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Poh QH, Rai A, Pangestu M, Salamonsen LA, Greening DW. Rapid generation of functional nanovesicles from human trophectodermal cells for embryo attachment and outgrowth. Proteomics 2024; 24:e2300056. [PMID: 37698557 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202300056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important mediators of embryo attachment and outgrowth critical for successful implantation. While EVs have garnered immense interest in their therapeutic potential in assisted reproductive technology by improving implantation success, their large-scale generation remains a major challenge. Here, we report a rapid and scalable production of nanovesicles (NVs) directly from human trophectoderm cells (hTSCs) via serial mechanical extrusion of cells; these NVs can be generated in approximately 6 h with a 20-fold higher yield than EVs isolated from culture medium of the same number of cells. NVs display similar biophysical traits (morphologically intact, spherical, 90-130 nm) to EVs, and are laden with hallmark players of implantation that include cell-matrix adhesion and extracellular matrix organisation proteins (ITGA2/V, ITGB1, MFGE8) and antioxidative regulators (PRDX1, SOD2). Functionally, NVs are readily taken up by low-receptive endometrial HEC1A cells and reprogram their proteome towards a receptive phenotype that support hTSC spheroid attachment. Moreover, a single dose treatment with NVs significantly enhanced adhesion and spreading of mouse embryo trophoblast on fibronectin matrix. Thus, we demonstrate the functional potential of NVs in enhancing embryo implantation and highlight their rapid and scalable generation, amenable to clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Hui Poh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alin Rai
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mulyoto Pangestu
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development (EPRD), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - David W Greening
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Molecular Proteomics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Rokhsartalab Azar P, Maleki Aghdam M, Karimi S, Haghtalab A, Sadeghpour S, Mellatyar H, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H. Uterine fluid microRNAs in repeated implantation failure. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 558:119678. [PMID: 38641194 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a significant obstacle in assisted reproductive procedures, primarily because of compromised receptivity. As such, there is a need for a dependable and accurate clinical test to evaluate endometrial receptiveness, particularly during embryo transfer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have diverse functions in the processes of implantation and pregnancy. Dysregulation of miRNAs results in reproductive diseases such as recurrent implantation failure (RIF). The endometrium secretes several microRNAs (miRNAs) during the implantation period, which could potentially indicate whether the endometrium is suitable for in vitro fertilization (IVF). The goal of this review is to examine endometrial miRNAs as noninvasive biomarkers that successfully predict endometrium receptivity in RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahdi Maleki Aghdam
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sarmad Karimi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arian Haghtalab
- School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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3
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Strbo N, Rodriguez S, Padula L, Fisher E, Lyons A, Rodriguez C, Rivas K, Ibrahim M, Paidas M, Attia G. Assessment of immune cells in the uterine fluid at the time of the embryo transfer. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13842. [PMID: 38650366 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13842] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Although endometrial receptivity is a key factor in influencing implantation in both naturally conceived and assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, very little is known about the endometrium milieu around the time of implantation. Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of several cytokines in the endometrium that affect implantation. However, there is lacking data about the presence of immune cell subtypes within the endometrium and in the uterine cavity at the time of implantation. METHOD OF STUDY This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (# 225589). The study was designed as a prospective observational cohort study between May 2021 and December 2022 at a single academic-based fertility center. All patients underwent at least one In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycle and have frozen embryos. Twenty-four participants were recruited for this study which was conducted during the frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle regardless of the outcome of previous cycles. Two samples were acquired from each subject, denoted as lower and upper. A trial transfer catheter was introduced under ultrasound guidance into the lower uterine segment. Upon removal, the tip was rinsed in IMDM medium containing 10% FBS (lower uterus). A transfer catheter was then loaded with the embryo that was placed in the upper uterus under ultrasound guidance. The tip of the transfer catheter was rinsed in separate aliquot of the above media (upper uterus). After centrifugation, pelleted cells were stained for the following surface markers: CD45, CD3, CD19, CD4, CD8, gamma delta TCR, CD25, CD127, CD66b, CD14, CD16, CD56 and acquired on Sony SP6800 Spectral Analyzer. RESULTS Upon staining the pelleted cells, we were able to identify viable leukocytes from samples obtained from both, upper and lower uterus (0.125 × 106 cells ± SD 0.32), (0.123 × 106 cells ± SD 0.12), respectively. Among total viable cells, there was no significant difference in both percent and number of CD45+ cells between the upper and lower uterus (9.88% ± 6.98 SD, 13.67% ± 9.79 SD, p = .198) respectively. However, there was significantly higher expression of CD3+ (p = .006), CD19+ (p = .032) and CD14+ (p = .019) cells in samples collected from upper compared to lower uterus. Within all CD3+ cells, we found that gamma delta T cells (GDT) were the major population of T cells in both upper and lower uterus. In contrast, CD8+ T cells were significantly higher in the lower uterus when compared to the upper uterus (p = .009). There was no statistically significant difference in the expression of CD4+ T cells, T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+CD127-), NK cells (CD56+), neutrophils (CD66b+) and FcγRIII+ cells (CD16+) between upper and lower uterus. CONCLUSIONS We believe the immune milieu at the time of embryo transfer will affect implantation. Understanding the composition of immune cells will guide further research in identifying optimal immune milieus that favor implantation. Comprehensive analysis of endometrium is expected to lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Strbo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Suset Rodriguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Laura Padula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Eva Fisher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Annabel Lyons
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Carolina Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Katelyn Rivas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mohammed Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Michael Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - George Attia
