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Bharati J, Kumar S, Mohan NH, Chandra Das B, Devi SJ, Gupta VK. Ovarian follicle transcriptome dynamics reveals enrichment of immune system process during transition from small to large follicles in cyclic Indian Ghoongroo pigs. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 160:104164. [PMID: 37924675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104164] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian follicular development is a critical determinant of reproductive performance in litter bearing species like pigs, wherein economic gains depend on litter size. The study aimed to gain insight into the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and signalling pathways regulating follicular growth and maturation in Ghoongroo pigs. Transcriptome profiling of porcine small follicles (SF) and large follicles (LF) was conducted using NovaSeq600 sequencing platform and DEGs were identified using DESeq2 with threshold of Padj. < 0.05 and log2 fold change cut off 0.58 (LF vs. SF). Functional annotations and bioinformatics analysis of DEGs were performed to find out biological functions, signalling pathways and hub genes regulating follicular dynamics. Transcriptome analysis revealed 709 and 479 genes unique to SF and LF stages, respectively, and 11,993 co-expressed genes in both the groups. In total, 507 DEGs (284 upregulated and 223 downregulated) were identified, which encoded for diverse proteins including transcription factors (TFs). These DEGs were functionally linked to response to stimulus, lipid metabolic process, developmental process, extracellular matrix organisation along with the immune system process, indicating wide-ranging mechanisms associated with follicular transition. The enriched KEGG pathways in LF stage consisted of ovarian steroidogenesis, cholesterol and retinol metabolism, cell adhesion molecules, cytokine receptor interaction and immune signalling pathways, depicting intra-follicular control of varied ovarian function. The hub gene analysis revealed APOE, SCARB1, MMP9, CYP17A1, TYROBP as key regulators of follicular development. This study identified candidate genes and TFs providing steroidogenic advantage to LFs which makes them fit for selection into the ovulatory pool of follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Bharati
- Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India.
| | - Satish Kumar
- Animal Genetics and Breeding, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - N H Mohan
- Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Bikash Chandra Das
- Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Salam Jayachitra Devi
- Computer Applications and Information Technology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Vivek Kumar Gupta
- Director, ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, 781131 Guwahati, Assam, India
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Huang C, AlSubki L, Yamaya A, Sung N, Kwak-Kim J. Poor ovarian response in assisted reproductive technology cycles is associated with anti-ovarian antibody and pro-inflammatory immune responses. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 160:104152. [PMID: 37778094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104152] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Anti-ovarian antibody (AOA) could be considered an independent marker for autoimmune ovarian disease and predicting future premature ovarian failure (POF). This study aims to investigate if AOA is associated with poor ovarian response (POR) and pro-inflammatory immune responses in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. Two hundred forty-eight women undergoing ART cycles were divided into four groups based on AOA test results and the presence of POR: POR(-)/AOA(-) group (N = 148), POR(+)/AOA(-) group (N = 34), POR (-)/AOA(+) group (N = 44), POR(+)/AOA(+) group (N = 22). The POR patients have a significantly higher prevalence of AOA than non-POR patients (P < 0.05). Peripheral blood CD56 + natural killer (NK) cell level (%), NK cytotoxicity, CD19 +CD5 + B-1 cell level (%), and IFN-γ/IL-10 producing T helper (Th) 1/Th2 cell ratios were significantly higher in POR(+)/AOA(+) group than those of other groups (P < 0.001, P < 0.005, P < 0.01, P < 0.05, respectively). TNF-α/IL-10 producing Th1/Th2 cell ratio of POR(+)/AOA(+) group was significantly higher than those of POR(+)/AOA(-) and POR(-)/AOA(-) groups (P < 0.05, respectively). Homocysteine and vitamin D levels of the POR(+)/AOA(+) group were significantly lower than those of other groups (P < 0.005, respectively). Plasminogen activator inhibiter-1 (PAI-1) level of POR(+)/AOA(+) group was significantly higher than that of POR(-)/AOA(-) group (P < 0.05). In the POR(+)/AOA(+) group, the prevalence of antiphospholipid antibodies was significantly higher than that of the POR(+)/AOA(-) group (P = 0.005). Women with autoimmune POR (POR(+)/AOA(+)) have dysregulated pro-inflammatory immune responses and metabolic factors. The diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for autoimmune POR should be differentiated from those for non-autoimmune POR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsheng Huang
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernons Hill, IL 60061, USA; Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Rheumatology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lujain AlSubki
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernons Hill, IL 60061, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayano Yamaya
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernons Hill, IL 60061, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hyogo Medical University, School of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Nayoung Sung
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernons Hill, IL 60061, USA
| | - Joanne Kwak-Kim
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernons Hill, IL 60061, USA.
