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Hanuman S, B HK, Pai KSR, Nune M. Surface-Conjugated Galactose on Electrospun Polycaprolactone Nanofibers: An Innovative Scaffold for Uterine Tissue Engineering. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:34314-34328. [PMID: 39157094 PMCID: PMC11325431 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c10445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
The uterus, a vital organ in the female reproductive system, nurtures and supports developing embryos until maturity. This study focuses on addressing uterine related problems by creating a nanofibrous scaffold to regenerate uterine myometrial tissue, closely resembling the native extracellular matrix (ECM) for enhanced efficacy. To achieve this, we utilized polycaprolactone (PCL) as a biomaterial and employed an electrospinning technique to generate PCL nanofibers in both random and aligned orientations. Due to the inherent hydrophobic nature of PCL nanofibers, a two-step wet chemistry surface modification technique is used, involving the conjugation of galactose onto them. Galactose, a lectin-binding sugar, was chosen to enhance the scaffold's hydrophilicity, thereby improving cell adhesion and fostering l-selectin-based interactions between the scaffold and uterine cells. These interactions, in turn, activated uterine fibroblasts, leading to ECM remodeling. The optimized electrospinning process successfully generated random and aligned nanofibers. Subsequent surface modification was carried out, and the modified scaffold was subjected to various physicochemical characterization, such as the ninhydrin assay, enzyme-linked lectin assay techniques that revealed successful galactose conjugation, and mechanical characterization to assess any changes in material bulk properties resulting from the modification. The tensile strength of random galactose-modified PCL fibers reached 0.041 ± 0.01 MPa, outperforming random unmodified PCL fibers (0.026 ± 0.01 MPa), aligned unmodified PCL fibers (0.011 ± 0.001 MPa), and aligned modified PCL fibers (0.016 ± 0.002 MPa). Cytocompatibility studies with human uterine fibroblast cells showed enhanced viability and proliferation on the modified scaffolds. Initial pilot studies were attempted in the current study involving subcutaneous implantation in the dorsal area of Wistar rats to assess biocompatibility and tissue response before proceeding to intrauterine implantation indicated that the modification did not induce adverse inflammation in vivo. In conclusion, our study introduces a surface-modified PCL nanofibrous material for myometrial tissue engineering, offering promise in addressing myometrial damage and advancing uterine health and reproductive well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srividya Hanuman
- Manipal
Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal
Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Harish Kumar B
- Department
of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - K. Sreedhara Ranganath Pai
- Department
of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Manasa Nune
- Manipal
Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal
Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
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Takamatu M, Kazama S, Suzuki T, Miyazaki Y, Tanaka K, Usami M, Takizawa T. Differential expression of desmin in the uterine myometrium and cervix as a possible mechanism for successful parturition in rats. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100726. [PMID: 36603297 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Expression of desmin, an intermediate filament, in the myometrium and cervix were investigated in peripartum rats (full term day 22 of pregnancy (DP22)). Des mRNA was expressed in lesser amounts in the cervix at peripartum (DP17 and 21, and day of birth 1 (DB1)), compared to those in the cervixes of ovariectomized rats. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that desmin protein was diffusely present in the myometrium, and locally in the epithelium of the cervix. Western blot analysis showed that desmin protein levels in the myometrium increased 4- to 6-fold at DP17, 21 and DB1, and decreased rapidly at DB2 to the basal level observed in ovariectomized or non-pregnant rats. In contrast, cervical desmin protein levels increased approximately 10-fold at DP21 compared to those in ovariectomized rats, but decreased rapidly at DB1, indicating its decrease at parturition and an inconsistency between mRNA and protein expression. The administration of 17β-estradiol to ovariectomized rats increased desmin protein levels in the myometrium and cervix after 24 h. S-nitrosylated desmin protein was detected in the myometrium and cervix at DP21. The mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase was consistent with the expression of desmin protein. Thus, desmin, which is regulated by estradiol, is differentially expressed in the myometrium and cervix at peripartum possibly for successful pregnancy and parturition. In the cervix, desmin protein expression seems to be regulated by estradiol at the translational level. S-nitrosylation of desmin may have a potential role in the peripartum uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Takamatu
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Shugo Kazama
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Takehito Suzuki
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Yoko Miyazaki
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Tanaka
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Makoto Usami
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Takizawa
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan.