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Beal JR, Ma Q, Bagchi IC, Bagchi MK. Role of Endometrial Extracellular Vesicles in Mediating Cell-to-Cell Communication in the Uterus: A Review. Cells 2023; 12:2584. [PMID: 37998319 PMCID: PMC10670844 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There are several critical events that occur in the uterus during early pregnancy which are necessary for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. These events include blastocyst implantation, uterine decidualization, uterine neoangiogenesis, differentiation of trophoblast stem cells into different trophoblast cell lineages, and formation of a placenta. These processes involve several different cell types within the pregnant uterus. Communication between these cell types must be intricately coordinated for successful embryo implantation and the formation of a functional maternal-fetal interface in the placenta. Understanding how this intricate coordination transpires has been a focus of researchers in the field for many years. It has long been understood that maternal endometrial tissue plays a key role in intercellular signaling during early pregnancy, sending signals to nearby tissues in a paracrine manner. Recently, insights have been obtained into the mechanisms by which these signaling events occur. Notably, the endometrium has been shown to secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) that contain crucial cargo (proteins, lipids, RNA, miRNA) that are taken up by recipient cells to initiate a response leading to the occurrence of critical events during implantation and placentation. In this review, we aim to summarize the role that endometrium-derived EVs play in mediating cell-to-cell communications within the pregnant uterus to orchestrate the events that must occur to establish and maintain pregnancy. We will also discuss how aberrant endometrial EV signaling may lead to pathophysiological conditions, such as endometriosis and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob R. Beal
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Qiuyan Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Indrani C. Bagchi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Milan K. Bagchi
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Farrelly R, Kennedy MG, Spencer R, Forbes K. Extracellular vesicles as markers and mediators of pregnancy complications: gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and fetal growth restriction. J Physiol 2023; 601:4973-4988. [PMID: 37070801 DOI: 10.1113/jp282849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In high income countries, approximately 10% of pregnancies are complicated by pre-eclampsia (PE), preterm birth (PTB), fetal growth restriction (FGR) and/or macrosomia resulting from gestational diabetes (GDM). Despite the burden of disease this places on pregnant people and their newborns, there are still few, if any, effective ways of preventing or treating these conditions. There are also gaps in our understanding of the underlying pathophysiologies and our ability to predict which mothers will be affected. The placenta plays a crucial role in pregnancy, and alterations in placental structure and function have been implicated in all of these conditions. As extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as important molecules in cell-to-cell communication in health and disease, recent research involving maternal- and placental-derived EV has demonstrated their potential as predictive and diagnostic biomarkers of obstetric disorders. This review will consider how placental and maternal EVs have been investigated in pregnancies complicated by PE, PTB, FGR and GDM and aims to highlight areas where further research is required to enhance the management and eventual treatment of these pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Farrelly
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Rebecca Spencer
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Karen Forbes
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Sui C, Liao Z, Bai J, Hu D, Yue J, Yang S. Current knowledge on the role of extracellular vesicles in endometrial receptivity. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:471. [PMID: 37899459 PMCID: PMC10614333 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01459-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity has been widely understood as the capacity of the endometrium to receive implantable embryos. The establishment of endometrial receptivity involves multiple biological processes including decidualization, tissue remodeling, angiogenesis, immune regulation, and oxidative metabolism. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid-bilayer-membrane nanosized vesicles mediating cell-to-cell communication. Recently, EVs and their cargo have been proven as functional factors in the establishment of endometrial receptivity. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the alteration of endometrium/embryo-derived EVs during the receptive phase and retrospected the current findings which revealed the pivotal role and potential mechanism of EVs to promote successful implantation. Furthermore, we highlight the potentiality and limitations of EVs being translated into clinical applications such as biomarkers of endometrial receptivity or reproductive therapeutic mediators, and point out the direction for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Sui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095#, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqi Liao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095#, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Bai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095#, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095#, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Yue
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095#, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Shulin Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefang Avenue 1095#, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
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Herrera L, Martin-Inaraja M, Bengoetxea A, Vendrell A, Pérez-Fernández S, Eguizabal C, Matorras R. Natural killer cell subsets in endometrial fluid: a pilot study of their association with the endometrial cycle and reproductive parameters. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2241-2250. [PMID: 37436645 PMCID: PMC10440323 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02862-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate if there are natural killer (NK) cells in endometrial fluid (EF) and their relationship with the endometrial cycle and reproductive parameters. METHODS The population under study consisted of 43 women aged 18-40 undergoing infertility workup at our University Hospital in 2021-2022. The EF samples were obtained at the first visit to our unit, on occasion of the mock embryo transfer. The day of the cycle was considered only in cycles of 27-29 days. An immunophenotype study of NK in EF was performed by flow cytometry analysis. In a subgroup of women, on the same day, NK was studied in EF and peripheral blood. RESULTS Our study is the first to evidence NK cells in EF. None of the NK cells observed corresponded to a mature peripheral blood NK cell population (stages 4-5), and neither endometrial nor decidual uNK cells were detected. Nevertheless, we found 2 patient groups with an NK cell subset with a higher expression of CD16+, which could belong to an intermediate or transient stage between the uNK and pbNK NK cell population in the EF. We found that CD16 was significantly increased in the mid-late luteal phase and its correlation with the day of the cycle. The NK immunophenotype was different in EF and peripheral blood. CONCLUSION We described a new component of the EF, the NK cells, whose CD16 activity is closely correlated with the day of the cycle. These cells could play a role in implantation/implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Herrera
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Basque Centre for Blood Transfusion and Human Tissues, 48960, Galdakao, Spain
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Myriam Martin-Inaraja
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Basque Centre for Blood Transfusion and Human Tissues, 48960, Galdakao, Spain
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Ainara Bengoetxea
- Human Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza de Cruces s/n, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Alberto Vendrell
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza de Cruces s/n, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain.
