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Thapa R, Marmo K, Ma L, Torry DS, Bany BM. The Long Non-Coding RNA Gene AC027288.3 Plays a Role in Human Endometrial Stromal Fibroblast Decidualization. Cells 2024; 13:778. [PMID: 38727314 PMCID: PMC11083667 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
During the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, endometrial fibroblast cells begin to change into large epithelial-like cells called decidual cells in a process called decidualization. This differentiation continues more broadly in the endometrium and forms the decidual tissue during early pregnancy. The cells undergoing decidualization as well as the resulting decidual cells, support successful implantation and placentation during early pregnancy. This study was carried out to identify new potentially important long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) genes that may play a role in human endometrial stromal fibroblast cells (hESF) undergoing decidualization in vitro, and several were found. The expression of nine was further characterized. One of these, AC027288.3, showed a dramatic increase in the expression of hESF cells undergoing decidualization. When AC027288.3 expression was targeted, the ability of the cells to undergo decidualization as determined by the expression of decidualization marker protein-coding genes was significantly altered. The most affected markers of decidualization whose expression was significantly reduced were FOXO1, FZD4, and INHBA. Therefore, AC027288.3 may be a major upstream regulator of the WNT-FOXO1 pathway and activin-SMAD3 pathways previously shown as critical for hESF decidualization. Finally, we explored possible regulators of AC027288.3 expression during human ESF decidualization. Expression was regulated by cAMP and progesterone. Our results suggest that AC027288.3 plays a role in hESF decidualization and identifies several other lncRNA genes that may also play a role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupak Thapa
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA; (R.T.)
| | - Kevin Marmo
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA; (R.T.)
| | - Liang Ma
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Donald S. Torry
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
| | - Brent M. Bany
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA; (R.T.)
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2
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Doi-Tanaka Y, Tamura I, Shiroshita A, Fujimura T, Shirafuta Y, Maekawa R, Taketani T, Sato S, Sugino N. Differential gene expression in decidualized human endometrial stromal cells induced by different stimuli. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7726. [PMID: 38565619 PMCID: PMC10987566 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58065-z] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Decidualization can be induced by culturing human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) with several decidualization stimuli, such as cAMP, medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or Estradiol (E2). However, it has been unclear how decidualized cells induced by different stimuli are different. We compared transcriptomes and cellular functions of decidualized ESCs induced by different stimuli (MPA, E2 + MPA, cAMP, and cAMP + MPA). We also investigated which decidualization stimulus induces a closer in vivo decidualization. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and altered cellular functions by each decidualization stimuli were identified by RNA-sequence and gene-ontology analysis. DEGs was about two times higher for stimuli that use cAMP (cAMP and cAMP + MPA) than for stimuli that did not use cAMP (MPA and E2 + MPA). cAMP-using stimuli altered the cellular functions including angiogenesis, inflammation, immune system, and embryo implantation whereas MPA-using stimuli (MPA, E2 + MPA, and cAMP + MPA) altered the cellular functions associated with insulin signaling. A public single-cell RNA-sequence data of the human endometrium was utilized to analyze in vivo decidualization. The altered cellular functions by in vivo decidualization were close to those observed by cAMP + MPA-induced decidualization. In conclusion, decidualized cells induced by different stimuli have different transcriptome and cellular functions. cAMP + MPA may induce a decidualization most closely to in vivo decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Doi-Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Isao Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan.
| | - Amon Shiroshita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Taishi Fujimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Shirafuta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Ryo Maekawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Taketani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Shun Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
| | - Norihiro Sugino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minamikogushi 1-1-1, Ube, 755-8505, Japan
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Hai L, Maurya VK, DeMayo FJ, Lydon JP. Establishment of Murine Pregnancy Requires the Promyelocytic Leukemia Zinc Finger Transcription Factor. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3451. [PMID: 38542422 PMCID: PMC10970820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25063451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Using an established human primary cell culture model, we previously demonstrated that the promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) transcription factor is a direct target of the progesterone receptor (PGR) and is essential for progestin-dependent decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs). These in vitro findings were supported by immunohistochemical analysis of human endometrial tissue biopsies, which showed that the strongest immunoreactivity for endometrial PLZF is detected during the progesterone (P4)-dominant secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. While these human studies provided critical clinical support for the important role of PLZF in P4-dependent HESC decidualization, functional validation in vivo was not possible due to the absence of suitable animal models. To address this deficiency, we recently generated a conditional knockout mouse model in which PLZF is ablated in PGR-positive cells of the mouse (Plzf d/d). The Plzf d/d female was phenotypically analyzed using immunoblotting, real-time PCR, and immunohistochemistry. Reproductive function was tested using the timed natural pregnancy model as well as the artificial decidual response assay. Even though ovarian activity is not affected, female Plzf d/d mice exhibit an infertility phenotype due to an inability of the embryo to implant into the Plzf d/d endometrium. Initial cellular and molecular phenotyping investigations reveal that the Plzf d/d endometrium is unable to develop a transient receptive state, which is reflected at the molecular level by a blunted response to P4 exposure with a concomitant unopposed response to 17-β estradiol. In addition to a defect in P4-dependent receptivity, the Plzf d/d endometrium fails to undergo decidualization in response to an artificial decidual stimulus, providing the in vivo validation for our earlier HESC culture findings. Collectively, our new Plzf d/d mouse model underscores the physiological importance of the PLZF transcription factor not only in endometrial stromal cell decidualization but also uterine receptivity, two uterine cellular processes that are indispensable for the establishment of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Hai
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.H.); (V.K.M.)
| | - Vineet K. Maurya
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.H.); (V.K.M.)
| | - Francesco J. DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA;
| | - John P. Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.H.); (V.K.M.)
