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Zhao H, Jin L, Huang K, Zhong K, Zhou Y, Xu Y, Zhu Q, Zhou J, Tang J, Luo Q, Guo J, Zhang D, Chen G. Associations between metal/metalloid exposure during pregnancy and placental growth characteristics: Findings from the Hangzhou birth cohort study II. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 263:114470. [PMID: 39342751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2024.114470] [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: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested that metal/metalloid (hereafter referred to as metal) exposure may influence placental growth by affecting gene expression in the placenta. However, no epidemiological studies have been conducted to validate the relationships between metals exposure, placental gene expression, and placental growth at the population level. This study aims to investigate these relationships based on Hangzhou birth cohort study II (HBCS-II). Totally, 1025 participants were derived from HBCS-II. Thirteen metals levels in the placenta were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Placental growth characteristics were assessed, including placental weight, chorionic disc area, placental eccentricity, and distance from cord insertion site to the nearest edge of placenta (DCIEP). The relationships between metals exposure and placental growth characteristics were examined using the elastic net model combined unpenalized linear regression model. Placental gene expression levels were analyzed through RNA sequencing and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and mediation analysis was conducted to investigate whether placental gene expression could mediate the relationship between metal exposure and placental growth. Notably, the results showed that a unite increase in Ln-transformed cadmium (Cd) levels was associated with a reduction of 16.4 g [95% confidence interval (CI): 31.2, -1.5] in placental weight, 13.9 cm2 (95%CI: 20.0, -7.8) in chorionic disc area, and 0.3 cm (95%CI: 0.55, -0.06) in DCIEP. Through RNA sequencing followed by validation, significant associations were observed between placental Cd level and increased expression of placental genes, including TNFAIP2, OLAH, FLT4, SH3PXD2A, LIMCH1, BCL6, SLCO2A1, and CPSF1. Additionally, increased placental TNFAIP2, OLAH, FLT4, SH3PXD2A and LIMCH1 expression was linked to reduced placental weight. Moreover, SH3PXD2A was associated with decreased chorionic disc area. Mediation analysis showed that placental Cd level was associated with a 12.0 g (95%CI: 23.8, -2.7) decrease in placental weight mediated through the upregulation of FTL4 gene expression. The study provides evidence of the association between placental Cd exposure and decreased placental weight, and the FLT4 gene may play a mediating role in this relationship. Future experiment studies should be performed to validate the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhao
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, School of Basic Medicine, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, China
| | - Lanfei Jin
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kegui Huang
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kunhong Zhong
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yexinyi Zhou
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qinheng Zhu
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiena Zhou
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiong Luo
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), and Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), and Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), and Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guangdi Chen
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), and Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Public Health, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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Sardar F, Kamsani YS, Ramly F, Mohamed Noor Khan NA, Sardar R, Aminuddin AA. Cadmium Associated Preeclampsia: A Systematic Literature Review of Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04364-5. [PMID: 39256331 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04364-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE), caused by multiple factors, is one of the most serious complications of pregnancy. Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal environmental pollutant, reproductive toxicant, and endocrine disruptor, which can increase the risk of PE. Cd toxicity due to occupational, diet, and environmental factors has worsened the risk. Studies showed elevated Cd concentration in maternal blood and placenta of PE women. However, the implicit association between Cd associated PE is still not highlighted. We systematically reviewed Cd-associated PE and its effect on pregnancy and birth outcomes. Based on "Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA)" guidelines, eighty-six studies were identified by PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), and Scopus databases. Publications were included until October 2023 and articles screened based on our inclusion criteria. Our study identified that the exposure of controlled and uncontrolled Cd induces PE, which negatively affects pregnancy and birth outcomes. Given the serious nature of this finding, Cd is a potential adverse agent that impacts pregnancy and future neonatal health. Further comprehensive studies covering the whole trimesters of pregnancy and neonatal developments are warranted. Data on the molecular mechanisms behind Cd-induced PE is also essential for potential preventive, diagnostic, or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Sardar
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yuhaniza Shafinie Kamsani
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Maternofetal and Embryo (MatE) Research Group, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Fathi Ramly
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nor Ashikin Mohamed Noor Khan
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Maternofetal and Embryo (MatE) Research Group, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Razia Sardar