| | - Silvia Pérez-Fernández
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza de Cruces s/n, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Cristina Eguizabal
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Basque Centre for Blood Transfusion and Human Tissues, 48960, Galdakao, Spain
- Cell Therapy, Stem Cells and Tissues Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Roberto Matorras
- Human Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza de Cruces s/n, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
- Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties, Basque Country University, Lejona, Spain
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad - IVI Bilbao, IVIRMA, Lejona, Spain
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Segura-Benítez M, Bas-Rivas A, Juárez-Barber E, Carbajo-García MC, Faus A, De Los Santos MJ, Pellicer A, Ferrero H. Human blastocysts uptake extracellular vesicles secreted by endometrial cells containing miRNAs related to implantation. Hum Reprod 2023:dead138. [PMID: 37407281 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are the extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by the maternal endometrium uptaken by human embryos and is their miRNA cargo involved in implantation and embryo development? SUMMARY ANSWER Data suggest that EVs secreted by human endometrial epithelial cells are internalized by human blastocysts, and transport miRNAs to modulate biological processes related to implantation events and early embryo development. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Successful implantation is dependent on coordination between maternal endometrium and embryo, and EVs role in the required cell-to-cell crosstalk has recently been established. In this regard, our group previously showed that protein cargo of EVs secreted by primary human endometrial epithelial cells (pHEECs) is implicated in biological processes related to endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, and early embryo development. However, little is known about the regulation of these biological processes through EVs secreted by the endometrium at a transcriptomic level. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective descriptive study was performed. Endometrial biopsies were collected from healthy oocyte donors with confirmed fertility on the day of oocyte retrieval, 36 h after the LH surge. pHEECs were isolated from endometrial biopsies (n = 8 in each pool) and cultured in vitro. Subsequently, conditioned medium was collected and EVs were isolated and characterized. Uptake of EVs by human blastocysts and miRNA cargo of these EVs (n = 3 pools) was analyzed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS EVs were isolated from the conditioned culture media using ultracentrifugation, and characterization was performed using western blotting, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. EVs were fluorescently labeled with Bodipy-TR ceramide, and their uptake by human blastocysts was analyzed using confocal microscopy. Analysis of the miRNA cargo of EVs was performed using miRNA sequencing, target genes of the most expressed miRNA were annotated, and functional enrichment analysis was performed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE EVs measured 100-300 nm in diameter, a concentration of 1.78 × 1011 ± 4.12 × 1010 (SD) particles/ml and expressed intraluminal protein markers Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and Tumor Susceptibility Gene 101 (TSG101), in addition to CD9 and CD81 transmembrane proteins. Human blastocysts efficiently internalized fluorescent EVs within 1-2 h, and more pronounced internalization was observed in the hatched pole of the embryos. miRNA-seq analysis featured 149 annotated miRNAs, of which 37 were deemed most relevant. The latter had 6592 reported gene targets, that in turn, have functional implications in several processes related to embryo development, oxygen metabolism, cell cycle, cell differentiation, apoptosis, metabolism, cellular organization, and gene expression. Among the relevant miRNAs contained in these EVs, we highlight hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-miR-30a-5p, hsa-miR-24-3p, hsa-miR-21-5p, and hsa-let-7a-5p as master regulators of the biological processes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study in which conditions of endometrial cell culture could not mimic the intrauterine environment. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study defines potential biomarkers of endometrial receptivity and embryo competence that could be useful diagnostic and therapeutic targets for implantation success, as well as open insight further investigations to elucidate the molecular mechanisms implicated in a successful implantation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Education through FPU awarded to M.S.-B. (FPU18/03735), the Health Institute Carlos III awarded to E.J.-B. (FI19/00110) and awarded to H.F. by the Miguel Servet Program 'Fondo Social Europeo «El FSE invierte en tu futuro»' (CP20/00120), and Generalitat Valenciana through VALi+d Programme awarded to M.C.C.-G. (ACIF/2019/139). The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Segura-Benítez
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba Bas-Rivas
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - María Cristina Carbajo-García
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Faus
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - María José De Los Santos
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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9
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Poh QH, Rai A, Salamonsen LA, Greening DW. Omics insights into extracellular vesicles in embryo implantation and their therapeutic utility. Proteomics 2023; 23:e2200107. [PMID: 36591946 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202200107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Implantation success relies on intricate interplay between the developing embryo and the maternal endometrium. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) represent an important player of this intercellular signalling through delivery of functional cargo (proteins and RNAs) that reprogram the target cells protein and RNA landscape. Functionally, the signalling reciprocity of endometrial and embryo EVs regulates the site of implantation, preimplantation embryo development and hatching, antioxidative activity, embryo attachment, trophoblast invasion, arterial remodelling, and immune tolerance. Omics technologies including mass spectrometry have been instrumental in dissecting EV cargo that regulate these processes as well as molecular changes in embryo and endometrium to facilitate implantation. This has also led to discovery of potential cargo in EVs in human uterine fluid (UF) and embryo spent media (ESM) of diagnostic and therapeutic value in implantation success, fertility, and pregnancy outcome. This review discusses the contribution of EVs in functional hallmarks of embryo implantation, and how the integration of various omics technologies is enabling design of EV-based diagnostic and therapeutic platforms in reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Hui Poh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alin Rai
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - David W Greening
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Gonzalez Fernandez J, Moncayo Arlandi J, Ochando A, Simon C, Vilella F. The role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication in human reproduction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:281-301. [PMID: 36762584 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Embryo-maternal cross-talk has emerged as a vitally important process for embryo development and implantation, which is driven by secreted factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs). The EV cargo of bioactive molecules significantly influences target cells and primes them for critical stages of reproductive biology, including embryo development, adhesion, and implantation. Recent research has suggested that EVs and their cargo represent a powerful non-invasive tool that can be leveraged to assess embryo and maternal tissue quality during assisted reproduction treatments. Here, we review the current scientific literature regarding the intercellular cross-talk between embryos and maternal tissues from fertilization to implantation, focusing on human biology and signaling mechanisms identified in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Gonzalez Fernandez
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Moncayo Arlandi
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Ochando
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simon
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Felipe Vilella
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
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11
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The Extracellular Vesicles Proteome of Endometrial Cells Simulating the Receptive Menstrual Phase Differs from That of Endometrial Cells Simulating the Non-Receptive Menstrual Phase. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020279. [PMID: 36830648 PMCID: PMC9953153 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful embryo implantation into a receptive endometrium requires mutual endometrial-embryo communication. Recently, the function of extracellular vehicles (EVs) in cell-to-cell interaction in embryo-maternal interactions has been investigated. We explored isolated endometrial-derived EVs, using RL95-2 cells as a model of a receptive endometrium, influenced by the menstrual cycle hormones estrogen (E2; proliferative phase), progesterone (P4; secretory phase), and estrogen plus progesterone (E2P4; the receptive phase). EV sized particles were isolated by differential centrifugation and size exclusion chromatography. Nanoparticle tracking analysis was used to examine the different concentrations and sizes of particles and EV proteomic analysis was performed using shotgun label-free mass spectrometry. Our results showed that although endometrial derived EVs were secreted in numbers independent of hormonal stimulation, EV sizes were statistically modified by it. Proteomics analysis showed that hormone treatment changes affect the endometrial EV's proteome, with proteins enhanced within the EV E2P4 group shown to be involved in different processes, such as embryo implantation, endometrial receptivity, and embryo development, supporting the concept of a communication system between the embryo and the maternal endometrium via EVs.