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Xu QX, Zhang WQ, Lu L, Wang KZ, Su RW. Distinguish Characters of Luminal and Glandular Epithelium from Mouse Uterus Using a Novel Enzyme-Based Separation Method. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1867-1877. [PMID: 36581776 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01154-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The uterine luminal epithelium, glandular epithelium, and stromal cells are vital for the establishment of pregnancy. Previously studies have shown various methods to isolate mouse uterine epithelium and stromal cells, including laser capture microdissection (LCM), enzyme digestion, and immunomagnetic beads. Despite the importance of the endometrial epithelium as the site of implantation and nutritional support for the conceptus, there is no isolated method to separate the luminal epithelium and glandular epithelium. Here, we establish a novel enzyme-based way to separate two types of epithelium and keep their viability. In this article, we analyzed their purity by mRNA level, immunostaining, and transcriptome analysis. Our isolation method revealed several unstudied luminal and glandular epithelial markers in transcriptome analysis. We further demonstrated the viability of the isolated epithelium by 2D and 3D cultures. The results showed that we successfully separated the endometrial luminal epithelium and glandular epithelium. We also provided an experimental model for the following study of the physiological function of the different parts of the uterus and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Xin Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| | - Wang-Qing Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| | - Lei Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| | - Ke-Zhi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510642, China.
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Miki F, Maruyama T, Miyazaki K, Takao T, Yoshimasa Y, Katakura S, Hihara H, Uchida S, Masuda H, Uchida H, Nagai T, Shibata S, Tanaka M. The orientation of a decellularized uterine scaffold determines the tissue topology and architecture of the regenerated uterus in rats†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1215-1227. [PMID: 30649202 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A decellularized uterine scaffold (DUS) prepared from rats permits recellularization and regeneration of uterine tissues when placed onto a partially excised uterus and supports pregnancy in a fashion comparable to the intact uterus. The underlying extracellular matrix (ECM) together with an acellular, perfusable vascular architecture preserved in DUS is thought to be responsible for appropriate regeneration of the uterus. To investigate this concept, we examined the effect of the orientation of the DUS-preserving ECM and the vascular architecture on uterine regeneration through placement of a DUS onto a partially defective uterine area in the reversed orientation such that the luminal face of the DUS was outside and the serosal face was inside. We characterized the tissue structure and function of the regenerated uterus, comparing the outcome to that when the DUS was placed in the correct orientation. Histological analysis revealed that aberrant structures including ectopic location of glands and an abnormal lining of smooth muscle layers were observed significantly more frequently in the reversed group than in the correct group (70% vs. 30%, P < 0.05). Despite the changes in tissue topology, the uteri regenerated with an incorrectly oriented DUS could achieve pregnancy in a way similar to uteri regenerated with a correctly oriented DUS. These results suggest that DUS-driven ECM orientation determines the regenerated uterus structure. Using DUS in the correct orientation is preferable when clinically applied. The disoriented DUS may deteriorate the tissue topology leading to structural disease of the uterus even though the fertility potential is not immediately affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Miki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Maruyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaoru Miyazaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoka Takao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yushi Yoshimasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satomi Katakura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hanako Hihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sayaka Uchida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Masuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Uchida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Nagai
- Electron Microscope Laboratory, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Shibata