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4
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Zheng Y, Wu S, Liu L, Guan Y, Sun W, Miao C, Li Q. Activation of HAND2-FGFR signaling pathway by lncRNA HAND2-AS1 in adenomyosis†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:490-500. [PMID: 38084072 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad171] [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: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Heart and neural crest derivatives expressed transcript 2 (HAND2) is a critical mediator of progesterone action in endometrial stromal cells. Silencing of Hand2 expression in mouse uterus leads to an unopposed FGFR-mediated action that causes female mice infertility. To investigate the involvement of HAND2-FGFR signaling in pathogenesis of adenomyosis, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and quantitative real-time PCR were employed to assess gene expression in the normal endometrium, the paired eutopic endometrium and ectopic lesions obtained from women with adenomyosis. DNA methylation in the regions of HAND2 promoter and the first exon was also monitored in these samples. Our results revealed that HAND2 expression were dramatically reduced, but FGF9 expression and FGFR-ERK1/2-mediated MAPK signaling pathway were enhanced in the eutopic endometrium and ectopic lesions of patients with adenomyosis compared to the normal controls. Interestingly, expression of HAND2-AS1, a long noncoding RNA that resides adjacent to HAND2 in genome, was also reduced in adenomyosis. DNA methylation analysis revealed that the bidirectional promoter between HAND2 and HAND2-AS1, and the first exon of HAND2 gene was heavily methylated in the eutopic endometrium and the ectopic lesions of adenomyosis. To investigate the regulation of gene expression by HAND2-AS1, HAND2-AS1 expression was silenced in human endometrial stromal cells. In contrast to the downregulation of HAND2 in response to HAND2-AS1 silencing, FGF9 expression was augmented significantly. Endometrial stromal cells lacking HAND2-AS1 exhibited enhanced proliferation and migration potentials. Collectively, our studies revealed a new molecular mechanism by which HAND2-AS1 is involved in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis via modulating HAND2-FGFR-mediated signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, P.R. China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Lingli Liu
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Yining Guan
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | | | - Congxiu Miao
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Quanxi Li
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
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Thapa R, Druessel L, Ma L, Torry DS, Bany BM. ATOH8 Expression Is Regulated by BMP2 and Plays a Key Role in Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization. Endocrinology 2023; 165:bqad188. [PMID: 38060684 PMCID: PMC10729865 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad188] [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: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
During the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, elongated fibroblast-like mesenchymal cells in the uterine endometrium begin to transdifferentiate into polygonal epithelioid-like (decidual) cells. This decidualization process continues more broadly during early pregnancy, and the resulting decidual tissue supports successful embryo implantation and placental development. This study was carried out to determine if atonal basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor 8 (ATOH8) plays a role in human endometrial stromal fibroblast (ESF) decidualization. ATOH8 messenger RNA and protein expression levels significantly increased in human ESF cells undergoing in vitro decidualization, with the protein primarily localized to the nucleus. When ATOH8 expression was silenced, the ability of the cells to undergo decidualization was significantly diminished. Overexpression of ATOH8 enhanced the expression of many decidualization markers. Silencing the expression of ATOH8 reduced the expression of FZD4, FOXO1, and several known FOXO1-downstream targets during human ESF cell decidualization. Therefore, ATOH8 may be a major upstream regulator of the WNT/FZD-FOXO1 pathway, previously shown to be critical for human endometrial decidualization. Finally, we explored possible regulators of ATOH8 expression during human ESF decidualization. BMP2 significantly enhanced ATOH8 expression when cells were stimulated to undergo decidualization, while an ALK2/3 inhibitor reduced ATOH8 expression. Finally, although the steroids progesterone plus estradiol did not affect ATOH8 expression, the addition of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) analogue alone represented the major effect of ATOH8 expression when cells were stimulated to undergo decidualization. Our results suggest that ATOH8 plays a crucial role in human ESF decidualization and that BMP2 plus cAMP are major regulators of ATOH8 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupak Thapa
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Logan Druessel
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Liang Ma
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63018, USA
| | - Donald S Torry
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
| | - Brent M Bany
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
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6
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Oh Y, Quiroz E, Wang T, Medina-Laver Y, Redecke SM, Dominguez F, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Wu SP. The NR2F2-HAND2 signaling axis regulates progesterone actions in the uterus at early pregnancy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1229033. [PMID: 37664846 PMCID: PMC10473531 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1229033] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial function is dependent on a tight crosstalk between the epithelial and stromal cells of the endometrium. This communication is critical to ensure a fertile uterus and relies on progesterone and estrogen signaling to prepare a receptive uterus for embryo implantation in early pregnancy. One of the key mediators of this crosstalk is the orphan nuclear receptor NR2F2, which regulates uterine epithelial receptivity and stromal cell differentiation. In order to determine the molecular mechanism regulated by NR2F2, RNAseq analysis was conducted on the uterus of PgrCre;Nr2f2f/f mice at Day 3.5 of pregnancy. This transcriptomic analysis demonstrated Nr2f2 ablation in Pgr-expressing cells leads to a reduction of Hand2 expression, increased levels of Hand2 downstream effectors Fgf1 and Fgf18, and a transcriptome manifesting suppressed progesterone signaling with an altered immune baseline. ChIPseq analysis conducted on the Day 3.5 pregnant mouse uterus for NR2F2 demonstrated the majority of NR2F2 occupies genomic regions that have H3K27ac and H3K4me1 histone modifications, including the loci of major uterine transcription regulators Hand2, Egr1, and Zbtb16. Furthermore, functional analysis of an NR2F2 occupying site that is conserved between human and mouse was capable to enhance endogenous HAND2 mRNA expression with the CRISPR activator in human endometrial stroma cells. These data establish the NR2F2 dependent regulation of Hand2 in the stroma and identify a cis-acting element for this action. In summary, our findings reveal a role of the NR2F2-HAND2 regulatory axis that determines the uterine transcriptomic pattern in preparation for the endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeongseok Oh
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Department of Life Science and Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Elvis Quiroz
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Yassmin Medina-Laver
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Skylar Montague Redecke
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - John P. Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Francesco J. DeMayo
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
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7
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Liu L, Dong H, Guan Y, Fan T, Sun W, Bagchi IC, Miao C, Li Q. Regulation of HAND2 Expression by LncRNA HAND2-AS1 in Ovarian Endometriosis Involving DNA Methylation. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad049. [PMID: 37153110 PMCID: PMC10161139 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
HAND2 is a critical mediator of progesterone receptor signaling in endometrium. Silencing of HAND2 expression is associated with female infertility and endometrial cancers. We recently observed that lncRNA HAND2-AS1 and HAND2 are expressed coordinately in human endometrial stromal cells. To investigate involvement of HAND2-AS1 and HAND2 in pathogenesis of endometriosis, we employed immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and quantitative real-time PCR to assess their expression in normal endometrium and the ectopic lesions obtained from patients with ovarian endometriosis. HAND2 promoter methylation was also monitored in these samples. Our results revealed that HAND2 and HAND2-AS1 expression levels were reduced but promoter methylation was enhanced significantly in ectopic endometrium when compared with the normal controls. Fluorescence in situ hybridization showed that HAND-AS1 is predominantly localized in the nuclei of endometrial stromal cells in contrast to the cytoplasmic distribution in epithelial cell compartment. To further investigate regulation of HAND2 expression by HAND2-AS1, HAND2-AS1 was silenced or overexpressed in human endometrial stromal cells. Our studies showed that expression levels of HAND2 and its direct target IL15 were attenuated markedly in HAND2-AS1 silenced cells but enhanced significantly in the overexpressed human endometrial stromal cells. Silencing of HAND2-AS1 also impaired endometrial stromal cell decidualization as indicated by downregulation of decidual biomarkers IGFBP1 and PRL. In addition, HAND2 promoter methylation was also enhanced upon HAND2-AS1 silencing. RNA immunoprecipitation studies further revealed that HAND2-AS1 is capable of binding to DNA methyltransferase DNMT1, indicating that HAND2-AS1 governs HAND2 expression epigenetically involving DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Liu
