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Zipponi M, Cacciottola L, Dolmans MM. Overview of crosstalk between stromal and epithelial cells in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis and shared features with deep endometriotic nodules. Hum Reprod 2024:deae116. [PMID: 38885960 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the first description of adenomyosis more than 150 years ago, multiple hypotheses have attempted to explain its pathogenesis. Indeed, research over recent years has greatly enhanced our knowledge of the underlying causes. This has opened up avenues for the development of strategies for both disease prevention and treatment of its main symptoms, such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility. However, the current means are still largely ineffective, so it is vital that we shed light on the pathways involved. Dysregulated mechanisms and aberrant protein expression have been identified as contributing factors in interactions between endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, ultimately leading to the growth of adenomyotic lesions. These include collective cell migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, hormonal influence, and signaling from non-coding RNAs and extracellular vesicles. We provide a concise summary of the latest insights into the crosstalk between glands and stroma in ectopic adenomyotic lesion formation. While there is an abundance of literature on similarities between adenomyosis and deep endometriosis, there are insufficient data on the cytochemical, molecular, and pathogenetic mechanisms of these two disorders. However, various shared features, including alterations of cell adhesion molecules, abnormal hormone regulation, and the presence of cancer-driving mutations and epigenetic modifications, have been identified. Nevertheless, the pathogenic mechanisms that contribute to the cause and development of these enigmatic diseases have not been fully elucidated yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Zipponi
- Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luciana Cacciottola
- Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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Wang C, Niu Y, Xu L, Song L, Yin L, Zheng X, Chu J, Ma T. Effects of phthalates on human chorionic trophoblast cells and mouse embryonic development. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 116:108339. [PMID: 36702171 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108339] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Phthalate exposure is associated with reproductive health, but the mechanism is unclear. This study used human chorionic trophoblast epithelial cells (HTR8/Svneo cells) and mouse embryos as objects aims to explore the effects of phthalate plasticizers on germ cells and fertility and the possible signalling pathways. In the present study, high concentrations of MEHP for 24 h significantly inhibited the proliferation and viability of HTR8/SVneo cells. Compared with the negative control (NC) group, the MEHP medium and high concentration groups promoted the apoptosis of HTR8/SVneo cells and inhibited the cell cycle, HTR8/SVneo cells were blocked in G1/G0 phase and could not enter S phase, and cell meiosis was inhibited. Western blot experiments showed that there was no difference in the protein expression of wnt inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1) and β-catenin in HTR8/SVneo cells between the MEHP exposure groups and the NC groups. In vitro embryo culture experiments found that there was no difference in blastocyst formation rate among groups after exposure to DEHP for 2 h. Immunofluorescence showed that the expression of WIF1 decreased in the low concentration group, and there was no difference in the medium and high concentration groups, while the expression of β-catenin was increased in both the low concentration group and the high concentration group. Our data suggest that exposure to phthalate plasticizers can affect the viability, cell cycle and apoptosis of trophoblast cells, resulting in abnormal expression of the embryonic WIF1/β-catenin signalling pathway and impaired fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanru Niu
- Laboratory of Bone Science, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Lihua Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Lijun Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Lanlan Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiudan Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaqi Chu
- Stem Cell Research and Cellular Therapy Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianzhong Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.
