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Mazzarella R, Cañón-Beltrán K, Cajas YN, Hamdi M, González EM, da Silveira JC, Leal CLV, Rizos D. Extracellular vesicles-coupled miRNAs from oviduct and uterus modulate signaling pathways related to lipid metabolism and bovine early embryo development. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:51. [PMID: 38570884 PMCID: PMC10993494 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-024-01008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracellular vesicles (EVs) present in oviductal (OF) and uterine fluid (UF) have been shown to enhance bovine embryo quality during in vitro culture by reducing lipid contents and modulating lipid metabolism-related genes (LMGs), while also influencing cell proliferation, suggesting their involvement on the regulation of different biological pathways. The regulation of signaling pathways related to cell differentiation, proliferation, and metabolism is crucial for early embryo development and can determine the success or failure of the pregnancy. Bioactive molecules within EVs in maternal reproductive fluids, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), may contribute to this regulatory process as they modulate gene expression through post-transcriptional mechanisms. RESULTS From the 20 differentially expressed miRNAs, 19 up-regulated in UF-EVs (bta-miR-134, bta-miR-151-3p, bta-miR-155, bta-miR-188, bta-miR-181b, bta-miR-181d, bta-miR-224, bta-miR-23b-3p, bta-miR-24-3p, bta-miR-27a-3p, bta-miR-29a, bta-miR-324, bta-miR-326, bta-miR-345-3p, bta-miR-410, bta-miR-652, bta-miR-677, bta-miR-873 and bta-miR-708) and one (bta-miR-148b) in OF-EVs. These miRNAs were predicted to modulate several pathways such as Wnt, Hippo, MAPK, and lipid metabolism and degradation. Differences in miRNAs found in OF-EVs from the early luteal phase and UF-EVs from mid-luteal phase may reflect different environments to meet the changing needs of the embryo. Additionally, miRNAs may be involved, particularly in the uterus, in the regulation of embryo lipid metabolism, immune system, and implantation. This study evaluated miRNA cargo in OF-EVs from the early luteal phase and UF-EVs from the mid-luteal phase, coinciding with embryo transit within oviduct and uterus in vivo, and its possible influence on LMGs and signaling pathways crucial for early embryo development. A total of 333 miRNAs were detected, with 11 exclusive to OF, 59 to UF, and 263 were common between both groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that miRNAs within OF- and UF-EVs could modulate bovine embryo development and quality, providing insights into the intricate maternal-embryonic communication that might be involved in modulating lipid metabolism, immune response, and implantation during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karina Cañón-Beltrán
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Yulia N Cajas
- Department Agrarian Production, Technical University of Madrid, UPM, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja,, UTPL, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Meriem Hamdi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Claudia L V Leal
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, FZEA-USP, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - D Rizos
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA-CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
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Peixoto PM, Bromfield JJ, Ribeiro ES, Santos JEP, Thatcher WW, Bisinotto RS. Transcriptome changes associated with elongation of bovine conceptuses I: Differentially expressed transcripts in the conceptus on day 17 after insemination. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9745-9762. [PMID: 37641295 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23398] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The objective was to characterize transcriptome changes associated with elongation in bovine conceptuses during preimplantation stages. Nonlactating Holstein cows were euthanized 17 d after artificial insemination (AI) and the uterine horn ipsilateral to the CL was flushed with saline solution. Recovered conceptuses were classified as small (1.2 to 6.9 cm; n = 9), medium (10.5 to 16.0 cm; n = 9), or large (18.0 to 26.4 cm; n = 10). Total mRNA was extracted and subjected to transcriptome analyses using the Affymetrix Gene Chip Bovine array. Data were normalized using the GCRMA method and analyzed by robust regression using the Linear Models for Microarray library within Bioconductor in R. Transcripts with P ≤ 0.05 after adjustment for false discovery rate and fold change ≥1.5 were considered differentially expressed. Functional analyses were conducted using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis platform. Comparisons between large versus small (LvsS), large versus medium (LvsM), and medium versus small (MvsS) conceptuses yielded a total of 634, 240, and 63 differentially expressed transcripts, respectively. Top canonical pathways of known involvement with embryo growth that were upregulated in large conceptuses included actin cytoskeleton (LvsS), integrin signaling (LvsS and LvsM), ephrin receptor (LvsS), mesenchymal transition by growth factor (LvsM), and regulation of calpain protease (LvsS). Transcripts involved with lipid metabolism pathways (LXR/RXR, FXR/RXR, hepatic fibrosis) were associated with the LvsS and LvsM, and some transcripts such as APOC2, APOH, APOM, RARA, RBP4, and PPARGC1A, were involved in these pathways. An overall network summary associated biological downstream effects of invasion of cells, proliferation of embryonic cells, and inhibition of organismal death in the LvsS. In conclusion, differently expressed transcripts in the LvsS comparison were associated with the cell growth, adhesion, and organismal development, although part of these findings could be attributed to differences in circulatory concentrations of progesterone of the cows that bore large and small conceptuses. The large and medium conceptuses developed under similar concentrations of progesterone and presented 240 differently expressed transcripts, associated with cell differentiation, metabolite regulation, and other biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Peixoto