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12
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Extracellular vesicles-encapsulated microRNA in mammalian reproduction: A review. Theriogenology 2023; 196:174-185. [PMID: 36423512 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale cell-derived lipid vesicles that participate in cell-cell communication by delivering cargo, including mRNAs, proteins and non-coding RNAs, to recipient cells. MicroRNA (miRNA), a non-coding RNA typically 22 nucleotides long, is crucial for nearly all developmental and pathophysiological processes in mammals by regulating recipient cells gene expression. Infertility is a worldwide health issue that affects 10-15% of couples during their reproductive years. Although assisted reproductive technology (ART) gives infertility couples hope, the failure of ART is mainly unknown. It is well accepted that EVs-encapsulated miRNAs have a role in different reproductive processes, implying that these EVs-encapsulated miRNAs could optimize ART, improve reproductive rate, and treat infertility. As a result, in this review, we describe the present understanding of EVs-encapsulated miRNAs in reproduction regulation.
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13
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Fan W, Qi Y, Wang Y, Yan H, Li X, Zhang Y. Messenger roles of extracellular vesicles during fertilization of gametes, development and implantation: Recent advances. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1079387. [PMID: 36684431 PMCID: PMC9849778 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1079387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have become a research hotspot in recent years because they act as messengers between cells in the physiological and pathological processes of the human body. It can be produced by the follicle, prostate, embryo, uterus, and oviduct in the reproductive field and exists in the extracellular environment as follicular fluid, semen, uterine cavity fluid, and oviduct fluid. Because extracellular vesicles are more stable at transmitting information, it allows all cells involved in the physiological processes of embryo formation, development, and implantation to communicate with one another. Extracellular vesicles carried miRNAs and proteins as mail, and when the messenger delivers the mail to the recipient cell, the recipient cell undergoes a series of changes. Current research begins with intercepting and decoding the information carried by extracellular vesicles. This information may help us gain a better understanding of the secrets of reproduction, as well as assist reproductive technology as an emerging marker and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weisen Fan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yinghua Qi
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yaqian Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huiting Yan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xuan Li
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yingjie Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Yingjie Zhang,
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14
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Feng X, Meng X, Guo S, Li K, Wang L, Ai J. Identification of key genes and immune cell infiltration in recurrent implantation failure: A study based on integrated analysis of multiple microarray studies. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 88:e13607. [PMID: 35929523 PMCID: PMC9786880 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) refers to a challenging topic in assisted reproductive technology (ART), the etiology of which may be attributed to impaired endometrial receptivity; however, the precise pathogenesis of RIF has not been thoroughly elucidated. METHOD OF STUDY Four RIF microarray datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and integrated by the "sva" R package. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed using the "limma" package and then GO, KEGG, GSEA, and GSVA were applied to perform functional and pathway enrichment analysis. The immune cell infiltration in the RIF process was evaluated by the CIBERSORT algorithm. Finally, the hub genes were identified through the CytoHubba and subsequently verified using two items of external endometrial data. RESULTS 236 genes were differentially expressed in the endometrium of the RIF group. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that the biological functions of DEGs were mainly correlated to the immune-related pathways, including immune response, TNF signaling pathway, complement and coagulation cascades. Among the immune cells, γδ T cells decreased significantly in the endometrium of RIF patients. In addition, the key DEGs such as PTGS2, FGB, MUC1, SST, VCAM1, MMP7, ERBB4, FOLR1, and C3 were screened and identified as the hub genes involved in the pathogenesis of RIF. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal immune response regulation of endometrium contributes to the occurrence of RIF, and γδ T cells may be the pivotal immune cells causing RIF. At the same time, the novel hub genes identified will provide effective targets for the prediction and therapy of RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Feng
- Reproductive Medicine CenterTongji HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubeiChina
| | - Xiaolin Meng
- Reproductive Medicine CenterTongji HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubeiChina
| | - Shuaiqingying Guo
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsTongji HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubeiChina
| | - Kezhen Li
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsTongji HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubeiChina
| | - Lingjuan Wang
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsTongji HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubeiChina
| | - Jihui Ai
- Reproductive Medicine CenterTongji HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubeiChina
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Rudolf Vegas A, Hamdi M, Podico G, Bollwein H, Fröhlich T, Canisso IF, Bauersachs S, Almiñana C. Uterine extracellular vesicles as multi-signal messengers during maternal recognition of pregnancy in the mare. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15616. [PMID: 36114358 PMCID: PMC9481549 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19958-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to other domestic mammals, the embryo-derived signal(s) leading to maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) are still unknow in the mare. We hypothesize that these embryonic signals could be packed into uterine extracellular vesicles (uEVs), acting as multi-signal messengers between the conceptus and the maternal tract, and contributing to MRP. To unveil these signals, the RNA and protein cargos of uEVs isolated from uterine lavages collected from pregnant mares (P; day 10, 11, 12 and 13 after ovulation) and cyclic control mares (C; day 10 and 13 after ovulation) were analyzed. Our results showed a fine-tuned regulation of the uEV cargo (RNAs and proteins), by the day of pregnancy, the estrous cycle, and even the size of the embryo. A particular RNA pattern was identified with specific increase on P12 related to immune system and hormonal response. Besides, a set of proteins as well as RNAs was highly enriched in EVs on P12 and P13. Differential abundance of miRNAs was also identified in P13-derived uEVs. Their target genes were linked to down- or upregulated genes in the embryo and the endometrium, exposing their potential origin. Our study identified for first time specific molecules packed in uEVs, which were previously associated to MRP in the mare, and thus bringing added value to the current knowledge. Further integrative and functional analyses will help to confirm the role of these molecules in uEVs during MRP in the mare.