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Lih Yuan T, Sulaiman N, Nur Azurah AG, Maarof M, Rabiatul Adawiyah Razali, Yazid MD. Oestrogen-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in endometriosis: Aetiology of vaginal agenesis in Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome. Front Physiol 2022; 13:937988. [PMID: 36582359 PMCID: PMC9793092 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.937988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue forms and grows outside the uterus due to oestrogen-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the female reproductive tract. Factors that suppress this event could become potential therapeutic agents against disease occurrence and progression. However, an overview of these studies is still lacking. This review assessed the impact of a number factors on oestrogen-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the emergence of several diseases in the female reproductive tract, primarily endometriosis. The association between epithelial-mesenchymal transition and Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome was also investigated. Oestrogen, Wnt4 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition were chosen as keywords in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science searches performed on 28th June 2021. Study selection was refined to cancer-irrelevant, English, original articles published between years 2011-2021. The full-text assessment was carried out for topic-related articles after title and abstract screening. Included studies were summarised and assessed for their risk of bias using the Office of Health Assessment and Translation tool. In this review, 10 articles investigating oestrogen and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the female reproductive tract were summarised and classified into two groups: seven studies under 'factor'-modulated epithelial-mesenchymal transition and three studies under 'factor'-manipulated oestrogen-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The current evidence proposes that epithelial-mesenchymal transition is one of the prime causes of reproductive-related disease. This event could be mediated by distinct stimuli, specifically oestrogen and Wnt4 aberration. The results of this review suggest that oestrogen and Wnt4 participate in epithelial-mesenchymal transition in vaginal epithelial cells in MRKH syndrome, adopting from the theories of endometriosis development, which could therefore serve as a foundation for novel target treatment, specifically related to vaginal epithelialisation, to ensure better surgical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Too Lih Yuan
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Nadiah Sulaiman
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Ghani Nur Azurah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Manira Maarof
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Rabiatul Adawiyah Razali
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Dain Yazid
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Malaysia,*Correspondence: Muhammad Dain Yazid,
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Lv Y, Xu L. Tamoxifen Regulates Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Endometrial Cancer <i>via</i> the CANP10/NRP1 Signaling Pathway. Biol Pharm Bull 2022; 45:1818-1824. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b22-00530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lei Xu
- Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital
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Liu L, Wang S, Li D, Tuo Y. Effect of Co-Cultured Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSC) and Neuropilin 1 on the Migration of Endometrial Stromal Cells and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Adenomyosis. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.3139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Our study intends to assess the effect of co-cultured bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC) and Neuropilin 1 on the migration of endometrial stromal cells and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in adenomyosis. qRT-PCR was utilized for measuring Neuropilin 1 level in adenomyosis tissues
and cells. Endometrial stromal cells were treated with BMSC, si-Neuropilin 1, and pc-DNANeuropilin followed by analysis of cell proliferation and migration, as well as the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins. Neuropilin 1 expression was significantly upregulated
in 77 adenomyosis patients. Neuropilin 1 expression showed a positive correlation with the diagnostic sensitivity of adenomyosis. BMSC+pc-DNA-Neuropilin 1 treatment significantly promoted cell viability, migration, and EMT which were reduced by BMSC+si-Neuropilin 1. In conclusion, our study
demonstrates that co-culture of BMSCs and Neuropilin 1 increases cell viability, migration, and EMT in adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixue Liu
- Master of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, 010050, China
| | - Saren Wang
- Bachelor of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, 010050, China
| | - Debang Li
- Master of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, 010050, China
| | - Ya Tuo
- Doctor of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, 010050, China
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Wu Y, Wang H, Li Y, Li Y, Liang Y, Zhong G, Zhang Q. Estrogen-increased SGK1 Promotes Endometrial Stromal Cell Invasion in Adenomyosis by Regulating with LPAR2. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:3026-3038. [PMID: 35799024 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00990-3] [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: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecological disorder. The abnormal migration and invasion of the eutopic endometrium is thought to be the primary role in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. However, the exact underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study investigated involvement of serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. The SGK1 expression level was higher in the eutopic endometrium of adenomyosis. Upregulation of SGK1 can promote the migration, invasion of human stromal endometrial cells (HESC). Through RNA sequencing and other technical methods, we found that SGK1 regulates the expression of the important downstream molecule Lysophosphatidic acid receptor 2 (LPAR2), and ultimately regulates the expression level of functional proteins such as matrix metalloproteinase 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9, which are related to migration and invasion. Then, we found that 17β-estradiol (E2) upregulated the expression of SGK1 in endometrial cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, SGK1 shRNA significantly suppressed the migration and invasion induced by E2 in endometrial cells, as well as the related factors. Our study revealed the possible role of SGK1 in the migration and invasion in the development of adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchen Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangzhi Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yihua Liang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangzheng Zhong
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Qingxue Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Establishment of Adenomyosis Organoids as a Preclinical Model to Study Infertility. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12020219. [PMID: 35207707 PMCID: PMC8876865 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12020219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis is related to infertility and miscarriages, but so far there are no robust in vitro models that reproduce its pathological features to study the molecular mechanisms involved in this disease. Endometrial organoids are in vitro 3D models that recapitulate the native microenvironment and reproduce tissue characteristics that would allow the study of adenomyosis pathogenesis and related infertility disorders. In our study, human endometrial biopsies from adenomyosis (n = 6) and healthy women (n = 6) were recruited. Organoids were established and hormonally differentiated to recapitulate midsecretory and gestational endometrial phases. Physiological and pathological characteristics were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, and ELISA. Secretory and gestational organoids recapitulated in vivo glandular epithelial phenotype (pan-cytokeratin, Muc-1, PAS, Laminin, and Ki67) and secretory and gestational features (α-tubulin, SOX9, SPP1, PAEP, LIF, and 17βHSD2 expression and SPP1 secretion). Adenomyosis organoids showed higher expression of TGF-β2 and SMAD3 and increased gene expression of SPP1, PAEP, LIF, and 17βHSD2 compared with control organoids. Our results demonstrate that organoids derived from endometria of adenomyosis patients and differentiated to secretory and gestational phases recapitulate native endometrial-tissue-specific features and disease-specific traits. Adenomyosis-derived organoids are a promising in vitro preclinical model to study impaired implantation and pregnancy disorders in adenomyosis and enable personalized drug screening.