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Anisa Aishah Aminuddin
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
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Park S, Hunter ES. Modeling the human placenta: in vitro applications in developmental and reproductive toxicology. Crit Rev Toxicol 2024; 54:431-464. [PMID: 39016688 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2295349] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
During its temporary tenure, the placenta has extensive and specialized functions that are critical for pre- and post-natal development. The consequences of chemical exposure in utero can have profound effects on the structure and function of pregnancy-associated tissues and the life-long health of the birthing person and their offspring. However, the toxicological importance and critical functions of the placenta to embryonic and fetal development and maturation have been understudied. This narrative will review early placental development in humans and highlight some in vitro models currently in use that are or can be applied to better understand placental processes underlying developmental toxicity due to in utero environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Park
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), Oak Ridge, TN, USA
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, ORD, US EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Edward Sidney Hunter
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, ORD, US EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Lopez I, Truskey GA. Multi-cellular engineered living systems to assess reproductive toxicology. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 127:108609. [PMID: 38759876 PMCID: PMC11179964 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108609] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Toxicants and some drugs can negatively impact reproductive health. Many toxicants haven't been tested due to lack of available models. The impact of many drugs taken during pregnancy to address maternal health may adversely affect fetal development with life-long effects and clinical trials do not examine toxicity effects on the maternal-fetal interface, requiring indirect assessment of safety and efficacy. Due to current gaps in reproductive toxicological knowledge and limitations of animal models, multi-cellular engineered living systems may provide solutions for modeling reproductive physiology and pathology for chemical and xenobiotic toxicity studies. Multi-cellular engineered living systems, such as microphysiological systems (MPS) and organoids, model of functional units of tissues. In this review, we highlight the key functions and structures of human reproductive organs and well-known representative toxicants afflicting these systems. We then discuss current approaches and specific studies where scientists have used MPS or organoids to recreate in vivo markers and cellular responses of the female and male reproductive system, as well as pregnancy-associated placenta formation and embryo development. We provide specific examples of organoids and organ-on-chip that have been used for toxicological purposes with varied success. Finally, we address current issues related to usage of MPS, emerging techniques for improving upon these complications, and improvements needed to make MPS more capable in assessing reproductive toxicology. Overall, multi-cellular engineered living systems have considerable promise to serve as a suitable, alternative reproductive biological model compared to animal studies and 2D culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lopez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - George A Truskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States.
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Deng ZM, Dai FF, Wang RQ, Deng HB, Yin TL, Cheng YX, Chen GT. Organ-on-a-chip: future of female reproductive pathophysiological models. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:455. [PMID: 39085921 PMCID: PMC11290169 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02651-w] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The female reproductive system comprises the internal and external genitalia, which communicate through intricate endocrine pathways. Besides secreting hormones that maintain the female secondary sexual characteristics, it also produces follicles and offspring. However, the in vitro systems have been very limited in recapitulating the specific anatomy and pathophysiology of women. Organ-on-a-chip technology, based on microfluidics, can better simulate the cellular microenvironment in vivo, opening a new field for the basic and clinical research of female reproductive system diseases. This technology can not only reconstruct the organ structure but also emulate the organ function as much as possible. The precisely controlled fluidic microenvironment provided by microfluidics vividly mimics the complex endocrine hormone crosstalk among various organs of the female reproductive system, making it a powerful preclinical tool and the future of pathophysiological models of the female reproductive system. Here, we review the research on the application of organ-on-a-chip platforms in the female reproductive systems, focusing on the latest progress in developing models that reproduce the physiological functions or disease features of female reproductive organs and tissues, and highlighting the challenges and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Min Deng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Fang-Fang Dai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Rui-Qi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Hong-Bing Deng
- Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, School of Resource and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Tai-Lang Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China.
| | - Yan-Xiang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China.
| | - Gan-Tao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China.