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Huijing Dong
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Yining Guan
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Fan
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Wenxia Sun
- Department of Gynecology, Heping Hospital, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Indrani C Bagchi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Congxiu Miao
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
| | - Quanxi Li
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Key Laboratory of Reproduction Engineer of Shanxi Health Committee, Changzhi, Shanxi 046000, P.R. China
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Cheng J, Sha Z, Li J, Li B, Luo X, Zhang Z, Zhou Y, Chen S, Wang Y. Progress on the Role of Estrogen and Progesterone Signaling in Mouse Embryo Implantation and Decidualization. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1746-1757. [PMID: 36694081 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01169-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation and decidualization are key steps in establishing a successful pregnancy. Defects in embryo implantation and decidualization can cause a series of adverse chain reactions which can contribute to harmful pregnancy outcomes, such as embryo growth retardation, preeclampsia, miscarriage, premature birth, and so on. Approximately 75% of failed pregnancies are considered to be due to embryo implantation failure or defects. Decidualization, characterized by proliferation and differentiation of uterine stromal cells, is one of the essential conditions for blastocyst implantation, placental formation, and maintenance of pregnancy and is indispensable for the establishment of pregnancy in many species. Embryo implantation and decidualization are closely regulated by estrogen and progesterone secreted by the ovaries. Many cellular events and molecular signaling network pathways are involved in this process. This article reviews the recent advances in the molecular mechanisms of estrogen- and progesterone-regulating uterine receptivity establishment, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization, in order to better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of hormonal regulation of embryo implantation and to develop new strategies for preventing or treating embryo implantation defects and improving the pregnancy rate of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Cheng
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Zizhuo Sha
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Junyang Li
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Bixuan Li
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Xianyang Luo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiamen, 361003, China.,Teaching Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiming Zhang
- Teaching Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350004, People's Republic of China.,Department of Breast Surgery, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiamen, 361003, China.,Teaching Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350004, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China. .,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiamen, 361003, China.
| | - Yang Wang
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China.
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The Regulators of Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091275. [PMID: 36139114 PMCID: PMC9496326 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091275] [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: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several factors are important for implantation and subsequent placentation in the endometrium, including immunity, angiogenesis, extracellular matrix, glucose metabolism, reactive oxidative stress, and hormones. The involvement or abnormality of these factors can impair canonical decidualization. Unusual decidualization can lead to perinatal complications, such as disruption of trophoblast invasion. Drastic changes in the morphology and function of human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) are important for decidualization of the human endometrium; hESCs are used to induce optimal morphological and functional decidualization in vitro because they contain estrogen and progesterone receptors. In this review, we will focus on the studies that have been conducted on hESC decidualization, including the results from our laboratory.
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Zhao H, Hu S, Qi J, Wang Y, Ding Y, Zhu Q, He Y, Lu Y, Yao Y, Wang S, Du Y, Sun Y. Increased expression of HOXA11-AS attenuates endometrial decidualization in recurrent implantation failure patients. Mol Ther 2022; 30:1706-1720. [PMID: 35114391 PMCID: PMC9077377 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial decidualization is a prerequisite for implantation, and impaired decidualization is associated with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Coding genes of the HOX family have been clarified as critical regulators in endometrial decidualization, but the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the HOX gene family has yet to be determined. The aim of this study was to clarify the possible roles of lncRNAs in the HOX gene family in decidualization. In this study, we identified that HOXA11-AS was the most reduced lncRNA in the HOX family in the human endometrium during the window of implantation, and it was elevated in RIF patients. Mechanistically, HOXA11-AS negatively regulated decidualization through competitive interaction with PTBP1, an RNA-binding protein. Binding of PTBP1 to HOXA11-AS limited PTBP1 availability to regulate PKM1/2 alternative splicing, resulting in enhanced PKM1 and diminished PKM2 expression, thus attenuating decidualization. The pattern of high HOXA11-AS expression and impaired PKM2 splicing was consistently observed in RIF patients. Collectively, our study indicates that the increase of HOXA11-AS is detrimental to endometrial decidualization, likely contributing to RIF. Our study may shed light on the pathogenesis and treatment of RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanting Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Shuanggang Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Jia Qi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Ying Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Qinling Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yaqiong He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yue Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Shiyao Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yanzhi Du
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yun Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 845 Lingshan Road, Pudong New Ddistrict, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China.
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11
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Hisamatsu Y, Murata H, Tsubokura H, Hashimoto Y, Kitada M, Tanaka S, Okada H. Matrix Metalloproteinases in Human Decidualized Endometrial Stromal Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:2111-2123. [PMID: 34940120 PMCID: PMC8929033 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43030146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic changes, such as growth, decidualization, shedding, and regeneration, in the human endometrium are regulated by the reciprocal action of female hormones, such as estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P4). Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) control the invasion of extravillous trophoblast cells after implantation. Several MMPs and TIMPs function in the decidua and endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Here, we aimed to systematically investigate the changes in MMPs and TIMPs associated with ESC decidualization. We evaluated the expression of 23 MMPs, four TIMPs, and four anti-sense non-coding RNAs from MMP loci. Primary ESC cultures treated with E2 + medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), a potent P4 receptor agonist, showed significant down-regulation of MMP3, MMP10, MMP11, MMP12, MMP20, and MMP27 in decidualized ESCs, as assessed by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Further, MMP15 and MMP19 were significantly upregulated in decidualized ESCs. siRNA-mediated silencing of Heart and Neural Crest Derivatives Expressed 2 (HAND2), a master transcriptional regulator in ESC decidualization, significantly increased MMP15 expression in untreated human ESCs. These results collectively indicate the importance of MMP15 and MMP19 in ESC decidualization and highlight the role of HAND2 in repressing MMP15 transcription, thereby regulating decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoji Hisamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (Y.H.); (H.M.); (H.T.); (Y.H.)
| | - Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (Y.H.); (H.M.); (H.T.); (Y.H.)
| | - Hiroaki Tsubokura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (Y.H.); (H.M.); (H.T.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (Y.H.); (H.M.); (H.T.); (Y.H.)
| | - Masaaki Kitada
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan;
| | - Susumu Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan;
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (H.O.)
