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Khan AA, Al-Motawa A, Halabi N, Ahmed B, Rafii JA, Konje JC. An investigation of endometrial vascularity in normally menstruating women and those in other physiological states using 3D ultrasound imaging. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 165:1172-1181. [PMID: 38217113 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15326] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the normal vasculature indices of the endometrium and to correlate them with those in various physiological states. METHODS Women undergoing ultrasound at the Feto-Maternal Center, Qatar in 2020-2021 as part of their gynecologic evaluation were enrolled into the study. They were divided into those with normal menses and no additional pathology, those following spontaneous miscarriage, postpartum and menopausal. Three-dimensional (3D) evaluation of the endometrial vasculature was done and the parameters quantified included vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI), vascularization flow index (VFI), endometrial thickness, endometrial volume and uterine volume. JASP, an open-source statistical analysis software, was used for analysis and an independent t-test to compare the vascularity indices. A multivariate regression analysis was also done to look at the factors affecting the endometrial vascular indices within the luteal phase. RESULTS A total of 461 women were studied: 122 in the follicular phase, 199 in the luteal phase, 90 after a spontaneous miscarriage, 29 postpartum, and 16 menopausal. The vascularity indices were highest after miscarriage and lowest postnatally. There were no significant effects of age, gravida, para, or abortions on VI and VFI. However, there was a significant positive effect of age on FI (P = 0.019) There was a significant increase in endometrial volume and thickness in the luteal phase as compared to follicular phase (P < 0.01), but there was no difference in the vascularity indices. The uterine and endometrial volume in the postnatal group were nearly double that of the luteal group (P value <0.01 and 0.014, respectively). There was a significant decrease in flow index in the postnatal group compared to the luteal group (P < 0.01), suggesting low flow intensity in the postnatal group. CONCLUSIONS Endometrial vascular indices measured using 3D Doppler can be used to determine normal vascular indices and vary with physiological states such as after miscarriages, postnatally and in the menopausal states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Ahmed Khan
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Najeeb Halabi
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Badreldeen Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- The Feto Maternal Medical Center, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jeremie Arash Rafii
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Justin C Konje
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- The Feto Maternal Medical Center, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Li T, Li RHW, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Chiu PCN, Chan RWS. Interleukin 6 at menstruation promotes the proliferation and self-renewal of endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells through the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1378863. [PMID: 38765018 PMCID: PMC11099287 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1378863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background At menstruation, the functional layer of the human endometrium sheds off due to the trigger of the release of inflammatory factors, including interleukin 6 (IL-6), as a result of a sharp decline in progesterone levels, leading to tissue breakdown and bleeding. The endometrial mesenchymal stem-like cells (CD140b+CD146+ eMSC) located in the basalis are responsible for the cyclical regeneration of the endometrium after menstruation. Endometrial cells from the menstruation phase have been proven to secrete a higher amount of IL-6 and further enhance the self-renewal and clonogenic activity of eMSC. However, the IL-6-responsive mechanism remains unknown. Thus, we hypothesized that IL-6 secreted from niche cells during menstruation regulates the proliferation and self-renewal of eMSC through the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Methods In this study, the content of IL-6 across the menstrual phases was first evaluated. Coexpression of stem cell markers (CD140b and CD146) with interleukin 6 receptor (IL-6R) was confirmed by immunofluorescent staining. In vitro functional assays were conducted to investigate the effect of IL-6 on the cell activities of eMSC, and the therapeutic role of these IL-6- and WNT5A-pretreated eMSC on the repair of injured endometrium was observed using an established mouse model. Results The endometrial cells secrete a high amount of IL-6 under hypoxic conditions, which mimic the physiological microenvironment in the menstruation phase. Also, the expression of IL-6 receptors was confirmed in our eMSC, indicating their capacity to respond to IL-6 in the microenvironment. Exogenous IL-6 can significantly enhance the self-renewal, proliferation, and migrating capacity of eMSC. Activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway was observed upon IL-6 treatment, while suppression of the WNT/β-catenin signaling impaired the stimulatory role of IL-6 on eMSC activities. IL-6- and WNT5A-pretreated eMSC showed better performance during the regeneration of the injured mouse endometrium. Conclusion We demonstrate that the high level of IL-6 produced by endometrial cells at menstruation can induce the stem cells in the human endometrium to proliferate and migrate through the activation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway. Treatment of eMSC with IL-6 and WNT5A might enhance their therapeutic potential in the regeneration of injured endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Raymond H. W. Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ernest H. Y. Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rachel W. S. Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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Wei S, Li Z, Xia H, Wang Z, Deng J, Li L, Huang R, Ye T, Huang Y, Yang Y. An endometrial biomimetic extracellular matrix (ECM) for enhanced endometrial regeneration using hyaluronic acid hydrogel containing recombinant human type III collagen. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 268:131723. [PMID: 38649072 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131723] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Endometrial injury poses a significant challenge in tissue regeneration, with type III collagen (COL III) playing a pivotal role in maintaining endometrial integrity and facilitating repair. Our study explored the utility of recombinant human type III collagen (RHC) as an intervention for endometrial damage. To address the challenges associated with the inherent instability and rapid degradation of COL III in vivo, we developed an RHC-HA hydrogel by conjugating RHC with hyaluronic acid (HA), thus ensuring a more stable and sustained delivery. Our findings suggested that the RHC-HA hydrogel significantly promoted endometrial regeneration and restored fertility. The hydrogel facilitated prolonged retention of RHC in the uterus, leading to a substantial improvement in the repair process. The synergistic interaction between RHC and HA greatly enhances cell proliferation and adhesion, surpassing the efficacy of HA or RHC alone. Additionally, the RHC-HA hydrogel demonstrated notable anti-fibrotic effects, which are crucial for preventing abnormalities during endometrial healing. These findings suggested that the RHC-HA hydrogel presented a therapeutic strategy in the treatment of uterine endometrial injuries, which may improve female reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siying Wei
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ziyi Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Huan Xia
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zhaoyang Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jingxian Deng
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Rufei Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Tao Ye
