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Zhang S, Mi P, Luan J, Sun M, Zhao X, Feng X. Fluorene-9-bisphenol acts on the gut-brain axis by regulating oxytocin signaling to disturb social behaviors in zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 255:119169. [PMID: 38763277 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have identified the exposure to ubiquitous environmental endocrine disruptors may be a risk factor of neurological disorders. However, the effects of fluorene-9-bisphenol (BHPF) in environmental exposure concentrations associated with these disorders are poorly understood. In this study, classic light-dark and social behavior tests were performed on zebrafish larvae and adults exposed BHPF exposure to evaluate social behavioral disorders and the microbiota-gut-brain axis was assessed to reveal the potential mechanisms underlying the behavioral abnormalities observed. Our results demonstrated that zebrafish larvae exposed to an environmentally relevant concentration (0.1 nM) of BHPF for 7 days showed a diminished response to external environmental factors (light or dark). Zebrafish larvae exposed to BHPF for 7 days or adults exposed to BHPF for 30 days at 1 μM displayed significant behavioral inhibition and altered social behaviors, including social recognition, social preference, and social fear contagion, indicating autism-like behaviors were induced by the exposure. BHPF exposure reduced the distribution of Nissl bodies in midbrain neurons and significantly reduced 5-hydroxytryptamine signaling. Oxytocin (OXT) levels and expression of its receptor oxtra in the gut and brain were down-regulated by BHPF exposure. In addition, the expression levels of genes related to the excitation-inhibitory balance of synaptic transmission changed. Microbiomics revealed increased community diversity and altered abundance of some microflora, such as an elevation in Bacillota and Bacteroidota and a decline in Mycoplasmatota in zebrafish guts, which might contribute to the abnormal neural circuits and autism-like behaviors induced by BHPF. Finally, the rescue effect of exogenous OXT on social behavioral defects induced by BHPF exposure was verified in zebrafish, highlighting the crucial role of OXT signaling through gut-brain axis in the regulatory mechanisms of social behaviors affected by BHPF. This study contributes to understanding the effects of environmental BHPF exposure on neuropsychiatric disorders and attracts public attention to the health risks posed by chemicals in aquatic organisms. The potential mental disorders should be considered in the safety assessments of environmental pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhui Zhang
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education. Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Ping Mi
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Jialu Luan
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education. Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Mingzhu Sun
- The Institute of Robotics and Automatic Information Systems, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- The Institute of Robotics and Automatic Information Systems, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Xizeng Feng
- College of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education. Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Qiao QF, Wang LQ, Yu DE, Li N, Xu QJ, Zhou YJ. Effect of beta-cypermethrin on the reproductive capacity of female mice in advanced age. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 107:104410. [PMID: 38423490 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate whether exposure to pesticides beta-cypermethrin (β-CYP) harms the reproductive capacity of advanced-age female mice. The results evidenced that peri-implantation β-CYP exposure significantly reduced the number of fetuses per advanced-age female in the first litter, and the number and weight of implantation sites. The levels of decidualization markers were significantly reduced in β-CYP-administered advanced-age mice. Lower expression of Pcna, Cdk6, Foxo1, Ki67, and p62 protein and mRNA was found in the decidua of β-CYP-treated advanced-age mice. The levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, Lc3a/b, Atg, mTOR, and p-mTOR protein, and the ratio of p-mTOR/mTOR protein expression were clearly downregulated by peri-implantation β-CYP exposure. These results indicated that peri-implantation β-CYP exposure may elevate the decline in reproductive capacity of early pregnant mice in advanced age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Feng Qiao
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province 571199, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Qing Wang
- Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province 571199, People's Republic of China
| | - De-E Yu
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province 571199, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Li
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province 571199, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiong-Jun Xu
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province 571199, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Jiang Zhou
- Heinz Mehlhorn Academician Workstation, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan Province 571199, People's Republic of China.