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J J Bromfield
- Department of Animal Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608
| | - E S Ribeiro
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608
| | - W W Thatcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608
| | - R S Bisinotto
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610.
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Rocha CC, da Silveira JC, Forde N, Binelli M, Pugliesi G. Conceptus-modulated innate immune function during early pregnancy in ruminants: a review. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20200048. [PMID: 34122650 PMCID: PMC8189353 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on the innate immune events modulated by conceptus signaling during early pregnancy in ruminants. Interferon-tau (IFN-τ) plays a role in the recognition of pregnancy in ruminants, which involves more than the inhibition of luteolytic pulses of PGF2α to maintain corpus luteum function. For successful pregnancy establishment, the allogenic conceptus needs to prevent rejection by the female. Therefore, IFN-τ exerts paracrine and endocrine actions to regulate the innate immune system and prevent conceptus rejection. Additionally, other immune regulators work in parallel with IFN-τ, such as the pattern recognition receptors (PRR). These receptors are activated during viral and bacterial infections and in early pregnancy, but it remains unknown whether PPR expression and function are controlled by IFN-τ. Therefore, this review focuses on the main components of the innate immune response that are involved with early pregnancy and their importance to avoid conceptus rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Constantino Rocha
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Niamh Forde
- Discovery and Translational Sciences Department, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Mario Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
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Talukder AK, Marey MA, Shirasuna K, Kusama K, Shimada M, Imakawa K, Miyamoto A. Roadmap to pregnancy in the first 7 days post-insemination in the cow: Immune crosstalk in the corpus luteum, oviduct, and uterus. Theriogenology 2020; 150:313-320. [PMID: 32088048 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The first 7 days post-insemination are critical for establishment of pregnancy. The pre-ovulatory luteinizing hormone (LH) surge induces ovulation through disruption of the follicle structure that elucidates pro-inflammatory (Th1) responses. Various types of immune cells are recruited into the corpus luteum (CL) to regulate luteal angiogenesis and progesterone (P4) secretion into the circulation to establish pregnancy. The active sperm-uterine crosstalk also induces Th1 responses, mainly via Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2/4 signaling pathway in vitro. The endometrial glands serve as sensors for sperm signals, which trigger Th1 responses. Conversely, the sperm-oviduct binding generates anti-inflammatory (Th2) responses to support sperm survival until fertilization. It is well-established that embryo-maternal crosstalk starts after the embryo hatches out from the zona pellucida (ZP). However most recently, it was shown that the 16-cell stage bovine embryo starts to secrete interferon-tau (IFNT) that induces Th2 immune responses in the oviduct. Once developing embryos descend into the uterine horn, they induce Th2 responses with interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) expression in the uterine epithelium and local immune cells mainly via IFNT release. Likewise, multiple embryos in the uterus of superovulated donor cows on D7 post-insemination induce Th2 immune responses with ISGs expressions in circulating immune cells. These findings strongly suggest that the maternal immune system reacts to the embryo during the first 7 days post-insemination to induce fetal tolerance. It became evident that the innate immunity of the developing CL, oviduct, and uterus works together to provide optimal conditions for fertilization and early embryonic development during the first 7 days post-insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup K Talukder
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan; Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706, Bangladesh
| | - Mohamed A Marey
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - Koumei Shirasuna
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, 243-0034, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kusama
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, 192-0392, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, 739-8528, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Research Institute of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan.