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yadong Huang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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Alemany M. The Metabolic Syndrome, a Human Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2251. [PMID: 38396928 PMCID: PMC10888680 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042251] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on the question of metabolic syndrome (MS) being a complex, but essentially monophyletic, galaxy of associated diseases/disorders, or just a syndrome of related but rather independent pathologies. The human nature of MS (its exceptionality in Nature and its close interdependence with human action and evolution) is presented and discussed. The text also describes the close interdependence of its components, with special emphasis on the description of their interrelations (including their syndromic development and recruitment), as well as their consequences upon energy handling and partition. The main theories on MS's origin and development are presented in relation to hepatic steatosis, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, but encompass most of the MS components described so far. The differential effects of sex and its biological consequences are considered under the light of human social needs and evolution, which are also directly related to MS epidemiology, severity, and relations with senescence. The triggering and maintenance factors of MS are discussed, with especial emphasis on inflammation, a complex process affecting different levels of organization and which is a critical element for MS development. Inflammation is also related to the operation of connective tissue (including the adipose organ) and the widely studied and acknowledged influence of diet. The role of diet composition, including the transcendence of the anaplerotic maintenance of the Krebs cycle from dietary amino acid supply (and its timing), is developed in the context of testosterone and β-estradiol control of the insulin-glycaemia hepatic core system of carbohydrate-triacylglycerol energy handling. The high probability of MS acting as a unique complex biological control system (essentially monophyletic) is presented, together with additional perspectives/considerations on the treatment of this 'very' human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marià Alemany
- Faculty of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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5
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Parisi F, Fenizia C, Introini A, Zavatta A, Scaccabarozzi C, Biasin M, Savasi V. The pathophysiological role of estrogens in the initial stages of pregnancy: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications for pregnancy outcome from the periconceptional period to end of the first trimester. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:699-720. [PMID: 37353909 PMCID: PMC10628507 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogens regulate disparate female physiological processes, thus ensuring reproduction. Altered estrogen levels and signaling have been associated with increased risks of pregnancy failure and complications, including hypertensive disorders and low birthweight babies. However, the role of estrogens in the periconceptional period and early pregnancy is still understudied. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize the current evidence on the role of maternal estrogens during the periconceptional period and the first trimester of pregnancies conceived naturally and following ART. Detailed molecular mechanisms and related clinical impacts are extensively described. SEARCH METHODS Data for this narrative review were independently identified by seven researchers on Pubmed and Embase databases. The following keywords were selected: 'estrogens' OR 'estrogen level(s)' OR 'serum estradiol' OR 'estradiol/estrogen concentration', AND 'early pregnancy' OR 'first trimester of pregnancy' OR 'preconceptional period' OR 'ART' OR 'In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)' OR 'Embryo Transfer' OR 'Frozen Embryo Transfer' OR 'oocyte donation' OR 'egg donation' OR 'miscarriage' OR 'pregnancy outcome' OR 'endometrium'. OUTCOMES During the periconceptional period (defined here as the critical time window starting 1 month before conception), estrogens play a crucial role in endometrial receptivity, through the activation of paracrine/autocrine signaling. A derailed estrogenic milieu within this period seems to be detrimental both in natural and ART-conceived pregnancies. Low estrogen levels are associated with non-conception cycles in natural pregnancies. On the other hand, excessive supraphysiologic estrogen concentrations at time of the LH peak correlate with lower live birth rates and higher risks of pregnancy complications. In early pregnancy, estrogen plays a massive role in placentation mainly by modulating angiogenic factor expression-and in the development of an immune-tolerant uterine micro-environment by remodeling the function of uterine natural killer and T-helper cells. Lower estrogen levels are thought to trigger abnormal placentation in naturally conceived pregnancies, whereas an estrogen excess seems to worsen pregnancy development and outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Most current evidence available endorses a relation between periconceptional and first trimester estrogen levels and pregnancy outcomes, further depicting an optimal concentration range to optimize pregnancy success. However, how estrogens co-operate with other factors in order to maintain a fine balance between local tolerance towards the developing fetus and immune responses to pathogens remains elusive. Further studies are highly warranted, also aiming to identify the determinants of estrogen response and biomarkers for personalized estrogen administration regimens in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Parisi
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, via L. Castelvetro 32, Milan, Italy
| | - C Fenizia
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, via F. Sforza 35, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - A Introini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Nobels väg 5, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Zavatta
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, via L. Castelvetro 32, Milan, Italy
| | - C Scaccabarozzi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - M Biasin
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - V Savasi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
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Wang Y, Yang L, Zhang X, Sun Y, Sun H, Yan G, Zhao Q, Han Y, Wang X. Quality marker discovery of Danggui Jianzhong decoction for treating primary dysmenorrhoea based on chinmedomics strategy. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 115:154724. [PMID: 37087788 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Danggui Jianzhong Decoction (DGJZD) has been proven as an effective classical prescription for clinically treating primary dysmenorrhoea (PD). However, the industrialisation development and drug innovation of DGJZD remain limited due to its undefined effective constituents and quality markers (Q-markers). PURPOSE Elucidating the Q-markers of DGJZD, which is related to clinical efficacy. METHODS In accordance with chinmedomics strategy, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of DGJZD on the basis of the metabolomic profile and biomarker of a PD rat model to further identify the constituents of DGJZD in vivo that originated from the formula under the acting condition of DGJZD. The potential effective constituents and Q-markers were identified by mining the dynamic relation between the constituents in vivo and the biomarkers. RESULTS Subsequently, 29 serum metabolites were characterized as biomarkers for PD, and DGJZD adjusted the levels of the primary biomarkers involved in arachidonic acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism as well as the synthesis of steroid hormones. Under the active condition of DGJZD, 20 prototype ingredients and 4 metabolites of DGJZD were found in vivo, five of which were mostly related with the efficacy of PD, namely, ferulic acid, zizyphusin, cinnamic acid, protocatechuic acid-3-glucoside, and azelaic acid. They were the potential pharmacodynamic constituents for treating PD, and they could be regarded as the Q-markers of DGJZD. CONCLUSION Taken together, the Q-markers of DGJZD identified in this research are credible and assist in solving problems related to quality control and drug innovation, accelerating industrialisation development. Besides, the efficacy, mechanism and active ingredients of DGJZD for the treatment of PD were innovatively elucidated for the first time on the basis of the chinmedomics strategy for uncovering the Q-markers of drugs from the system perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Metabolomics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heping Road 24, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Le Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dade Road 111, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiwu Zhang
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Metabolomics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heping Road 24, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ye Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dade Road 111, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Sun
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Metabolomics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heping Road 24, Harbin 150040, China.
| | - Guangli Yan
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Metabolomics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heping Road 24, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Qiqi Zhao
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Metabolomics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heping Road 24, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ying Han
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Metabolomics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heping Road 24, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xijun Wang
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Metabolomics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Heping Road 24, Harbin 150040, China; State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dade Road 111, Guangzhou, China; State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao.