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16
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Ibañez-Perez J, Díaz-Nuñez M, Clos-García M, Lainz L, Iglesias M, Díez-Zapirain M, Rabanal A, Bárcena L, González M, Lozano JJ, Marigorta UM, González E, Royo F, Aransay AM, Subiran N, Matorras R, Falcón-Pérez JM. microRNA-based signatures obtained from endometrial fluid identify implantative endometrium. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2375-2391. [PMID: 36029522 PMCID: PMC9527456 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it possible to use free and extracellular vesicle-associated microRNAs (miRNAs) from human endometrial fluid (EF) samples as non-invasive biomarkers for implantative endometrium? SUMMARY ANSWER The free and extracellular vesicle-associated miRNAs can be used to detect implantative endometrium in a non-invasive manner. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY miRNAs and extracellular vesicles (EVs) from EF have been described as mediators of the embryo–endometrium crosstalk. Therefore, the analysis of miRNA from this fluid could become a non-invasive technique for recognizing implantative endometrium. This analysis could potentially help improve the implantation rates in ART. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In this prospective study, we first optimized different protocols for EVs and miRNA analyses using the EF of a setup cohort (n = 72). Then, we examined differentially expressed miRNAs in the EF of women with successful embryo implantation (discovery cohort n = 15/validation cohort n = 30) in comparison with those for whom the implantation had failed (discovery cohort n = 15/validation cohort n = 30). Successful embryo implantation was considered when pregnancy was confirmed by vaginal ultrasound showing a gestational sac 4 weeks after embryo transfer (ET). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The EF of the setup cohort was obtained before starting fertility treatment during the natural cycle, 16–21 days after the beginning of menstruation. For the discovery and validation cohorts, the EF was collected from women undergoing frozen ET on Day 5, and the samples were collected immediately before ET. In this study, we compared five different methods; two of them based on direct extraction of RNA and the other three with an EV enrichment step before the RNA extraction. Small RNA sequencing was performed to determine the most efficient method and find a predictive model differentiating between implantative and non-implantative endometrium. The models were confirmed using quantitative PCR in two sets of samples (discovery and validation cohorts) with different implantation outcomes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The protocols using EV enrichment detected more miRNAs than the methods based on direct RNA extraction. The two most efficient protocols (using polymer-based precipitation (PBP): PBP-M and PBP-N) were used to obtain two predictive models (based on three miRNAs) allowing us to distinguish between an implantative and non-implantative endometrium. The first Model 1 (PBP-M) (discovery: AUC = 0.93; P-value = 0.003; validation: AUC = 0.69; P-value = 0.019) used hsa-miR-200b-3p, hsa-miR-24-3p and hsa-miR-148b-3p. Model 2 (PBP-N) (discovery: AUC = 0.92; P-value = 0.0002; validation: AUC = 0.78; P-value = 0.0002) used hsa-miR-200b-3p, hsa-miR-24-3p and hsa-miR-99b-5p. Functional analysis of these miRNAs showed strong association with key implantation processes such as in utero embryonic development or transforming growth factor-beta signaling. LARGE SCALE DATA The FASTQ data are available in the GEO database (access number GSE178917). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION One important factor to consider is the inherent variability among the women involved in the trial and among the transferred embryos. The embryos were pre-selected based on morphology, but neither genetic nor molecular studies were conducted, which would have improved the accuracy of our tests. In addition, a limitation in miRNA library construction is the low amount of input RNA. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We describe new non-invasive protocols to analyze miRNAs from small volumes of EF. These protocols could be implemented in clinical practice to assess the status of the endometrium before attempting ET. Such evaluation could help to avoid the loss of embryos transferred to a non-implantative endometrium. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) J.I.-P. was supported by a predoctoral grant from the Basque Government (PRE_2017_0204). This study was partially funded by the Grant for Fertility Innovation (GFI, 2011) from Merck (Darmstadt, Germany). It was also supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness MINECO within the National Plan RTI2018-094969-B-I00, the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (860303), the Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence Innovative Research Grant (SEV-2016-0644) and the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PI20/01131). The funding entities did not play any role in the study design, collection, analysis and interpretation of data, writing of the report or the decision to submit the article for publication. The authors declare no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jone Ibañez-Perez
- Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barakaldo, Spain.,Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain.,Exosomes Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA, Derio, Spain
| | - María Díaz-Nuñez
- Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barakaldo, Spain.,Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Marc Clos-García
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR), Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lucía Lainz
- Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barakaldo, Spain.,Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - María Iglesias
- Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barakaldo, Spain.,Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Miren Díez-Zapirain
- Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barakaldo, Spain.,Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Aintzane Rabanal
- Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barakaldo, Spain.,Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Laura Bárcena
- Genome Analysis Platform, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA, Derio, Spain
| | | | - Juan J Lozano
- Bioinformatics Platform, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Urko M Marigorta
- Integrative Genomics Lab, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA, Derio, Spain.,IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | | | - Félix Royo
- Exosomes Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA, Derio, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas (CIBEReh), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana M Aransay
- Genome Analysis Platform, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA, Derio, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas (CIBEReh), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nerea Subiran
- Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Roberto Matorras
- Human Reproduction Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barakaldo, Spain.,Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Cruces University Hospital, Barakaldo, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain.,Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (IVI) Bilbao/IVIRMA, Leioa, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Falcón-Pérez
- Exosomes Laboratory, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA, Derio, Spain.,IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas (CIBEReh), Madrid, Spain.,Metabolomics Platform, CIC bioGUNE-BRTA, Derio, Spain
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17
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The role of extracellular vesicles in endometrial receptivity and their potential in reproductive therapeutics and diagnosis. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100645. [PMID: 35594727 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small, nanometre sized, membrane-enclosed structures released by cells and are thought to be crucial in cellular communication. The cargo of these vesicles includes lipids, proteins, RNAs and DNA, and control various biological processes in their target tissues depending on the parental and receiver cell's origin and phenotype. Recently data has accumulated in the role of EVs in embryo implantation and pregnancy, with EVs identified in the uterine cavity of women, sheep, cows, horses, and mice, in which they aid blastocyst and endometrial preparation for implantation. Herein is a critical review to decipher the role of extracellular vesicles in endometrial receptivity and their potential in reproductive therapies and diagnosis. The current knowledge of the function of embryo and endometrial derived EVs and their cargoes, with regards to their effect on implantation and receptivity are summarized and evaluated. The findings of the below review highlight that the combined knowledge on EVs deriving from the endometrium and embryo have the potential to be translated to various clinical applications including treatment, a diagnostic biomarker for diseases and a drug delivery tool to ultimately improve pregnancy rates.