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Zuo X, Zhang S, Bai H, Yu Q, Zhao Q, Sun M, Zhao X, Feng X. Effects of fluorene-9-bisphenol exposure on anxiety-like and social behavior in mice and protective potential of exogenous melatonin. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:29385-29399. [PMID: 38573577 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33148-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Fluorene-9-bisphenol (BHPF) is widely used in the manufacture of plastic products and potentially disrupts several physiological processes, but its biological effects on social behavior remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of BHPF exposure on anxiety-like and social behavior in female mice and the potential mechanisms, thereby proposing a potential therapy strategy. We exposed female Balb/c mice to BHPF by oral gavage at different doses (0.5, 50 mg/kg bw/2-day) for 28 days, which were found BHPF (50 mg/kg) exposure affected motor activity in the open field test (OFT) and elevated cross maze (EPM), resulting in anxiety-like behaviors, as well as abnormal social behavioral deficits in the Social Interaction Test (SIT). Analysis of histopathological staining results showed that BHPF exposure caused damage to hippocampal neurons in the CA1/CA3/DG region and decreased Nissl pyramidal neurons in the CA1/CA3 regions of the hippocampus, as well as a decrease in parvalbumin neuron expression. In addition, BHPF exposure upregulated the expression of excitatory and inhibitory (E/I) vesicle transporter genes (Vglut1, Vglut2, VGAT, GAD67, Gabra) and axon growth gene (Dcc) in the mouse hippocampus. Interestingly, behavioral disturbances and E/I balance could be alleviated by exogenous melatonin (15 mg/kg bw/2-day) therapy. Our findings suggest that exogenous melatonin may be a potential therapy with protective potential for ameliorating or preventing BHPF-induced hippocampal neuronal damage and behavioral disturbances. This study provided new insight into the neurotoxicological effects on organisms exposed to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and aroused our vigilance in current environmental safety about chemical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zuo
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Weijin Road 94, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Shuhui Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Weijin Road 94, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Huijuan Bai
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Weijin Road 94, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Qian Yu
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Weijin Road 94, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Qili Zhao
- Institute of Robotics & Automatic Information System, College of Artificial Intelligence, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Mingzhu Sun
- Institute of Robotics & Automatic Information System, College of Artificial Intelligence, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Institute of Robotics & Automatic Information System, College of Artificial Intelligence, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xizeng Feng
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Weijin Road 94, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Wei D, Su Y, Leung PCK, Li Y, Chen ZJ. Roles of bone morphogenetic proteins in endometrial remodeling during the human menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:215-237. [PMID: 38037193 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad031] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the human menstrual cycle and pregnancy, the endometrium undergoes a series of dynamic remodeling processes to adapt to physiological changes. Insufficient endometrial remodeling, characterized by inadequate endometrial proliferation, decidualization and spiral artery remodeling, is associated with infertility, endometriosis, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, and pregnancy-related complications such as preeclampsia and miscarriage. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), a subset of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, are multifunctional cytokines that regulate diverse cellular activities, such as differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix synthesis, are now understood as integral to multiple reproductive processes in women. Investigations using human biological samples have shown that BMPs are essential for regulating human endometrial remodeling processes, including endometrial proliferation and decidualization. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarizes our current knowledge on the known pathophysiological roles of BMPs and their underlying molecular mechanisms in regulating human endometrial proliferation and decidualization, with the goal of promoting the development of innovative strategies for diagnosing, treating and preventing infertility and adverse pregnancy complications associated with dysregulated human endometrial remodeling. SEARCH METHODS A literature search for original articles published up to June 2023 was conducted in the PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar databases, identifying studies on the roles of BMPs in endometrial remodeling during the human menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Articles identified were restricted to English language full-text papers. OUTCOMES BMP ligands and receptors and their transduction molecules are expressed in the endometrium and at the maternal-fetal interface. Along with emerging technologies such as tissue microarrays, 3D organoid cultures and advanced single-cell transcriptomics, and given the clinical availability of recombinant human proteins and ongoing pharmaceutical development, it is now clear that BMPs exert multiple roles in regulating human endometrial remodeling and that these biomolecules (and their receptors) can be targeted for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Moreover, dysregulation of these ligands, their receptors, or signaling determinants can impact endometrial remodeling, contributing to infertility or pregnancy-related complications (e.g. preeclampsia and miscarriage). WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although further clinical trials are needed, recent advancements in the development of recombinant BMP ligands, synthetic BMP inhibitors, receptor antagonists, BMP ligand sequestration tools, and gene therapies have underscored the BMPs as candidate diagnostic biomarkers and positioned the BMP signaling pathway as a promising therapeutic target for addressing infertility and pregnancy complications related to dysregulated human endometrial remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yaxin Su