- Electron Microscope Laboratory, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mamoru Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Kalisch-Smith JI, Steane SE, Simmons DG, Pantaleon M, Anderson ST, Akison LK, Wlodek ME, Moritz KM. Periconceptional alcohol exposure causes female-specific perturbations to trophoblast differentiation and placental formation in the rat. Development 2019; 146:dev172205. [PMID: 31182432 DOI: 10.1242/dev.172205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The development of pathologies during pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia, hypertension and fetal growth restriction (FGR), often originates from poor functioning of the placenta. In vivo models of maternal stressors, such as nutrient deficiency, and placental insufficiency often focus on inadequate growth of the fetus and placenta in late gestation. These studies rarely investigate the origins of poor placental formation in early gestation, including those affecting the pre-implantation embryo and/or the uterine environment. The current study characterises the impact on blastocyst, uterine and placental outcomes in a rat model of periconceptional alcohol exposure, in which 12.5% ethanol is administered in a liquid diet from 4 days before until 4 days after conception. We show female-specific effects on trophoblast differentiation, embryo-uterine communication, and formation of the placental vasculature, resulting in markedly reduced placental volume at embryonic day 15. Both sexes exhibited reduced trophectoderm pluripotency and global hypermethylation, suggestive of inappropriate epigenetic reprogramming. Furthermore, evidence of reduced placental nutrient exchange and reduced pre-implantation maternal plasma choline levels offers significant mechanistic insight into the origins of FGR in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta I Kalisch-Smith
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sarah E Steane
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - David G Simmons
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Marie Pantaleon
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Stephen T Anderson
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Lisa K Akison
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | - Mary E Wlodek
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Karen M Moritz
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
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6
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Transcriptomic analysis of the interaction of choriocarcinoma spheroids with receptive vs. non-receptive endometrial epithelium cell lines: an in vitro model for human implantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:857-873. [PMID: 30972518 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01442-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Several in vitro systems have been reported to model human implantation; however, the molecular dynamics of the trophoblast vs. the epithelial substrate during attachment have not been described. We have established an in vitro model which allowed us to dissect the transcriptional responses of the trophoblast and the receptive vs. non-receptive epithelium after co-culture. METHODS We established an in vitro system based on co-culture of (a) immortalized cells representing receptive (Ishikawa) or non-receptive (HEC-1-A) endometrial epithelium with (b) spheroids of a trophoblastic cell line (JEG-3) modified to express green fluorescent protein (GFP). After 48 h of co-culture, GFP+ (trophoblast cells) and GFP- cell fractions (receptive or non-receptive epithelial cells) were isolated by fluorescence-activated flow cytometry (FACS) and subjected to RNA-seq profiling and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). RESULTS Compared to HEC-1-A, the trophoblast challenge to Ishikawa cells differentially regulated the expression of 495 genes, which mainly involved cell adhesion and extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules. GSEA revealed enrichment of pathways related to cell division, cell cycle regulation, and metabolism in the Ishikawa substrate. Comparing the gene expression profile of trophoblast spheroids revealed that 1877 and 323 genes were upregulated or downregulated when co-cultured on Ishikawa substrates (compared to HEC-1-A), respectively. Pathways favorable to development, including tissue remodeling, organogenesis, and angiogenesis, were enhanced in the trophoblast compartment after co-culture of spheroids with receptive epithelium. By contrast, the co-culture with less receptive epithelium enriched pathways mainly related to trophoblast cell proliferation and cell cycle regulation. CONCLUSIONS Endometrial receptivity requires a transcriptional signature that determines the trophoblast response and drives attachment.