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Immune status during postpartum, peri-implantation and early pregnancy in cattle: An updated view. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 206:1-10. [PMID: 31133358 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the estrous cycle the mammalian endometrium undergoes morphological and functional changes that are essential for the establishment of pregnancy and proper ovarian and uterine functions. Among these changes, the most important are alterations in both inter- and intracellular signalling molecules, many of which modulate immune processes. In the endometrial tissue there are local innate (nonspecific) and adaptive (specific/acquired) response mechanisms which vary because of the endocrine status during the estrous cycle, pregnancy and postpartum period. Endometrial cells have responses that support the immune system by producing pro-inflammatory factors such as cytokines, sensors, effector molecules and chemokines. This response is important during gestation, pregnancy, and fetal growth, as well as in preventing infection, and immuno-rejection of the semi-allogeneic embryo. In dairy cows, both before and immediately after calving, there are marked changes in the values for hormonal and metabolic variables and the immune status is impaired. Thus, in several studies there has been assessment of the physiological and/or abnormal maternal immune changes and possible effects on dairy cow reproductive performance. The objective with this review is to summarize the novel information about the immune mechanisms involved during the postpartum period, subsequent peri-implantation period and pregnancy in dairy cows, and the possible effects on reproductive performance. This information provides for an enhanced understanding of the local and systemic immune responses associated with the metabolic and hormonal status of dairy cows, and alterations in the immune system of high producing cows and the possible effects on subsequent fertility.
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Drews B, Milojevic V, Giller K, Ulbrich S. Fatty acid profile of blood plasma and oviduct and uterine fluid during early and late luteal phase in the horse. Theriogenology 2018; 114:258-265. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Wu H, Jiang K, Zhang T, Zhao G, Shaukat A, Deng G. The expression of major histocompatibility complex class I in endometrial epithelial cells from dairy cow under a simulating hypoxic environment. Res Vet Sci 2018; 118:61-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2018.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Talukder AK, Rashid MB, Yousef MS, Kusama K, Shimizu T, Shimada M, Suarez SS, Imakawa K, Miyamoto A. Oviduct epithelium induces interferon-tau in bovine Day-4 embryos, which generates an anti-inflammatory response in immune cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7850. [PMID: 29777205 PMCID: PMC5959944 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26224-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that communication between the bovine embryo and the mother begins in the oviduct. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of embryos on bovine oviducts for their immune responses using an in vitro model. First, zygotes were cultured with or without bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs) for 4 days, when embryos had reached the 16-cell stage. At that time, we detected interferon-tau (IFNT) in embryos co-cultured with BOECs, but not in embryos cultured alone. Next, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were incubated either in media from embryo alone cultures or from co-cultures of embryos with BOECs. The medium from embryo alone cultures did not modulate PBMCs gene expression; whereas the embryo-BOEC co-culture medium increased interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs: ISG15, OAS1, MX2), STAT1, PTGES and TGFB1 but suppressed IL17 expression in PBMCs. Both IFNT-treated BOEC culture medium and IFNT-supplemented fresh medium alone without BOEC, modulated PBMCs gene expressions similar to those by the embryo-BOEC co-culture medium. Further, specific antibody to IFNT neutralized the effect of embryo-BOEC co-culture medium on PBMCs gene expression. Our results indicate that BOECs stimulate embryos to produce IFNT, which then acts on immune cells to promote an anti-inflammatory response in the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup K Talukder
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan.,Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad B Rashid
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Science, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur, 5200, Bangladesh
| | - Mohamed S Yousef
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Kazuya Kusama
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, 319-0206, Japan
| | - Takashi Shimizu
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, 739-8528, Japan
| | - Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, 319-0206, Japan
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan.