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
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Zhang Y, Tang L, Liu H, Cheng Y. The Multiple Functions of HB-EGF in Female Reproduction and Related Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Targeting Strategies. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6. [PMID: 38424408 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Heparin-binding growth factor (HB-EGF) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) ligand family which has a crucial role in women's health. However, there is a lack of comprehensive review to summarize the significance of HB-EGF. Therefore, this work first described the expression patterns of HB-EGF in the endometrium and ovary of different species and gestational time. Then, the focus was on exploring how it promotes the successful implantation and regulates the process of decidualization and the function of ovarian granulosa cells as an intermediate molecule. Otherwise, we also focused on the clinical and prognostic significance of HB-EGF in female-related cancers (including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer) and breast cancer. Lastly, the article also summarizes the current drugs targeting HB-EGF in the treatment of ovarian cancer and breast cancer. Overall, these studies found that the expression of HB-EGF in the endometrium is spatiotemporal and species-specific. And it mediates the dialogue between the blastocyst and endometrium, promoting synchronous development of the blastocyst and endometrium as an intermediate molecule. HB-EGF may serve as a potentially valuable prognostic clinical indicator in tumors. And the specific inhibitor of HB-EGF (CRM197) has a certain anti-tumor ability, which can exert synergistic anti-tumor effects with conventional chemotherapy drugs. However, it also suggests that more research is needed in the future to elucidate its specific mechanisms and to accommodate clinical studies with a larger sample size to clarify its clinical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Lujia Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanxiang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
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Feng Q, Liu Y, Zou L, Lei M, Zhu C, Xia W. Fluorene-9-bisphenol exposure damages the testis in mice through a novel mechanism of ferroptosis. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 184:114385. [PMID: 38123054 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114385] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Fluorene-9-bisphenol (BHPF) is an emerging global endocrine-disrupting chemical found in numerous household products as a substitute of bisphenol A. Many studies have reported various toxicities associated with BHPF. However, the effect of BHPF on male reproduction, particularly on the structural integrity of the blood testis barrier (BTB) in mice, has not yet been extensively studied. Ferroptosis, a newly identified form of cell death, occurs in the testicular tissue following exposure to BPA, affecting male fertility. We investigated whether ferroptosis plays a role in BHPF-induced testicular damage. The findings indicated that BHPF exposure led decreases in serum testosterone (T) concentration and sperm concentration and motility in mice. Furthermore, BHPF disrupted the BTB by interfering with key BTB-related proteins, including Cx43, β-catenin, and ZO-1. Moreover, BHPF induced ferroptosis through the induction of lipid peroxidation, iron overload, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the testicular tissue. Inhibition of ferroptosis using Fer-1 mitigated the BHPF-induced damage to the BTB and ferroptosis in TM4 cells. Overall, our findings indicated the detrimental effects of BHPF on male reproductive function in mice, suggesting ferroptosis as a mechanism underlying testicular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwen Feng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Yumeng Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Zou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengying Lei
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Changhong Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Xia
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, People's Republic of China.
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Li MY, Wang Y, Wu Y, Zhao XY, Yang ZS, Li B, Chen ST, He YY, Yang ZM. Blastocyst-Derived Lactic Acid May Regulate S100A6 Expression and Function in Mouse Decidualization via Stimulation of Uterine Epithelial Arachidonic Acid Secretion. Cells 2024; 13:206. [PMID: 38334598 PMCID: PMC10854550 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030206] [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: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Inflammatory responses are implicated in embryo implantation, decidualization, pregnancy maintenance and labor. Both embryo implantation and decidualization are essential to successful pregnancy in rodents and primates. S100A6 is involved in inflammation, tumor development, apoptosis and calcium homeostasis. S100A6 is strongly expressed in mouse decidua, but the underlying mechanisms of how S100A6 regulates implantation and decidualization are poorly defined. (2) Methods: Mouse endometrial stromal and epithelial cells are isolated from day 4 pseudopregnant mouse uteri. Both immunofluorescence and Western blotting are used to analyze the expression and localization of proteins. The molecular mechanism is verified in vitro by Western blotting and the quantitative polymerase chain reaction. (3) Results: From days 4 to 8 of pregnancy, S100A6 is