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7
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Mohan JJ, Narayan P, Padmanabhan RA, Joseph S, Kumar PG, Laloraya M. Silencing of dedicator of cytokinesis (DOCK180) obliterates pregnancy by interfering with decidualization due to blockage of nuclear entry of autoimmune regulator (AIRE). Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e12844. [PMID: 29516628 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Dedicator of cytokinesis (DOCK 180) involved in cytoskeletal reorganization is primarily a cytosolic molecule. It is recently shown to be nuclear in HeLa cells but its nuclear function is not known. METHOD OF STUDY The spatiotemporal distribution of DOCK180 in uterus was studied in uterine cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments during the "window of implantation." The functional significance of nuclear DOCK180 was explored by homology modeling, co-immunoprecipitation assays, and mass spectrometric analysis. Dock180's role in early pregnancy was ascertained by Dock 180 silencing and subsequent quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting analysis. RESULTS Our study shows a nuclear DOCK180 in the uterus during "window of implantation." Estrogen and progesterone mediate expression and nuclear translocation of DOCK180. The nuclear function of DOCK180 is attributed to its ability to import autoimmune regulator (AIRE) into the nucleus. Silencing of Dock180 inhibited AIRE nuclear shuttling which influenced its downstream targets, thereby affecting decidualization with AIRE and HOXA-10 as the major players as well as lack of implantation site formation due to impact on angiogenesis-associated genes. CONCLUSION DOCK180 has an indispensable role in pregnancy establishment as knocking down Dock180 abrogates pregnancy by a consolidated impact on decidualization and angiogenesis by regulating AIRE nuclear entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasna Jagan Mohan
- Female Reproduction and Metabolic Syndromes Laboratory, Division of Molecular Reproduction, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Prashanth Narayan
- Female Reproduction and Metabolic Syndromes Laboratory, Division of Molecular Reproduction, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Renjini Ambika Padmanabhan
- Female Reproduction and Metabolic Syndromes Laboratory, Division of Molecular Reproduction, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Selin Joseph
- Female Reproduction and Metabolic Syndromes Laboratory, Division of Molecular Reproduction, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Pradeep G Kumar
- Female Reproduction and Metabolic Syndromes Laboratory, Division of Molecular Reproduction, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Malini Laloraya
- Female Reproduction and Metabolic Syndromes Laboratory, Division of Molecular Reproduction, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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Graubner FR, Boos A, Aslan S, Kücükaslan I, Kowalewski MP. Uterine and placental distribution of selected extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the dog. Reproduction 2018; 155:403-421. [PMID: 29439094 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
For many years, modifications of the uterine extracellular matrix (ECM) during gestation have not been considered as critical for successful canine (Canis lupus familiaris) pregnancy. However, previous reports indicated an effect of free-floating blastocysts on the composition of the uterine ECM. Here, the expression of selected genes involved in structural functions, cell-to-cell communication and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases were targeted utilizing qPCR and immunohistochemistry. We found that canine free-floating embryos affect gene expression of FN1, ECM1 and TIMP4 This seems to be associated with modulation of trophoblast invasion, and proliferative and adhesive functions of the uterus. Although not modulated at the beginning of pregnancy, the decrease of structural ECM components (i.e. COL1, -3, -4 and LAMA2) from pre-implantation toward post-implantation at placentation sites appears to be associated with softening of the tissue in preparation for trophoblast invasion. The further decrease of these components at placentation sites at the time of prepartum luteolysis seems to be associated with preparation for the release of fetal membranes. Reflecting a high degree of communication, intercellular cell adhesion molecules are induced following placentation (Cx26) or increase gradually toward prepartum luteolysis (Cx43). The spatio-temporal expression of TIMPs suggests their active involvement in modulating fetal invasiveness, and together with ECM1, they appear to protect deeper endometrial structures from trophoblast invasion. With this, the dog appears to be an interesting model for investigating placental functions in other species, e.g. in humans in which Placenta accreta appears to share several similarities with canine subinvolution of placental sites (SIPS). In summary, the canine uterine ECM is only moderately modified in early pregnancy, but undergoes vigorous reorganization processes in the uterus and placenta following implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix R Graubner
- Institute of Veterinary AnatomyVetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alois Boos
- Institute of Veterinary AnatomyVetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Selim Aslan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Near East University, Nicosia, North Cyprus, Turkey
| | - Ibrahim Kücükaslan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Mariusz P Kowalewski
- Institute of Veterinary AnatomyVetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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9
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Transcriptomic changes in the pre-implantation uterus highlight histotrophic nutrition of the developing marsupial embryo. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2412. [PMID: 29402916 PMCID: PMC5799185 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20744-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Early pregnancy is a critical time for successful reproduction; up to half of human pregnancies fail before the development of the definitive chorioallantoic placenta. Unlike the situation in eutherian mammals, marsupial pregnancy is characterised by a long pre-implantation period prior to the development of the short-lived placenta, making them ideal models for study of the uterine environment promoting embryonic survival pre-implantation. Here we present a transcriptomic study of pre-implantation marsupial pregnancy, and identify differentially expressed genes in the Sminthopsis crassicaudata uterus involved in metabolism and biosynthesis, transport, immunity, tissue remodelling, and uterine receptivity. Interestingly, almost one quarter of the top 50 genes that are differentially upregulated in early pregnancy are putatively involved in histotrophy, highlighting the importance of nutrient transport to the conceptus prior to the development of the placenta. This work furthers our understanding of the mechanisms underlying survival of pre-implantation embryos in the earliest live bearing ancestors of mammals.