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18
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Barranco I, Salas-Huetos A, Berlanga A, Spinaci M, Yeste M, Ribas-Maynou J. Involvement of extracellular vesicle-encapsulated miRNAs in human reproductive disorders: a systematic review. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:751-775. [PMID: 35527383 DOI: 10.1071/rd21301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as essential players in cell-to-cell communication, particularly having an active regulating role in biological systems. Because reproductive-associated processes are not exempt of this communication, multiple studies have been devoted to this realm, focusing on gamete maturation, embryo implantation or fetal development. The aim of the present review was to comprehensively and systematically collect evidence about the function of the microRNA (miRNA) encapsulated in EVs isolated from different reproductive tissues or fluids in reproductive-related diseases. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search of the literature published in MEDLINE-PubMed until the end of February 2021. After selection, 32 studies were included in the qualitative review comparing the miRNA expression profile in EVs between different pathological disorders. Most reports showed the potential of the miRNAs carried by EVs to be used as putative biomarkers of reproductive disorders, including pregnancy affections, disease progression and quality of preimplantation embryos. The most relevant miRNAs were found to be highly heterogeneous among studies, with some conflicting results. Further research is thus warranted to address whether cofounding factors, such as the methods to isolate EVs and miRNAs, the subset of EVs, the criteria of patient selection, the timing of sample retrieval, or any other factor, may explain the inconsistencies between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Barranco
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Albert Salas-Huetos
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Angel Berlanga
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Marcella Spinaci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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Sun B, Yeh J. Non-Invasive and Mechanism-Based Molecular Assessment of Endometrial Receptivity During the Window of Implantation: Current Concepts and Future Prospective Testing Directions. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:863173. [PMID: 36303672 PMCID: PMC9580756 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.863173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Suboptimal endometrial receptivity and altered embryo-endometrial crosstalk account for approximately two-thirds of human implantation failures. Current tests of the window of implantation, such as endometrial thickness measurements and the endometrial receptivity assay, do not consistently improve clinical outcomes as measured by live birth rates. Understanding the mechanisms regulating the endometrial receptivity during the window of implantation is a critical step toward developing clinically meaningful tests. In this narrative review, the available literature is evaluated regarding mechanisms that regulate the endometrial receptivity during the window of implantation and the current tests developed. Overall, both animal and human studies point to five possible and interrelated mechanisms regulating the endometrial window of implantation: suitable synchrony between endometrial cells, adequate synchrony between the endometrium and the embryo, standard progesterone signaling and endometrial responses to progesterone, silent genetic variations, and typical morphological characteristics of the endometrial glands. The biological basis of current clinical markers or tests of window of implantation is poor. Future studies to elucidate the mechanisms shaping the window of implantation and to investigate the potential markers based on these mechanisms are required. In addition, molecular testing of the endometrium at single-cell resolution should be an initial step toward developing clinically meaningful tests for the optimal window of implantation. As understanding of the optimal window of implantation continues to evolve, one can envision the future development of non-invasive, mechanism-based testing of the window of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Sun
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - John Yeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, UMass Memorial Medical Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: John Yeh
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20
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Skryabin GO, Komelkov AV, Zhordania KI, Bagrov DV, Vinokurova SV, Galetsky SA, Elkina NV, Denisova DA, Enikeev AD, Tchevkina EM. Extracellular Vesicles from Uterine Aspirates Represent a Promising Source for Screening Markers of Gynecologic Cancers. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071064. [PMID: 35406627 PMCID: PMC8997481 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, are key factors of intercellular communication, performing both local and distant transfers of bioactive molecules. The increasingly obvious role of EVs in carcinogenesis, similarity of molecular signatures with parental cells, precise selection and high stability of cargo molecules make exosomes a promising source of liquid biopsy markers for cancer diagnosis. The uterine cavity fluid, unlike blood, urine and other body fluids commonly used to study EVs, is of local origin and therefore enriched in EVs secreted by cells of the female reproductive tract. Here, we show that EVs, including those corresponding to exosomes, could be isolated from individual samples of uterine aspirates (UA) obtained from epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients and healthy donors using the ultracentrifugation technique. First, the conducted profiling of small RNAs (small RNA-seq) from UA-derived EVs demonstrated the presence of non-coding RNA molecules belonging to various classes. The analysis of the miRNA content in EVs from UA performed on a pilot sample revealed significant differences in the expression levels of a number of miRNAs in EVs obtained from EOC patients compared to healthy individuals. The results open up prospects for using UA-derived EVs as a source of markers for the diagnostics of gynecological cancers, including EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gleb O. Skryabin
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Andrey V. Komelkov
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-926-482-9147
| | - Kirill I. Zhordania
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Dmitry V. Bagrov
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 1/12, 111234 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Svetlana V. Vinokurova
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Sergey A. Galetsky
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Nadezhda V. Elkina
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Darya A. Denisova
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Adel D. Enikeev
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Elena M. Tchevkina
- Institute of Carcinogenesis, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Kashirskoye sh. 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (G.O.S.); (K.I.Z.); (S.V.V.); (S.A.G.); (N.V.E.); (D.A.D.); (A.D.E.); (E.M.T.)