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Kang X, Zhu H. Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Enhance Endometrial Stromal Cell Migration and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Adenomyosis Through Upregulation of Neuropilin 1. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.2845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hormone support (estrogen and progesterone) is a key factor in decidualization and embryo implantation. Elevated levels of estrogen lead to luteal phase defects through Neuropilin 1, a membranecytoskeleton junction protein. This study aimed to explore the effect of BMSCs on endometrial
stromal cells (ESCs) in adenomyosis. ESCs obtained from patients with adenomyosis were cocultured with BMSCs in the absence of presence of Neuropilin 1 inhibitor followed by analysis of expression of decidualization-related genes by RT-qPCR and western blot, cell viability by MTT assay, cell
invasion and migration by Transwell assay, oxidative stress factors by ROS kit. Treatment with Neuropilin 1 inhibitor significantly decreased ESC proliferation and invasion, blocked epithelialmesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and restrained decidualization with a downregulation of decidualization-related
genes. Furthermore, inhibition of Neuropilin 1 exerted effects through estrogen regulation. However, co-culture with BMSCs restored ESC activity by promoting Neuropilin expression and enhanced intrauterine ESC decidualization. In conclusion, Neuropilin 1 inhibitor restrains decidualization
through estrogen regulation which can be abrogated by estrogen receptor antagonists. BMSCs restore the damaged ESC decidualization through increasing Neuropilin 1 expression, which provides new insights into the adverse effect of Neuropilin 1 on human ESCs, suggesting that BMSC is a potential
therapeutic drug candidate for adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Kang
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Hongcheng Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hubei Sheng Enshizhou Central Hospital, Enshi City, Hubei Province, 445009, China
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Integrating Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation Deciphers the Mechanism of Guizhi Fuling Wan against Adenomyosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6034147. [PMID: 34737779 PMCID: PMC8563128 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6034147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to predict the key targets and endocrine mechanisms of Guizhi Fuling Wan (GZFLW) in treating adenomyosis (AM) through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiment verification. Methods The related ingredients and targets of GZFLW in treating AM were screened out using TCMSP, BATMAN-TCM, SwissTargetPrediction, and PubChem Database. Then, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis and the network of compound-hub targets were constructed. At the same time, the key targets were uploaded to the Metascape Database for KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. After that, the molecular docking technology of the main active components and hub targets was performed. Furthermore, animal experiments were used to verify the results of network pharmacology analysis. Results A total of 55 active ingredients of GZFLW and 44 overlapping targets of GZFLW in treating AM were obtained. After screening, 25 hub targets were collected, including ESR1, EGF, and EGFR. Then, the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis results indicated that the endocrine therapeutic mechanism of GZFLW against AM is mainly associated with the estrogen signaling pathway, endocrine resistance, and an EGFR tyrosine kinase signaling pathway. Then, molecular docking showed that the significant compounds of GZFLW had a strong binding ability with ERα and EGFR. More importantly, the animal experiments confirmed that the GZFLW could downregulate the abnormal infiltration of the endometrial epithelium into the myometrium and had no interference with the normal sexual cycle. This effect may be directly related to intervening the local estrogen signaling pathway of the endometrial myometrial interface (EMI). It may also be associated with the myometrium cells' estrogen resistance via GPER/EGFR signaling pathway. Conclusion The endocrine mechanism of GZFLW in treating AM was explored based on network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments, which provided a theoretical basis for the clinical application of GZFLW.