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Liu D, Guan X, Liu W, Jia Y, Zhou H, Xi C, Zhao M, Fang Y, Wu L, Li K. Identification of transcriptome characteristics of granulosa cells and the possible role of UBE2C in the pathogenesis of premature ovarian insufficiency. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:203. [PMID: 37848988 PMCID: PMC10580542 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01266-3] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an important cause of infertility characterized by the functional decline of the ovary. Granulosa cells (GCs) around oocytes are critical for folliculogenesis, and GC dysfunction is one of the important etiologies of POI. The aim of this study was to explore the potential biomarkers of POI by identifying hub genes and analyze the correlation of biomarkers with immune infiltration in POI using RNA profiling and bioinformatics analysis. METHODS RNA sequencing was performed on GCs from biochemical POI (bPOI) patients and controls. Differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were used to explore the candidate genes. qRT‒PCR was performed to verify the expression of hub genes. Western blot, Cell Counting Kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays, TUNEL (TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling) and flow cytometry analysis were used to validate the possible role of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 2C (UBE2C) in POI. CIBERSORT was adopted to explore immune cell infiltration and the correlation between UBE2C and immune cells in bPOI. RESULTS Through analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and WGCNA, we obtained 143 candidate genes. After construction of the protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network and analysis with Cytoscape, 10 hub genes, including UBE2C, PBK, BUB1, CDC20, NUSAP1, CENPA, CCNB2, TOP2A, AURKB, and FOXM1, were identified and verified by qRT‒PCR. Subsequently, UBE2C was chosen as a possible biomarker of POI because knockdown of UBE2C could inhibit the proliferation and promote the apoptosis of GCs. Immune infiltration analysis indicated that monocytes and M1 macrophages may be associated with the pathogenesis of POI. In addition, UBE2C was negatively correlated with monocytes and M1 macrophages in POI. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a hub gene in GCs that might be important in the pathogenesis of POI and revealed the key role of UBE2C in driving POI. Immune infiltration may be highly related with the onset and etiology of POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Liu
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Xiaohong Guan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Wenqiang Liu
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Jia
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Chenxiang Xi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Mei Zhao
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Li Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Kunming Li
- Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 2699 Gaoke West Road, Pudong District, Shanghai, 201204, China.
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Burwitz BJ, Yusova S, Robino JJ, Takahashi D, Luo A, Slayden OD, Bishop CV, Hennebold JD, Roberts CT, Varlamov O. Western-style diet in the presence of elevated circulating testosterone induces adipocyte hypertrophy without proinflammatory responses in rhesus macaques. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13773. [PMID: 37766405 PMCID: PMC10544858 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13773] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Anovulatory infertility is commonly associated with hyperandrogenemia (elevated testosterone, T), insulin resistance, obesity, and white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction associated with adipocyte hypertrophy. However, whether hyperandrogenemia and adipocyte hypertrophy per se induce a proinflammatory response is unknown. METHOD OF STUDY Young adult female rhesus macaques were exposed to an obesogenic Western-style diet (WSD) in the presence of elevated circulating testosterone (T+WSD) or a low-fat control diet with no exogenous T. Immune cells residing in visceral omental white adipose tissue (OM-WAT), corpus luteum and the contralateral ovary, endometrium, lymph nodes, bone marrow, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were characterized by flow cytometry during the luteal phase of the reproductive cycle. RESULTS Following one year of treatment, T+WSD animals became more insulin-resistant and exhibited increased body fat and adipocyte hypertrophy compared to controls. T+WSD treatment did not induce macrophage polarization toward a proinflammatory phenotype in the tissues examined. Additionally, T+WSD treatment did not affect TNFα production by bone marrow macrophages in response to toll-like receptor agonists. While the major lymphoid subsets were not significantly affected by T+WSD treatment, we observed a significant reduction in the frequency of effector memory CD8+ T-cells (Tem) in OM-WAT, but not in other tissues. Notably, OM-WAT Tem frequencies were negatively correlated with insulin resistance as assessed by the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). CONCLUSION This study shows that short-term T+WSD treatment induces weight gain, insulin resistance, and adipocyte hypertrophy, but does not have a significant effect on systemic and tissue-resident proinflammatory markers, suggesting that adipocyte hypertrophy and mild hyperandrogenemia alone are not sufficient to induce a proinflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J. Burwitz
- Divisions of Pathobiology and Immunology
- Divisions of Metabolic Health and Disease
| | | | | | | | - Addie Luo
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center
| | - Ov D. Slayden
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center
| | - Cecily V. Bishop
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Jon D. Hennebold
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center
| | - Charles T. Roberts