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Kim S, Lam PY, Richardson LS, Menon R, Han A. A dynamic flow fetal membrane organ-on-a-chip system for modeling the effects of amniotic fluid motion. Biomed Microdevices 2024; 26:32. [PMID: 38963644 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-024-00714-1] [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] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Fetal membrane (amniochorion), the innermost lining of the intrauterine cavity, surround the fetus and enclose amniotic fluid. Unlike unidirectional blood flow, amniotic fluid subtly rocks back and forth, and thus, the innermost amnion epithelial cells are continuously exposed to low levels of shear stress from fluid undulation. Here, we tested the impact of fluid motion on amnion epithelial cells (AECs) as a bearer of force impact and their potential vulnerability to cytopathologic changes that can destabilize fetal membrane functions. A previously developed amnion membrane (AM) organ-on-chip (OOC) was utilized but with dynamic flow to culture human fetal amnion membrane cells. The applied flow was modulated to perfuse culture media back and forth for 48 h to mimic fluid motion. A static culture condition was used as a negative control, and oxidative stress (OS) condition was used as a positive control representing pathophysiological changes. The impacts of fluidic motion were evaluated by measuring cell viability, cellular transition, and inflammation. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging was performed to observe microvilli formation. The results show that regardless of the applied flow rate, AECs and AMCs maintained their viability, morphology, innate meta-state, and low production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. E-cadherin expression and microvilli formation in the AECs were upregulated in a flow rate-dependent fashion; however, this did not impact cellular morphology or cellular transition or inflammation. OS treatment induced a mesenchymal morphology, significantly higher vimentin to cytokeratin 18 (CK-18) ratio, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production in AECs, whereas AMCs did not respond in any significant manner. Fluid motion and shear stress, if any, did not impact AEC cell function and did not cause inflammation. Thus, when using an amnion membrane OOC model, the inclusion of a dynamic flow environment is not necessary to mimic in utero physiologic cellular conditions of an amnion membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Po Yi Lam
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Lauren S Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
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Menon R, Richardson L, Kammala AK. New approach methods on the bench side to accelerate clinical trials during pregnancy. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2024; 20:555-560. [PMID: 38739076 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2024.2353944] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pregnant women are therapeutic orphans as they are excluded from clinical drug development and therapeutic trials. We identify limitations in conducting clinical trials and propose two 'New Approach Methods'(NAMs) to overcome them. AREAS COVERED NAMs have proven invaluable tools in basic and clinical research to understand human health and disease better, elucidate mechanisms, and study the efficacy and toxicity of therapeutics that have not been possible through animal-based methodologies. The lack of humanized experimental models of FMi and drugs that can safely and effectively cross FMi to reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy has hindered progress in the field of reproductive pharmacology. This report discusses two technological advancements in perinatal research and medicine to accelerate clinical trials during pregnancy. (1) We have developed a humanized microphysiologic system, an Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platform, to study FMi and their utility in pharmacological studies, and (2) use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as drug delivery vehicles that are immunologically inert and can cross the fetomaternal barriers. EXPERT OPINION We provide an overview of NAMs that can accelerate preclinical trials and develop drugs to cross the feto-maternal barriers to reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
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Safarzadeh M, Richardson LS, Kammala AK, Mosebarger A, Bettayeb M, Kim S, Lam PY, Radnaa E, Han A, Menon R. A multi-organ, feto-maternal interface organ-on-chip, models pregnancy pathology and is a useful preclinical extracellular vesicle drug trial platform. EXTRACELLULAR VESICLE 2024; 3:100035. [PMID: 38872854 PMCID: PMC11175617 DOI: 10.1016/j.vesic.2024.100035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Pregnant women and their fetuses are often excluded from clinical trials due to missing drug-related pre-clinical trial information at the human feto-maternal interface (FMi). The two interfaces-placenta/decidua and fetal membranes/decidua are gatekeepers of drug transport; however, testing their functions is impractical during pregnancy. Limitations of current in-vivo/in-vitro models have hampered drug development and testing during pregnancy. Hence, major complications like preterm births and maternal and neonatal mortalities remain high. Advancements in organ-on-chip (OOC) platforms to test drug kinetics and efficacy and novel extracellular vesicle-based fetal drug delivery are expected to accelerate preclinical trials related to pregnancy complications. Here we report the development and testing of a humanized multi-organ fetal membrane/placenta (fetal)-decidua (maternal) interface OOC (FMi-PLA-OOC) that contains seven cell types interconnected through microchannels to maintain intercellular interactions as seen in-utero. Cytotoxicity, propagation, mechanism of action, and efficacy of engineered extracellular vesicles containing anti-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-10 (eIL-10) were evaluated to reduce FMi inflammation associated with preterm birth. A healthy and disease model (lipopolysaccharide-infectious inflammation) of the FMi-PLA-OOC was created and co-treated with eIL-10. eIL-10 propagated from the maternal to fetal side within 72-hours, localized in all cell types, showed no cytotoxicity, activated IL-10 signaling pathways, and reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation (minimized NF-kB activation and proinflammatory cytokine production). These data recapitulated eIL-10s' ability to reduce inflammation and delay infection-associated preterm birth in mouse models, suggesting FMi-PLA-OOC as an alternative approach to using animal models. Additionally, we report the utility of eIL-10 that can traverse through FMis to reduce inflammation-associated pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody Safarzadeh
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Angela Mosebarger
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Mohamed Bettayeb
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Po Yi Lam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Kim S, Lam PY, Richardson L, Menon R, Han A. A Dynamic Flow Fetal Membrane Organ-on-a-Chip System for Modeling the Effects of Amniotic Fluid Motion. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4372328. [PMID: 38798515 PMCID: PMC11118697 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4372328/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Fetal membrane(amniochorion), the innermost lining of the intrauterine cavity, surround the fetus and enclose amniotic fluid. Unlike unidirectional blood flow, amniotic fluid subtly rocks back and forth, and thus, the innermost amnion epithelial cells are continuously exposed to low levels of shear stress from fluid undulation. Here, we tested the impact of fluid motion on amnion epithelial cells (AECs) as a bearer of force impact and their potential vulnerability to cytopathologic changes that can destabilize fetal membrane functions. An amnion membrane (AM) organ-on-chip (OOC) was utilized to culture human fetal amnion membrane cells. The applied flow was modulated to perfuse culture media back and forth for 48 hours flow culture to mimic fluid motion. Static culture condition was used as a negative control, and oxidative stress (OS) condition was used as a positive control for pathophysiological changes. The impacts of fluidic motion were evaluated by measuring cell viability, cellular transition, and inflammation. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging was performed to observe microvilli formation. The results show that regardless of the applied flow rate, AECs and AMCs maintained their viability, morphology, innate meta-state, and low production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. E-cadherin expression and microvilli formation in the AECs were upregulated in a flow rate-dependent fashion; however, this did not impact cellular morphology or cellular transition or inflammation. OS treatment induced a mesenchymal morphology, significantly higher vimentin to CK-18 ratio, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production in AECs, whereas AMCs did not respond in any significant manner. Fluid motion and shear stress, if any, did not impact AEC cell function and did not cause inflammation. Thus, when using an amnion membrane OOC model, the inclusion of a flow culture environment is not necessary to mimic any in utero physiologic cellular conditions of fetal membrane-derived cells.