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Hidalgo AI, Ulloa-Leal C, Gajardo G, López G, Carretta D, Burgos RA, Ratto M. Ovulation Induced by Intrauterine Seminal Plasma Increases Total Protein, PGE2, IL-8, and IL-1β in Uterine Fluid of Llamas ( Lama glama). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040554. [PMID: 36830341 PMCID: PMC9951705 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The establishment of a state of immunotolerance in the female reproductive tract is important for embryo development, implantation and placentation. Llamas are induced ovulators and more than 98% of pregnancies occur in the left uterine horn. The objective of this study was to determine the uterine immune response of llamas in different stages of the reproductive cycle. Adult llamas (n = 20) were examined daily by transrectal ultrasonography to determine follicular growth and then randomly assigned to four groups: Follicular phase (n = 5); Luteal phase induced by an intramuscular administration of 50 ug of GnRH analogue (n = 5); Luteal phase induced by intrauterine infusion of seminal plasma (n = 5); and Luteal phase induced by mating (n = 5). Uterine fluid was collected separately from both uterine horns by non-surgical flushing to determine the presence of cells, total proteins and concentration of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IFN γ, TNF-α and PGE2. Inflammatory cells were not observed in the uterine fluid and total protein pattern and inflammatory mediators did not differ between the left and the right horn amongst groups. Llamas treated with an intrauterine infusion of seminal plasma showed the highest concentration of total proteins, inflammatory cytokines PGE2, IL-8 and IL-1β in the uterine fluid. In conclusion, seminal plasma is made up of significant numbers of signaling molecules that are able to modify the uterine immune response in llamas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Isabel Hidalgo
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
- Correspondence:
| | - Cesar Ulloa-Leal
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Gajardo
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Gerardo López
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Daniella Carretta
- Laboratory of Inflammation Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
- Laboratory of Immunometabolism, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Rafael Agustín Burgos
- Laboratory of Inflammation Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
- Laboratory of Immunometabolism, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Marcelo Ratto
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
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Zeng S, Liu X, Liu D, Song W. Research update for the immune microenvironment of chronic endometritis. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 152:103637. [PMID: 35576684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic endometritis (CE) is a persistent and subtle local inflammatory disease characterized by abnormal plasma cell infiltration in the endometrial stroma.The incidence of chronic endometritis is as high as 15-57.5% in women suffering from infertility, implantation failure of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and unexplained recurrent abortion. Many studies both at home and abroad have shown that CE can reduce the receptivity of endometrium and affect embryo implantation. According to the existing reproductive immunity research, the abnormality of immune cell subsets in endometrium is an important factors leading to pregnancy failure. The immune microenvironment in endometrium consists of immune cells and immune molecules, and their influence on embryo implantation can not be ignored. This review paper discusses the controversy of pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of CE from the perspective of immune microenvironment by referring to related literature at home and abroad, and investigates the possible ways to improve the diagnosis and treatment of CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuli Zeng
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Xinqiong Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Dongzhou Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Wencong Song
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
- Hainan Vocational University of Science and Technology, No.18 Qiongshan Avenue, Meilan District, Haikou City 571126, Hainan Province, China
- Shenzhen Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen 518038, China
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9
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Shi X, Wang X, Peng L, Chen Y, Liu C, Yang Q, Wu K. Associations between polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) levels in adipose tissues and female menstrual cycle and menstrual bleeding duration in Shantou, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 301:119025. [PMID: 35183664 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The endocrine-disrupting effects of human exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been studied, but their associations with menstrual status were not clearly clarified. This study was to evaluate the associations between PBDE levels in adipose tissues and the menstrual cycle and menstrual bleeding duration alteration. A total of 298 female cases undergoing surgery were recruited from two hospitals in Shantou, China. Demographic, clinical, and pathological information were collected, and adipose tissues were obtained during mammary or abdominal surgery. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry was used to analyze 14 PBDE congeners in the adipose samples. The associations between PBDE levels and menstrual cycle (MC) and menstrual duration (MD) were analyzed by logistic regression models, estimating odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). BDE-153 had the highest level in the adipose samples, followed by BDE-209, BDE-183 and BDE-47. Compared with referents, median levels of BDE-47, -71, -153, -183 were higher in women with MC > 30 days (all P < 0.05); BDE-47, -153, -183, -209 were also higher in women with MD > 5.5 days (all P < 0.05). After adjusted for age and parity, BDE-47, -71, -153, -183 were associated with prolonged MC (OR = 1.20, 1.15, 1.12, 1.11, respectively, all P < 0.05) in the logistic regression models; and BDE-47, -153, -183, -209 were associated with the prolonged MD (OR = 1.13, 1.09, 1.10, 1.11, respectively, all P < 0.05). Several individual PBDE congeners in female adipose were found associated with prolonged menstrual cycle and menstrual duration. PBDEs may influence reproductive health of women by altering menstrual status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Shi
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin Peng
- Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Yebin Chen
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Caixia Liu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingtao Yang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Kusheng Wu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
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10
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Zhang T, Zhao Y, Cheung WC, Gan YH, Huang L, Li M, Leung KT, Chung PW, Wang CC, Laird S, Chen X, Li TC. Serial changes in two immune checkpoint receptors and ligands, Tim-3/Gal-9 and PD-1/PD-L1 in peripheral blood prior to miscarriage: Comparison with pregnancies resulting in a live birth. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 87:e13524. [PMID: 35130363 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13524] [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: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Immune checkpoints Tim-3/Gal-9 and PD-1/PL-1 are involved in the maintenance of maternal-fetal immune tolerance systematically and locally. This study aimed to compare the serial changes of Tim-3/Gal-9, and PD-1/PL-1 in peripheral blood over a 4-week period after blastocyst transfer, between women who had a live birth and those who miscarried. METHODS OF STUDY Serial blood samples were obtained on the day of ET, and 9, 16, 23, and 30 days after ET for the measurement of Tim-3 and PD-1 expressions on various lymphocytes by flow cytometry. Concentrations of serum Gal-9 and PD-L1 were measured by ELISA. RESULTS In pregnancies that resulted in a live birth, a significant and sustained increase in the proportion of Tim-3+ pNK cells was observed from the 9th to 30th days after ET, whilst the concentration of serum PD-L1 was significantly increased on the 23rd and 30th days after ET when compared to the day of ET. In pregnancies that later miscarried, none of the parameters were significantly changed across all the time points examined. When comparing the results between the two groups, the proportion of Tim-3+ CD56dim NK cells in the women who had a live birth was significantly higher than that in women who miscarried from the 9th to 30th day after ET. CONCLUSION A significant and sustained increase in the proportion of Tim-3+ pNK cells was observed in pregnancies resulting in a live birth but not in pregnancies resulting in a miscarriage, suggesting the changes may be associated with successful pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yiwei Zhao
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wing Ching Cheung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yong Huang Gan
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lin Huang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, China
| | - Mingqing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kam Tong Leung
- Department of Pediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Piu Wah Chung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Reproduction and Development Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Susan Laird
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Center, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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11
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Menstrual Cycle: The Importance of Both the Phases and the Transitions Between Phases on Training and Performance. Sports Med 2022; 52:1457-1460. [PMID: 35486372 PMCID: PMC9213297 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01691-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The authors present opinions based on their applied experiences of working with female athletes in combination with the existing evidence-based literature. Most of the existing menstrual cycle research focuses on a few steady-state time points within the pre-defined menstrual cycle phases, yet this disregards the day-to-day hormonal changes that women have to accommodate to perform optimally and consistently. The traditional research models are inadequate for studying symptoms and symptom management, and ultimately for supporting athletes to perform well throughout the entirety of their cycle. As such, the monitoring of the day-to-day variation, particularly during the transitions between menstrual cycle phases appears to be an important “overlooked” consideration. This is particularly pertinent considering the known intra-individual and inter-individual variation in menstrual cycle characteristics. Anecdotal and research evidence supports the idea that athletes can use non-pharmacological solutions to mitigate negative menstrual cycle symptoms and do not need to “grit their teeth and roll with it”. However, further research (including case studies) is needed in this important research area. Such knowledge should be and needs to be widespread amongst practitioners and athletes as they should not have to figure this out alone. As such, researchers and practitioners need to put more work into understanding symptom aetiology, symptom clusters and their relationship with hormonal changes, menstrual cycle phases and transitions, with potential for a profound impact on individual athlete health and well-being. In so doing, those working with female athletes need to continue building on the recent progress made in educating athletes and practitioners; for example, normalising the discussion of and about the menstrual cycle and all of its implications.