- Divisions of Metabolic Health and Disease
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center
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Rahimi Mansour F, Keyvanfar A, Najafiarab H, Rajaei Firouzabadi S, Sefidgar S, Hooshmand Chayijan S, Tarom M, Fadaei M, Farzaneh F, Karimzadeh Bardeei L, Tehrani S. Menstrual disturbances following COVID-19 vaccination: A probable puzzle about the role of endocrine and immune pathways. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103952. [PMID: 37201456 PMCID: PMC10174728 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103952] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Menstruation is a monthly shedding of the uterine wall, presented by menstrual bleeding in women of reproductive age. Menstruation is regulated by fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone, as well as other endocrine and immune pathways. Many women experienced menstrual disturbances after vaccination against the novel coronavirus in the last two years. Vaccine-induced menstrual disturbances have led to discomfort and concern among reproductive-age women, such that some decided not to receive the subsequent doses of the vaccine. Although many vaccinated women report these menstrual disturbances, the mechanism is still poorly understood. This review article discusses the endocrine and immune changes following COVID-19 vaccination and the possible mechanisms of vaccine-related menstrual disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farima Rahimi Mansour
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirreza Keyvanfar
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hanieh Najafiarab
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sahar Sefidgar
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammadreza Tarom
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahta Fadaei
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farah Farzaneh
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shabnam Tehrani
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Sudoma I, Goncharova Y, Dons'koy B, Mykytenko D. Immune phenotype of the endometrium in patients with recurrent implantation failures after the transfer of genetically tested embryos in assisted reproductive technology programs. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 157:103943. [PMID: 36966647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103943] [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: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failures (RIF) in assisted reproduction programs are one of the most challenging problems. Among the factors that can adversely affect implantation, endometrial immune structural disorders may be one of the leading causes. The aim of our work was to study the immune features of the endometrium in women with RIF after genetically tested embryo transfer in comparison with fertile gestational carriers. Immune cells in endometrial samples were studied by flow cytometry and RNA expression of IL (interleukin)15, IL18, fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 receptor (Fn14), and tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) by reverse polymerase chain reaction. In one-third of the cases, a unique immune profile of the endometrium, which we called the not transformed endometrial immune phenotype, was found. It is characterized by a combination of features, such as high expression of HLA-DR on natural killers (NK), increased fraction of CD16 + , and a decreased fraction of CD56bright endometrial NK. In addition, when compared to gestational carriers, patients with RIF had a greater discrepancy between IL18 mRNA expression data, reduced mean TWEAK and Fn14 levels, and increased IL18/TWEAK and IL15/Fn14 ratios. Immune abnormalities that were found in more than half of the patients (66.7 %) may be the cause of implantation failures in genetically tested embryo transfer programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iryna Sudoma
- Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Ukraine; Clinic of Reproductive Medicine NADIYA, Ukraine
| | | | - Borys Dons'koy
- State Institution "Institute of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology of NAMS of Ukraine", Ukraine
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Etchevers L, Stassi A, Belotti E, Diaz P, Durante L, Notaro U, Chiaraviglio J, Rey F, Salvetti N, Ortega H, Amweg A. Exogenous ACTH stimulus during the preovulatory period alters patterns of leukocyte recruitment in the ovary of dairy cows. Theriogenology 2023; 195:176-186. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Wei X, Yang X. The central role of natural killer cells in preeclampsia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1009867. [PMID: 36865565 PMCID: PMC9972679 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1009867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a disease that is unique to pregnancy and affects multiple systems. It can lead to maternal and perinatal mortality. The precise etiology of PE is unclear. Patients with PE may have systemic or local immune abnormalities. A group of researchers has proposed that the immune communication between the fetus and mother is primarily moderated by natural killer (NK) cells as opposed to T cells, since NK cells are the most abundant immune cells in the uterus. This review examines the immunological roles of NK cells in the pathogenesis of PE. Our aim is to provide obstetricians with a comprehensive and updated research progress report on NK cells in PE patients. It has been reported that decidual NK (dNK) cells contribute to the process of uterine spiral artery remodeling and can modulate trophoblast invasion. Additionally, dNK cells can stimulate fetal growth and regulate delivery. It appears that the count or proportion of circulating NK cells is elevated in patients with or at risk for PE. Changes in the number or function of dNK cells may be the cause of PE. The Th1/Th2 equilibrium in PE has gradually shifted to an NK1/NK2 equilibrium based on cytokine production. An improper combination of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-C may lead to insufficient activation of dNK cells, thereby causing PE. In the etiology of PE, NK cells appear to exert a central effect in both peripheral blood and the maternal-fetal interface. To maintain immune equilibrium both locally and systemically, it is necessary to take therapeutic measures directed at NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Wei