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan; (Y.H.); (H.M.); (H.T.); (Y.H.)
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (H.O.)
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12
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Murata H, Tanaka S, Hisamatsu Y, Tsubokura H, Hashimoto Y, Kitada M, Okada H. Transcriptional regulation of LGALS9 by HAND2 and FOXO1 in human endometrial stromal cells in women with regular cycles. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6377344. [PMID: 34581822 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer cells are regulated via surface inhibitory receptors for IL15 and galectin-9 (LGALS9) secreted by endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). However, the mechanism that regulates LGALS9 mRNA levels in ESCs is unclear. The aim of this study is to clarify the transcriptional regulation of LGALS9 in ESCs. Here, LGALS9 mRNA expression levels significantly decreased in the endometrial tissue in the early- to mid-secretory phase, and recovered in the mid- to late-secretory phase, compared to that in the proliferative phase. In ESCs, LGALS9 mRNA expression significantly decreased following estradiol + medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment for 1 day and increased after 12 days compared to that in the control. The transcriptional activity of the LGALS9 upstream region was upregulated by heart and neural crest derivatives expressed 2 (HAND2) and downregulated by forkhead box O1 (FOXO1). In ESCs, HAND2 expression significantly increased throughout the 12 days treatment with steroid hormones, whereas FOXO1 expression significantly increased on Day 1, reached a plateau, and significantly increased again after 6 days of treatment. Levels of FOXO1 phosphorylation (pFOXO1) remained unchanged after a 3-day treatment of ESCs with steroid hormones, but significantly increased following a 12-day treatment. pFOXO1 could not bind to the DNA and was thus unable to directly suppress LGALS9 transcription. Therefore, expression level of HAND2 and phosphorylation status of FOXO1 may determine LGALS9 mRNA expression. This study provides a novel molecular mechanism underlying the transcriptional regulation of LGALS9 mRNA in ESCs, which could be valuable in the treatment of diseases associated with decidualization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Susumu Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoji Hisamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tsubokura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaaki Kitada
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
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13
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Gordon SM. Interleukin-15 in Outcomes of Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11094. [PMID: 34681751 PMCID: PMC8541205 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a pleiotropic cytokine that classically acts to support the development, maintenance, and function of killer lymphocytes. IL-15 is abundant in the uterus prior to and during pregnancy, but it is subject to tight spatial and temporal regulation. Both mouse models and human studies suggest that homeostasis of IL-15 is essential for healthy pregnancy. Dysregulation of IL-15 is associated with adverse outcomes of pregnancy. Herein, we review producers of IL-15 and responders to IL-15, including non-traditional responders in the maternal uterus and fetal placenta. We also review regulation of IL-15 at the maternal-fetal interface and propose mechanisms of action of IL-15 to facilitate additional study of this critical cytokine in the context of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M. Gordon
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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14
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Marinić M, Mika K, Chigurupati S, Lynch VJ. Evolutionary transcriptomics implicates HAND2 in the origins of implantation and regulation of gestation length. eLife 2021; 10:61257. [PMID: 33522483 PMCID: PMC7943190 DOI: 10.7554/elife.61257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The developmental origins and evolutionary histories of cell types, tissues, and organs contribute to the ways in which their dysfunction produces disease. In mammals, the nature, development and evolution of maternal-fetal interactions likely influence diseases of pregnancy. Here we show genes that evolved expression at the maternal-fetal interface in Eutherian mammals play essential roles in the evolution of pregnancy and are associated with immunological disorders and preterm birth. Among these genes is HAND2, a transcription factor that suppresses estrogen signaling, a Eutherian innovation allowing blastocyst implantation. We found dynamic HAND2 expression in the decidua throughout the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, gradually decreasing to a low at term. HAND2 regulates a distinct set of genes in endometrial stromal fibroblasts including IL15, a cytokine also exhibiting dynamic expression throughout the menstrual cycle and gestation, promoting migration of natural killer cells and extravillous cytotrophoblasts. We demonstrate that HAND2 promoter loops to an enhancer containing SNPs implicated in birth weight and gestation length regulation. Collectively, these data connect HAND2 expression at the maternal-fetal interface with evolution of implantation and gestational regulation, and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirna Marinić
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Katelyn Mika
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | | | - Vincent J Lynch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, United States
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15
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Immune Tolerance of the Human Decidua. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10020351. [PMID: 33477602 PMCID: PMC7831321 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is necessary for implantation, complete development of the placenta, and a successful pregnancy. The endometrium undergoes repeated cycles of proliferation, decidualization (differentiation), and shedding during each menstrual cycle. The endometrium—including stromal, epithelial, vascular endothelial, and immune cells—is both functionally and morphologically altered in response to progesterone, causing changes in the number and types of immune cells. Immune cells make up half of the total number of endometrial cells during implantation and menstruation. Surprisingly, immune tolerant cells in the endometrium (uterine natural killer cells, T cells, and macrophages) have two conflicting functions: to protect the body by eliminating pathogenic microorganisms and other pathogens and to foster immunological change to tolerate the embryo during pregnancy. One of the key molecules involved in this control is the cytokine interleukin-15 (IL-15), which is secreted by endometrial stromal cells. Recently, it has been reported that IL-15 is directly regulated by the transcription factor heart- and neural crest derivatives-expressed protein 2 in endometrial stromal cells. In this review, we outline the significance of the endometrium and immune cell population during menstruation and early pregnancy and describe the factors involved in immune tolerance and their involvement in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.