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12
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Zammit NW, McDowell J, Warren J, Muskovic W, Gamble J, Shi YC, Kaczorowski D, Chan CL, Powell J, Ormandy C, Brown D, Oakes SR, Grey ST. TNFAIP3 Reduction-of-Function Drives Female Infertility and CNS Inflammation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:811525. [PMID: 35464428 PMCID: PMC9027572 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.811525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Women with autoimmune and inflammatory aetiologies can exhibit reduced fecundity. TNFAIP3 is a master negative regulator of inflammation, and has been linked to many inflammatory conditions by genome wide associations studies, however its role in fertility remains unknown. Here we show that mice harbouring a mild Tnfaip3 reduction-of-function coding variant (Tnfaip3I325N) that reduces the threshold for inflammatory NF-κB activation, exhibit reduced fecundity. Sub-fertility in Tnfaip3I325N mice is associated with irregular estrous cycling, low numbers of ovarian secondary follicles, impaired mammary gland development and insulin resistance. These pathological features are associated with infertility in human subjects. Transplantation of Tnfaip3I325N ovaries, mammary glands or pancreatic islets into wild-type recipients rescued estrous cycling, mammary branching and hyperinsulinemia respectively, pointing towards a cell-extrinsic hormonal mechanism. Examination of hypothalamic brain sections revealed increased levels of microglial activation with reduced levels of luteinizing hormone. TNFAIP3 coding variants may offer one contributing mechanism for the cause of sub-fertility observed across otherwise healthy populations as well as for the wide variety of auto-inflammatory conditions to which TNFAIP3 is associated. Further, TNFAIP3 represents a molecular mechanism that links heightened immunity with neuronal inflammatory homeostasis. These data also highlight that tuning-up immunity with TNFAIP3 comes with the potentially evolutionary significant trade-off of reduced fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan W. Zammit
- Immunity and Inflammation Theme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Nathan W. Zammit, ; Shane T. Grey,
| | - Joseph McDowell
- Immunity and Inflammation Theme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanna Warren
- Immunity and Inflammation Theme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Walter Muskovic
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Garvan-Weizmann Centre for Cellular Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanne Gamble
- Centre for NSW Health Pathology, Institute of Clinical Pathology And Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Yan-Chuan Shi
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dominik Kaczorowski
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Garvan-Weizmann Centre for Cellular Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chia-Ling Chan
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Garvan-Weizmann Centre for Cellular Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joseph Powell
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Garvan-Weizmann Centre for Cellular Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chris Ormandy
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Translation Science Pillar, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Brown
- Centre for NSW Health Pathology, Institute of Clinical Pathology And Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Samantha R. Oakes
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Translation Science Pillar, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shane T. Grey
- Immunity and Inflammation Theme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Translation Science Pillar, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Nathan W. Zammit, ; Shane T. Grey,
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13
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Hu B, Dong Y, Zhou W, Ma Y, Li L, Fu X, Zhang W, Luo Y, Pu J, Deng X, Zhang R, Liu S. Effect of Inonotus obliquus polysaccharide on composition of the intestinal flora in mice with acute endometritis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259570. [PMID: 34739514 PMCID: PMC8570517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inonotus obliquus Polysaccharide (IOP) is a large molecule extracted from Inonotus obliqus, a medicinal fungus, which has a wide range of biological activities and has been shown to be associated with inflammation. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether IOP can help to reduce acute endometritis by regulating intestinal flora. We observed pathological changes in mice with endometritis following treatment with IOP and evaluated changes in the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and further studied the effects of IOP on the intestinal flora of endometritis mice using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that IOP improved the condition of uterine tissues and reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Meanwhile, the 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that IOP could regulate the changes in intestinal microflora at the level of genera, possibly by changing the relative abundance of some genera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binhong Hu
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Characteristic Horticultural Biological Resources, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuqing Dong
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
- College of Forestry, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenjing Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yichuan Ma
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Luyao Li
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianhua Fu
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenxuan Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanyue Luo
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingyu Pu
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Deng
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Songqing Liu
- College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Characteristic Horticultural Biological Resources, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, China
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14
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Kimura R, Otani T, Shiraishi N, Hagiyama M, Yoneshige A, Wada A, Kajiyama H, Takeuchi F, Mizuguchi N, Morishita K, Ito A. Expression of cell adhesion molecule 1 in human and murine endometrial glandular cells and its increase during the proliferative phase by estrogen and cell density. Life Sci 2021; 283:119854. [PMID: 34332980 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cell adhesion molecule 1 (CADM1) mediates interepithelial adhesion and is upregulated in crowded epithelial monolayers. This study aimed to examine CADM1 expression in the human endometrium of proliferative and secretory phases, and its transcriptional regulation in terms of estrogen stimuli and higher cellularity. MAIN METHODS CADM1 immunohistochemistry was conducted on endometrial tissues from women in their 40s and adult mice subcutaneously injected with estradiol following ovariectomy. Dual-luciferase reporter assays were conducted using human endometrial HEC-50B and HEC-1B cells and reporter plasmids harboring the human CADM1 3.4-kb promoter and its deleted and mutated forms. Cells were transfected with estrogen receptor α cDNA and reporter plasmids, and treated with estradiol before luciferase activity measurement. KEY FINDINGS Immunohistochemistry revealed that CADM1 was clearly expressed on the lateral membranes of the simple columnar glandular cells in the proliferative phase, but not in the secretory phase, from both women and the mouse model. The glandular cell density increased two-fold in the proliferative phase. Reporter assays identified three Sp1-binding sites as estradiol-responsive elements in the proximal region (from -223 to -84) of the transcription start site (+1) in HEC-50B cells. When the cell culture was started at eight-fold higher cell density, the CADM1 3.4-kb promoter was transactivated at a two-fold higher level in HEC-50B cells. This cell density effect was not detected for the CADM1 2.3-kb or 1.6-kb promoter. SIGNIFICANCE Two (proximal and distal) promoter regions are suggested to function additively to transactivate CADM1 in endometrial glandular cells that crowd in the proliferative phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuichiro Kimura
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Otani
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan
| | - Naoki Shiraishi
- Genome Medical Center, Kindai University Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Man Hagiyama
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan
| | - Azusa Yoneshige
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan
| | - Akihiro Wada
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kajiyama
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan
| | - Fuka Takeuchi
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan
| | | | - Kazuhiro Morishita
- Division of Tumor and Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Akihiko Ito
- Department of Pathology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osaka-sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan.