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Du XY, Yang JY. Biomimetic microfluidic chips for toxicity assessment of environmental pollutants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 919:170745. [PMID: 38340832 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Various types of pollutants widely present in environmental media, including synthetic and natural chemicals, physical pollutants such as radioactive substances, ultraviolet rays, and noise, as well as biological organisms, pose a huge threat to public health. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately and effectively explore the human physiological responses and toxicity mechanisms of pollutants to prevent diseases caused by pollutants. The emerging toxicological testing method biomimetic microfluidic chips (BMCs) exhibit great potential in environmental pollutant toxicity assessment due to their superior biomimetic properties. The BMCs are divided into cell-on-chips and organ-on-chips based on the distinctions in bionic simulation levels. Herein, we first summarize the characteristics, emergence and development history, composition and structure, and application fields of BMCs. Then, with a focus on the toxicity mechanisms of pollutants, we review the applications and advances of the BMCs in the toxicity assessment of physical, chemical, and biological pollutants, respectively, highlighting its potential and development prospects in environmental toxicology testing. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for further use of BMCs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Du
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jin-Yan Yang
- College of Architecture and Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China..
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Cosi Bento GF, Guimarães da Silva M, Menon R, Richardson LS. Feto-Maternal Interface Organ-on-Chip: A New Technology to Study Ascending Infection. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2781:105-117. [PMID: 38502447 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3746-3_10] [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] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Modeling human pregnancy is challenging as two subjects, the mother and fetus, must be evaluated in tandem. To understand pregnancy, parturition, and adverse pregnancy outcomes, the two feto-maternal interfaces (FMi) that form during gestation (i.e., the placenta and fetal membrane) need to be investigated to understand their biological roles, and organ dysfunction can lead to adverse outcomes. Adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm rupture of the membranes, spontaneous preterm birth, preeclampsia, intra-uterine growth restriction, and gestational diabetes rates are on the rise worldwide, highlighting the need for future studies and a better understanding of molecular and cellular pathways that contribute to disease onset. Current in vivo animal models nor in vitro cell culture systems can answer these questions as they do not model the function or structure of human FMis. Utilizing microfabrication and soft-lithography techniques, microfluidic organ-on-chip (OOC) devices have been adapted by many fields to model the anatomy and biological function of complex organs and organ systems within small in vitro platforms.These techniques have been adapted to recreate the fetal membrane FMi (FMi-OOC) using immortalized cells and collagen derived from patient samples. The FMi-OOC is a four-cell culture chamber, concentric circle system, that contains both fetal (amniochorion) and maternal (decidua) cellular layers and has been validated to model physiological and pathological states of pregnancy (i.e., ascending infection, systemic oxidative stress, and maternal toxicant exposure). This platform is fully compatible with various analytical methods such as microscopy and biochemical analysis. This protocol will outline this device's fabrication, cell loading, and utility to model ascending infection-related adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine , The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine , The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren S Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine , The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA.