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16
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Kida N, Nishigaki A, Kakita‐Kobayashi M, Tsubokura H, Hashimoto Y, Yoshida A, Hisamatsu Y, Tsuzuki‐Nakao T, Murata H, Okada H. Exposure to cigarette smoke affects endometrial maturation including angiogenesis and decidualization. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 20:108-118. [PMID: 33488290 PMCID: PMC7812488 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12360] [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: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To elucidate the effects of cigarette smoking on human endometrial maturation for reproductive function, the authors examined the in vitro effects of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on angiogenesis and decidualization in primary human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). METHODS Endometrial stromal cells were cultured with CSE and/or estradiol-17β (E2) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). The mRNA, protein levels, and protein secretion of the angiogenic factors and decidual specific factors were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Decidualization was also monitored by the changes in cellular morphology. RESULTS Endometrial stromal cell proliferation substantially decreased after dose-dependent treatments with CSE at concentrations above 1%, whereas cell death was induced at treatment concentrations above 1% CSE. Treatments above 0.025% CSE led to increased vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA through hypoxia-inducible factor-1α accumulation. CSE concentrations at 0.01% and 0.025% increased the prolactin expression levels after treatment with E2 and MPA, whereas 0.1% and 0.25% CSE concentrations suppressed prolactin. Similar tendencies were observed in cellular morphology and other decidual specific factors. CONCLUSION These results suggest that exposure to cigarette smoke affects endometrial appropriate maturation including the processes of angiogenesis and decidualization in the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Kida
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Akemi Nishigaki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | | | - Hiroaki Tsubokura
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Aya Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Yoji Hisamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | | | - Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
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17
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Kakita-Kobayashi M, Murata H, Nishigaki A, Hashimoto Y, Komiya S, Tsubokura H, Kido T, Kida N, Tsuzuki-Nakao T, Matsuo Y, Bono H, Hirota K, Okada H. Thyroid Hormone Facilitates in vitro Decidualization of Human Endometrial Stromal Cells via Thyroid Hormone Receptors. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5815305. [PMID: 32242219 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial stromal cells differentiate into decidual cells through the process of decidualization. This differentiation is critical for embryo implantation and the successful establishment of pregnancy. Recent epidemiological studies have suggested that thyroid hormone is important in the endometrium during implantation, and it is commonly believed that thyroid hormone is essential for proper development, differentiation, growth, and metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the impact of thyroid hormone on decidualization in human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) and define its physiological roles in vitro by gene targeting. To identify the expression patterns of thyroid hormone, we performed gene expression profiling of hESCs during decidualization after treating them with the thyroid hormone levothyroxine (LT4). A major increase in decidual response was observed after combined treatment with ovarian steroid hormones and thyroid hormone. Moreover, LT4 treatment also affected the regulation of many transcription factors important for decidualization. We found that type 3 deiodinase, which is particularly important in fetal and placental tissues, was upregulated during decidualization in the presence of thyroid hormone. Further, it was observed that progesterone receptor, an ovarian steroid hormone receptor, was involved in thyroid hormone-induced decidualization. In the absence of thyroid hormone receptor (TR), due to the simultaneous silencing of TRα and TRβ, thyroid hormone expression was unchanged during decidualization. In summary, we demonstrated that thyroid hormone is essential for decidualization in the endometrium. This is the first in vitro study to find impaired decidualization as a possible cause of infertility in subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Akemi Nishigaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Shinnosuke Komiya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tsubokura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Takeharu Kido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Naoko Kida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Tomoko Tsuzuki-Nakao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Matsuo
- Department of Human Stress Response Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Hidemasa Bono
- Database Center for Life Science (DBCLS), Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), Mishima, Japan
| | - Kiichi Hirota
- Department of Human Stress Response Science, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
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18
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Murata H, Tanaka S, Tsuzuki-Nakao T, Kido T, Kakita-Kobayashi M, Kida N, Hisamatsu Y, Tsubokura H, Hashimoto Y, Kitada M, Okada H. The transcription factor HAND2 up-regulates transcription of the IL15 gene in human endometrial stromal cells. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:9596-9605. [PMID: 32444497 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.012753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic changes of the human endometrium, such as proliferation, secretion, and decidualization, occur during regular menstrual cycles. Heart- and neural crest derivatives-expressed transcript 2 (HAND2) is a key transcription factor in progestin-induced decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). It has been suggested that HAND2 regulates interleukin 15 (IL15), a key immune factor required for the activation and survival of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells. Activated uNK cells can promote spiral artery remodeling and secrete cytokines to induce immunotolerance. To date, no studies have evaluated the transcription factors that regulate IL15 expression in human ESCs. In the present study, we examined whether HAND2 controls IL15 transcriptional regulation in human ESCs. Quantitative RT-PCR and histological analyses revealed that HAND2 and IL15 levels increase considerably in the secretory phase of human endometrium tissues. Results from ChIP-quantitative PCR suggested that HAND2 binds to a putative HAND2 motif, which we identified in the upstream region of the human IL15 gene through in silico analysis. Using a luciferase reporter assay, we found that the upstream region of the human IL15 gene up-regulates reporter gene activities in response to estradiol and a progestin representative (medroxyprogesterone) in ESCs. The upstream region of the human IL15 gene also exhibited increasing responsiveness to transfection with a HAND2 expression vector. Of note, deletion and substitution variants of the putative HAND2 motif in the upstream region of IL15 did not respond to HAND2 transfection. These findings confirm that HAND2 directly up-regulates human IL15 transcription in ESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Susumu Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomoko Tsuzuki-Nakao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takeharu Kido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Naoko Kida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoji Hisamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tsubokura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Hashimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaaki Kitada
- Department of Anatomy, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
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19
