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Lessey BA, Dong A, Deaton JL, Angress D, Savaris RF, Walker SJ. Inflammatory Changes after Medical Suppression of Suspected Endometriosis for Implantation Failure: Preliminary Results. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6852. [PMID: 38999962 PMCID: PMC11241468 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Unexplained euploid embryo transfer failure (UEETF) is a frustrating and unanswered conundrum accounting for 30 to 50% of failures in in vitro fertilization using preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). Endometriosis is thought by many to account for most of such losses and menstrual suppression or surgery prior to the next transfer has been reported to be beneficial. In this study, we performed endometrial biopsy in a subset of women with UEETF, testing for the oncogene BCL6 and the histone deacetylase SIRT1. We compared 205 PGT-A cycles outcomes and provide those results following treatment with GnRH agonist versus controls (no treatment). Based on these and previous promising results, we next performed a pilot randomized controlled trial comparing the orally active GnRH antagonist, elagolix, to oral contraceptive pill (OCP) suppression for 2 months before the next euploid embryo transfer, and monitored inflammation and miRNA expression in blood, before and after treatment. These studies support a role for endometriosis in UEETF and suggest that medical suppression of suspected disease with GnRH antagonist prior to the next transfer could improve success rates and address underlying inflammatory and epigenetic changes associated with UEETF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce A Lessey
- Department of OBGYN, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Allan Dong
- Department of OBGYN, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Deaton
- Department of OBGYN, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | | | - Ricardo F Savaris
- Department of OBGYN, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
| | - Stephen J Walker
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
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Hutchison JC, Evans J, Edgell TA, Nie G, Gardner DK, Salamonsen LA. Detrimental actions of obesity-associated advanced glycation end-products on endometrial epithelial cell proliferation are alleviated by antioxidants. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:35-50. [PMID: 37142478 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Advanced glycation end-products (AGE) are elevated in the uterine environment of obese infertile women. Can the detrimental effects of AGE on endometrial epithelial cells be mitigated with therapeutics, and recapitulated in a more physiologically relevant primary model (organoids)? DESIGN Human endometrial epithelial cells (ECC-1) were exposed to AGE at concentrations physiologically representative of uterine fluid in lean or obese individuals, and three potential therapeutics: 25 nmol/l receptor for AGE (RAGE) antagonist FPS-ZM1, 100 μmol/l metformin, or a combination of antioxidants (10 μmol/l N-acetyl-l-cysteine, 10 μmol/l N-acetyl-l-carnitine and 5 μmol/l α-lipoic acid). Real-time cell analysis (xCELLigence, ACEA Biosciences) determined the rate of adhesion and proliferation. The proliferation of organoid-derived cells and secretion of cytokines from organoids was characterized in the presence of AGE (n = 5). The uterine fluid of women undergoing assisted reproduction was profiled for AGE-associated inflammatory markers (n = 77). RESULTS ECC-1 proliferation was reduced by AGE from obese versus lean conditions and vehicle control (P = 0.04 and P < 0.001, respectively), and restored to a proliferation corresponding to lean conditions by antioxidants. AGE influenced organoid derived primary endometrial epithelial cell proliferation in a donor-dependent manner. AGE increased the organoid secretion of the proinflammatory cytokine CXCL16 (P = 0.006). Clinically, CXCL16 correlated positively to maternal body mass index (R = 0.264, P = 0.021) and intrauterine glucose concentration (R = 0.736, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Physiologically relevant concentrations of AGE alter endometrial epithelial cell function. Antioxidants restore the rate of proliferation of AGE-treated endometrial epithelial (ECC-1) cells. Primary endometrial epithelial cells, cultured as organoids, demonstrate altered proliferation and CXCL16 secretion in the presence of AGE equimolar with the uterine fluid from obese individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Hutchison
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tracey A Edgell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Guiying Nie
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - David K Gardner
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
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3
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Jiang X, Li Z, Chang X, Lian Z, Wang A, Lin P, Chen H, Zhou D, Tang K, Jin Y. A Comparative Proteomic Analysis to Explore the Influencing Factors on Endometritis Using LC-MS/MS. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10018. [PMID: 37373165 PMCID: PMC10298677 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The inflammatory system activated by uterine infection is associated with decreased fertility. Diseases can be detected in advance by identifying biomarkers of several uterine diseases. Escherichia coli is one of the most frequent bacteria that is involved in pathogenic processes in dairy goats. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of endotoxin on protein expression in goat endometrial epithelial cells. In this study, the LC-MS/MS approach was employed to investigate the proteome profile of goat endometrial epithelial cells. A total of 1180 proteins were identified in the goat Endometrial Epithelial Cells and LPS-treated goat Endometrial Epithelial Cell groups, of which, 313 differentially expressed proteins were accurately screened. The proteomic results were independently verified by WB, TEM and IF techniques, and the same conclusion was obtained. To conclude, this model is suitable for the further study of infertility caused by endometrial damage caused by endotoxin. These findings may provide useful information for the prevention and treatment of endometritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingcan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Ziyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Xiyv Chang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Zhengjie Lian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Pengfei Lin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Huatao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Keqiong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Yaping Jin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China; (X.J.)