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Menon R, Muglia LJ, Levin LH. Review on new approach methods to gain insight into the feto-maternal interface physiology. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1304002. [PMID: 38098843 PMCID: PMC10720461 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1304002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-human animals represent a large and important feature in the history of biomedical research. The validity of their use, in terms of reproducible outcomes and translational confidence to the human situation, as well as ethical concerns surrounding that use, have been and remain controversial topics. Over the last 10 years, the communities developing microphysiological systems (MPS) have produced new approach method (NAMs) such as organoids and organs-on-a-chip. These alternative methodologies have shown indications of greater reliability and translatability than animal use in some areas, represent more humane substitutions for animals in these settings, and - with continued scientific effort - may change the conduct of basic research, clinical studies, safety testing, and drug development. Here, we present an introduction to these more human-relevant methodologies and suggest how a suite of pregnancy associated feto-maternal interface system-oriented NAMs may be integrated as reliable partial-/full animal replacements for investigators, significantly aid animal-/environmental welfare, and improve healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Louis J. Muglia
- The Burroughs Wellcome Fund, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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Bento GFC, Richardson L, da Silva MG, Tantengco OAG, Menon R. Modeling an ascending infection by Ureaplasma parvum and its cell signaling and inflammatory response at the feto-maternal interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13770. [PMID: 37766409 PMCID: PMC10571092 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Ascending bacterial infection is associated with ∼ 40% of spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), and Ureaplasma spp. is one of the most common bacteria isolated from the amniotic fluid. Developing novel in vitro models that mimic in vivo uterine physiology is essential to study microbial pathogenesis. We utilized the feto-maternal interface organ-on-chip (FMi-OOC) device and determined the propagation of Ureaplasma parvum, and its impact on cell signaling and inflammation. METHOD OF STUDY FMi-OOC is a microphysiologic device mimicking fetal membrane/decidua interconnected through microchannels. The impact of resident decidual CD45+ leukocytes was also determined by incorporating them into the decidual chamber in different combinations with U. parvum. We tested the propagation of live U. parvum from the decidual to the amniochorion membranes (immunocytochemistry and quantitative PCR), determined its impact on cytotoxicity (LDH assay), cell signaling (JESSTM Western Blot), cellular transition (immunostaining for vimentin and cytokeratin), and inflammation (cytokine bead array). RESULTS U. parvum transversed the chorion and reached the amnion epithelium after 72 hours but did not induce cell signaling kinases (p38MAPK and JNK) activation, or cellular transition (epithelial-mesenchymal), regardless of the presence of immune cells. The inflammatory response was limited to the choriodecidual interface and did not promote inflammation in the amnion layer. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that U. parvum is poorly immunogenic and does not produce massive inflammatory changes at the feto-maternal interface. We speculate that the presence of U. parvum may still compromise the feto-maternal interface making it susceptible to other pathogenic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lauren Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | | | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Biology, College of Science, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, United States of America
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Richardson L, Kammala AK, Kim S, Lam PY, Truong N, Radnaa E, Urrabaz-Garza R, Han A, Menon R. Development of oxidative stress-associated disease models using feto-maternal interface organ-on-a-chip. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23000. [PMID: 37249377 PMCID: PMC10259454 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300531r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation arising from cellular derangements at the fetal membrane-decidual interface (feto-maternal interface [FMi]) is a major antecedent to preterm birth (PTB). However, it is impractical to study OS-associated FMi disease state during human pregnancy, and thus it is difficult to develop strategies to reduce the incidences of PTB. A microfluidic organ-on-chip model (FMi-OOC) that mimics the in vivo structure and functions of FMi in vitro was developed to address this challenge. The FMi-OOC contained fetal (amnion epithelial, mesenchymal, and chorion) and maternal (decidua) cells cultured in four compartments interconnected by arrays of microchannels to allow independent but interconnected co-cultivation. Using this model, we tested the effects of OS and inflammation on both fetal (fetal → maternal) and maternal (maternal → fetal) sides of the FMi and determined their differential impact on PTB-associated pathways. OS was induced using cigarette smoke extract (CSE) exposure. The impacts of OS were assessed by measuring cell viability, disruption of immune homeostasis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), development of senescence, and inflammation. CSE propagated (LC/MS-MS analysis for nicotine) over a 72-hour period from the maternal to fetal side, or vice versa. However, they caused two distinct pathological effects on the maternal and fetal cells. Specifically, fetal OS induced cellular pathologies and inflammation, whereas maternal OS caused immune intolerance. The pronounced impact produced by the fetus supports the hypothesis that fetal inflammatory response is a mechanistic trigger for parturition. The FMi disease-associated changes identified in the FMi-OOC suggest the unique capability of this in vitro model in testing in utero conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Richardson