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Fan H, Jiang L, Lee YL, Wong CKC, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Lee KF. Bisphenol compounds regulate decidualized stromal cells in modulating trophoblastic spheroid outgrowth and invasion in vitro†. Biol Reprod 2020; 102:693-704. [PMID: 31742322 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is commonly found in epoxy resins used in the manufacture of plastic coatings in food packaging and beverage cans. There is a growing concern about BPA as a weak estrogenic compound that can affect human endocrine function. Chemicals structurally similar to BPA, such as bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS), have been developed as substitutes in the manufacturing industry. Whether these bisphenol substitutes have adverse effects on human endocrine and reproductive systems remains largely unknown. This study investigated the effects of BPA, BPF, and BPS on regulating the function of decidualized human primary endometrial stromal cells on trophoblast outgrowth and invasion by indirect and direct co-culture models. All three bisphenols did not affect the stromal cell decidualization process. However, BPA- and BPF-treated decidualized stromal cells stimulated trophoblastic spheroid invasion in the indirect coculture model. The BPA-treated decidualized stromal cells had upregulated expressions of several invasion-related molecules including leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), whereas both BPA- and BPF-treated decidualized stromal cells had downregulated expressions of anti-invasion molecules including plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNFα) . Taken together, BPA and BPF altered the expression of invasive and anti-invasive molecules in decidualized stromal cells modulating its function on trophoblast outgrowth and invasion, which could affect the implantation process and subsequent pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Luhan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yin-Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chris K C Wong
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, China
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Zhao F, Liu H, Wang N, Yu L, Wang A, Yi Y, Jin Y. Exploring the role of Luman/CREB3 in regulating decidualization of mice endometrial stromal cells by comparative transcriptomics. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:103. [PMID: 32000663 PMCID: PMC6993373 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-6515-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Luman is a member of CREB3 (cAMP responsive element-binding) subfamily of the basic leucine-zipper (bZIP) transcription factors. It may play an important regulatory role during the decidualization process since Luman was highly expressed in the decidual cells. However, the exact molecular mechanisms of how Luman regulating decidualization is unknown. Results Using an in vitro model, we prove that Luman knockdown significantly affects the decidualization process of mice endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) as the expression of two decidual markers PRL8a2 and PRL3c1 were repressed. We employed massively parallel RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) to understand the changes in the transcriptional landscape associated with knockdown of Luman in ESCs during in vitro decidualization. We found significant dysregulation of genes related to protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Several genes involved in decidualization including bone morphogenetic proteins (e.g. BMP1, BMP4, BMP8A, BMP2, and BMP8B), growth factor-related genes (e.g. VEGFB, FGF10, and FGFR2), and transcription factors (IF4E, IF4A2, WNT4, WNT9A, ETS1, NOTCH1, IRX1, IDB1, IDB2, and IDB3), show altered expression. We also found that the knockdown of Luman is associated with increased expression of cell cycle-related genes including cycA1, cycB1, cycB2, CDK1, CDK2, and PLPK1, which resulted in an increased proportion of ESCs in the G1 phase. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were highly enriched on ECM-receptor interaction signaling, endoplasmic reticulum protein processing, focal adhesion, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Conclusions Luman knockdown results in widespread gene dysregulation during decidualization of ESCs. Genes involved in protein processing in ER, bone morphogenetic protein, growth factor, and cell cycle progression were identified as particularly important for explaining the decidual deficiency observed in this in vitro model. Therefore, this study provides clues as to the underlying mechanisms that may expand our understanding of gene regulation during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Institute of Biological Resources and Diversity, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lijun Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanglei Yi
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yaping Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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Progestin-induced heart and neural crest derivatives-expressed transcript 2 inhibits angiopoietin 2 via fibroblast growth factor 9 in human endometrial stromal cells. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:14-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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22
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Kato N, Iwase A, Ishida C, Nagai T, Mori M, Bayasula, Nakamura T, Osuka S, Ganiyeva U, Qin Y, Miki R, Kikkawa F. Upregulation of Fibroblast Growth Factors Caused by Heart and Neural Crest Derivatives Expressed 2 Suppression in Endometriotic Cells: A Possible Therapeutic Target in Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:979-987. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118802053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Several features exist that distinguish endometriotic cells from eutopic endometrial cells. Progesterone resistance is one of the main distinguishing features, although how progesterone resistance affects the phenotype of endometriotic cells is not fully elucidated. Heart and neural crest derivatives expressed 2 (HAND2) is a transcriptional factor that plays an important role in maintaining endometrial function in a progesterone-dependent manner. Therefore, we explored whether progesterone-dependent HAND2 is implicated in the progression of endometriosis. HAND2 was less expressed by endometriotic tissues compared to endometrial tissues. Suppression of HAND2 expression induced fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1), FGF2, and FGF9 in endometriotic stromal cells and consequently enhanced migration and invasion capacity. AZD4547, a FGF receptor inhibitor, diminished the migration and invasion of endometriotic cells in vitro. In the murine model of endometriosis, AZD4547 showed suppressive effects on the development of endometriotic lesions at a relatively low concentration. In conclusion, we demonstrated that FGF1, FGF2, and FGF9 are downstream effectors of HAND2 in endometriotic cells. Since HAND2-dependent FGFs play roles in enhancing invasive capacity of endometriotic cells, our results suggest that FGF receptor inhibitors, such as AZD4547, can be promising therapeutic targets for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nao Kato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akira Iwase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Chiharu Ishida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takashi Nagai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masahiko Mori
- Aichi Cancer Center, Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Bayasula
- Bell Research Center for Reproductive Health and Cancer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tomoko Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Satoko Osuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Maternal and Perinatal Medicine, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Umida Ganiyeva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ying Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Rika Miki
- Bell Research Center for Reproductive Health and Cancer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Kikkawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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Okada H, Tsuzuki T, Murata H. Decidualization of the human endometrium. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:220-227. [PMID: 30013421 PMCID: PMC6046526 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decidualization of the human endometrium, which involves a dramatic morphological and functional differentiation of human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), is essential for the establishment of a successful pregnancy. Decidualization results from a complex interplay of transcription factors, morphogens, cytokines, cell cycle regulators, and signaling pathways. METHODS Based on a literature review, the regulation of, and the molecular mechanisms involved in, the decidualization of the endometrium are described. MAIN FINDINGS Progesterone, together with proteins that are regulated by progesterone and/or cyclic adenosine monophosphate, including homeobox A10, forkhead box O1, signal transducers and activators of transcription, and heart and neural crest derivatives expressed transcript 2, forms a critical network for ESC decidualization and is a prerequisite to successful implantation. Decidualized ESCs contribute to the microenvironment at the feto-maternal interface and its direct or indirect influence on extracellular matrix remodeling, regulation of the local immune response, anti-oxidative stress, and angiogenesis (vascular maturation). Impairment of this process is associated with a variety of pregnancy disorders, including infertility, recurrent miscarriages, and uteroplacental disorders. CONCLUSION A deeper understanding of the process of decidualization is expected to provide new insights into the fields of reproductive biology and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Tomoko Tsuzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Hiromi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKansai Medical UniversityOsakaJapan