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiuhua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Chen J, Wu S, Wang M, Zhang H, Cui M. A review of autoimmunity and immune profiles in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e32500. [PMID: 36595863 PMCID: PMC9794221 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a complicated clinical syndrome characterized by progressive deterioration of ovarian function. Autoimmunity is one of the main pathogenic factors affecting approximately 10% to 55% of POI cases. This review mainly focuses on the role of autoimmunity in the pathophysiology of POI and the potential therapies for autoimmunity-related POI. This review concluded that various markers of ovarian reserve, principally anti-Müllerian hormone, could be negatively affected by autoimmune diseases. The presence of lymphocytic oophoritis, anti-ovarian autoantibodies, and concurrent autoimmune diseases, are the main characteristics of autoimmune POI. T lymphocytes play the most important role in the immune pathogenesis of POI, followed by disorders of other immune cells and the imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. A comprehensive understanding of immune characteristics of patients with autoimmune POI and the underlying mechanisms is essential for novel approaches of treatment and intervention for autoimmune POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Chen
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shan Wu
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengqi Wang
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haoxian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuchang Central Hospital, Xuchang, China
| | - Manhua Cui
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- * Correspondence: Manhua Cui, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China (e-mail: )
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He Y, Zhou M, Li S, Gong Z, Yan F, Liu H. Ultrasound Molecular Imaging of Neovascularization for Evaluation of Endometrial Receptivity Using Magnetic iRGD-Modified Lipid-Polymer Hybrid Microbubbles. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:5869-5881. [PMID: 36483520 PMCID: PMC9726466 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s359065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiogenesis plays an important role in endometrial receptivity, determining the response of the endometrium to the blastocyst at the early stage of embryo implantation. During the application of assisted reproduction technologies, it is very important to evaluate the status of uterine angiogenesis before deciding on embryo implantation. Targeted microbubbles (MBs)-based ultrasound molecular imaging (UMI) can noninvasively detect the expression status of biomarkers at the molecular level, thereby being a potential diagnosis strategy for various diseases and their therapeutic evaluation. METHODS The iRGD-lipopeptide (DSPE-PEG2000-iRGD) conjugate was prepared with iRGD peptides and DSPE-PEG2000-maleimide through the Michael-type addition reaction. Then, the magnetic iRGD-modified lipid-polymer hybrid MBs (Mag-iLPMs) were prepared with the double-emulsification-solvent-evaporation method. Magnetic targeting of Mag-iLPMs was confirmed under the microscope, followed by a rectangular magnet. Next, the in vitro targeted binding of MBs to murine brain-derived endothelial cells.3 (bEnd.3) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were evaluated. The ratio of MBs binding to bEnd.3 and HUVEC at the same field was also compared. For in vivo studies, bolus injections of targeted or control MBs were randomly administrated to non-pregnant or pregnant rats on day 5. Then, the uteri were imaged using a VisualSonics Vevo 2100 ultrasound system (Fujifilm VisualSonics Inc., Ontario, Canada) equipped with a high-frequency transducer. Ultrasonic imaging signals were acquired from Mag-iLPMs, and compared with Mag-LPMs, iLPMs, and LPMs. RESULTS The Mag-iLPMs showed excellent performance in ultrasound contrast imaging and binding affinity to target cells. Using the magnetic field, 10.5- and 12.47-fold higher binding efficiency to bEnd.3 and HUVEC were achieved compared to non-magnetic iLPMs, respectively. Significantly enhanced UMI signals were also observed in the uteri of rats intravenously injected pregnant rats (6.58-fold higher than rats injected with iLPMs). CONCLUSION We provided a powerful ultrasonic molecular functional imaging tool for uterine angiogenesis evaluation before embryonic implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanni He
- Department of Ultrasound, Institute of Ultrasound in Musculoskeletal Sports Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meijun Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound, Institute of Ultrasound in Musculoskeletal Sports Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sushu Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Institute of Ultrasound in Musculoskeletal Sports Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zheli Gong
- Department of Ultrasound, The People’s Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, 410061, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Yan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Institute of Ultrasound in Musculoskeletal Sports Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317, People’s Republic of China
