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation of the fertilized egg depends on the coordinated interplay of cells and
molecules that prepare the uterus for this important event. In particular,
regulatory T cells (Tregs) are key regulators as their ablation hinders implantation
by rendering the uterus hostile for the embryo. In addition, the adoptive transfer
of Tregs can avoid early abortion in mouse models. However, it is still not defined
which mechanisms underlie Treg function during this early period. Cells of the
innate immune system have been reported to support implantation, in part by
promoting angiogenesis. In particular, uterine mast cells (uMCs) emerge as novel
players at the fetal-maternal interface. Here, we studied whether the positive
action of Tregs is based on the expansion of uMCs and the promotion of angiogenesis.
We observed that abortion-prone mice have insufficient numbers of uMCs that could be
corrected by the adoptive transfer of Tregs. This in turn positively influenced the
remodeling of spiral arteries and placenta development as well as the levels of
soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1). Our data suggest an interplay between
Tregs and uMCs that is relevant for the changes required at the feto-maternal
interface for the normal development of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Woidacki
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Meyer
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anne Schumacher
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Goldschmidt
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Maurer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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Wang L, Li X, Zhao Y, Fang C, Lian Y, Gou W, Han T, Zhu X. Insights into the mechanism of CXCL12-mediated signaling in trophoblast functions and placental angiogenesis. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2015; 47:663-72. [PMID: 26188201 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmv064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The chemokine CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 are important signaling components required for human blastocyst implantation and the progression of pregnancy. Growing evidence indicates that the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis can regulate trophoblast function and uterine spiral artery remodeling, which plays a fundamental role in placentation and fetal outcome. The orphan receptor CXCR7 is also believed to partly regulate the function of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis. Additionally, the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 axis can enhance the cross-talk between trophoblasts and decidual cells such as uterine natural killer cells and decidual stromal cells which are involved in regulation of trophoblast differentiation and invasion and placental angiogenesis. In addition, recent studies proved that CXCL12 expression is elevated in the placenta and mid-trimester amniotic fluid of pregnant women with preeclampsia, implying that dysregulation of CXCL12 plays a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Further understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of CXCL12-mediated signaling in trophoblast functions and placental angiogenesis may help to design novel therapeutic approaches for pregnancy-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China The First Student Brigade, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Xueyi Li
- Department of Clinical Immunology, PLA Specialized Research Institute of Rheumatism & Immunity, Xi-jing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Chao Fang
- Institute of Neurosciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yingli Lian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Wenli Gou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Tao Han
- Department of Orthopedics, Hainan Branch of PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
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Coleson MPT, Sanchez NS, Ashley AK, Ross TT, Ashley RL. Human chorionic gonadotropin increases serum progesterone, number of corpora lutea and angiogenic factors in pregnant sheep. Reproduction 2015; 150:43-52. [PMID: 25861798 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Early gestation is a critical period when implantation and placental vascularization are established, processes influenced by progesterone (P4). Although human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is not endogenously synthesized by livestock, it binds the LH receptor, stimulating P4 synthesis. We hypothesized treating pregnant ewes with hCG would increase serum P4, number of corpora lutea (CLs) and concepti, augment steroidogenic enzymes, and increase membrane P4 receptors (PAQRs) and angiogenic factors in reproductive tissues. The objective was to determine molecular alterations induced by hCG in pregnant sheep that may promote pregnancy. Ewes received either 600 IU of hCG or saline i.m. on day 4 post mating. Blood samples were collected daily from day 0 until tissue collection for serum P4 analysis. Reproductive tissues were collected on either day 13 or 25 of gestation and analyzed for PAQRs, CXCR4, proangiogenic factors and steroidogenic enzymes. Ewes receiving hCG had more CL and greater serum P4, which remained elevated. On day 25, StAR protein production decreased in CL from hCG-treated ewes while HSD3B1 was unchanged; further, expression of CXCR4 significantly increased and KDR tended to increase. PAQR7 and CXCR4 protein was increased in caruncle tissue from hCG-treated ewes. Maternal hCG exposure influenced fetal extraembryonic tissues, as VEGFA, VEGFB, FLT1, and ANGPT1 expression increased. Our results indicate hCG increases serum P4 due to augmented CL number per ewe. hCG treatment resulted in greater PAQR7 and CXCR4 in maternal endometrium and promoted expression of proangiogenic factors in fetal extraembryonic membranes. Supplementing livestock with hCG may boost P4 levels and improve reproductive efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan P T Coleson