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10
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Rosario GX, Hondo E, Jeong JW, Mutalif R, Ye X, Yee LX, Stewart CL. The LIF-mediated molecular signature regulating murine embryo implantation. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:66. [PMID: 25031358 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.118513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The establishment of a receptive uterus is the prime requirement for embryo implantation. In mice, the E2-induced cytokine leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is essential in switching the uterine luminal epithelium (LE) from a nonreceptive to a receptive state. Here we define the LIF-mediated switch using array analysis and informatics to identify LIF-induced changes in gene expression and annotated signaling pathways specific to the LE. We compare gene expression profiles at 0, 1, 3, and 6 h, following LIF treatment. During the first hour, the JAK-STAT signaling pathway is activated and the expression of 54 genes declines, primarily affecting LE cytoskeletal and chromatin organization as well as a transient reduction in the progesterone, TGFbetaR1, and ACVR1 receptors. Simultaneously 256 genes increase expression, of which 42 are transcription factors, including Sox, Kfl, Hes, Hey, and Hox families. Within 3 h, the expression of 3987 genes belonging to more than 25 biological process pathways was altered. We confirmed the mRNA and protein distribution of key genes from 10 pathways, including the Igf-1, Vegf, Toll-like receptors, actin cytoskeleton, ephrin, integrins, TGFbeta, Wnt, and Notch pathways. These data identify novel LIF-activated pathways in the LE and define the molecular basis between the refractory and receptive uterine phases. More broadly, these findings highlight the staggering capacity of a single cytokine to induce a dynamic and complex network of changes in a simple epithelium essential to mammalian reproduction and provide a basis for identifying new routes to regulating female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracy X Rosario
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Immunos, Singapore
| | - Eiichi Hondo
- Laboratory of Animal Morphology, Division of Biofunctional Development, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Rafidah Mutalif
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Immunos, Singapore
| | - Xiaoqian Ye
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Immunos, Singapore
| | - Li Xuan Yee
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Immunos, Singapore
| | - Colin L Stewart
- Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Immunos, Singapore
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11
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Payan-Carreira R, Santos C, Miranda S, Pereira RMLN, Santos D, Pires MA. Temporal changes in neutral endopeptidase/CD10 immunoexpression in the cyclic and early pregnant canine endometrium. Theriogenology 2014; 82:815-26. [PMID: 25082021 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
CD10 is a multifunctional transmembrane neutral endopeptidase (NEP) that is considered to be a reliable marker of ectopic human endometrial stroma. Available information on NEP/CD10 protein expression in animal endometria is scarce. This study focused on the immunolocalization of NEP/CD10 in the canine uterus and on its temporal changes during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy (Days 11 to 23 post-LH surge) in healthy females. NEP/CD10 expression was found in the canine endometrial stroma in all stages of the estrous cycle, showing cyclic differences both in intensity and in distribution pattern. A small population of negative stromal cells in subsurface position was also