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Giuliani E, Schon SB, Yang K, Burns GW, Neff LM, Remmer HA, Teixeira JM, Marsh EE. Obesity-induced follicular phase endometrial proteome dysregulation in a well-phenotyped population. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:367-375. [PMID: 35710094 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite obesity's significant impact on reproduction, its influence on the physiology of the human endometrium is largely understudied. We hypothesized that endometrial proteomic differences exist between obese (OW; body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m2) and normal-weight women (NWW; BMI, 18.5-24.9 kg/m2). DESIGN Clinical cross-sectional study. SETTING Academic Medical Center. PATIENT(S) Healthy, normally-cycling, 18 to 40-year-old women (n = 6 OW and n = 6 NWW). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Participants underwent screening and midfollicular phase visits. Demographic and anthropometric characteristics, blood samples, ultrasounds, and follicular phase endometrial biopsies were collected. Proteomic analyses of endometrial samples (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) were performed. Proteins with ≥2-fold difference and a false discovery rate of <0.1 were considered statistically significant (Benjamini-Hochberg adjustment). RESULT(S) Reproductive hormone levels did not differ between the two groups. Mean BMI, serum leptin concentration, and bioelectrical impedance analysis indices of adiposity were higher in OW than in NWW. Histological examination of the endometrial samples confirmed normal-appearing endometrium in both OW and NWW. A total of 2,930 proteins were detected across all samples, with an average number of proteins per sample of 2,059 ± 482 in NWW and 2,437 ± 187 in OW. A total of 17 proteins were differentially expressed in OW vs. NWW; 2 were more abundant, whereas 15 were underexpressed in OW, including the progesterone receptor. CONCLUSION(S) In this well-phenotyped population of healthy women, obesity was associated with significant endometrial proliferative phase proteomic differences affecting the hormonal and immunologic pathways. These could contribute to an increased risk of menstrual bleeding abnormalities and create an altered environment for future luteinization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Giuliani
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Samantha B Schon
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kun Yang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Gregory W Burns
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | | | - Henriette A Remmer
- Biomedical Research Core Facilities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jose M Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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12
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Bafor EE, Valencia JC, Young HA. Double Negative T Regulatory Cells: An Emerging Paradigm Shift in Reproductive Immune Tolerance? Front Immunol 2022; 13:886645. [PMID: 35844500 PMCID: PMC9283768 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.886645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune regulation of female reproductive function plays a crucial role in fertility, as alterations in the relationship between immune and reproductive processes result in autoimmune subfertility or infertility. The breakdown of immune tolerance leads to ovulation dysfunction, implantation failure, and pregnancy loss. In this regard, immune cells with regulatory activities are essential to restore self-tolerance. Apart from regulatory T cells, double negative T regulatory cells (DNTregs) characterized by TCRαβ+/γδ+CD3+CD4–CD8– (and negative for natural killer cell markers) are emerging as effector cells capable of mediating immune tolerance in the female reproductive system. DNTregs are present in the female reproductive tract of humans and murine models. However, their full potential as immune regulators is evolving, and studies so far indicate that DNTregs exhibit features that can also maintain tolerance in the female reproductive microenvironment. This review describes recent progress on the presence, role and mechanisms of DNTregs in the female reproductive system immune regulation and tolerance. In addition, we address how DNTregs can potentially provide a paradigm shift from the known roles of conventional regulatory T cells and immune tolerance by maintaining and restoring balance in the reproductive microenvironment of female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enitome E Bafor
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Julio C Valencia
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Howard A Young
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, United States
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13
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Reproductive immune microenvironment. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 152:103654. [PMID: 35728349 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
About 10 %-12 % of couples in the world suffer from infertility, and immunological factors are being paid more and more attention. Attempts to induce peripheral immune tolerance in pregnant women by injecting husband cells have been widely promoted, but ultimately proved unsuccessful. Over the past two decades, our understanding of how the immune system is involved in gametogenesis and embryonic development, especially in early pregnancy, has undergone a major shift, going from the periphery to the local area of reproductive tissue. However, a holistic overview of immune responses in reproductive organs and tissues is currently lacking. Here, we further highlight the importance of regional immunity research for understanding reproductive health by reviewing the research mileage of the testis, ovary, and uterine immune microenvironment. We propose the concept of "reproductive immune microenvironment (RIM)" by summarizing the common features and basic functions of the tissue microenvironment in which immune cells reside, including the interstitial space of the testis, the ovarian stroma and the endometrium. The establishment of the concept of RIM not only focuses on the comprehensive description of the immune response in reproductive tissues, but also provides a macroscopic perspective for a deeper understanding of the immune etiology of reproductive system-related diseases.