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang 712100, China
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4
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Jiang X, Li Z, Chang X, Huang C, Qiu R, Wang A, Lin P, Tang K, Chen H, Zhou D, Jin Y. Proteomic analysis of uterine lavage fluid of dairy cows at different time after delivery by mass spectrometry. Theriogenology 2023; 207:31-48. [PMID: 37257220 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.013] [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: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Endometritis is a common disease in the reproductive system, which is the infection and inflammation of the endometrium. In severe cases, it can affect the myometrium and adversely affect the subsequent fertility of dairy cows. We used a mass spectrometry-based technique to compare proteomics of uterine lavage fluid between healthy cows and cows with cytological endometritis classified according to 100-day postpartum pregnancy results and diagnosis result. The uterine lavage fluid of dairy cows collected at 15 and 30 days after delivery was analyzed. 15 days postpartum, we identified a total of 1129 proteins in the control and cytological endometritis (CEM) groups. Among them, 160 proteins were accurately screened out. 30 days postpartum, we identified a total of 846 proteins in the control and cytological endometritis (CEM) groups. Among them, 186 proteins were accurately cytological endometritis (CEM). Endometritis is a costly reproductive disease in lactating cows, which needs to be diagnosed in time. Using proteomics method based on gel mass spectrometry, we compared the proteome of uterine lavage fluid of dairy cows with and without cytological endometritis to characterize the changes of proteomic characteristics associated with postpartum uterine disease. To provide reference for clinical application and basic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingcan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ziyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiyu Chang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Cong Huang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rendong Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengfei Lin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Keqiong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huatao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaping Jin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China; Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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5
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Tapilskaya NI, Savicheva AM, Shalepo KV, Budilovskaya OV, Gzgzyan AM, Bespalova ON, Khusnutdinova TA, Krysanova AA, Obedkova KV, Safarian GK. Local Immune Biomarker Expression Depending on the Uterine Microbiota in Patients with Idiopathic Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087572. [PMID: 37108732 PMCID: PMC10143846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087572] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium has traditionally been considered sterile. Nowadays, active studies are performed on the female upper genital tract microbiota. Bacteria and/or viruses colonizing the endometrium are known to alter its functional properties, including receptivity and embryo implantation. Uterine cavity inflammation caused by microorganisms leads to disrupted cytokine expression, which, in turn, is mandatory for the successful implantation of the embryo. The present study assessed the vaginal and endometrial microbiota composition and its relation to the levels of cytokines produced by the endometrium in reproductive-aged women complaining of secondary infertility of unknown origin. The multiplex real-time PCR assay was applied for vaginal and endometrial microbiota analysis. The quantitative measurement of endometrial α-defensin (DEFa1), transforming growth factor (TGFβ1), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF2) was carried out using the ELISA (Cloud-Clone Corporation (Katy, TX, USA; manufactured in Wuhan, China). A reliable decline in endometrial TGFβ1 and bFGF2 and an increase in DEFa1 were demonstrated in women with idiopathic infertility when compared to fertile patients. However, TGFβ1, bFGF2, and DEFa1 expression correlated reliably only with the presence of Peptostreptococcus spp. and HPV in the uterine cavity. The obtained results highlight the importance of local immune biomarker determination in the assessment of certain bacteria and viruses' significance as causative agents of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalya I Tapilskaya
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alevtina M Savicheva
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kira V Shalepo
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olga V Budilovskaya
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Aleksandr M Gzgzyan
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olesya N Bespalova
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Tatiana A Khusnutdinova
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anna A Krysanova
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kseniia V Obedkova
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Galina Kh Safarian
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
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6