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Interferon-τ increases BoLA-I for implantation during early pregnancy in dairy cows. Oncotarget 2017; 8:95095-95107. [PMID: 29221114 PMCID: PMC5707008 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Interferon-τ (IFN-τ) signals pregnancy recognition in ruminants. We investigated the effects of IFN-τ produced by embryo trophoblastic cells (ETCs) on expression of bovine leukocyte antigen-I (BoLA-I), a bovine analogue of human MHC-I, in endometrial luminal epithelial cells (EECs) during early pregnancy in dairy cows. Expression of IFN-τ and BoLA-I was increased in endometrial tissues during early pregnancy. Expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was increased in endometrial tissues, while expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 was decreased, indicating immunosuppression. Progesterone increased IFN-τ expression in EECs. IFN-τ increased p-STAT1 and p-STAT3 levels in EECs, but reduced TRAF3 levels. In addition, IFN-τ increased expression of BoLA-I and IL-10, but decreased expression of IL-6 in EECs. These results indicate that IFN-τ enables stable implantation in dairy cows by increasing expression of BoLA-I, and by immunosuppression mediated by increased IL-10 and decreased IL-6 expression.
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10
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Deep sequencing of transcriptome profiling of GSTM2 knock-down in swine testis cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:38254. [PMID: 27905550 PMCID: PMC5131268 DOI: 10.1038/srep38254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutathione-S-transferases mu 2 (GSTM2), a kind of important Phase II antioxidant enzyme of eukaryotes, is degraded by nonsense mediated mRNA decay due to a C27T substitution in the fifth exon of pigs. As a reproductive performance-related gene, GSTM2 is involved in embryo implantation, whereas, functional deficiency of GSTM2 induces pre- or post-natal death in piglets potentially. To have some insight into the role of GSTM2 in embryo development, high throughput RNA sequencing is performed using the swine testis cells (ST) with the deletion of GSTM2. Some embryo development-related genes are observed from a total of 242 differentially expressed genes, including STAT1, SRC, IL-8, DUSP family, CCL family and integrin family. GSTM2 affects expression of SRC, OPN, and SLCs. GSTM2 suppresses phosphorylation of STAT1 by binding to STAT1. In addition, as an important transcription factor, STAT1 regulates expression of uterus receptive-related genes including CCLs, IRF9, IFITs, MXs, and OAS. The present study provides evidence to molecular mechanism of GSTM2 modulating embryo development.