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Po Yi Lam
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Nina Truong
- John Sealy School of Medicine at Galveston, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Rheanna Urrabaz-Garza
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA5
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Butkutė A, Jurkšas T, Baravykas T, Leber B, Merkininkaitė G, Žilėnaitė R, Čereška D, Gulla A, Kvietkauskas M, Marcinkevičiūtė K, Schemmer P, Strupas K. Combined Femtosecond Laser Glass Microprocessing for Liver-on-Chip Device Fabrication. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:2174. [PMID: 36984055 PMCID: PMC10056550 DOI: 10.3390/ma16062174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, lab-on-chip (LOC) devices are attracting more and more attention since they show vast prospects for various biomedical applications. Usually, an LOC is a small device that serves a single laboratory function. LOCs show massive potential for organ-on-chip (OOC) device manufacturing since they could allow for research on the avoidance of various diseases or the avoidance of drug testing on animals or humans. However, this technology is still under development. The dominant technique for the fabrication of such devices is molding, which is very attractive and efficient for mass production, but has many drawbacks for prototyping. This article suggests a femtosecond laser microprocessing technique for the prototyping of an OOC-type device-a liver-on-chip. We demonstrate the production of liver-on-chip devices out of glass by using femtosecond laser-based selective laser etching (SLE) and laser welding techniques. The fabricated device was tested with HepG2(GS) liver cancer cells. During the test, HepG2(GS) cells proliferated in the chip, thus showing the potential of the suggested technique for further OOC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnė Butkutė
- Femtika Ltd., Keramikų Str. 2, LT-10233 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Laser Research Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Ave. 10, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Tomas Jurkšas
- Femtika Ltd., Keramikų Str. 2, LT-10233 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Bettina Leber
- General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, AT-8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Greta Merkininkaitė
- Femtika Ltd., Keramikų Str. 2, LT-10233 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, Naugarduko Str. 24, LT-03225 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | | | - Aiste Gulla
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Center of Visceral Medicine and Translational Research, Vilnius University, M. K. Čiurlionio g. 21, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Mindaugas Kvietkauskas
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Center of Visceral Medicine and Translational Research, Vilnius University, M. K. Čiurlionio g. 21, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Kristina Marcinkevičiūtė
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Center of Visceral Medicine and Translational Research, Vilnius University, M. K. Čiurlionio g. 21, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Peter Schemmer
- General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, AT-8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Kęstutis Strupas
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Center of Visceral Medicine and Translational Research, Vilnius University, M. K. Čiurlionio g. 21, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
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Lintao RCV, Kammala AK, Vora N, Yaklic JL, Menon R. Fetal membranes exhibit similar nutrient transporter expression profiles to the placenta. Placenta 2023; 135:33-42. [PMID: 36913807 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During pregnancy, the growth of the fetus is supported by the exchange of nutrients, waste, and other molecules between maternal and fetal circulations in the utero-placental unit. Nutrient transfer, in particular, is mediated by solute transporters such as solute carrier (SLC) and adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette (ABC) proteins. While nutrient transport has been extensively studied in the placenta, the role of human fetal membranes (FM), which was recently reported to have a role in drug transport, in nutrient uptake remains unknown. OBJECTIVES This study determined nutrient transport expression in human FM and FM cells and compared expression with placental tissues and BeWo cells. METHODS RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) of placental and FM tissues and cells was done. Genes of major solute transporter groups, such as SLC and ABC, were identified. Proteomic analysis of cell lysates was performed via nano-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS) to confirm expression at a protein level. RESULTS We determined that FM tissues and cells derived from the fetal membrane tissues express nutrient transporter genes, and their expression is similar to that seen in the placenta or BeWo cells. In particular, transporters involved in macronutrient and micronutrient transfer were identified in both placental and FM cells. Consistent with RNA-Seq findings, carbohydrate transporters (3), vitamin transport-related proteins (8), amino acid transporters (21), fatty acid transport-related proteins (9), cholesterol transport-related proteins (6) and nucleoside transporters (3) were identified in BeWo and FM cells, with both groups sharing similar nutrient transporter expression. CONCLUSION This study determined the expression of nutrient transporters in human FMs. This knowledge is the first step in improving our understanding of nutrient uptake kinetics during pregnancy. Functional studies are required to determine the properties of nutrient transporters in human FMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C V Lintao
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA; College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, 547 Pedro Gil St., Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA.
| | - Natasha Vora
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA; John Sealy School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA
| | - Jerome L Yaklic
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA.