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Eivazi S, Tanhaye Kalate Sabz F, Amiri S, Zandieh Z, Bakhtiyari M, Rashidi M, Aflatoonian R, Mehraein F, Amjadi F. MiRNAs secreted by human blastocysts could be potential gene expression regulators during implantation. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:1375-1383. [PMID: 36469260 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-08121-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs known as essential regulators of cell-cell communication. Recent studies have revealed that miRNAs are secreted by a blastocyst in culture media. We hypothesized that endometrial epithelial cells take up embryo-derived miRNAs as well as other soluble factors and regulate their receptivity-related gene expression. METHODS AND RESULTS Blastocyst culture media (BCM) were collected from the individually cultured embryos, while human endometrial epithelial cells (HEECs) were collected from healthy fertile volunteers. To evaluate the effect of BCM on the endometrial receptivity gene expression, HEECs were co-cultured with implanted BCM, non-implanted BCM, and a control culture medium. After determining altered gene expression in the HEECs, the miRNAs-related genes through bioinformatics databases were identified and evaluated in the BCM. Co-culture of primary HEECs with BCM significantly stimulated the expression levels of VEGFA, HBEGF, HOXA10, and LIF in the implanted group compared with non-implanted and control groups. The fold changes of miR-195 significantly diminished in the implanted BCM group compared with the non-implanted BCM group. Reduced fold changes of miR-29b, 145 and increased miR-223 were also observed in the implanted BCM group compared with the non-implanted ones. CONCLUSION miRNAs could function as potential gene expression regulators during implantation. These molecules are secreted by human blastocyst, taken up by endometrial epithelial cells, and cause a change in the endometrial function. We found that BCMs can be effective in implantation process by stimulating related receptivity gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Eivazi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1168743514, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tanhaye Kalate Sabz
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1168743514, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Pathology, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, bojnurd, Iran
| | - Sadegh Amiri
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1168743514, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1168743514, Iran
- Shahid Akbar Abadi Clinical Research Development Unit (SHACRDU), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Bakhtiyari
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1168743514, Iran
| | - Mandana Rashidi
- Shahid Akbar Abadi Clinical Research Development Unit (SHACRDU), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Mehraein
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1168743514, Iran.
| | - Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1168743514, Iran.
- Shahid Akbar Abadi Clinical Research Development Unit (SHACRDU), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Menstrual flow as a non-invasive source of endometrial organoids. Commun Biol 2021; 4:651. [PMID: 34140633 PMCID: PMC8211845 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02194-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessment of the endometrium often necessitates a biopsy, which currently involves an invasive, transcervical procedure. Here, we present an alternative technique based on deriving organoids from menstrual flow. We demonstrate that organoids can be derived from gland fragments recovered from menstrual flow. To confirm they faithfully reflect the in vivo state we compared organoids derived from paired scratch biopsies and ensuing menstrual flow from patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF). We demonstrate that the two sets of organoids share the same transcriptome signature, derivation efficiency and proliferation rate. Furthermore, they respond similarly to sex steroids and early-pregnancy hormones, with changes in morphology, receptor expression, and production of 'uterine milk' proteins that mimic those during the late-secretory phase and early pregnancy. This technique has wide-ranging impact for non-invasive investigation and personalised approaches to treatment of common gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis, and reproductive disorders, including failed implantation after IVF and recurrent miscarriage.
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8
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Sperm modulate uterine immune parameters relevant to embryo implantation and reproductive success in mice. Commun Biol 2021; 4:572. [PMID: 33990675 PMCID: PMC8121928 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02038-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal fluid factors modulate the female immune response at conception to facilitate embryo implantation and reproductive success. Whether sperm affect this response has not been clear. We evaluated global gene expression by microarray in the mouse uterus after mating with intact or vasectomized males. Intact males induced greater changes in gene transcription, prominently affecting pro-inflammatory cytokine and immune regulatory genes, with TLR4 signaling identified as a top-ranked upstream driver. Recruitment of neutrophils and expansion of peripheral regulatory T cells were elevated by seminal fluid of intact males. In vitro, epididymal sperm induced IL6, CXCL2, and CSF3 in uterine epithelial cells of wild-type, but not Tlr4 null females. Collectively these experiments show that sperm assist in promoting female immune tolerance by eliciting uterine cytokine expression through TLR4-dependent signaling. The findings indicate a biological role for sperm beyond oocyte fertilization, in modulating immune mechanisms involved in female control of reproductive investment.