observed. This population shared some morphological characteristics with the human predecidual cells, which became positive in progesterone-associated stages of the cycle. In addition, positive immunolabeling was also observed in canine myometrial stroma. In early pregnancy, the basal glandular epithelia and the syncytium cords remained negative to this marker contrasting with the trophoblast and the lacunar epithelium. A weak to moderate intensity of immunolabeling was observed in the decidual cells, whereas stromal immunolabeling was more intense at the delimitation of the syncytium cords. In conclusion, CD10 is consistently expressed in the canine endometrial stroma and myometrium but not in the endometrial epithelia. The characteristic pattern seen in early pregnancy also suggests a role for this molecule in the process of embryo invasion at implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Payan-Carreira
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - C Santos
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - S Miranda
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal; Department of Veterinary Medicine, University School Vasco da Gama, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - R M L N Pereira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University School Vasco da Gama, Coimbra, Portugal; Strategic Unit for Biotechnology and Genetic Resources, National Institute of Agrarian and Veterinary Research (INIAV)-Pole at Quinta da Fonte Boa, Vale de Santarém, Portugal
| | - D Santos
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - M A Pires
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
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12
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Al-Gubory KH, Arianmanesh M, Garrel C, Bhattacharya S, Cash P, Fowler PA. Proteomic analysis of the sheep caruncular and intercaruncular endometrium reveals changes in functional proteins crucial for the establishment of pregnancy. Reproduction 2014; 147:599-614. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The expression and regulation of endometrial proteins are crucial for conceptus implantation and development. However, little is known about site-specific proteome profiles of the mammalian endometrium during the peri-implantation period. We utilised a two-dimensional gel electrophoresis/mass spectrometry-based proteomics approach to compare and identify differentially expressed proteins in sheep endometrium. Caruncular and intercaruncular endometrium were collected on days 12 (C12) and 16 (C16) of the oestrous cycle and at three stages of pregnancy corresponding to conceptus pre-attachment (P12), implantation (P16) and post-implantation (P20). Abundance and localisation changes in differentially expressed proteins were determined by western blot and immunohistochemistry. In caruncular endometrium, 45 protein spots (5% of total spots) altered between day 12 of pregnancy (P12) and P16 while 85 protein spots (10% of total spots) were differentially expressed between P16 and C16. In intercaruncular endometrium, 31 protein spots (2% of total spots) were different between P12 and P16 while 44 protein spots (4% of total spots) showed differential expression between C12 and C16. The pattern of protein changes between caruncle and intercaruncle sites was markedly different. Among the protein spots with implantation-related changes in volume, 11 proteins in the caruncular endometrium and six proteins in the intercaruncular endometrium, with different functions such as protein synthesis and degradation, antioxidant defence, cell structural integrity, adhesion and signal transduction, were identified. Our findings highlight the different but important roles of the caruncular and intercaruncular proteins during early pregnancy.