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Marey MA, Yousef MS, Kowsar R, Hambruch N, Shimizu T, Pfarrer C, Miyamoto A. Local immune system in oviduct physiology and pathophysiology: attack or tolerance? Domest Anim Endocrinol 2016; 56 Suppl:S204-11. [PMID: 27345318 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2016.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The local immune system in the oviduct has a unique ability to deal with pathogens, allogeneic spermatozoa, and the semi-allogeneic embryo. To achieve this, it seems likely that the oviduct possesses an efficient and strictly controlled immune system that maintains optimal conditions for fertilization and early embryo development. The presence of a proper sperm and/or embryo-oviduct interaction begs the question of whether the local immune system in the oviduct exerts beneficial or deleterious effects on sperm and early embryo; support or attack?. A series of studies has revealed that bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs) are influenced by preovulatory levels of Estradiol-17β, progesterone, and LH to maintain an immunologic homeostasis in bovine oviduct, via inhibition of proinflammatory responses that are detrimental to allogenic sperm. Under pathologic conditions, the mucosal immune system initiates the inflammatory response to the infection; the bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at low concentrations induces a proinflammatory response with increased expression of TLR-4, PTGS2, IL-1β, NFκB1, and TNFα, resulting in tissue damage. At higher concentrations, however, LPS induces a set of anti-inflammatory genes (TLR-2, IL-4, IL-10, and PTGES) that may initiate a tissue repair. This response of BOECs is accompanied by the secretion of acute phase protein, suggesting that BOECs react to LPS with a typical acute proinflammatory response. Under physiological conditions, polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) are existent in the oviductal fluid during preovulatory period in the bovine. Interestingly, the bovine oviduct downregulates sperm phagocytosis by PMN via prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) action. In addition, the angiotensin-endothelin-PGE2 system controlling oviduct contraction may fine-tune the PMN phagocytic behavior to sperm in the oviduct. Importantly, a physiological range of PGE2 supplies anti-inflammatory balance in BOEC. Our recent results show that the sperm binding to BOECs further shift the local immunity toward anti-inflammatory conditions with upregulation of IL-10, TGFβ, and PGE2. In addition, this local environment leads PMN to express anti-inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, the oviduct displays mucosal immunity that maintains an anti-inflammatory environment under physiological conditions that supports the sperm. Under pathologic condition, however, the oviduct supplies the innate immunity that may attack the sperm. Moreover, the oviduct-sperm interaction further suppresses the innate immune cells and strengthens the anti-inflammatory balance in the oviduct. Therefore, the oviduct immunity ensures sperm viability before fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Marey
- Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - M S Yousef
- Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - R Kowsar
- Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan; Department of Animal Science, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - N Hambruch
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, D-30173, Germany
| | - T Shimizu
- Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - C Pfarrer
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, D-30173, Germany
| | - A Miyamoto
- Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.
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Dos Santos LS, da Silva Mol JP, de Macedo AA, Silva APC, Dos Santos Ribeiro DL, Santos RL, da Paixão TA, de Carvalho Neta AV. Transcription of non-classic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I in the bovine placenta throughout gestation and after Brucella abortus infection. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2015; 167:166-70. [PMID: 26188737 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2015.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Transcription of non-classical major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) was assessed in the bovine placenta throughout gestation. Additionally, the effect of Brucella abortus infection on expression of non-classical MHC-I was also evaluated using a chorioallantoic membrane explant model of infection. The non-classical MHC-I genes MICB and NC3 had higher levels of transcription in the intercotyledonary region when compared to the placentome, which had higher levels of transcription at the second trimester of gestation. NC1 and classical MHC-I had very low levels of transcription throughout gestation. Trophoblastic cells of B. abortus-infected chorioallantoic membrane explants had an increase in transcription of non-classical MHC-I at 4h post infection. Therefore, this study provides an analysis of non-classical MHC-I transcription at different stages of gestation and different placental tissues, and during B. abortus infection. These findings provide additional knowledge on immune regulation in placental tissues, a known immune-privileged site.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juliana Pinto da Silva Mol
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Auricélio Alves de Macedo
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ana Patrícia Carvalho Silva
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Renato Lima Santos
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Alves da Paixão
- Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Fair T. The contribution of the maternal immune system to the establishment of pregnancy in cattle. Front Immunol 2015; 6:7. [PMID: 25674085 PMCID: PMC4309202 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune cells play an integral role in affecting successful reproductive function. Indeed, disturbed or aberrant immune function has been identified as primary mechanisms behind infertility. In contrast to the extensive body of literature that exists for human and mouse, studies detailing the immunological interaction between the embryo and the maternal endometrium are quite few in cattle. Nevertheless, by reviewing the existing studies and extrapolating from sheep, pig, mouse, and human data, we can draw a reasonably comprehensive picture. Key contributions of immune cell populations include granulocyte involvement in follicle differentiation and gamete transfer, monocyte invasion of the peri-ovulatory follicle and their subsequent role in corpus luteum formation and the pivotal roles of maternal macrophage and dendritic cells in key steps of the establishment of pregnancy, particularly, the maternal immune response to the embryo. These contributions are reviewed in detail below and key findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
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Yang L, Y. Zhang L, Y. Qiao H, Liu N, X. Wang Y, J. Li S. Maternal Immune Regulation by Conceptus During Early Pregnancy in the Bovine. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.3923/ajava.2014.610.620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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15
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Macaulay AD, Gilbert I, Caballero J, Barreto R, Fournier E, Tossou P, Sirard MA, Clarke HJ, Khandjian ÉW, Richard FJ, Hyttel P, Robert C. The gametic synapse: RNA transfer to the bovine oocyte. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:90. [PMID: 25143353 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.119867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Even after several decades of quiescent storage in the ovary, the female germ cell is capable of reinitiating transcription to build the reserves that are essential to support early embryonic development. In the current model of mammalian oogenesis, there exists bilateral communication between the gamete and the surrounding cells that is limited to paracrine signaling and direct transfer of small molecules via gap junctions existing at the end of the somatic cells' projections that are in contact with the oolemma. The purpose of this work was to explore the role of cumulus cell projections as a means of conductance of large molecules, including RNA, to the mammalian oocyte. By studying nascent RNA with confocal and transmission electron microscopy in combination with transcript detection, we show that the somatic cells surrounding the fully grown bovine oocyte contribute to the maternal reserves by actively transferring large cargo, including mRNA and long noncoding RNA. This occurrence was further demonstrated by the reconstruction of cumulus-oocyte complexes with transfected cumulus cells transferring a synthetic transcript. We propose selective transfer of transcripts occurs, the delivery of which is supported by a remarkable synapselike vesicular trafficking connection between the cumulus cells and the gamete. This unexpected exogenous contribution to the maternal stores offers a new perspective on the determinants of female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angus D Macaulay
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gilbert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Julieta Caballero
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Rodrigo Barreto
- Veterinarian Medicine Department, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eric Fournier
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Prudencio Tossou
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Édouard W Khandjian
- Département de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Francois J Richard
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Poul Hyttel
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
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Oliveira LJ, Mansourri-Attia N, Fahey AG, Browne J, Forde N, Roche JF, Lonergan P, Fair T. Characterization of the Th profile of the bovine endometrium during the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75571. [PMID: 24204576 PMCID: PMC3808391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive research in the area of cow fertility, the extent to which the maternal immune system is modulated during pregnancy in cattle remains unclear. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to characterize the presence and response profile of B, T-helper (LTh), T- cytotoxic (LTc), gamma delta-T (γδT) and natural killer (NK) lymphocytes in terms of cell number, distribution and cytokine expression in bovine endometrial tissue to pregnancy. Endometrial tissue samples were collected from beef heifers on Days 5, 7, 13 and 16 of the estrous cycle or pregnancy. Samples were analysed by immunofluorescence to identify the presence and abundance of B-B7 (B-cells), CD4 (LTh), CD8 (LTc), γδT cell receptor (TCR) and CD335/NKp46 (NK cells) -positive immune cells. Quantitative real time PCR (QPCR) was carried out to analyse mRNA relative abundance of FOXP3 (a marker of regulatory T (Treg) cells) and a panel of immune factors, including MHC-I, LIF, Interleukins 1, 2, 6, 8, 10, 11,12A, IFNa and IFNG. Results indicate that B-B7+ cells are quite populous in bovine endometrial tissue, CD4+ and CD8+ -cells are present in moderate numbers and γδTCR+ and CD335+ cells are present in low numbers. Pregnancy affected the total number and distribution pattern of the NK cell population, with the most significant variation observed on Day 16 of pregnancy. Neither B lymphocytes nor T lymphocyte subsets were regulated temporally during the oestrous cycle or by pregnancy prior to implantation. mRNA transcript abundance of the immune factors LIF, IL1b, IL8 and IL12A, IFNa and IFNG, expression was regulated temporally during the estrous cycle and LIF, IL1b, IL-10, IL11, IL12A were also temporally regulated during pregnancy. In conclusion, the endometrial immune profile of the oestrous cycle favours a Th2 environment in anticipation of pregnancy and the presence of an embryo acts to fine tune this environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian J. Oliveira