specifically expressed in mouse subluminal stromal cells. Blastocyst-derived lactic acid induces AA secretion by activating the luminal epithelial p-cPLA2. The epithelial AA induces stromal S100A6 expression through the COX2/PGI2/PPAR δ pathway. Progesterone regulates S100A6 expression through the progesterone receptor (PR). S100A6/RAGE signaling can regulate decidualization via EGFR/ERK1/2 in vitro. (4) Conclusions: S100A6, as an inflammatory mediator, is important for mouse implantation and decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Yuan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Ying Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Xu-Yu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Zhen-Shan Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Bo Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Si-Ting Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Yu-Ying He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
| | - Zeng-Ming Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (M.-Y.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountain Region, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
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Wang C, He C, Xu S, Gao Y, Wang K, Liang M, Hu K. Bisphenol A triggers apoptosis in mouse pre-antral follicle granulosa cells via oxidative stress. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:20. [PMID: 38229135 PMCID: PMC10790560 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01322-y] [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: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disrupting chemical with weak estrogenic and anti-androgenic activity, is widely present in various environmental media and organisms. It has certain reproductive toxicity and can cause a variety of female reproductive system diseases. Although BPA-stimulated apoptosis of granulosa cells has been widely elaborated, the effect of BPA on mouse pre-antral follicle granulosa cells (mpGCs) has not been well elucidated. RESULTS In this study, the results of live-dead cell staining showed that high concentrations of BPA severely impaired mpGCs growth viability and affected the cell cycle transition of mpGCs. We confirmed that BPA promotes the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and facilitates oxidative stress in mpGCs. In addition, immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy, and flow cytometry experiments demonstrated that BPA treatment for mpGCs resulted in apoptotic features, such as rounding, cytoplasmic crinkling, and mitochondrial damage. This was accompanied by a large production of ROS and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) translocation from the mitochondria to the nucleus. RNA-seq data showed that several apoptosis-related pathways were enriched in the high concentration BPA-treated group compared with the normal group, such as the p53 pathway, MAPK pathway, etc. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that cells undergo oxidative stress effects and apoptosis after BPA treatment for mpGCs, which affects normal follicle development. The potential mechanism of BPA-induced female reproductive toxicity was elucidated, while providing a research basis for the prevention and treatment of female reproductive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Chaofan He
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Shumin Xu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Kaixian Wang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Meng Liang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, China.
| | - Ke Hu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233030, China.
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9
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Xu Y, Wu F, Qin C, Lin Y. Paradoxical role of phosphorylated STAT3 in normal fertility and the pathogenesis of adenomyosis and endometriosis†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:5-13. [PMID: 37930185 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad148] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), when phosphorylated at tyrosine 705, plays an important role in endometrial stromal cell decidualization and the receptivity of the endometrial epithelium during embryo implantation. However, the function of phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) in normal uterine receptivity is distinct from that in adenomyosis and endometriosis. In normal pregnancy, STAT3 phosphorylation in the endometrial epithelium determines the success of embryo implantation by regulating uterine receptivity. Additionally, p-STAT3 promotes cellular proliferation and differentiation during endometrial decidualization, which is crucial for embryonic development. In contrast, excessive STAT3 phosphorylation occurs in adenomyosis and endometriosis, which may lead to disease progression. Therefore, achieving a delicate balance in STAT3 activation is crucial. This review aimed to focus on the current understanding and knowledge gaps regarding the control of p-STAT3 activity in normal and pathological endometrial processes. This topic is important because precise control of p-STAT3 production could alleviate the symptoms of adenomyosis and endometriosis, improve endometrial receptivity, and potentially mitigate infertility without compromising normal fertility processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichi Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuanmei Qin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Lin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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10