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13
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Madekurozwa MC. Immunolocalization of Intermediate Filaments and Laminin in the Oviduct of the Immature and Mature Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Anat Histol Embryol 2013; 43:210-20. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M.-C. Madekurozwa
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology; University of Pretoria; Private bag X04 Onderstepoort 0110 South Africa
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14
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Yoshizawa K, Emoto Y, Kinoshita Y, Kimura A, Uehara N, Yuri T, Shikata N, Tsubura A. Histopathological and immunohistochemical characterization of spontaneously occurring uterine deciduomas in young adult rats. J Toxicol Pathol 2013; 26:61-6. [PMID: 23723570 PMCID: PMC3620216 DOI: 10.1293/tox.26.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine deciduomas were found in two female virgin rats, a 15-week-old Lewis rat and a 7-week-old Sprague-Dawley rat. The firm white nodules were located at the base of unilateral uterine horns and were approximately 6 mm and 4 mm in diameter. Histopathologically, the nodules were composed of three areas, each with a distinct type of proliferating cells: large epithelioid decidual cells with round nuclei, prominent nucleoli and abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm (antimesometrial region); compact spindle-shaped cells with oval nuclei and vacuolar cytoplasm (transitional region); and pleomorphic and spiny cells with round to oval nuclei and compact eosinophilic cytoplasm (mesometrial region). These cells proliferated in sheet-like arrangements and transformed into the other types of cells located in surrounding regions. Immunohistochemically, proliferating cells in all regions were strongly positive for proliferating cell nuclear antigen. The proliferating cells were positive for vimentin, and large decidual cells were positive for common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen 10, a marker of uterine interstitial cells. Large decidual cells were positive for α-smooth muscle actin and desmin, suggesting differentiation into muscular cells. Progesterone receptor was expressed in all cell types; however, estrogen receptor α was not expressed in the antimesometrial region. These extremely rare tumor-like nodules represent nonneoplastic lesions referred as decidual reactions of endometrial interstitial cells, and their biological behavior is that of a space-occupying benign tumor in young rats. Our cases might provide information as a historical control in toxicity and pharmacological studies in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhiko Yoshizawa
- Department of Pathology II, Kansai Medical University, 10-15 Fumizono, Moriguchi, Osaka 570-8506, Japan
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15
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Nuño-Ayala M, Guillén N, Arnal C, Lou-Bonafonte JM, de Martino A, García-de-Jalón JA, Gascón S, Osaba L, Osada J, Navarro MA. Cystathionine β-synthase deficiency causes infertility by impairing decidualization and gene expression networks in uterus implantation sites. Physiol Genomics 2012; 44:702-16. [DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00189.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia has been reported in human reproduction as a risk factor for early pregnancy loss, preeclampsia, and congenital birth defects like spina bifida. Female infertility was also observed in cystathionine beta synthase-deficient mice ( Cbs-KO) as an animal model for severe hyperhomocysteinemia. The aim for the present research was to elucidate the time-point of pregnancy loss and to pinpoint gene and cellular changes involved in the underlying pathological mechanism. By mating 90-day-old wild-type and Cbs-KO female mice with their homologous male partners, we found that pregnancy loss in Cbs-KO occurred between the 8th and 12th gestation day during placenta formation. DNA microarrays were carried out on uterus from implantation and interimplantation samples obtained on day 8. The results allowed us to select genes potentially involved in embryo death; these were individually confirmed by RT-qPCR, and their expressions were also followed throughout pregnancy. We found that changes in expression of Calb1, Ttr, Expi, Inmt, Spink3, Rpgrip1, Krt15, Mt-4, Gzmc, Gzmb, Tdo2, and Afp were important for pregnancy success, since a different regulation in Cbs-KO mice was found. Also, differences in relationships among selected genes were observed, indicating a dysregulation of these genes in Cbs-KO females. In conclusion, our data provide more information on the gene expression cascade and its timely regulated process required for a successful pregnancy. In addition, we unveil new potential avenues to explore further investigations in pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Nuño-Ayala
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Natalia Guillén
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Arnal
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Lou-Bonafonte
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y del Deporte, Universidad de Zaragoza, Huesca, Spain
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alba de Martino
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Unidad de Anatomía Patológica, Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Sonia Gascón
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jesús Osada
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - María-Angeles Navarro
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Madekurozwa MC. An Immunohistochemical Study of the Oviduct in the Domestic Fowl (Gallus domesticus). Anat Histol Embryol 2012; 42:48-56. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0264.2012.01164.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M.-C. Madekurozwa
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology; University of Pretoria; Private bag X04; Onderstepoort; 0110; South Africa
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17