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9
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Rai A, Poh QH, Fatmous M, Fang H, Gurung S, Vollenhoven B, Salamonsen LA, Greening DW. Proteomic profiling of human uterine extracellular vesicles reveal dynamic regulation of key players of embryo implantation and fertility during menstrual cycle. Proteomics 2021; 21:e2000211. [PMID: 33634576 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202000211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as important players in reproductive biology. However, how their proteome is regulated throughout the menstrual cycle is not known. Such information can provide novel insights into biological processes critical for embryo development, implantation, and successful pregnancy. Using mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomics, we show that small EVs (sEVs) isolated from uterine lavage of fertile women (UL-sEV), compared to infertile women, are laden with proteins implicated in antioxidant activity (SOD1, GSTO1, MPO, CAT). Functionally, sEVs derived from endometrial cells enhance antioxidant function in trophectoderm cells. Moreover, there was striking enrichment of invasion-related proteins (LGALS1/3, S100A4/11) in fertile UL-sEVs in the secretory (estrogen plus progesterone-driven, EP) versus proliferative (estrogen-driven, E) phase, with several players downregulated in infertile UL-sEVs. Consistent with this, sEVs from EP- versus E-primed endometrial epithelial cells promote invasion of trophectoderm cells. Interestingly, UL-sEVs from fertile versus infertile women carry known players/predictors of embryo implantation (PRDX2, IDHC), endometrial receptivity (S100A4, FGB, SERPING1, CLU, ANXA2), and implantation success (CAT, YWHAE, PPIA), highlighting their potential to inform regarding endometrial status/pregnancy outcomes. Thus, this study provides novel insights into proteome reprograming of sEVs and soluble secretome in uterine fluid, with potential to enhance embryo implantation and hence fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alin Rai
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Qi Hui Poh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Monique Fatmous
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Haoyun Fang
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shanti Gurung
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Beverley Vollenhoven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Monash IVF, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Women's and Newborn Program, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - David W Greening
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Human Embryo Implantation: Clinical Implications. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020253. [PMID: 33578823 PMCID: PMC7916576 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well-known angiogenic factor that plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes. VEGF also contributes to the process of embryo implantation by enhancing embryo development, improving endometrial receptivity, and facilitating the interactions between the developing embryo and the endometrium. There is a correlation between the alteration of VEGF expression and reproductive failure, including recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriage (RM). In order to clarify the role of VEGF in embryo implantation, we reviewed recent literature concerning the expression and function of VEGF in the reproductive system around the time of embryo implantation and we provide a summary of the findings reported so far. We also explored the effects and the possible underlying mechanisms of action of VEGF in embryo implantation.
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Wang L, Lv S, Mao W, Pei M, Yang X. Assessment of endometrial receptivity during implantation window in women with unexplained infertility. Gynecol Endocrinol 2020; 36:917-921. [PMID: 32070163 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1727433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the endometrial receptivity during implantation window in women with unexplained infertility. A prospective study recruited 168 women with unexplained infertility and 169 fertile women. Ultrasonic parameters and biomarkers in the uterine fluid were detected. The endometrial vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI) and vascularization flow index (VFI) were significantly higher in fertile women as compared with unexplained infertile women, and the integrin αvβ3, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) levels in uterine fluid were significantly higher in fertile women. The biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and ongoing pregnancy rate in fertile women were 20.12%, 18.34%, and 17.75%, respectively, which were significantly higher compared with unexplained infertile women (7.14%, 5.36%, and 4.17%, respectively). Endometrial thickness (ET), endometrial volume (EV), VI, FI, and VFI measured by ultrasound, and the integrin αvβ3, VEGF, TNF-α, and LIF levels in uterine fluid were all significantly higher in pregnant women as compared with nonpregnant women. The best parameters of ultrasonic indicators for predicting endometrial receptivity in women with unexplained infertility were FI(AUC = 0.894, sensitivity 93.8%, and specificity 83.1%). Integrin αvβ3 had the best predictive value for endometrial receptivity among biomarkers in the uterine fluid (AUC = 0.921, sensitivity 96.7%, and specificity 89.5%). Women with unexplained infertility present declined endometrial receptivity. Endometrial ultrasonic parameters detected by three-dimensional power Doppler and biomarkers in the uterine fluid may be effective indicators to predict endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shulan Lv