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14
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Yang X, Meng T. Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor/human leukocyte antigen-C combination and 'great obstetrical syndromes' (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1178. [PMID: 34504623 PMCID: PMC8394021 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), pre-eclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and preterm delivery are examples of 'great obstetrical syndromes' (GOS). Placental dysfunction is the most common pathogenesis of GOS. In human pregnancies, the effects of uterine natural killer cells involve angiogenesis, promoting the remodeling of uterine spiral artery, and improving the invasion of trophoblast cells. The uNK cells supply killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs), which come into contact with human leukocyte antigen-C (HLA-C) ligands expressed by extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs). Numerous studies have investigated the association between GOS and KIR/HLA-C combination. However, the outcomes have not been conclusive. The present review aimed to reveal the association between GOS and KIR/HLA-C combination to screen out high-risk pregnancies, strengthen the treatment of pregnancy complications, and reduce the frequency of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. It has been reported that a female with a KIR AA genotype and a neonate with a paternal HLA-C2 molecule is more prone to develop GOS and have a small fetus since less cytokines were secreted by uNK cells. Conversely, the combination of KIR BB haplotype (including the activating KIR2DS1) and HLA-C2 can induce the production of cytokines and increase trophoblast invasion, leading to the birth of a large fetus. KIR/HLA-C combinations may be applicable in selecting third-party gametes or surrogates. Detection of maternal KIR genes and HLA-C molecules from the couple could serve as useful markers for predicting and diagnosing GOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Tao Meng
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
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15
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Jiao X, Zhang X, Li N, Zhang D, Zhao S, Dang Y, Zanvit P, Jin W, Chen Z, Chen W, Qin Y. T reg deficiency-mediated T H 1 response causes human premature ovarian insufficiency through apoptosis and steroidogenesis dysfunction of granulosa cells. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e448. [PMID: 34185428 PMCID: PMC8214854 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune dysregulation has long been proposed as a component of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), but the underlying mediators and mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here we showed that patients with POI had augmented T helper 1 (TH 1) responses and regulatory T (Treg ) cell deficiency in both the periphery and the ovary compared to the control women. The increased ratio of TH 1:Treg cells was strongly correlated with the severity of POI. In mouse models of POI, the increased infiltration of TH 1 cells in the ovary resulted in follicle atresia and ovarian insufficiency, which could be prevented and reversed by Treg cells. Importantly, interferon (IFN) -γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) -α cooperatively promoted the apoptosis of granulosa cells and suppressed their steroidogenesis by modulating CTGF and CYP19A1. We have thus revealed a previously unrecognized Treg cell deficiency-mediated TH 1 response in the pathogenesis of POI, which should have implications for therapeutic interventions in patients with POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Jiao
- Center for Reproductive MedicineCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Mucosal Immunology SectionNIDCRNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive GeneticsShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
| | - Xiruo Zhang
- Center for Reproductive MedicineCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive GeneticsShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
| | - Nianyu Li
- Center for Reproductive MedicineCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive GeneticsShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
| | - Dunfang Zhang
- Mucosal Immunology SectionNIDCRNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive MedicineCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive GeneticsShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
| | - Yujie Dang
- Center for Reproductive MedicineCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive GeneticsShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
| | - Peter Zanvit
- Mucosal Immunology SectionNIDCRNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Wenwen Jin
- Mucosal Immunology SectionNIDCRNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Zi‐Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive MedicineCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive GeneticsShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive GeneticsShanghaiChina
- Center for Reproductive MedicineRen Ji HospitalSchool of MedicineShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wanjun Chen
- Mucosal Immunology SectionNIDCRNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive MedicineCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive GeneticsShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandongChina
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16