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21
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Zuccarello D, Sorrentino U, Brasson V, Marin L, Piccolo C, Capalbo A, Andrisani A, Cassina M. Epigenetics of pregnancy: looking beyond the DNA code. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:801-816. [PMID: 35301622 PMCID: PMC9050975 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02451-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is the branch of genetics that studies the different mechanisms that influence gene expression without direct modification of the DNA sequence. An ever-increasing amount of evidence suggests that such regulatory processes may play a pivotal role both in the initiation of pregnancy and in the later processes of embryonic and fetal development, thus determining long-term effects even in adult life. In this narrative review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of epigenetics in pregnancy, from its most studied and well-known mechanisms to the new frontiers of epigenetic regulation, such as the role of ncRNAs and the effects of the gestational environment on fetal brain development. Epigenetic mechanisms in pregnancy are a dynamic phenomenon that responds both to maternal-fetal and environmental factors, which can influence and modify the embryo-fetal development during the various gestational phases. Therefore, we also recapitulate the effects of the most notable environmental factors that can affect pregnancy and prenatal development, such as maternal nutrition, stress hormones, microbiome, and teratogens, focusing on their ability to cause epigenetic modifications in the gestational environment and ultimately in the fetus. Despite the promising advancements in the knowledge of epigenetics in pregnancy, more experience and data on this topic are still needed. A better understanding of epigenetic regulation in pregnancy could in fact prove valuable towards a better management of both physiological pregnancies and assisted reproduction treatments, other than allowing to better comprehend the origin of multifactorial pathological conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Zuccarello
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - Ugo Sorrentino
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Valeria Brasson
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Loris Marin
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Piccolo
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Andrisani
- Gynaecological Clinic, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Cassina
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
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22
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Segura-Benítez M, Carbajo-García MC, Corachán A, Faus A, Pellicer A, Ferrero H. Proteomic analysis of extracellular vesicles secreted by primary human epithelial endometrial cells reveals key proteins related to embryo implantation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:3. [PMID: 34980157 PMCID: PMC8722215 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00879-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful implantation is dependent on coordination between maternal endometrium and embryo, and the role of EVs in the required cross-talk cell-to-cell has been recently established. In this regard, it has been reported that EVs secreted by the maternal endometrium can be internalized by human trophoblastic cells transferring their contents and enhancing their adhesive and invasive capacity. This is the first study to comprehensively evaluate three EV isolation methods on human endometrial epithelial cells in culture and to describe the proteomic content of EVs secreted by pHEECs from fertile women. METHODS Ishikawa cells and pHEECs were in vitro cultured and hormonally treated; subsequently, conditioned medium was collected and EVs isolated. Ishikawa cells were used for the comparison of EVs isolation methods ultracentrifugation, ExoQuick-TC and Norgen Cell Culture Media Exosome Purification Kit (n = 3 replicates/isolation method). pHEECs were isolated from endometrial biopsies (n = 8/replicate; 3 replicates) collected from healthy oocyte donors with confirmed fertility, and protein content of EVs isolated by the most efficient methodology was analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. EV concentration and size were analyzed by nanoparticle tracking analysis, EV morphology visualized by transmission electron microscopy and protein marker expression was determined by Western blotting. RESULTS Ultracentrifugation was the most efficient methodology for EV isolation from medium of endometrial epithelial cells. EVs secreted by pHEECs and isolated by ultracentrifugation were heterogeneous in size and expressed EV protein markers HSP70, TSG101, CD9, and CD81. Proteomic analysis identified 218 proteins contained in these EVs enriched in biological processes involved in embryo implantation, including cell adhesion, differentiation, communication, migration, extracellular matrix organization, vasculature development, and reproductive processes. From these proteins, 82 were selected based on their functional relevance in implantation success as possible implantation biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS EV protein cargos are implicated in biological processes related to endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, and early embryo development, supporting the concept of a communication system between the embryo and the maternal endometrium via EVs. Identified proteins may define new biomarkers of endometrial receptivity and implantation success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Segura-Benítez
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia Y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - María Cristina Carbajo-García
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia Y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Corachán
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia Y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Faus
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.
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23
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Salamonsen LA. Menstrual Fluid Factors Mediate Endometrial Repair. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:779979. [PMID: 36304016 PMCID: PMC9580638 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.779979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Menstruation is a process whereby the outer functionalis layer of the endometrium is shed each month in response to falling progesterone and estrogen levels in a non-conception cycle. Simultaneously with the tissue breakdown, the surface is re-epithelialized, protecting the wound from infection. Once menstruation is complete and estrogen levels start to rise, regeneration progresses throughout the proliferative phase of the cycle, to fully restore endometrial thickness. Endometrial repair is unique compared to tissue repair elsewhere in the adult, in that it is rapid, scar-free and occurs around 400 times during each modern woman's reproductive life. The shedding tissue and that undergoing repair is bathed in menstrual fluid, which contains live cells, cellular debris, fragments of extracellular matrix, activated leukocytes and their products, soluble cellular components and extracellular vesicles. Proteomic and other analyses have revealed some detail of these components. Menstrual fluid, along with a number of individual proteins enhances epithelial cell migration to cover the wound. This is shown in endometrial epithelial and keratinocyte cell culture models, in an ex vivo decellularized skin model and in pig wounds in vivo. Thus, the microenvironment provided by menstrual fluid, is likely responsible for the unique rapid and scar-free repair of this remarkable tissue. Insight gained from analysis of this fluid is likely to be of value not only for treating endometrial bleeding problems but also in providing potential new therapies for poorly repairing wounds such as those seen in the aged and in diabetics.
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24
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Xie Y, Liu G, Zang X, Hu Q, Zhou C, Li Y, Liu D, Hong L. Differential Expression Pattern of Goat Uterine Fluids Extracellular Vesicles miRNAs during Peri-Implantation. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092308. [PMID: 34571957 PMCID: PMC8470123 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Early pregnancy failure occurs when a mature embryo attaches to an unreceptive endometrium. During the formation of a receptive endometrium, extracellular vesicles (EVs) of the uterine fluids (UFs) deliver regulatory molecules such as small RNAs to mediate intrauterine communication between the embryo and the endometrium. However, profiling of small RNAs in goat UFs’ EVs during pregnancy recognition (day 16) has not been carried out. In this study, EVs were isolated from UFs on day 16 of the estrous cycle or gestation. They were isolated by Optiprep™ Density G radient (ODG) and verified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and Western blotting. Immunostaining demonstrated that CD63 was present both in the endometrial epithelium and glandular epithelium, and stain intensity was greater in the pregnant endometrium compared to the non-pregnant endometrium. Small RNA sequencing revealed that UFs’ EVs contained numerous sRNA families and a total of 106 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs). Additionally, 1867 target genes of the DEMs were obtained, and miRNA–mRNA interaction networks were constructed. GO and KEGG analysis showed that miRNAs were significantly associated with the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation. In addition, the fluorescence in situ hybridization assay (FISH) showed that chi-miR-451-5p was mainly expressed in stromal cells of the endometrium and a higher level was detected in the endometrial luminal epithelium in pregnant states. Moreover, the dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that chi-miR-451-5p directly binds to PSMB8 and may play an important role in the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation. In conclusion, these results reveal that UFs’ EVs contain various small RNAs that may be vital in the formation of a receptive endometrium and embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Guangbin Liu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xupeng Zang
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qun Hu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chen Zhou
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaokun Li
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Dewu Liu
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (L.H.)