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24
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Logan PC, Yango P, Tran ND. Endometrial Stromal and Epithelial Cells Exhibit Unique Aberrant Molecular Defects in Patients With Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:140-159. [PMID: 28490276 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117704905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes pain and infertility in women of reproductive age. OBJECTIVE To investigate the pathologic pathways in endometrial stromal and epithelial cells that contribute to the manifestation of endometriosis. DESIGN In vitro cellular and molecular analyses of isolated eutopic endometrial stromal and epithelial cells. METHODS Eutopic stromal and epithelial cells from endometriotic and normal patients were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting for paired sibling RNA sequencing and microRNA microarray. Aberrant pathways were identified using ingenuity pathway analysis networks and confirmed with in vitro modulation of the affected pathways in stromal and epithelial cell cultures. RESULTS Both stromal versus epithelial cell types and paired endometriotic versus normal samples exhibited distinct hierarchical clustering. Compared to normal samples, there were 151 and 215 differentially expressed genes in the endometriotic stromal and epithelial populations, respectively, and concomitantly 9 and 16 differentially expressed microRNAs. Overall, endometriotic stromal and epithelial cells revealed distinct defects. In endometriotic stromal cells, key decidualization genes Zinc finger E-box Binding protein 1 (ZEB1), Heart And Neural crest Derivatives expressed 2 (HAND2), WNT4, and Interleukin 15 (IL-15) were found to be downregulated and Periostin (POSTN) and Matrix Metallopeptidase 7 (MMP7) were upregulated. Specifically, ZEB1 was downregulated in stromal cells by aberrant elevation in miR-200b. In contrast, ZEB1 was found to be upregulated in endometriotic epithelial cells through associated upregulation of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1), inducer of the TGFβ1-Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP2)-MMP2-Prostaglandin-endoperoxide Synthase 2 (COX2)-ZEB1 pathway, which activates epithelial-mesenchymal transition. CONCLUSION Manifestation of endometriosis involves dysregulation of unique molecular pathways within the diseased endometrial stromal and epithelial cells in the endometrium. Targeting the cell type-specific defects may offer a novel approach to treating endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Logan
- 1 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Pamela Yango
- 1 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nam D Tran
- 1 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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25
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Wu D, Kimura F, Zheng L, Ishida M, Niwa Y, Hirata K, Takebayashi A, Takashima A, Takahashi K, Kushima R, Zhang G, Murakami T. Chronic endometritis modifies decidualization in human endometrial stromal cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:16. [PMID: 28259137 PMCID: PMC5336610 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0233-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic endometritis (CE) is a continuous inflammation of uterine endometrium, and it is usually symptomless. As CE has been thought not to affect the reproductive status and general health of affected women, its significance has not been explored. However, recent studies have shown that CE is related with repeated implantation failures after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer, unexplained infertility, and recurrent miscarriages. As decidua differentiates to support the implantation process and maintains the pregnancy, we hypothesized that CE may influence the process of decidualization. METHODS Seventeen patients were employed in the experiment involving culture of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). After obtaining endometrial samples, ESCs were harvested and cultured for 13 days. The concentrations in culture media and the protein expressions in ESCs of prolactin (PRL) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), two well known decidualization markers used in a large number of in vitro models, were analyzed by ELISA and Western blotting, respectively, and the cell numbers were also counted. The mRNA levels of PRL and IGFBP-1 were tested by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Since sex hormone induce proliferation and differentiation to decidua via binding to the sex hormone receptors (ERα, ERβ, PRA, and PRB), their expression was assessed in another 17 patients' paraffin-embedded endometrial tissue specimens by immunohistochemistry and semi-quantified by H-score. RESULTS Increased cell numbers and reduced secretion of PRL and IGFBP-1 were detected by ELISA in the ESCs of CE patients after culture for 13 days compared with non-CE patients. The decreased protein expression of IGFBP-1 in ESCs of CE patients was detected by Western blotting. The decreased expression of PRL mRNA and IGFBP-1 mRNA were detected by RT-PCR. Increased expressions of ERα, ERβ, PRA, and PRB were observed in the stromal cells of CE patients in comparison to non-CE patients, whereas increased expressions of ERα and ERβ were detected in the glandular cells of CE. CONCLUSION Our data suggests that CE modifies decidualization of human ESC through untuning the function of sex steroid hormone receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
- 0000 0001 2204 9268grid.410736.7Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1st Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150001 China
| | - Fuminori Kimura
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Luyi Zheng
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Mitsuaki Ishida
- grid.410783.9Department of Clinical Sciences and Laboratory Medicine, Kansai Medical University, 2-5-1 Shin-machi, Hirakata City, Osaka 573-1010 Japan
| | - Yoko Niwa
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Kimiko Hirata
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Akie Takebayashi
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Akiko Takashima
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Kentaro Takahashi
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Ryoji Kushima
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
| | - Guangmei Zhang
- 0000 0001 2204 9268grid.410736.7Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1st Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province 150001 China
| | - Takashi Murakami
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, 520-2192 Japan
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Li Q, Davila J, Bagchi MK, Bagchi IC. Chronic exposure to bisphenol a impairs progesterone receptor-mediated signaling in the uterus during early pregnancy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 3. [PMID: 28239613 PMCID: PMC5321573 DOI: 10.14800/rci.1369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Environmental and occupational exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is a major threat to female reproductive health. Bisphenol A (BPA), an environmental toxicant that is commonly found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, has received much attention due to its estrogenic activity and high risk of chronic exposure in human. Whereas BPA has been linked to infertility and recurrent miscarriage in women, the impact of its exposure on uterine function during early pregnancy remains unclear. In a recent publication in Endocrinology, we demonstrated that prolonged exposure to an environmental relevant dose of BPA disrupts progesterone receptor-regulated uterine functions, thus affecting uterine receptivity for embryo implantation and decidua morphogenesis, two critical events for establishment and maintenance of early pregnancy. In particular we reported a marked impairment of progesterone receptor (PGR) expression and its downstream effector HAND2 in the uterine stromal cells in response to chronic BPA exposure. In an earlier study we have shown that HAND2 controls embryo implantation by repressing fibroblast growth factor (FGF) expression and the MAP kinase signaling pathway, thus inhibiting epithelial proliferation. Interestingly we observed that downregulation of PGR and HAND2 expression in uterine stroma upon BPA exposure was associated with an enhanced activation of FGFR and MAPK signaling, aberrant proliferation, and lack of uterine receptivity in the epithelium. In addition, the proliferation and differentiation of endometrial stromal cells to decidual cells, an event critical for the maintenance of early pregnancy, was severely compromised in response to BPA. This research highlight will provide an overview of our findings and discuss the potential mechanisms by which chronic BPA impairs PGR-HAND2 pathway and adversely affects implantation and the establishment of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanxi Li