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Donnez J, Stratopoulou CA, Dolmans MM. Uterine Adenomyosis: From Disease Pathogenesis to a New Medical Approach Using GnRH Antagonists. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18199941. [PMID: 34639243 PMCID: PMC8508387 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18199941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Uterine adenomyosis is a common chronic disorder frequently encountered in reproductive-age women, causing heavy menstrual bleeding, intense pelvic pain, and infertility. Despite its high prevalence, its etiopathogenesis is not yet fully understood, so there are currently no specific drugs to treat the disease. A number of dysregulated mechanisms are believed to contribute to adenomyosis development and symptoms, including sex steroid signaling, endometrial proliferation and invasiveness, and aberrant immune response. Abnormal sex steroid signaling, particularly hyperestrogenism and subsequent progesterone resistance, are known to play a pivotal role in its pathogenesis, which is why various antiestrogenic agents have been used to manage adenomyosis-related symptoms. Among them, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists are swiftly gaining ground, with recent studies reporting efficient lesion regression and symptom alleviation. The aim of the present review is to compile available information on the pathogenesis of adenomyosis, explore the etiology and mechanisms of hyperestrogenism, and discuss the potential of antiestrogenic therapies for treating the disease and improving patient quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Donnez
- Société de Recherche Pour l’Infertilité, 1150 Brussels, Belgium
- Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| | - Christina Anna Stratopoulou
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (C.A.S.); (M.-M.D.)
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (C.A.S.); (M.-M.D.)
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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Gu NH, Li GJ, Yang BX, You M, Lin Y, Sun F, Xu H. Hypo-Expression of Tuberin Promotes Adenomyosis via the mTOR1-Autophagy Axis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:710407. [PMID: 34395438 PMCID: PMC8358309 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.710407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis (AM) is a disease in which endometrial tissue invades the myometrium and has a 10–60% prevalence in reproductive-aged women. TSC2 regulates autophagy via mTOR1 signalling in colorectal cancer and endometrial carcinoma. Dysregulation of autophagy is implicated in adenomyosis pathogenesis. However, whether TSC2 participates in adenomyosis via autophagy remains obscure. Here, we found that the expression of TSC2 in adenomyosis was significantly decreased than that in normal endometrium during the secretory phase. Moreover, TSC2 and autophagy marker expression was significantly lower in ectopic lesions than in eutopic samples. TSC2 downregulation inhibited autophagy through mTOR1 signalling pathway activation in endometrial cells, leading to excessive proliferation, migration, and EMT; TSC2 overexpression induced the opposite effects. Rapamycin treatment suppressed cell proliferation, migration and EMT in the absence of TSC2. In parallel, an autophagy-specific inhibitor (SAR-405) restored migration and EMT under rapamycin treatment in TSC2-knockdown Ishikawa cells. Finally, SAR-405 treatment promoted EMT and migration of overexpressing cells. Collectively, our results suggest that TSC2 controls endometrial epithelial cell migration and EMT by regulating mTOR1-autophagy axis activation and that hypo-expression of TSC2 in the endometrium might promote adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni-Hao Gu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Jing Li
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing-Xin Yang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai, China
| | - Min You
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Lin
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Sun
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Xu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai, China
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Wang YY, Duan H, Wang S, Quan YJ, Huang JH, Guo ZC. Upregulated Talin1 synergistically boosts β-estradiol-induced proliferation and pro-angiogenesis of eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells in adenomyosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:70. [PMID: 33990206 PMCID: PMC8120781 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00756-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis (ADS) is an estrogen-dependent gynecological disease with unspecified etiopathogenesis. Local hyperestrogenism may serve a key role in contributing to the origin of ADS. Talin1 is mostly identified to be overexpressed and involved in the progression of numerous human carcinomas through mediating cell proliferation, adhesion and motility. Whether Talin1 exerts an oncogenic role in the pathogenesis of ADS and puts an extra impact on the efficacy of estrogen, no relevant data are available yet. Here we demonstrated that the adenomyotic eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells (ADS_Eu_ESC and ADS_Ec_ESC) treated with β-estradiol (β-E2) presented stronger proliferative and pro-angiogenetic capacities, accompanied by increased expression of PCNA, Ki67, VEGFB and ANGPTL4 proteins. Meanwhile, these promoting effects were partially abrogated by Fulvestrant (ICI 182780, an estrogen-receptor antagonist). Aberrantly upregulation of Talin1 mRNA and protein level was observed in ADS endometrial specimens and stromal cells. Through performing functional experiments in vitro, we further determined that merely overexpression of Talin1 (OV-Talin1) also enhanced ADS stromal cell proliferation and pro-angiogenesis, while the most pronounced facilitating effects were found in the co-intervention group of OV-Talin1 plus β-E2 treatment. Results from the xenograft nude mice model showed that the hypodermic endometrial lesions from co-intervention group had the highest mean weight and volume, compared with that of individual OV-Talin1 or β-E2 treatment. The expression levels of PCNA, Ki67, VEGFB and ANGPTL4 in the lesions were correspondingly elevated the most in the co-intervention group. Our findings unveiled that overexpressed Talin1 might cooperate withβ-E2 in stimulating ADS endometrial stromal cell proliferation and neovascularization, synergistically promoting the growth and survival of ectopic lesions. These results may be beneficial to provide a new insight for clarifying the pathogenesis of ADS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Yi Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng District, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng District, Beijing, 100006, China.
| | - Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng District, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Yong-Jun Quan
- Department of Urology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jun-Hua Huang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng District, Beijing, 100006, China
| | - Zheng-Chen Guo
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, No.17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng District, Beijing, 100006, China
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Lowe V, Wisniewski L, Pellet-Many C. The Zebrafish Cardiac Endothelial Cell-Roles in Development and Regeneration. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2021; 8:jcdd8050049. [PMID: 34062899 PMCID: PMC8147271 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd8050049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In zebrafish, the spatiotemporal development of the vascular system is well described due to its stereotypical nature. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms orchestrating post-embryonic vascular development, the maintenance of vascular homeostasis, or how coronary vessels integrate into the growing heart are less well studied. In the context of cardiac regeneration, the central cellular mechanism by which the heart regenerates a fully functional myocardium relies on the proliferation of pre-existing cardiomyocytes; the epicardium and the endocardium are also known to play key roles in the regenerative process. Remarkably, revascularisation of the injured tissue occurs within a few hours after cardiac damage, thus generating a vascular network acting as a scaffold for the regenerating myocardium. The activation of the endocardium leads to the secretion of cytokines, further supporting the proliferation of the cardiomyocytes. Although epicardium, endocardium, and myocardium interact with each other to orchestrate heart development and regeneration, in this review, we focus on recent advances in the understanding of the development of the endocardium and the coronary vasculature in zebrafish as well as their pivotal roles in the heart regeneration process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Lowe
- Heart Centre, Barts & The London School of Medicine, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
| | - Laura Wisniewski
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
| | - Caroline Pellet-Many
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, 4 Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK
- Correspondence:
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14
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Liu Z, Sun Z, Liu H, Niu W, Wang X, Liang N, Wang X, Wang Y, Shi Y, Xu L, Shi W. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of eutopic endometrium and ectopic lesions of adenomyosis. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:51. [PMID: 33685511 PMCID: PMC7938473 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00562-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adenomyosis (AM) is a common benign chronic gynaecological disorder; however, the precise pathogenesis of adenomyosis is still poorly understood. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) can uncover rare subpopulations, explore genetic and functional heterogeneity, and reveal the uniqueness of each cell. It provides us a new approach to reveal biological issues from a more detailed and microscopic perspective. Here, we utilize this revolutionary technology to identify the changes of gene expression patterns between ectopic lesions and the eutopic endometrium at the single-cell level and explore a potential novel pathogenesis of AM. METHODS A control endometrium (sample with leiomyoma excluding endometrial disorders, n = 1), eutopic endometrium and ectopic lesion (from a patient with adenomyosis, n = 1) samples were analysed by scRNA-seq, and additional leiomyoma (n = 3) and adenomyosis (n = 3) samples were used to confirm colocalization and vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation. Protein colocalization was visualized by immunofluorescence, and CD34-periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) double staining was used to assess the formation of VM. RESULTS The scRNA-seq results suggest that cancer-, cell motility- and inflammation- (CMI) associated terms, cell proliferation and angiogenesis play important roles in the progression of AM. Moreover, the colocalization of EPCAM and PECAM1 increased significantly in the ectopic endometrium group (P < 0.05), cell subpopulation with high copy number variation (CNV) levels possessing tumour-like features existed in the ectopic lesion sample, and VNN1- and EPCAM-positive cell subcluster displayed active cell motility in endometrial epithelial cells. Furthermore, during the transformation of epithelial cells to endothelial cells, we observed the significant accumulation of VM formation (positively stained with PAS but not CD34, P < 0.05) in ectopic lesions. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, our results support the theory of adenomyosis derived from the invasion and migration of the endometrium. Moreover, cell subcluster with high CNV level and tumour-associated characteristics is identified. Furthermore, epithelial-endothelial transition (EET) and the formation of VM in tumours, the latter of which facilitates the blood supply and plays an important role in maintaining cell growth, were also confirmed to occur in AM. These results indicated that the inhibition of EET and VM formation may be a potential strategy for AM management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Liu
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Zhonghua Sun
- Medical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Hongyun Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Linyi Central Hospital, No. 17 Jiankang Road, Yishui, 276400, Shandong, China
| | - Weipin Niu
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Grade Three Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparation of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Na Liang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Yanfei Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Yaxin Shi
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, No. 324 Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
| | - Wei Shi
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16369 Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China.
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15
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Huang N, Xu L, Qiu Y, Zhan J, Chen X. Down-regulated miR-124-3p enhanced the migration and epithelial-stromal transformation of endometrial stromal cells extracted from eutopic endometrium in subjects with adenomyosis by up-regulating Neuropilin 1. Tissue Cell 2021; 69:101474. [PMID: 33387827 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2020.101474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
MiR-124-3p regulates the biological function of endometrial cancer cells. However, the role of miR-124-3p in adenomyosis (AM) has not been reported. Hence, we hypothesized that miR-124-3p also regulated the development of AM. The expressions of miR-124-3p and Neuropilin 1 (NRP1) in AM endometrial tissues were evaluated by Quantitative Real-time-PCR (qPCR). Endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were isolated from the eutopic endometrial tissue of women with AM and further identified using immunofluorescence. Then the target of miR-124-3p was predicted by Starbase V2.0 and verified by dual-luciferase assay. After transfection of miR-124-3p mimic, inhibitor, or NRP1 overexpression plasmids, the viability and migration of ESCs were measured by Cell counting kit -8 (CCK-8) and wound healing assays, respectively. The expressions of NRP1 and epithelial-stromal transformation (EST)-related factors were evaluated by Quantitative Real-time-PCR (qPCR) or Western blot. MiR-124-3p was down-regulated and NRP1 was up-regulated in AM eutopic endometrial tissues. NRP1 was targeted by miR-124-3p. The extracted ESCs were Vimentin-positive and Cytokeratin-negative. MiR-124-3p mimic decreased viability, migration, and the expressions of NRP1, Vimentin, N-cadherin, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) in ESCs while increasing the expression of E-cadherin. MiR-124-3p inhibitor and NRP1 overexpression had the contrary effect of miR-124-3p on ESCs. Furthermore, NRP1 overexpression offset the effect of miR-124-3p mimic on viability, migration, and expressions of NRP1 and EMT-related factors in ESCs. MiR-124-3p regulated the migration and EMT of ESCs by down-regulating NRP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, China
| | - Liyan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, China
| | - Yafen Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, China
| | - Jinlai Zhan
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, China
| | - Xiangjun Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, China.