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Zhao H, Wei X, Yang X. A novel update on vitamin D in recurrent pregnancy loss (Review). Mol Med Rep 2021; 23:382. [PMID: 33760145 PMCID: PMC7986007 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is usually characterized as ≥3 miscarriages before 20 weeks of gestation. Patients with RPL may have autoimmune abnormalities or alloimmune problems. Vitamin D has a major function on the mechanism of immunomodulation at the maternal-fetal interface. However, whether vitamin D can be used as an effective method to treat patients with RPL requires investigation. It has been reported that vitamin D could prevent the occurrence of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) by reducing the expression levels of anti-β2 glycoprotein and tissue factor in RPL cases with APS. In addition, there is an opposite relationship between vitamin D and thyroid peroxidase antibody levels in autoimmune thyroid disease cases with RPL. Vitamin D changes the ratio of T helper (Th) 1/Th2 and regulatory T cell/Th17 to a certain extent, as well as affects the activity of natural killer cells and the production of cytokines to reduce the incidence of RPL. The objective of the current review was to address the research progress of vitamin D in RPL in recent years, which could facilitate the use of vitamin D treatment to enhance the pregnancy outcome of RPL. Collectively, it was suggested that vitamin D may be used as an important and effective immunotherapeutic agent for patients with RPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Organ Transplant, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqi Wei
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Xiuhua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
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17
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Bian X, Xie Q, Zhou Y, Wu H, Cui J, Jia L, Suo L. Transcriptional changes of mouse ovary during follicle initial or cyclic recruitment mediated by extra hormone treatment. Life Sci 2021; 264:118654. [PMID: 33141043 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Folliculogenesis contains gonadotropin-independent and -dependent stage. Disruption in any of this process would induce failure in retrieving capable oocytes during clinical treatment. However, there is still limited understanding of the molecular components specifically regulating this process. MATERIAL AND METHODS Ovaries of P3, P20 and exogenous gonadotropin-treated P22 mice were sampled and underwent RNA-seq to investigate the transcriptome variance during mouse folliculogenesis. KEY FINDINGS In our dataset, 1883 and 626 DEGs were captured for each stage respectively, which were further clustered into eight expression patterns. Pathway enrichment analysis identified distinct biological processes enriched in two stages, with the most prominent being the pathways related to metabolism, gene expression, cell cycle, immune system and DNA methylation. Transcriptional regulator inference yielded eight master transcription factors (i.e. Runx1, Stat3, Sox3, Pou5f1, Gata4, Foxl2, Cebpb, and Esr1) driving folliculogenesis. SIGNIFICANCE Our study revealed the temporal transcriptional reprogramming and gene expression dynamics during folliculogenesis mediated by extra hormone treatment, which could provide novel insights to controlled ovarian stimulation in future infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao Bian
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Qin Xie
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yuxiao Zhou
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, SCSB, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Haibo Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Junqi Cui
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Liling Jia
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, SCSB, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Lun Suo
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China.
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18
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Hu J, Dong J, Zeng Z, Wu J, Tan X, Tang T, Yan J, Jin C. Using exosomal miRNAs extracted from porcine follicular fluid to investigate their role in oocyte development. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:485. [PMID: 33317549 PMCID: PMC7737261 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02711-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Follicular development is crucial to normal oocyte maturation, with follicular size closely related to oocyte maturation. To better understand the molecular mechanisms behind porcine oocyte maturation, we obtained exosomal miRNA from porcine follicular fluid (PFF). These miRNA samples were then sequenced and analyzed regarding their different follicular sizes, as described in the methods section. RESULTS First, these results showed that this process successfully isolated PFF exosomes. Nearly all valid reads from the PFF exosomal sequencing data were successfully mapped to the porcine genome database. Second, we used hierarchical clustering methods to determine that significantly expressed miRNAs were clustered into A, B, C, and D groups in our heatmap according to different follicle sizes. These results allowed for the targeting of potential mRNAs genes related to porcine oocyte development. Third, we chose ten, significantly expressed miRNAs and predicted their target genes for further GO analysis. These results showed that the expression levels of neurotransmitter secretion genes were greatly changed, as were many target genes involved in the regulation of FSH secretion. Notably, these are genes that are very closely related to oocyte maturation in growing follicles. We then used pathway analysis for these targeted genes based on the originally selected ten miRNAs. Results indicated that the pathways were mainly related to the biosynthesis of TGF-beta and its signaling pathway, which are very closely related to reproductive system functions. CONCLUSIONS Finally, these exosomal miRNAs obtained from PFF may provide a valuable addition to our understanding of the mechanism of porcine oocyte maturation. It is also likely that these exosomal miRNAs could function as molecular biomarkers to choose high-quality oocytes and allow for in vitro porcine embryo production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhe Hu
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China.