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenjun Mao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Meili Pei
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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Martinez CA, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Wright D, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Does the Pre-Ovulatory Pig Oviduct Rule Sperm Capacitation In Vivo Mediating Transcriptomics of Catsper Channels? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051840. [PMID: 32155986 PMCID: PMC7084628 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa need to conduct a series of biochemical changes termed capacitation in order to fertilize. In vivo, capacitation is sequentially achieved during sperm transport and interaction with the female genital tract, by mechanisms yet undisclosed in detail. However, when boar spermatozoa are stored in the tubal reservoir pre-ovulation, most appear to be in a non-capacitated state. This study aimed at deciphering the transcriptomics of capacitation-related genes in the pig pre-ovulatory oviduct, following the entry of semen or of sperm-free seminal plasma (SP). Ex-vivo samples of the utero-tubal junction (UTJ) and isthmus were examined with a microarray chip (GeneChip® Porcine Gene 1.0 ST Array, Thermo Fisher Scientific) followed by bioinformatics for enriched analysis of functional categories (GO terms) and restrictive statistics. The results confirmed that entry of semen or of relative amounts of sperm-free SP modifies gene expression of these segments, pre-ovulation. It further shows that enriched genes are differentially associated with pathways relating to sperm motility, acrosome reaction, single fertilization, and the regulation of signal transduction GO terms. In particular, the pre-ovulation oviduct stimulates the Catsper channels for sperm Ca2+ influx, with AKAPs, CATSPERs, and CABYR genes being positive regulators while PKIs and CRISP1 genes appear to be inhibitors of the process. We postulate that the stimulation of PKIs and CRISP1 genes in the pre-ovulation sperm reservoir/adjacent isthmus, mediated by SP, act to prevent premature massive capacitation prior to ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina A. Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-678077708
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
| | - Dominic Wright
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering; Linköping University, SE-58183 Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
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Wang L, Lv S, Li F, Bai E, Yang X. Letrozole Versus Clomiphene Citrate and Natural Cycle: Endometrial Receptivity During Implantation Window in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:532692. [PMID: 33537000 PMCID: PMC7848032 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.532692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Numerous studies have reported on ovulation and pregnancy rates in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, relevant data on endometrial receptivity are limited. This study was conducted to compare endometrial receptivity during implantation windows among letrozole (LE), clomiphene citrate (CC), and natural cycle, and to assess the predictive value for pregnancy of observed indicators. METHODS This randomized controlled trial study enrolled 270 patients with PCOS. Patients were given LE (n=90) at a dose of 2.5mg/day or CC (n=90) at a dose of 50 mg/day on cycle days 5-9 for ovulation induction. Patients in the natural cycle group (n=90) did not receive any drug for ovulation induction. Endometrial ultrasonic parameters, integrin αvβ3, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentrations in uterine secretion were detected during the implantation window. The endometrial receptivity, ovulation rate, pregnancy rates, and predictive value of observed indicators for pregnancy were analyzed. RESULTS The successful ovulation rate did not differ between the LE group and CC group (P>0.05). Endometrial ultrasonic parameters [endometrial thickness (ET), endometrial volume (EV), vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI), vascularization flow index (VFI)], integrin αvβ3, and VEGF concentrations in uterine fluid were significantly higher in the LE group compared with the CC group and natural cycle group (P<0.05). The clinical pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy rates of the LE group were significantly higher than in the CC group (P<0.05). Endometrial ultrasonic parameters (VI, FI, and VFI), integrin αvβ3, and VEGF concentrations in uterine fluid of all pregnancy groups were significantly higher compared with the no pregnancy group (P<0.05), and the above parameters in ongoing pregnancy were significantly higher than in biochemical pregnancy (P<0.05). The endometrial FI during the implantation window had the highest predictive value for pregnancy (AUC=0.889). The integrin αvβ3 in uterine fluid had better predictive value (AUC=0.876) than VEGF. CONCLUSIONS Endometrial receptivity during the implantation window of LE is superior to CC in PCOS women, which may be related to higher clinical pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy rates. Endometrial FI examined by 3-D power Doppler, and integrin αvβ3 in uterine secretion during the implantation window, could be preferable non-invasive predictor markers for pregnancy. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION www.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR1900023423.
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