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Luconi M, Sogorb MA, Markert UR, Benfenati E, May T, Wolbank S, Roncaglioni A, Schmidt A, Straccia M, Tait S. Human-Based New Approach Methodologies in Developmental Toxicity Testing: A Step Ahead from the State of the Art with a Feto-Placental Organ-on-Chip Platform. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15828. [PMID: 36497907 PMCID: PMC9737555 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Developmental toxicity testing urgently requires the implementation of human-relevant new approach methodologies (NAMs) that better recapitulate the peculiar nature of human physiology during pregnancy, especially the placenta and the maternal/fetal interface, which represent a key stage for human lifelong health. Fit-for-purpose NAMs for the placental-fetal interface are desirable to improve the biological knowledge of environmental exposure at the molecular level and to reduce the high cost, time and ethical impact of animal studies. This article reviews the state of the art on the available in vitro (placental, fetal and amniotic cell-based systems) and in silico NAMs of human relevance for developmental toxicity testing purposes; in addition, we considered available Adverse Outcome Pathways related to developmental toxicity. The OECD TG 414 for the identification and assessment of deleterious effects of prenatal exposure to chemicals on developing organisms will be discussed to delineate the regulatory context and to better debate what is missing and needed in the context of the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease hypothesis to significantly improve this sector. Starting from this analysis, the development of a novel human feto-placental organ-on-chip platform will be introduced as an innovative future alternative tool for developmental toxicity testing, considering possible implementation and validation strategies to overcome the limitation of the current animal studies and NAMs available in regulatory toxicology and in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Luconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
- I.N.B.B. (Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi), Viale Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Miguel A. Sogorb
- Instituto de Bioingeniería, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, Avenida de la Universidad s/n, 03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Udo R. Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Emilio Benfenati
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Tobias May
- InSCREENeX GmbH, Inhoffenstr. 7, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Susanne Wolbank
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institut for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Donaueschingenstrasse 13, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Alessandra Roncaglioni
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Astrid Schmidt
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Marco Straccia
- FRESCI by Science&Strategy SL, C/Roure Monjo 33, Vacarisses, 08233 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabrina Tait
- Centre for Gender-Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Richardson LS, K Kammala A, Costantine MM, Fortunato SJ, Radnaa E, Kim S, Taylor RN, Han A, Menon R. Testing of drugs using human feto-maternal interface organ-on-chips provide insights into pharmacokinetics and efficacy. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4574-4592. [PMID: 36322152 PMCID: PMC9682442 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00691j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: To improve preclinical drug testing during pregnancy, we developed multiple microfluidic organ-on-chip (OOC) devices that represent the structure, functions, and responses of the two feto-maternal interfaces (FMis) in humans (fetal membrane [FMi-OOC] and placenta [PLA-OOC]). This study utilized feto-maternal interface OOCs to test the kinetics and efficacy of drugs during pregnancy. Study design: The FMi-OOC contained amnion epithelial, mesenchymal, chorion trophoblast, and decidual cells. The PLA-OOC contained cytotrophoblasts (BeWo), syncytiotrophoblasts (BeWo + forskolin), and human umbilical vein endothelial cell lines. Therapeutic concentrations of either pravastatin or rosuvastatin (200 ng mL-1), a model drug for these experiments, were applied to either decidua (in FMi-OOC) and syncytiotrophoblasts (in PLA-OOC) chambers under normal and oxidative stress conditions (induced by cigarette smoke extract [CSE 1 : 25]) to evaluate maternal drug exposure during normal pregnancy or oxidative stress (OS) associated pathologies, respectively. We determined statin pharmacokinetics and metabolism (LC-MS/MS), drug-induced cytotoxicity (LDH assay), and efficacy to reduce OS-induced inflammation (multiplex cytokine assay). Results: Both OOCs mimicked two distinct human feto-maternal interfaces. The drugs tested permeated the maternal-fetal cell layers of the FMi-OOC and PLA-OOC within 4 hours and generated cell and time-specific statin metabolites from various cell types without causing any cytotoxicity. OS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines were effectively reduced by statins by increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine response across the FMi-OOC and PLA-OOC. Conclusion: Two distinct feto-maternal interface OOCs were developed, tested, and validated for their utility to conduct preclinical trials during pregnancy. We demonstrated that the placenta and fetal membranes-decidual interface both are able to transport and metabolize drugs and that the safety and efficacy of a drug can be determined using the anatomical structures recreated on OOCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren S Richardson
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
| | - Ananth K Kammala
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
| | - Maged M Costantine
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stephen J Fortunato
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, Texas, USA.