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Nicole S Sanchez
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Amanda K Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Timothy T Ross
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Ryan L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
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Leukocyte population dynamics and detection of IL-9 as a major cytokine at the mouse fetal-maternal interface. PLoS One 2014; 9:e107267. [PMID: 25259859 PMCID: PMC4178026 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite much interest in the mechanisms regulating fetal-maternal interactions, information on leukocyte populations and major cytokines present in uterus and placenta remains fragmentary. This report presents a detailed and quantitative study of leukocyte populations at the mouse fetal-maternal interface, including a comparison between pregnancies from syngeneic and allogeneic crosses. Our results provide evidence for drastic differences not only in the composition of leukocyte populations in the uterus during pregnancy, but also between uterine and placental tissues. Interestingly, we have observed a significant decrease in the number of myeloid Gr1+ cells including monocytes, and myeloid CD11c+ cells including DCs in placenta from an allogeneic pregnancy. In addition, we have compared the expression levels of a panel of cytokines in non-pregnant (NP) or pregnant mouse uterus, in placenta, or in their isolated resident leukocytes. Qualitative and quantitative differences have emerged between NP, pregnant uterus and placenta. Unexpectedly, IL-9 was the major cytokine in NP uterus, and was maintained at high levels during pregnancy both in uterus and placenta. Moreover, we have found that pregnancy is associated with an increase in uterine IL-1a and a significant decrease in uterine G-CSF and GM-CSF. Comparing allogeneic versus syngeneic pregnancy, less allogeneic placental pro-inflammatory cytokines CCL2 (MCP-1), CXCL10 (IP-10) and more IL1-α in whole uterus was reproducibly observed. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing a detailed overview of the leukocyte and cytokine repertoire in the uterus of virgin females and at the fetal-maternal interface, including a comparison between syngeneic and allogeneic pregnancy. This is also the first evidence for the presence of IL-9 in NP uterus and at the maternal-fetal interface, suggesting a major role in the regulation of local inflammatory or immune responses potentially detrimental to the conceptus.
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Influence of relative NK-DC abundance on placentation and its relation to epigenetic programming in the offspring. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1392. [PMID: 25165878 PMCID: PMC4454325 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Revised: 07/13/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Normal placentation relies on an efficient maternal adaptation to pregnancy. Within the decidua, natural killer (NK) cells and dendritic cells (DC) have a critical role in modulating angiogenesis and decidualization associated with pregnancy. However, the contribution of these immune cells to the placentation process and subsequently fetal development remains largely elusive. Using two different mouse models, we here show that optimal placentation and fetal development is sensitive to disturbances in NK cell relative abundance at the fetal–maternal interface. Depletion of NK cells during early gestation compromises the placentation process by causing alteration in placental function and structure. Embryos derived from NK-depleted dams suffer from intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), a phenomenon that continued to be evident in the offspring on post-natal day 4. Further, we demonstrate that IUGR was accompanied by an overall reduction of global DNA methylation levels and epigenetic changes in the methylation of specific hepatic gene promoters. Thus, temporary changes within the NK cell pool during early gestation influence placental development and function, subsequently affecting hepatic gene methylation and fetal metabolism.
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Du MR, Wang SC, Li DJ. The integrative roles of chemokines at the maternal-fetal interface in early pregnancy. Cell Mol Immunol 2014; 11:438-48. [PMID: 25109684 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2014.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Revised: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryos express paternal antigens that are foreign to the mother, but the mother provides a special immune milieu at the fetal-maternal interface to permit rather than reject the embryo growth in the uterus until parturition by establishing precise crosstalk between the mother and the fetus. There are unanswered questions in the maintenance of pregnancy, including the poorly understood phenomenon of maternal tolerance to the allogeneic conceptus, and the remarkable biological roles of placental trophoblasts that invade the uterine wall. Chemokines are multifunctional molecules initially described as having a role in leukocyte trafficking and later found to participate in developmental processes such as differentiation and directed migration. It is increasingly evident that the gestational uterine microenvironment is characterized, at least in part, by the differential expression and secretion of chemokines that induce selective trafficking of leukocyte subsets to the maternal-fetal interface and regulate multiple events that are closely associated with normal pregnancy. Here, we review the expression and function of chemokines and their receptors at the maternal-fetal interface, with a special focus on chemokine as a key component in trophoblast invasiveness and placental angiogenesis, recruitment and instruction of immune cells so as to form a fetus-supporting milieu during pregnancy. The chemokine network is also involved in pregnancy complications.