| | - Linjun Hong
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.X.); (G.L.); (X.Z.); (Q.H.); (C.Z.); (Y.L.)
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Livestock and Poutry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (L.H.)
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25
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Klimczak AM, Franasiak JM. Peering into the window of receptivity: extracellular vesicles containing small noncoding RNAs as potential biomarkers. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1185-1186. [PMID: 33933177 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amber M Klimczak
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, New Jersey; Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jason M Franasiak
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, New Jersey; Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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26
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Long Y, Wang YC, Yuan DZ, Dai XH, Liao LC, Zhang XQ, Zhang LX, Ma YD, Lei Y, Cui ZH, Zhang JH, Nie L, Yue LM. GLUT4 in Mouse Endometrial Epithelium: Roles in Embryonic Development and Implantation. Front Physiol 2021; 12:674924. [PMID: 34248664 PMCID: PMC8267529 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.674924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
GLUT4 is involved in rapid glucose uptake among various kinds of cells to contribute to glucose homeostasis. Prior data have reported that aberrant glucose metabolism by GLUT4 dysfunction in the uterus could be responsible for infertility and increased miscarriage. However, the expression and precise functions of GLUT4 in the endometrium under physiological conditions remain unknown or controversial. In this study, we observed that GLUT4 exhibits a spatiotemporal expression in mouse uterus on pregnant days 1–4; its expression especially increased on pregnant day 4 during the window of implantation. We also determined that estrogen, in conjunction with progesterone, promotes the expression of GLUT4 in the endometrial epithelium in vivo or in vitro. GLUT4 is an important transporter that mediates glucose transport in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) in vitro or in vivo. In vitro, glucose uptake decreased in mouse EECs when the cells were treated with GLUT4 small interfering RNA (siRNA). In vivo, the injection of GLUT4-siRNA into one side of the mouse uterine horns resulted in an increased glucose concentration in the uterine fluid on pregnant day 4, although it was still lower than in blood, and impaired endometrial receptivity by inhibiting pinopode formation and the expressions of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and integrin ανβ3, finally affecting embryonic development and implantation. Overall, the obtained results indicate that GLUT4 in the endometrial epithelium affects embryo development by altering glucose concentration in the uterine fluid. It can also affect implantation by impairing endometrial receptivity due to dysfunction of GLUT4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Long
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Physiology, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi-Cheng Wang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dong-Zhi Yuan
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin-Hua Dai
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin-Chuan Liao
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xue-Qin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-Xue Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong-Dan Ma
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Lei
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhi-Hui Cui
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin-Hu Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Nie
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-Min Yue
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Huang JH, Duan H, Wang S, Wang YY, Lv CX. Upregulated microRNA let-7a accelerates apoptosis and inhibits proliferation in uterine junctional zone smooth muscle cells in adenomyosis under conditions of a normal activated hippo-YAP1 axis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:81. [PMID: 34082774 PMCID: PMC8173847 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00753-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Let-7a is a small non-coding RNA that has been found to take part in cell proliferation and apoptosis. The hippo-YAP1 axis, known as a tumour suppressor pathway, also plays an important role in cell proliferation and apoptosis. YAP1, TAZ, and phospho-YAP1 play key roles in actions of the hippo-YAP1 axis. Adenomyosis (ADS) is a proliferative disease leading to a large uterus in patients with prolonged illness. Abnormal proliferation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in the uterine endometrial-myometrial junctional zone (JZ) is an important reason for developing ADS. This study aimed to explore the expression levels of let-7a and components of the hippo-YAP1 axis in SMCs in the uterine endometrial-myometrial JZ in ADS and to explore the roles of let-7a and the hippo-YAP1 axis of JZ SMC proliferation and apoptosis in ADS. METHODS We collected JZ tissues for the primary culture of SMCs from 25 women diagnosed with ADS and 27 women without ADS. We used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting to measure the mRNA and protein expression levels of let-7a, YAP1, TAZ, and phospho-YAP1 in ADS JZ SMCs. A CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry analysis of apoptosis were utilized to test the proliferation and apoptosis of JZ SMCs. The let-7a overexpression lentiviral vector GV280 was used to increase the expression level of let-7a. We added verteporfin to block the phosphorylation of components of the hippo-YAP1 axis. RESULTS We found that the let-7a level was decreased, while the YAP1 and TAZ levels were increased in ADS JZ SMCs. Upregulated let-7a affected the expression levels of components of the hippo-YAP1 axis, accelerated apoptosis, and inhibited proliferation in JZ SMCs. Furthermore, accumulated YAP1 led to increasing proliferation of JZ SMCs after verteporfin treatment to block the phosphorylation of components of the hippo-YAP1 axis. If components of the hippo-YAP1 axis were unphosphorylated, upregulated let-7a could not inhibit the proliferation of ADS JZ SMCs. Upregulated let-7a could not activate the hippo-YAP1 axis in verteporfin treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the let-7a and hippo-YAP1 axis may act as important regulators of JZ SMCs proliferation, and upregulated let-7a may be an effective method to treat ADS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hua Huang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng, Beijing, 100006, P.R. China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng, Beijing, 100006, P.R. China.
| | - Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng, Beijing, 100006, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Yi Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng, Beijing, 100006, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Xiao Lv
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, 17 Qi Helou Road, Dong Cheng, Beijing, 100006, P.R. China
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