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15
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Martin P, Gurevich DB. Macrophage regulation of angiogenesis in health and disease. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 119:101-110. [PMID: 34330619 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are primarily known as phagocytic innate immune cells, but are, in fact, highly dynamic multi-taskers that interact with many different tissue types and have regulatory roles in development, homeostasis, tissue repair, and disease. In all of these scenarios angiogenesis is pivotal and macrophages appear to play a key role in guiding both blood vessel sprouting and remodelling wherever that occurs. Recent studies have explored these processes in a diverse range of models utilising the complementary strengths of rodent, fish and tissue culture studies to unravel the mechanisms underlying these interactions and regulatory functions. Here we discuss how macrophages regulate angiogenesis and its resolution as embryonic tissues grow, as well as their parallel and different functions in repairing wounds and in pathologies, with a focus on chronic wounds and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Martin
- School of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK; School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - David Baruch Gurevich
- Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
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16
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Da Broi MG, Plaça JR, Silva WAD, Ferriani RA, Navarro PA. Screening of Variants in the Transcript Profile of Eutopic Endometrium from Infertile Women with Endometriosis during the Implantation Window. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2021; 43:457-466. [PMID: 34318471 PMCID: PMC10411168 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1730287] [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: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Abnormalities in the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis may be related to disease-associated infertility. Although previous RNA-sequencing analysis did not show differential expression in endometrial transcripts of endometriosis patients, other molecular alterations could impact protein synthesis and endometrial receptivity. Our aim was to screen for functional mutations in the transcripts of eutopic endometria of infertile women with endometriosis and controls during the implantation window. METHODS Data from RNA-Sequencing of endometrial biopsies collected during the implantation window from 17 patients (6 infertile women with endometriosis, 6 infertile controls, 5 fertile controls) were analyzed for variant discovery and identification of functional mutations. A targeted study of the alterations found was performed to understand the data into disease's context. RESULTS None of the variants identified was common to other samples within the same group, and no mutation was repeated among patients with endometriosis, infertile and fertile controls. In the endometriosis group, nine predicted deleterious mutations were identified, but only one was previously associated to a clinical condition with no endometrial impact. When crossing the mutated genes with the descriptors endometriosis and/or endometrium, the gene CMKLR1 was associated either with inflammatory response in endometriosis or with endometrial processes for pregnancy establishment. CONCLUSION Despite no pattern of mutation having been found, we ponder the small sample size and the analysis on RNA-sequencing data. Considering the purpose of the study of screening and the importance of the CMKLR1 gene on endometrial modulation, it could be a candidate gene for powered further studies evaluating mutations in eutopic endometria from endometriosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Gomes Da Broi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jessica Rodrigues Plaça
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Wilson Araújo da Silva
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Paula Andrea Navarro
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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17
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Velez LM, Seldin M, Motta AB. Inflammation and reproductive function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1205-1217. [PMID: 33739372 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most frequent endocrinopathies, affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age, and is characterized by the presence of ovarian cysts, oligo, or anovulation, and clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism. Metabolic abnormalities such as hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, cardiovascular complications, dyslipidemia, and obesity are frequently present in PCOS women. Several key pathogenic pathways overlap between these metabolic abnormalities, notably chronic inflammation. The observation that this mechanism was shared led to the hypothesis that a chronic inflammatory state could contribute to the pathogenesis of PCOS. Moreover, while physiological inflammation is an essential feature of reproductive events such as ovulation, menstruation, implantation, and labor at term, the establishment of chronic inflammation may be a pivotal feature of the observed reproductive dysfunctions in PCOS women. Taken together, the present work aims to review the available evidence about inflammatory mediators and related mechanisms in women with PCOS, with an emphasis on reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro M Velez
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Marcus Seldin
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Alicia B Motta
- Center of Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (CEFYBO), National Scientific and Technical Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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18
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Shen Z, Rodriguez-Garcia M, Patel MV, Wira CR. Direct and Indirect endocrine-mediated suppression of human endometrial CD8+T cell cytotoxicity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1773. [PMID: 33469053 PMCID: PMC7815780 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81380-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulation of endometrial (EM) CD8+T cells is essential for successful reproduction and protection against pathogens. Suppression of CD8+T cells is necessary for a tolerogenic environment that promotes implantation and pregnancy. However, the mechanisms regulating this process remain unclear. Sex hormones are known to control immune responses directly on immune cells and indirectly through the tissue environment. When the actions of estradiol (E2), progesterone (P) and TGFβ on EM CD8+T cells were evaluated, cytotoxic activity, perforin and granzymes were directly suppressed by E2 and TGFβ but not P. Moreover, incubation of polarized EM epithelial cells with P, but not E2, increased TGFβ secretion. These findings suggest that E2 acts directly on CD8+T cell to suppress cytotoxic activity while P acts indirectly through induction of TGFβ production. Understanding the mechanisms involved in regulating endometrial CD8+T cells is essential for optimizing reproductive success and developing protective strategies against genital infections and gynecological cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Shen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA
| | - M Rodriguez-Garcia
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M V Patel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA
| | - C R Wira
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA.
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19
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Agostinis C, Balduit A, Mangogna A, Zito G, Romano F, Ricci G, Kishore U, Bulla R. Immunological Basis of the Endometriosis: The Complement System as a Potential Therapeutic Target. Front Immunol 2021; 11:599117. [PMID: 33505394 PMCID: PMC7829336 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.599117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is a chronic disease characterized by the presence and proliferation of functional endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Ovaries and pelvic peritoneum are the most common locations for endometrial ectopic tissue, followed by deep infiltrating EM sites. The cyclic and recurrent bleeding, the progressive fibrosis and the peritoneal adhesions of ectopic endometrial glands, may cause different symptoms depending on the origin involved. EM is a frequent clinical condition affecting around 10% of women of mainly reproductive age, as well as in post-menopausal women and adolescents, especially with uterine anomalies. The risk of developing EM depends on a complex interaction between genetic, immunological, hormonal, and environmental factors. It is largely considered to arise due to a dysfunction of immunological surveillance. In fact, women with EM exhibit altered functions of peritoneal macrophages, lymphocytes and natural killer cells, as well as levels of inflammatory mediators and growth factors in the peritoneal fluid. In EM patients, peritoneal macrophages are preponderant and highly active compared to healthy women. Peritoneal macrophages are able to regulate the events that determine the production of cytokines, prostaglandins, growth factors and complement components. Several studies have shown alteration in the regulation of the complement activation, leading to chronic inflammation characteristic of EM. Aberrant regulation/activation of the complement system has been observed in the peritoneal cavity of women affected by EM. Thus, complement inhibition may represent a new approach for the treatment of EM, given that a number of complement inhibitors are under pre-clinical and clinical development. Such an intervention may provide a broader therapeutic control of complement-mediated inflammatory damage in EM patients. This review will focus on our current understanding of the role of complement activation in EM and possible modalities available for complement-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Agostinis
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS (Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrea Balduit
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mangogna
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS (Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Gabriella Zito
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS (Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS (Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS (Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico) "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy.,Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Uday Kishore
- Biosciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Roberta Bulla
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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20
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Bae H, You S, Lim W, Song G. Pyridaben leads to inhibition of cell growth and induction of cell death through intracellular mechanisms in early pregnancy. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 171:104733. [PMID: 33357555 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2020.104733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recently, infertility has become a major global issue. It is crucial to identify environmental factors that lead to infertility. The prevalent use of pesticides in agriculture results in the exposure of livestock and humans to these pesticides. Studies have reported the harmful effects of pesticides on pregnancy. Pyridaben, a pesticide that inhibits mitochondrial complex 1, has been reported to have detrimental effects on neurons, spermatogenesis, hormonal balance, and embryonic development. However, the effect of pyridaben on the female reproductive system has not yet been studied. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the effects of pyridaben on early pregnancy in porcine reproductive cell lines, which are known to mimic the female reproductive system. Results demonstrated that pyridaben decreased cell growth in porcine endometrial luminal epithelial and porcine trophectoderm cell lines through inhibition of cell signal transduction. Further, pyridaben increased subG1 phase and late apoptosis through the induction of reactive oxygen species production, mitochondrial dysfunction, calcium unbalances, pro-apoptotic signals, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Moreover, we found that pyridaben induced autophagy and inhibition of placentation through the regulation of ER-mitochondria axis proteins. Overall, pyridaben was found to be harmful in early pregnancy in pigs and may have similar effects in human pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyocheol Bae
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungkwon You
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
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21