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Quinn KE, Ashley AK, Reynolds LP, Grazul-Bilska AT, Ashley RL. Activation of the CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis may drive vascularization of the ovine placenta. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2014; 47:11-21. [PMID: 24486002 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2013.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Revised: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 12/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Early pregnancy, when most embryonic losses occur, is a critical period in which vital placental vascularization is established. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent inducer of angiogenesis, and factors that regulate VEGF function, expression, or both may ultimately affect vascularization. Activation of the C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) by its cognate ligand, C-X-C chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12), increases VEGF synthesis and secretion, which in turn stimulates CXCL12 and CXCR4 production and this synergistic regulation may influence placental vascularization. We hypothesized that expression of CXCL12, CXCR4, select angiogenic factors, and their receptors would increase in placental tissues during early pregnancy and that treatment of ovine trophectoderm cells with CXCL12 would increase production of angiogenic factors. To test this hypothesis, maternal caruncle (CAR) and fetal extraembryonic membrane (FM) tissues were collected on days 18, 20, 22, 25, 26, and 30 of pregnancy and on day 10 of the estrous cycle (control, NP) to determine relative mRNA or protein expression of CXCL12 and CXCR4 and selected angiogenic factors. In CAR, expression of mRNA for CXCR4 increased on day 18, 20, 22, and 25 and CXCL12 increased on day 18 and 20 compared with NP ewes. CXCL12 protein followed a similar pattern in CAR tissue, with greater levels on day 20 than in NP tissue. Greater levels of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) mRNA was observed in CAR on day 20 of gestation than on day 30. In FM, CXCL12, CXCR4, angiopoietin 1, VEGF, and VEGF receptor 1 were enhanced with advancing pregnancy, whereas FGF2 and kinase insert domain receptor (or VEGF receptor 2) peaked on day 25. An increase in protein levels occurred on day 25 compared with day 20 in FM for CXCL12 and CXCR4, as well as a similar tendency for FGF2 protein. Both CXCL12 and CXCR4 are specifically localized to trophoblast cells and to the uterine luminal and glandular epithelium. Treatment of ovine trophectoderm cells with CXCL12 increased mRNA expression for VEGF and FGF2. The relationship between VEGF, FGF2, and the CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling underscores the potential role for this chemokine axis in driving placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Quinn
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - A K Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA
| | - L P Reynolds
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - A T Grazul-Bilska
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
| | - R L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA.
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Barrientos G, Freitag N, Tirado-González I, Unverdorben L, Jeschke U, Thijssen VL, Blois SM. Involvement of galectin-1 in reproduction: past, present and future. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:175-93. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Interfering with Gal-1-mediated angiogenesis contributes to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:11451-6. [PMID: 23798433 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1303707110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific disorder characterized by sudden onset of hypertension and proteinuria in the second half of pregnancy (>20 wk). PE is strongly associated with abnormal placentation and an excessive maternal inflammatory response. Galectin-1 (Gal-1), a member of a family of carbohydrate-binding proteins, has been shown to modulate several processes associated with placentation and to promote maternal tolerance toward fetal antigens. Here, we show that Gal-1 exhibits proangiogenic functions during early stages of pregnancy, promoting decidual vascular expansion through VEGF receptor 2 signaling. Blocking Gal-1-mediated angiogenesis or lectin, galactoside-binding, soluble, 1 deficiency results in a spontaneous PE-like syndrome in mice, mainly by deregulating processes associated with good placentation and maternal spiral artery remodeling. Consistent with these findings, we observed a down-regulation of Gal-1 in patients suffering from early onset PE. Collectively, these results strengthen the notion that Gal-1 is required for healthy gestation and highlight Gal-1 as a valuable biomarker for early PE diagnosis.
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