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Zhao W, Wang Y, Liu J, Yang Q, Zhang S, Hu X, Shi Z, Zhang Z, Tian J, Chu D, An L. Progesterone Activates the Histone Lactylation-Hif1α-glycolysis Feedback Loop to Promote Decidualization. Endocrinology 2023; 165:bqad169. [PMID: 37950883 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is a progesterone-dependent cellular differentiation process that is essential for establishing pregnancy. Robust activation of glycolysis and lactate synthesis during decidualization is remarkable, but their developmental functions remain largely unknown. Herein, we identify that endometrial lactate production plays a critical role in establishing local histone lactylation, a newly identified histone modification, and is important for ensuring normal decidualization. Enhanced endometrial glycolysis is the hallmark metabolic change and is tightly coupled with H4K12la during decidualization. Inhibition of histone lactylation impaired decidualization, in either physiological conception or in vivo and in vitro induced decidualization models. Mechanistic study based on CUT&Tag and ATAC-seq revealed that a transcriptional factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 α (Hif1α) is the critical regulatory target of H4K12la, and in turn forms an H4K12la-Hif1α-glycolysis feedback loop to drive decidualization. Moreover, we demonstrate that the loop is directly activated by progesterone during decidualization. Our study not only advances the current knowledge of the role of lactate in regulating uterine function, but also establishes a novel functional link among the major endocrine factors, endometrial metabolic change, and epigenetic modification during endometrial remodeling. These findings present valuable clues to develop clinical intervention strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes following both natural conception and assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Qianying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Zhicheng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Zhenni Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Jianhui Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Dapeng Chu
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, P.R. China
| | - Lei An
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
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McLaughlin AJ, Kaniski AI, Matti DI, Monear NC, Tischler JL, Xhabija B. Fluorene-9-bisphenol affects the terminal differentiation of mouse embryonic bodies. Curr Res Toxicol 2023; 5:100133. [PMID: 37964943 PMCID: PMC10641737 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2023.100133] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Fluorene-9-bisphenol (BHPF) has recently attracted interest as it is increasingly used in industrial settings as a substitute for Bisphenol A (BPA). However, the effects of BHPF exposure on embryonic stem cell (ESC) self-renewal, pluripotency, and differentiation remain poorly understood. This study investigates the impacts of BHPF on mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and embryonic bodies (EBs). Our results reveal that BHPF exposure leads to a morphological shift in mESCs, reducing the percentage of dome-shaped colonies and indicating loss of self-renewal and pluripotency. BHPF exposure also appeared to affect the early stages of EB formation and their growth dynamics, with a reduction in EB numbers and an increase in their size. Subsequent gene expression analysis revealed that BHPF exposure led to increased expression of the inflammatory gene Il6, indicating a potential stress response. Furthermore, BHPF affected the terminal differentiation pathway, modulating the expression of 16 genes associated with distinct cell types, including lymphatic endothelium, keratinocyte epithelium, pancreatic beta cells, macrophages, monocytes, T-cells, neurons, retinal ganglion cells, nephrons proximal tubule cells, and cardiomyocytes. These findings offer insights into the impact of BHPF on ESC biology and suggest potential implications for developmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Future work should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms of BHPF-mediated effects on stem cell function. This may offer new perspectives for understanding the health impacts of environmental exposure to BHPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan J. McLaughlin
- College of Arts Sciences and Letters, Department of Natural Science, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, MI 48128, United States
| | - Anthony I. Kaniski
- College of Arts Sciences and Letters, Department of Natural Science, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, MI 48128, United States
| | - Darena I. Matti
- College of Arts Sciences and Letters, Department of Natural Science, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, MI 48128, United States
| | - Nicodemus C. Monear
- College of Arts Sciences, Department of Natural Science, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI, United States
| | - Jessica L. Tischler
- College of Arts Sciences, Department of Natural Science, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI, United States
| | - Besa Xhabija
- College of Arts Sciences and Letters, Department of Natural Science, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, MI 48128, United States
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Primary Cilia Restrain PI3K-AKT Signaling to Orchestrate Human Decidualization. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415573. [PMID: 36555215 PMCID: PMC9779442 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization plays a pivotal role during early pregnancy. Compromised decidualization has been tightly associated with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Primary cilium is an antenna-like sensory organelle and acts as a signaling nexus to mediate Hh, Wnt, TGFβ, BMP, FGF, and Notch signaling. However, whether primary cilium is involved in human decidualization is still unknown. In this study, we found that primary cilia are present in human endometrial stromal cells. The ciliogenesis and cilia length are increased by progesterone during in vitro and in vivo decidualization. Primary cilia are abnormal in the endometrium of RIF patients. Based on data from both assembly and disassembly of primary cilia, it has been determined that primary cilium is essential to human decidualization. Trichoplein (TCHP)-Aurora A signaling mediates cilia disassembly during human in vitro decidualization. Mechanistically, primary cilium modulates human decidualization through PTEN-PI3K-AKT-FOXO1 signaling. Our study highlights primary cilium as a novel decidualization-related signaling pathway.
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