- Faculty of Food Engineering and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Alan G. Fahey
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - John Browne
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niamh Forde
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James F. Roche
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- * E-mail:
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Regulation of non-classical major histocompatability complex class I mRNA expression in bovine embryos. J Reprod Immunol 2011; 91:31-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2011.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Revised: 05/10/2011] [Accepted: 05/17/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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18
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Groebner AE, Schulke K, Schefold JC, Fusch G, Sinowatz F, Reichenbach HD, Wolf E, Meyer HHD, Ulbrich SE. Immunological mechanisms to establish embryo tolerance in early bovine pregnancy. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011; 23:619-32. [DOI: 10.1071/rd10230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2010] [Accepted: 12/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A well-balanced immunological interaction between mother and the semi-allogenic embryo is of particular importance. The objective of the present study was to analyse mechanisms of immune tolerance in bovine pregnancy during peri-implantation. Simmental heifers inseminated with either cryopreserved spermatozoa or seminal plasma were killed 12, 15 or 18 days after oestrus. Uteri were flushed for the recovery of conceptuses and the ipsilateral intercaruncular endometrium was sampled for gene expression analysis. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) mRNA, coding for the initial enzyme of the kynurenine pathway, was 18-fold (P < 0.001) more abundant in the endometrium of Day 18 pregnant v. non-pregnant animals. Tandem mass spectrometry revealed a decrease of endometrial l-tryptophan (P = 0.0008), but an increase of l-kynurenine concentration (P = 0.005) from Day 12 to Day 18, suggesting increasing IDO activity (P < 0.03). An in vitro coculture model of endometrial cells showed an induction of IDO expression following interferon-τ exposure primarily in stroma cells, which was confirmed by in situ hybridisation localising IDO mRNA mainly in deep stroma cells. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed fewer CD45-positive leucocytes in the zona basalis of pregnant animals. Elevated IDO activity may reduce the presence of leucocytes in the pregnant endometrium, providing a possible mechanism for protecting the semi-allogenic conceptus from maternal rejection.
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O'Gorman GM, Al Naib A, Naib AA, Ellis SA, Mamo S, O'Doherty AM, Lonergan P, Fair T. Regulation of a bovine nonclassical major histocompatibility complex class I gene promoter. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:296-306. [PMID: 20427761 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.082560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown in humans and other species that the major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) region is involved at a number of levels in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to characterize how a bovine nonclassical MHC-I gene (NC1) is regulated. Initial serial deletion experiments of a 2-kb fragment of the NC1 promoter identified regions with positive regulatory elements in the proximal promoter and evidence for a silencer module(s) further upstream that cooperatively contributed to constitutive NC1 expression. The cytokines interferon tau (IFNT), interferon gamma (IFNG), and interleukin 4 (IL4) significantly increased luciferase expression in NC1 promoter reporter constructs and endogenous NC1 mRNA levels in a bovine endometrial cell line. In addition, IFNG, IL3, IL4, and progesterone significantly increased Day 7 bovine blastocyst NC1 mRNA expression when supplemented during in vitro embryo culture. Site-directed mutagenesis analysis identified a STAT6 binding site that conferred IL4 responsiveness in the NC1 proximal promoter. Furthermore, methylation treatment of the proximal promoter, which contains a CpG island, completely abrogated constitutive NC1 expression. Overall, the findings presented here suggest that constitutive NC1 expression is regulated positively by elements in the proximal promoter, which are further controlled by upstream silencer modules. The promoter is responsive to IFNT, IFNG, and IL4, suggesting possible roles for these cytokines in bovine preimplantation embryo survival and/or maternal-fetal tolerance. Our studies also suggest that methylation of the proximal promoter, in particular, could play a significant role in regulating NC1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace M O'Gorman
- School of Agriculture, Food Science & Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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