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Juanmahel Davila
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Milan K Bagchi
- Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Indrani C Bagchi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
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Kommagani R, Szwarc MM, Vasquez YM, Peavey MC, Mazur EC, Gibbons WE, Lanz RB, DeMayo FJ, Lydon JP. The Promyelocytic Leukemia Zinc Finger Transcription Factor Is Critical for Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1005937. [PMID: 27035670 PMCID: PMC4817989 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone, via the progesterone receptor (PGR), is essential for endometrial stromal cell decidualization, a cellular transformation event in which stromal fibroblasts differentiate into decidual cells. Uterine decidualization supports embryo implantation and placentation as well as subsequent events, which together ensure a successful pregnancy. Accordingly, impaired decidualization results not only in implantation failure or early fetal miscarriage, but also may lead to potential adverse outcomes in all three pregnancy trimesters. Transcriptional reprogramming on a genome-wide scale underlies progesterone dependent decidualization of the human endometrial stromal cell (hESC). However, identification of the functionally essential signals encoded by these global transcriptional changes remains incomplete. Importantly, this knowledge-gap undercuts future efforts to improve diagnosis and treatment of implantation failure based on a dysfunctional endometrium. By integrating genome-wide datasets derived from decidualization of hESCs in culture, we reveal that the promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) transcription factor is rapidly induced by progesterone and that this induction is indispensable for progesterone-dependent decidualization. Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by next generation sequencing (ChIP-Seq) identified at least ten progesterone response elements within the PLZF gene, indicating that PLZF may act as a direct target of PGR signaling. The spatiotemporal expression profile for PLZF in both the human and mouse endometrium offers further support for stromal PLZF as a mediator of the progesterone decidual signal. To identify functional targets of PLZF, integration of PLZF ChIP-Seq and RNA Pol II RNA-Seq datasets revealed that the early growth response 1 (EGR1) transcription factor is a PLZF target for which its level of expression must be reduced to enable progesterone dependent hESC decidualization. Apart from furnishing essential insights into the molecular mechanisms by which progesterone drives hESC decidualization, our findings provide a new conceptual framework that could lead to new avenues for diagnosis and/or treatment of adverse reproductive outcomes associated with a dysfunctional uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Maria M. Szwarc
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Yasmin M. Vasquez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mary C. Peavey
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Erik C. Mazur
- Houston Fertility Specialists, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - William E. Gibbons
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Rainer B. Lanz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Francesco J. DeMayo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - John P. Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
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Boggavarapu NR, Berger C, von Grothusen C, Menezes J, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Lalitkumar PGL. Effects of low doses of mifepristone on human embryo implantation process in a three-dimensional human endometrial in vitro co-culture system. Contraception 2016; 94:143-51. [PMID: 27001000 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We wanted to explore the effects of two different low doses (0.5μM and 0.05μM) of mifepristone, exposed during the receptive period, on the human embryo implantation process, using a well-established three-dimensional in vitro cell culture model, specifically developed to study this process. METHODS An in vitro three-dimensional cell culture model was constructed using human endometrial cells isolated from the endometrium of proven fertile women, collected on cycle day LH+4. After 5 days of culture, supernumerary human embryos were added and cultured for another 5 days with mifepristone 0.5μM (n=8) or 0.05μM (n=10) or vehicle as control (n=10). The cultures were checked for embryo attachment and terminated. We studied the expression of 16 reported endometrial receptivity markers in the endometrial constructs using real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS None of the embryos in 0.5μM of mifepristone attached to the endometrial constructs (p=.004), whereas 4 out of 10 in 0.05μM (p=.3698) and 7 out of 10 embryos in the control group attached to the cultures. We found that most of the studied receptivity markers were significantly altered with mifepristone exposure in a similar direction in both treatment groups. Only IL6 was significantly differentially expressed between the treatment groups (p=.017). CONCLUSION We report for the first time that exposure to a low concentration (0.5μM) of mifepristone during the receptive period successfully inhibits human embryo implantation process in vitro. Further, we observed a dose-dependent effect of mifepristone on endometrial receptivity at the functional level. IMPLICATION This study contributes new knowledge that low dose of mifepristone during the short period of receptive phase can inhibit endometrial receptivity, which further promotes mifepristone as a contraceptive agent. This could give women a treatment choice to avoid unwanted pregnancy with high efficacy and minimal side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Boggavarapu
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet/Karolinska University Hospital, S-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - C Berger
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet/Karolinska University Hospital, S-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - C von Grothusen
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet/Karolinska University Hospital, S-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J Menezes
- Fertilitetscentrum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - K Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet/Karolinska University Hospital, S-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - P G L Lalitkumar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet/Karolinska University Hospital, S-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
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29
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Mazur EC, Vasquez YM, Li X, Kommagani R, Jiang L, Chen R, Lanz RB, Kovanci E, Gibbons WE, DeMayo FJ. Progesterone receptor transcriptome and cistrome in decidualized human endometrial stromal cells. Endocrinology 2015; 156:2239-53. [PMID: 25781565 PMCID: PMC4430623 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is a complex process involving cellular proliferation and differentiation of the endometrial stroma that is required to establish and support pregnancy. Progesterone acting via its nuclear receptor, the progesterone receptor (PGR), is a critical regulator of decidualization and is known to interact with certain members of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) family in the regulation of transcription. In this study, we identified the cistrome and transcriptome of PGR and identified the AP-1 factors FOSL2 and JUN to be regulated by PGR and important in the decidualization process. Direct targets of PGR were identified by integrating gene expression data from RNA sequencing with the whole-genome binding profile of PGR determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by deep sequencing (ChIP-seq) in primary human endometrial stromal cells exposed to 17β-estradiol, medroxyprogesterone acetate, and cAMP to promote in vitro decidualization. Ablation of FOSL2 and JUN attenuates the induction of 2 decidual marker genes, IGFBP1 and PRL. ChIP-seq analysis of genomic binding revealed that FOSL2 is bound in proximity to 8586 distinct genes, including nearly 80% of genes bound by PGR. A comprehensive assessment of the PGR-dependent decidual transcriptome integrated with the genomic binding of PGR identified FOSL2 as a potentially important transcriptional coregulator of PGR via direct interaction with regulatory regions of genes actively regulated during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik C Mazur
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (E.C.M., E.K., W.E.G.), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Children's Hospital Pavilion for Women, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (Y.M.V., X.L., R.K., R.B.L., F.J.D.), and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics (L.J., R.C.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
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