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Palomba S, Piltonen TT, Giudice LC. Endometrial function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a comprehensive review. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:584-618. [PMID: 33302299 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. An endometrial component has been suggested to contribute to subfertility and poor reproductive outcomes in affected women. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this review was to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to support that endometrial function is altered in women with PCOS, whether clinical features of PCOS affect the endometrium, and whether there are evidence-based interventions to improve endometrial dysfunction in PCOS women. SEARCH METHODS An extensive literature search was performed from 1970 up to July 2020 using PubMed and Web of Science without language restriction. The search included all titles and abstracts assessing a relationship between PCOS and endometrial function, the role played by clinical and biochemical/hormonal factors related to PCOS and endometrial function, and the potential interventions aimed to improve endometrial function in women with PCOS. All published papers were included if considered relevant. Studies having a specific topic/hypothesis regarding endometrial cancer/hyperplasia in women with PCOS were excluded from the analysis. OUTCOMES Experimental and clinical data suggest that the endometrium differs in women with PCOS when compared to healthy controls. Clinical characteristics related to the syndrome, alone and/or in combination, may contribute to dysregulation of endometrial expression of sex hormone receptors and co-receptors, increase endometrial insulin-resistance with impaired glucose transport and utilization, and result in chronic low-grade inflammation, immune dysfunction, altered uterine vascularity, abnormal endometrial gene expression and cellular abnormalities in women with PCOS. Among several interventions to improve endometrial function in women with PCOS, to date, only lifestyle modification, metformin and bariatric surgery have the highest scientific evidence for clinical benefit. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Endometrial dysfunction and abnormal trophoblast invasion and placentation in PCOS women can predispose to miscarriage and pregnancy complications. Thus, patients and their health care providers should advise about these risks. Although currently no intervention can be universally recommended to reverse endometrial dysfunction in PCOS women, lifestyle modifications and metformin may improve underlying endometrial dysfunction and pregnancy outcomes in obese and/or insulin resistant patients. Bariatric surgery has shown its efficacy in severely obese PCOS patients, but a careful evaluation of the benefit/risk ratio is warranted. Large scale randomized controlled clinical trials should address these possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Palomba
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Terhi T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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22
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Paravati R, De Mello N, Onyido EK, Francis LW, Brüsehafer K, Younas K, Spencer-Harty S, Conlan RS, Gonzalez D, Margarit L. Differential regulation of osteopontin and CD44 correlates with infertility status in PCOS patients. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:1713-1725. [PMID: 33047155 PMCID: PMC7679339 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01985-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is mediated by adhesion molecules at the endometrium-trophoblast interface where osteopontin (OPN) and CD44 form a protein complex that plays an important role in embryo recognition. Here, we undertook a prospective study investigating the expression and regulation of OPN and CD44 in 50 fertile and 31 infertile ovulatory polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients in the proliferative and secretory phases of the natural menstrual cycle and in 12 infertile anovulatory PCOS patients. Endometrial biopsies and blood samples were evaluated for expression of OPN and CD44 using RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and ELISA analysis to determine circulating levels of OPN, CD44, TNF-α, IFN-γ and OPN and CD44 levels in biopsy media. Our findings highlighted an increased level of circulating OPN and CD44 in serum from infertile patients that inversely correlated with expression levels in endometrial tissue and positively correlated with levels secreted into biopsy media. OPN and CD44 levels positively correlated to each other in serum and media from fertile and PCOS patients, as well as to circulating TNF-α and IFN-γ. In vitro analysis revealed that hormone treatment induced recruitment of ERα to the OPN and CD44 promoters with a concomitant increase in the expression of these genes. In infertile patients, inflammatory cytokines led to recruitment of NF-κB and STAT1 proteins to the OPN and CD44 promoters, resulting in their overexpression. These observations suggest that the endometrial epithelial OPN-CD44 adhesion complex is deficient in ovulatory PCOS patients and displays an altered stoichiometry in anovulatory patients, which in both cases may perturb apposition. This, together with elevated circulating and local secreted levels of these proteins, may hinder endometrium-trophoblast interactions by saturating OPN and CD44 receptors on the surface of the blastocyst, thereby contributing to the infertility associated with ovulating PCOS patients. KEY MESSAGES: • Endometrial epithelial OPN-CD44 adhesion complex levels are deficient in ovulatory PCOS patients contributing to the endometrial infertility associated with ovulating PCOS patients. • Circulating levels of OPN, CD44 and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ are altered in infertile PCOS patients. • Increased levels of both OPN and CD44 in biopsy media and serum inversely correlate with endometrial expression of these markers in endometrial tissue. • In infertile PCOS patients, high levels of oestrogens and inflammatory cytokines stimulate the recruitment of transcription factors to the OPN and CD44 promoters to enhance gene transcription. • Our study identifies a novel crosstalk between the CD44-OPN adhesion complex, ERα, STAT1 and NF-κB pathways modulating endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Paravati
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - N De Mello
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - E K Onyido
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - L W Francis
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - K Brüsehafer
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - K Younas
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Obstetrics Gynaecology Department, Singleton Hospital, Sketty Lane, Swansea, SA2 8QA, UK
| | - S Spencer-Harty
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Cellular Pathology Department, Singleton Hospital, Sketty Lane, Swansea, SA2 8QA, UK
| | - R S Conlan
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - D Gonzalez
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Lavinia Margarit
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK.
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Obstetrics Gynaecology Department, Princess of Wales Hospital, Coity Road, Bridgend, CF31 1RQ, UK.
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23
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Xiong Y, Wang Y, Ma L, Zhang Y, Qu X, Huang L, Wen X, Liu H, Zhang M, Zhang Y. Mixed-lineage leukaemia 1 contributes to endometrial stromal cells progesterone responsiveness during decidualization. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 25:297-308. [PMID: 33201593 PMCID: PMC7810960 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have reported that non‐receptive endometrium or abnormal decidualization was closely related to recurrent implantation failure (RIF). MLL1 is a histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) transferase that regulates the transcriptional activation of target genes. The role of MLL1 has been underexplored during decidualization. In our research, we found the expression of MLL1 was closely related to endometrial receptivity, and it was responsible to hormone stimulation. Inhibiting the function of MLL1 by MM102 reduced the transformation of HESCs. Furthermore, down‐regulation of MLL1 by siRNA transfection significantly decreased PGR and its target genes expression. MLL1 act as a co‐activator of ERα, and both of them were recruited to PGR regulatory regions, thus promote PGR transcription. Our study showed that MLL1 plays a key role in promoting progesterone signalling transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Xiong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinlan Qu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue Wen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Huimin Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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24
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Lai ZZ, Ruan LY, Wang Y, Yang HL, Shi JW, Wu JN, Qiu XM, Ha SY, Shen HH, Yang SL, Zheng ZM, Shao J, Ye JF, Li MQ. Changes in subsets of immunocytes in endometrial hyperplasia. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13295. [PMID: 32583503 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is characterized by an endometrial gland-to-stroma ratio >1 and is one of the most common gynecological diseases in the world. The role of immunocyte subsets in the development of EH remains unknown. METHODS Patients who underwent dilatation and curettage due to abnormal uterine bleeding were recruited in the present study. Alterations in the numbers of different types of immune cell subsets in the endometrium of patients were analyzed by flow cytometry. RESULTS The present study included 48 patients who were divided into three groups, based on the pathological results: (a) proliferative period (PP, n = 12); (b) simple EH (SEH, n = 30); and (c) complex EH (CEH, n = 6). The results showed that immune cell subpopulations were significantly different between these three groups. Compared with the PP group, the proportion of CD45+ cells and neutrophils and the subtypes of T cells and macrophages were significantly increased in the SEH patients. Compared with the PP and SEH groups, subsets of immunocytes in the CEH group were significantly decreased, including the population of CD45+ cells and the subtypes of T cells and natural killer cells; in contrast, the proportion of macrophages was significantly increased. There were no significant differences between the other cell subsets in each group. CONCLUSION The changes in immune cell subsets may be closely associated with the progression of EH. Although the specific role of different immune cell subsets in the development of the diseases requires further study, the changes in the proportions of immune cell subsets should not be ignored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Zhen Lai
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu-Yu Ruan
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Li Yang
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Wei Shi
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang-Nan Wu
- Clinical Epidemiology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Min Qiu
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Hui Shen
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao-Liang Yang
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zi-Meng Zheng
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Shao
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang-Feng Ye
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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25
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Ban Z, Knöspel F, Schneider MR. Shedding light into the black box: Advances in in vitro systems for studying implantation. Dev Biol 2020; 463:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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26
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Fertility and infertility implications in rheumatoid arthritis; state of the art. Inflamm Res 2020; 69:721-729. [PMID: 32458007 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-020-01362-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A bulk of investigations imply that women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) deliver fewer children in comparison to healthy women. PURPOSE This review article attempts to clarify the involvement of infertility-related issues in both RA men and women. Moreover, the effect of RA disease on the fertility quality and quantity will be discussed. RESULTS Declined fertility rate in RA women seems to stem from modified inflammatory settings, advanced maternal age, limited sexual activity, and adverse effects of drugs on ovarian function. Women with RA may have smaller families and seem to be slower to conceive relative to their peer women. The chance of gestation in RA women may drop due to suppressed sexual function through pain and fatigue. In addition, treatment of RA women with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may prevent ovulation and therefore hinder the conception. CONCLUSIONS A complex interaction between RA disease and fertility related issues is present. Despite an increase rate of infertility in RA females or males, the mechanisms involved in this outcome is still unknown. Plausible causes of the decreased fertility rate in RA patients might be due to inflammatory cytokines, suppressed sexual activity, drug treatments, mother age, personal choice, or a combination of these elements.