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Expression of Key Steroidogenic Enzymes in Human Placenta and Associated Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes. MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/fm9.0000000000000167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Tantengco OAG, Richardson LS, Radnaa E, Kammala AK, Kim S, Medina PMB, Han A, Menon R. Exosomes from Ureaplasma parvum-infected ectocervical epithelial cells promote feto-maternal interface inflammation but are insufficient to cause preterm delivery. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:931609. [PMID: 36046342 PMCID: PMC9420848 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.931609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study determined if exosomes from ectocervical epithelial (ECTO) cells infected with Ureaplasma parvum (U. parvum) can carry bacterial antigens and cause inflammation at the feto-maternal interface using two organ-on-chip devices, one representing the vagina-cervix-decidua and another one mimicking the feto-maternal interface, and whether such inflammation can lead to preterm birth (PTB). Exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells were characterized using cryo-electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, Western blot, and Exoview analysis. The antigenicity of the exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells was also tested using THP-1 cells and our newly developed vagina-cervix-decidua organ-on-a-chip (VCD-OOC) having six microchannel-interconnected cell culture chambers containing cells from the vagina, ectocervical, endocervical, transformation zone epithelia, cervical stroma, and decidua. The VCD-OOC was linked to the maternal side of our previously developed feto-maternal interface organ-on-a-chip (FMi-OOC). Cell culture media were collected after 48 h to determine the cytokine levels from each cell line via ELISA. For physiological validation of our in vitro data, high-dose exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells were delivered to the vagina of pregnant CD-1 mice on E15. Mice were monitored for preterm birth (PTB, < E18.5 days). Exosomes from ECTO cells infected with U. parvum (UP ECTO) showed significant downregulation of exosome markers CD9, CD63, and CD81, but contained multiple banded antigen (MBA), a U. parvum virulence factor. Monoculture experiments showed that exosomes from UP ECTO cells delivered MBA from the host cell to uninfected endocervical epithelial cells (ENDO). Moreover, exposure of THP-1 cells to exosomes from UP ECTO cells resulted in increased IL-8 and TNFα and reduced IL-10. The OOC experiments showed that low and high doses of exosomes from UP ECTO cells produced a cell type-specific inflammatory response in the VCD-OOC and FMi-OOC. Specifically, exosomes from UP ECTO cells increased pro-inflammatory cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-6, and IL-8 in cervical, decidual, chorion trophoblast, and amnion mesenchymal cells. The results from our OOC models were validated in our in vivo mice model. The inflammatory response was insufficient to promote PTB. These results showed the potential use of the VCD-OOC and FMi-OOC in simulating the pathophysiological processes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Paul Mark B. Medina
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
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Richardson L, Menon R. Fetal membrane at the feto-maternal interface: An underappreciated and understudied intrauterine tissue. PLACENTA AND REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2022; 1:10.54844/prm.2022.0104. [PMID: 37502422 PMCID: PMC10373051 DOI: 10.54844/prm.2022.0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555, TX, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555, TX, USA
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22
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Menon R, Richardson L. Organ-on-a-chip for perinatal biology experiments. PLACENTA AND REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2022; 1:98. [PMID: 36530581 PMCID: PMC9757604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cell culture and organ explant systems have traditionally been used by scientists in the reproductive biology and perinatal medicine area to address various research questions. Although most are unrelated to human pregnancy, animal models were also extensively used to study various mechanisms associated with pregnancy and parturition. However, limitations of traditional approaches have shifted the attention to the use of organ on a chip (OOC) technology. OOC platform simulates an organ using cells, and OOCs are biomimetic microfluidic systems comprising multiple cell types from an organ that mimic the environment of a physiological organ. OOC maintains intercellular interactions and helps to recreate organ physiology as expected for utero in perinatal medicine research. This short review introduces some basic concepts of OOC, and its utility based on some published reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555 TX, USA
| | - Lauren Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555 TX, USA
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Luo YS, Chen Z, Hsieh NH, Lin TE. Chemical and biological assessments of environmental mixtures: A review of current trends, advances, and future perspectives. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 432:128658. [PMID: 35290896 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Considering the chemical complexity and toxicity data gaps of environmental mixtures, most studies evaluate the chemical risk individually. However, humans are usually exposed to a cocktail of chemicals in real life. Mixture health assessment remains to be a research area having significant knowledge gaps. Characterization of chemical composition and bioactivity/toxicity are the two critical aspects of mixture health assessments. This review seeks to introduce the recent progress and tools for the chemical and biological characterization of environmental mixtures. The state-of-the-art techniques include the sampling, extraction, rapid detection methods, and the in vitro, in vivo, and in silico approaches to generate the toxicity data of an environmental mixture. Application of these novel methods, or new approach methodologies (NAMs), has increased the throughput of generating chemical and toxicity data for mixtures and thus refined the mixture health assessment. Combined with computational methods, the chemical and biological information would shed light on identifying the bioactive/toxic components in an environmental mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Syuan Luo
- Institute of Food Safety and Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan.
| | - Zunwei Chen
- Program in Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nan-Hung Hsieh
- Interdisciplinary Faculty of Toxicology and Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Tzu-En Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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Preterm Labor, a Syndrome Attributed to the Combination of External and Internal Factors. MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/fm9.0000000000000136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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