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Stratopoulou CA, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Origin and Pathogenic Mechanisms of Uterine Adenomyosis: What Is Known So Far. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:2087-2097. [PMID: 33090375 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00361-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Uterine adenomyosis is a benign disease, commonly encountered in reproductive-age women and responsible for chronic pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, and infertility. Although the exact origin and pathogenic mechanisms involved in adenomyosis still need to be elucidated, significant progress has been made over recent years. Ever since the theory of endometrium invaginating the myometrium via a traumatized interface was first proposed, numerous molecular mechanisms have been reported to participate in this process. At the same time, an alternative theory has suggested de novo development of adenomyotic lesions from metaplasia of Müllerian remnants or adult stem cells. Hence, our understanding of the pathogenesis of adenomyosis has been greatly enhanced and is anticipated to pave the way for development of an effective and safe treatment. The goal of this review is to analyze current knowledge on the origin and pathogenic mechanisms of adenomyosis, ranging from the most widely accepted theories to newly reported data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Anna Stratopoulou
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Société de Recherche pour l'Infertilité, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium. .,Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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17
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Zhai J, Vannuccini S, Petraglia F, Giudice LC. Adenomyosis: Mechanisms and Pathogenesis. Semin Reprod Med 2020; 38:129-143. [PMID: 33032339 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1716687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adenomyosis is a common disorder of the uterus, and is associated with an enlarged uterus, heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), pelvic pain, and infertility. It is characterized by endometrial epithelial cells and stromal fibroblasts abnormally found in the myometrium where they elicit hyperplasia and hypertrophy of surrounding smooth muscle cells. While both the mechanistic processes and the pathogenesis of adenomyosis are uncertain, several theories have been put forward addressing how this disease develops. These include intrinsic or induced (1) microtrauma of the endometrial-myometrial interface; (2) enhanced invasion of endometrium into myometrium; (3) metaplasia of stem cells in myometrium; (4) infiltration of endometrial cells in retrograde menstrual effluent into the uterine wall from the serosal side; (5) induction of adenomyotic lesions by aberrant local steroid and pituitary hormones; and (6) abnormal uterine development in response to genetic and epigenetic modifications. Dysmenorrhea, HMB, and infertility are likely results of inflammation, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and contractile abnormalities in the endometrial and myometrial components. Elucidating mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of adenomyosis raise possibilities to develop targeted therapies to ameliorate symptoms beyond the current agents that are largely ineffective. Herein, we address these possible etiologies and data that support underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Zhai
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Zhai J, Li S, Sen S, Opoku-Anane J, Du Y, Chen ZJ, Giudice LC. m 6A RNA Methylation Regulators Contribute to Eutopic Endometrium and Myometrium Dysfunction in Adenomyosis. Front Genet 2020; 11:716. [PMID: 32719721 PMCID: PMC7350935 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis is a prevalent, estrogen-dependent uterine disorder wherein endometrial cells are abnormally present in the myometrium and are surrounded by hyperplastic/hypertrophic smooth muscle. Its etiology is unclear, although endometrial cell invasion into the myometrium has been postulated. RNA methylation, particularly N6-methyladenosine (m6A), plays an important role in regulating various physiological processes and invasive disorders. The goal of this in silico and lab-based experimental study was to explore a possible role for m6A in adenomyosis. Gene expression profiles of both the endometrium and myometrium of women with adenomyosis (cases) and without disease (controls) were obtained from the publicly available Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. In the endometrium, STRING database analysis revealed that METTL3 functions as a "hub" gene of m6A RNA methylation regulators, and the genes involved in m6A regulation, including METTL3, FTO, ZC3H13, and YTHDC1 expression, were significantly decreased in cases versus controls. Functional, co-expression, and correlational analyses of endometrium from cases versus controls revealed decreased total m6A levels, induced by METTL3, and the downstream elevated insulin-like growth factor-1(IGF1) and D-Dopachrome Tautomerase (DDT), with the latter two having known functions in epithelial proliferation and cell migration, which are important processes in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis in endometrium. m6A RNA methylation regulators, including RBM15/15B, ALKBH5, FTO, YTHDF1/2, KIAA1429, HNRNPC, METTL3, ZC3H13, and YTHDC2, were also differentially expressed in the myometrium from cases versus controls. We validated decreased total m6A levels and differential expression of m6A RNA methylation regulators in the myometrium of patients with adenomyosis using qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and tissues available from our biorepository. Possible target genes, including cadherin 3(CDH3), sodium channelβ-subunit 4 (SCN4B), and placenta-specific protein 8 (PLAC8), which are involved in cell adhesion, muscle contraction and immune response in the myometrium of adenomyosis patients were also validated. Thus, through extensive public database mining and validation of select genes, this study, for the first time, implicates m6A and its methylation regulators in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. Follow on functional studies are anticipated to elucidate mechanisms involving m6A and its regulators and down-stream effectors in the pathogenesis of this enigmatic reproductive disorder and potentially identify druggable targets to control its associated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Zhai
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Shang Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Sushmita Sen
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jessica Opoku-Anane
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Yanzhi Du
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Linda C. Giudice
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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