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27
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Vallvé-Juanico J, Santamaria X, Vo KC, Houshdaran S, Giudice LC. Macrophages display proinflammatory phenotypes in the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis with relevance to an infectious etiology of the disease. Fertil Steril 2020; 112:1118-1128. [PMID: 31843088 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.08.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To phenotype transcriptomically M1 macrophages (Mϕ1) and M2 macrophages (Mϕ2) in the endometrium of women with endometriosis. DESIGN Prospective experimental study. SETTING University research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Six women with endometriosis and five controls without disease, in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. INTERVENTION(S) Mϕ1, Mϕ2, uterine natural killer, and T regulatory cells were isolated from human endometrium using a uniquely designed cell-specific fluorescence activating cell sorting panel. Transcriptome profiles were assessed by RNA high sequencing, bioinformatics, and biological pathway analyses. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURE(S) Differential gene expression between Mϕ1 and Mϕ2 in women with and without endometriosis and in Mϕ1 versus Mϕ2 in each group was determined and involved different biologic and signaling pathways. RESULT(S) Flow cytometry analysis showed no significant differences in total numbers of leukocytes between control and endometriosis groups, although Mϕ1 were higher in the endometriosis group versus controls. Statistical transcriptomic analysis was performed only in Mϕ1 and Mϕ2 populations due to larger sample sizes. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that in women with endometriosis, endometrial Mϕ1 are more proinflammatory than controls and that Mϕ2 paradoxically have a proinflammatory phenotype. CONCLUSION(S) As Mϕ are phenotypically plastic and their polarization state depends on their microenvironment, the altered endometrial environment in women with endometriosis may promote endometrial Mϕ2 polarization and an Mϕ1 proinflammatory phenotype. Moreover, aberrant phenotypes of Mϕ may contribute to abnormal gene expression of the eutopic endometrium and a proinflammatory environment in women with endometriosis relevant to the pathophysiology of the disease and compromised reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlia Vallvé-Juanico
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California; Department of Gynecology, IVIRMA Barcelona S.L., Barcelona, Spain; Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Research Institute and University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Santamaria
- Department of Gynecology, IVIRMA Barcelona S.L., Barcelona, Spain; Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Research Institute and University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain; Igenomix, Valencia, Spain
| | - Kim Chi Vo
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Sahar Houshdaran
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California.
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28
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Yama K, Asari Y, Ono A, Machida M, Miura J. Plasma Interleukin-10 Levels Are Altered in Women with Severe Premenstrual Syndrome: A Preliminary Study. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS 2020; 1:73-79. [PMID: 33786476 PMCID: PMC7784795 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2019.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: The precise pathophysiology of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is unknown, and chronic inflammation has been implicated in PMS. However, inflammatory markers, including cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP), have not been investigated before and after menstruation in relation to PMS among the same participants. This study investigated whether the plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and CRP are related to PMS. Methods: The study included 21 healthy Japanese women (aged 19-24 years) with a regular menstrual cycle. Inflammatory marker levels in plasma were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, the level of depressiveness was assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale. Results: Of the 21 women, 7 were considered to have moderate-to-severe PMS (PMS [+] group) and 14 were considered to have no or mild PMS (PMS [-]), and none of the participants had premenstrual dysphoric disorder. The IL-10 levels were significantly lower before than after menstruation in the PMS (-) group. The IL-10 levels before menstruation were significantly higher in the PMS (+) group than in the PMS (-) group. Other markers did not show relevant differences between the groups. The CES-D scores were higher in the PMS (+) group than in the PMS (-) group both before and after menstruation. There were positive correlations between the CES-D scores and IL-6 levels before menstruation and the CES-D scores and IL-10 levels after menstruation. Conclusions: The IL-10 levels before menstruation were higher in women with PMS than in those without PMS, and these levels might be related to PMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Yama
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University of Science, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yuki Asari
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University of Science, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Aiko Ono
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University of Science, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Maiko Machida
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University of Science, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Jun Miura
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University of Science, Sapporo, Japan
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29
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Barcikowska Z, Rajkowska-Labon E, Grzybowska ME, Hansdorfer-Korzon R, Zorena K. Inflammatory Markers in Dysmenorrhea and Therapeutic Options. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E1191. [PMID: 32069859 PMCID: PMC7068519 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea often significantly reduces the quality of women's life and is still an important public health problem. Despite numerous studies, the pathomechanism of dysmenorrhea is not fully understood. Previous research indicates the complexity of biochemical reactions between the endocrine, vascular, and immune systems. Prostaglandins play a major role in the pathomechanism of dysmenorrhea. In contrast, cytokines and other proinflammatory factors in primary dysmenorrhea are less studied. In addition to the applied pharmacotherapy, more and more studies proving the effectiveness of non-pharmacological methods appear. Therefore, the present work contains a review of the latest research concerning factors involved in dysmenorrhea, as well as therapeutic options. In the literature search, authors used online databases, PubMed, and clinitrials.gov and browsed through individual gynecology, physiotherapy journals and books.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zofia Barcikowska
- Department of Immunobiology and Environment Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 7, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Elżbieta Rajkowska-Labon
- Department of Physical Therapy, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 7, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland; (E.R.-L.); (R.H.-K.)
| | - Magdalena Emilia Grzybowska
- Department of Gynecology, Gynecological Oncology and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Smoluchowskiego 17, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Rita Hansdorfer-Korzon
- Department of Physical Therapy, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 7, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland; (E.R.-L.); (R.H.-K.)