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Gürgen SG, Erdoğan D, Coşkun ZK, Cansu A. The effect of valproic acid and oxcarbazepine on the distribution of adhesion molecules in embryo implantation. Toxicology 2012; 292:71-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2011.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2011] [Revised: 11/17/2011] [Accepted: 11/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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18
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Kaloglu C, Onarlioglu B. Extracellular matrix remodelling in rat endometrium during early pregnancy: the role of fibronectin and laminin. Tissue Cell 2011; 42:301-6. [PMID: 20810141 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2010.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2010] [Revised: 06/27/2010] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The endometrial extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling has a crucial role in the establishment of a successful pregnancy. In addition to its basic function such as regulation of cell function, differentiation, migration, proliferation, the substantial alterations in the endometrial ECM may play a specific role in the trophoblast invasion, placentation, cell death and formation of the proper and functional implantation chamber around the embryo. In the present study, immunolocalizations of fibronectin and laminin were determined using avidin-biotin complex-peroxidase in rat implantation sites during 7-10 days of pregnancy. Both proteins were present in the basal membrane of blood vessels and in decidual matrix whereas they were absent or had very weak reactivity in the primary decidual zone on day 7. When placentation has begun, the immunoreactivity of both proteins was increased in the placental bed and in the basal membrane of blood vessels of the mesometrial region. The immunolocalization of both proteins seemed to be decreased in the antimesometrial decidua, however, it was increased in the mesometrial decidual matrix on days 9 and 10. Therefore, it could be suggested laminin and fibronectin demonstrating dynamic expressions in relation with the morphological differentiation of endometrial stroma may play crucial roles in the control of trophoblast adhesion and invasion, in placentation and angiogenesis, in the determination of cell shape and fate thus contributing the endometrial receptivity and a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celal Kaloglu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cumhuriyet University, Faculty of Medicine, 58140 Sivas, Turkey.
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19
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Su RW, Lei W, Liu JL, Zhang ZR, Jia B, Feng XH, Ren G, Hu SJ, Yang ZM. The integrative analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression in mouse uterus under delayed implantation and activation. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15513. [PMID: 21124741 PMCID: PMC2993968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2010] [Accepted: 10/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Delayed implantation is a developmental arrest at the blastocyst stage and a good model for embryo implantation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be involved in mouse embryo implantation through regulating uterine gene expression. This study was to have an integrative analysis on global miRNA and mRNA expression in mouse uterus under delayed implantation and activation through Illumina sequencing. Methodology/Principal Findings By deep sequencing and analysis, we found that there are 20 miRNAs up-regulated and 42 miRNAs down-regulated at least 1.2 folds, and 268 genes up-regulated and 295 genes down-regulated at least 2 folds under activation compared to delayed implantation, respectively. Many different forms of editing in mature miRNAs are detected. The percentage of editing at positions 4 and 5 of mature miRNAs is significantly higher under delayed implantation than under activation. Although the number of miR-21 reference sequence under activation is slightly lower than that under delayed implantation, the total level of miR-21 under activation is higher than that under delayed implantation. Six novel miRNAs are predicted and confirmed. The target genes of significantly up-regulated miRNAs under activation are significantly enriched. Conclusions miRNA and mRNA expression patterns are closely related. The target genes of up-regulated miRNAs are significantly enriched. A high level of editing at positions 4 and 5 of mature miRNAs is detected under delayed implantation than under activation. Our data should be valuable for future study on delayed implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Wei Su
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Wei Lei
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Ji-Long Liu
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhi-Rong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Bo Jia
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xu-Hui Feng
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Gang Ren
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Shi-Jun Hu
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Zeng-Ming Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- * E-mail:
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20
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Kilpatrick LM, Stephens AN, Hardman BM, Salamonsen LA, Li Y, Stanton PG, Nie G. Proteomic Identification of Caldesmon as a Physiological Substrate of Proprotein Convertase 6 in Human Uterine Decidual Cells Essential for Pregnancy Establishment. J Proteome Res 2009; 8:4983-92. [DOI: 10.1021/pr900381a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lynette M. Kilpatrick
- Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Andrew N. Stephens
- Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Belinda M. Hardman
- Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Lois A. Salamonsen
- Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Ying Li
- Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Peter G. Stanton
- Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Guiying Nie
- Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
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