| | - Jinyi Dong
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China
| | - Zhi Zeng
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China
| | - Juan Wu
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China
| | - Xiansheng Tan
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China
| | - Tao Tang
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China
| | - Jiao Yan
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China
| | - Chenzhong Jin
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Road Dingxing 7#, Loudi City, 417000, HuNan Province, China
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19
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Wall MA, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A. Hormonal Stimulation of Human Ovarian Xenografts in Mice: Studying Folliculogenesis, Activation, and Oocyte Maturation. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5939202. [PMID: 33099627 PMCID: PMC7671278 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and banking provides a fertility preservation option for patients who cannot undergo oocyte retrieval; it is quickly becoming a critical component of assisted reproductive technology programs across the world. While the transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue has resulted in over 130 live births, the field has ample room for technological improvements. Specifically, the functional timeline of grafted tissue and each patient's probability of achieving pregnancy is largely unpredictable due to patient-to-patient variability in ovarian reserve, lack of a reliable method for quantifying follicle numbers within tissue fragments, potential risk of reintroduction of cancer cells harbored in ovarian tissues, and an inability to control follicle activation rates. This review focuses on one of the most common physiological techniques used to study human ovarian tissue transplantation, xenotransplantation of human ovarian tissue to mice and endeavors to inform future studies by discussing the elements of the xenotransplantation model, challenges unique to the use of human ovarian tissue, and novel tissue engineering techniques currently under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Anne Wall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Correspondence: Ariella Shikanov, PhD, 2126 LBME, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Biomedical Engineering Building, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. E-mail:
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20
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Liu P, Zhang X, Hu J, Cui L, Zhao S, Jiao X, Qin Y. Dysregulated cytokine profile associated with biochemical premature ovarian insufficiency. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13292. [PMID: 32564444 PMCID: PMC7539985 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Problem Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) imposes great challenge on female reproduction. Whether immune disturbance in ovarian environment was implicated in POI remains unclear. We aimed to characterize the cytokine profile in follicular fluid (FF) and paired serum in patients with biochemical POI (bPOI). Method of study Multiplex immunoassay containing 45 cytokines was performed for individual FF and paired serum samples from 35 bPOI patients and 37 matched controls. Cytokine profiles were compared between the two groups and cytokines correlated to ovarian reserve, and the rates of day‐3 good‐quality embryos were further analyzed. Results In FF, significantly elevated level of chemokines MIP‐1α (P = .043), CXCL8 (P = .024), IP‐10 (P = .041), and eotaxin‐1 (P = .015) as well as growth factors VEGF‐D (P = .047), BDNF (P = .043), LIF (P = .002), and bFGF (P = .046) was found in bPOI patients compared to controls. Yet RANTES manifested an opposite trend with reduced levels among bPOI patients (P = .006). All these chemokines and growth factors in FF were significantly correlated with ovarian reserve (P < .05). In paired serum, cytokine signature was not likely accordant with that in FF between two groups, except for increased IP‐10 (P = .032) in bPOI patients and its significant correlation to FSH and AFC (P < .05). Among all differentially expressed cytokines, RANTES in FF was correlated with the rate of day‐3 good‐quality embryos (P = .035). Conclusion Altered cytokine profile characterized by increased chemokines and growth factors was associated with early stage of POI, which may fuel the progression of the disease or even play a crucial role in the development of ovarian insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihao Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiruo Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingmei Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Linlin Cui
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xue Jiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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The Roles of Uterine Natural Killer (NK) Cells and KIR/HLA-C Combination in the Development of Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:4808072. [PMID: 32309433 PMCID: PMC7149372 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4808072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is termed as a systemic disease that involves multiple organs; however, the exact etiology is still quite unclear. It is believed that the poor remodeling of uterine spiral arteries triggers PE, thereby causing failed placentation and producing inflammatory factors. The decline of blood flow results in lowering the nutrients and oxygen received by the fetus and augmenting the placental pressure in PE. Decidual immune cells, especially uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, are involved in the process of placentation. Decidual NK (dNK) cells significantly contribute to the vascular remodeling through the secretion of cytokines and angiogenic mediators in normal placental development. The abnormal activation of NK cells in both the peripheral blood and the decidua was counted among the causes leading to PE. The correlation existing between maternal killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and HLA-C in trophoblast cells constitutes a robust evidence for the genetic etiology of PE. The combinations of the two kinds of gene systems, together with the KIR genotype in the mother and the HLA-C group in her fetus, are likely to exactly decide the pregnancy outcome. The women, who have the inappropriate match of KIR/HLA-C, are likely to be prone to the augmented risk of PE. However, the combinations of KIR/HLA-C in PE undergo ethnic changes. The extensive prospective research works in Europe, Asia, and Africa are required for providing more findings in PE patients.
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