| | - Katarzyna Zorena
- Department of Immunobiology and Environment Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 7, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland;
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Bae H, Lee JY, Song G, Lim W. Function of CCL5 in maternal-fetal interface of pig during early pregnancy. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 103:103503. [PMID: 31563460 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Chemokines refer to chemoattractant cytokines, which have crucial functions in inflammation and immune responses in multiple cellular processes. In the present study, we described the potential role of porcine CCL5 in embryo implantation and fetal-maternal environment during early pregnancy. We first carried out phylogenetic analysis of porcine CCL5, and analyzed the cell specific localization of CCL5 and its receptor CCR3 in a kinetic approach within porcine estrous cycles and early gestation stage. In addition, CCL5 stimulated porcine uterine luminal epithelial (pLE) and porcine trophectoderm (pTr) cell proliferations, and cell cycle progressions via AKT and MAPK intracellular signaling tractions. Furthermore, CCL5 attenuated tunicamycin-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress signaling, and lipopolysaccharides-triggered inflammatory responses in pLE and pTr cells. Taken together, our study showed that CCL5 is involved in the placental development or promotes the placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyocheol Bae
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Young Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea.
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Muruganandan S, Fan X, Dhal S, Nayak NR. Development of A 3D Tissue Slice Culture Model for the Study of Human Endometrial Repair and Regeneration. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10010136. [PMID: 31947662 PMCID: PMC7022976 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium undergoes sequential phases of shedding of the upper functionalis zone during menstruation, followed by regeneration of the functionalis zone from the remaining basalis zone cells, and secretory differentiation under the influence of the ovarian steroid hormones estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). This massive tissue regeneration after menstruation is believed to arise from endometrial stromal and epithelial stem cells residing in the basal layer of the endometrium. Although many endometrial pathologies are thought to be associated with defects in these stem cells, studies on their identification and regulation are limited, primarily due to lack of easily accessible animal models, as these processes are unique to primates. Here we describe a robust new method to study endometrial regeneration and differentiation processes using human endometrial tissue slice cultures incorporating an air-liquid interface into a 3D matrix scaffold of type I collagen gel, allowing sustained tissue viability over three weeks. The 3D collagen gel-embedded endometrial tissue slices in a double-dish culture system responded to ovarian steroid hormones, mimicking the endometrial changes that occur in vivo during the menstrual cycle. These changes included the E2-induced upregulation of Ki-67, estrogen receptor (ER), and progesterone receptor (PR) in all endometrial compartments and were markedly suppressed by both P4 and E2 plus P4 treatments. There were also distinct changes in endometrial morphology after E2 and P4 treatments, including subnuclear vacuolation and luminal secretions in glands as well as decidualization of stromal cells, typical characteristics of a progestational endometrium in vivo. This long-term slice culture method provides a unique in vivo-like microenvironment for the study of human endometrial functions and remodeling during early pregnancy and experiments on stem cell populations involved in endometrial regeneration and remodeling. Furthermore, this model has the potential to enable studies on several endometrial diseases, including endometrial cancers and pregnancy complications associated with defects in endometrial remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanmugam Muruganandan
- Perinatal Research Initiative, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (S.M.); (S.D.); (N.R.N.)
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, 188 Longwood Avenue, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Xiujun Fan
- Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Sabita Dhal
- Perinatal Research Initiative, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (S.M.); (S.D.); (N.R.N.)
| | - Nihar R. Nayak
- Perinatal Research Initiative, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (S.M.); (S.D.); (N.R.N.)
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32
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Vallvé-Juanico J, Houshdaran S, Giudice LC. The endometrial immune environment of women with endometriosis. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 25:564-591. [PMID: 31424502 PMCID: PMC6737540 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis, a common oestrogen-dependent inflammatory disorder in women of reproductive age, is characterized by endometrial-like tissue outside its normal location in the uterus, which causes pelvic scarring, pain and infertility. While its pathogenesis is poorly understood, the immune system (systemically and locally in endometrium, pelvic endometriotic lesions and peritoneal fluid) is believed to play a central role in its aetiology, pathophysiology and associated morbidities of pain, infertility and poor pregnancy outcomes. However, immune cell populations within the endometrium of women with the disease have had incomplete phenotyping, thereby limiting insight into their roles in this disorder. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective herein was to determine reproducible and consistent findings regarding specific immune cell populations and their abundance, steroid hormone responsiveness, functionality, activation states, and markers, locally and systemically in women with and without endometriosis. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive English language PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar search was conducted with key search terms that included endometriosis, inflammation, human eutopic/ectopic endometrium, immune cells, immune population, immune system, macrophages, dendritic cells (DC), natural killer cells, mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, B cells and T cells. OUTCOMES In women with endometriosis compared to those without endometriosis, some endometrial immune cells display similar cycle-phase variation, whereas macrophages (Mø), immature DC and regulatory T cells behave differently. A pro-inflammatory Mø1 phenotype versus anti-inflammatory Mø2 phenotype predominates and natural killer cells display abnormal activity in endometrium of women with the disease. Conflicting data largely derive from small studies, variably defined hormonal milieu and different experimental approaches and technologies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Phenotyping immune cell subtypes is essential to determine the role of the endometrial immune niche in pregnancy and endometrial homeostasis normally and in women with poor reproductive history and can facilitate development of innovative diagnostics and therapeutics for associated symptoms and compromised reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlia Vallvé-Juanico
- Department of Gynecology, IVI Barcelona S.L., 08017, Barcelona, Spain
- Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) and University Hospital, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94193, USA
| | - Sahar Houshdaran
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94193, USA
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94193, USA
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Berry A, Hall JV. The complexity of interactions between female sex hormones and Chlamydia trachomatis infections. CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2019; 6:67-75. [PMID: 31890462 PMCID: PMC6936955 DOI: 10.1007/s40588-019-00116-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review focuses specifically on the mechanisms by which female sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, affect Chlamydia trachomatis infections in vivo and in vitro. RECENT FINDINGS Recent data support previous work indicating that estrogen enhances chlamydial development via multiple mechanisms. Progesterone negatively impacts Chlamydia infections also through multiple mechanisms, particularly by altering the immune response. Conflicting data exist regarding the effect of synthetic hormones, such as those found in hormonal contraceptives, on chlamydial infections. SUMMARY Numerous studies over the years have indicated that female sex hormones affect C. trachomatis infection. However, we still do not have a clear understanding of how these hormones alter Chlamydia disease transmission and progression. The studies reviewed here indicate that there are many variables that determine the outcome of Chlamydia/hormone interactions, including: 1) the specific hormone, 2) hormone concentration, 3) cell type or area of the genital tract, 4) hormone responsiveness of cell lines, and 5) animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Berry
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN
- Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN
| | - Jennifer V. Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN
- Center for Infectious Disease, Inflammation and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN
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Bae H, Lim W, Bazer FW, Whang KY, Song G. Mitigation of ER-stress and inflammation by chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 21 during early pregnancy. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 94:73-84. [PMID: 30711450 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The immune system plays an important role in pregnancy. Chemokines recruit leukocytes at the maternal-fetal interface during early pregnancy. However, the role of the chemokine, C-C motif chemokine ligand 21 (CCL21), is less known. The aim of this study was to identify the expression of CCL21 and its receptor, CCR7, in the endometrium during estrous cycle and early pregnancy, and to investigate the functional effects of CCL21 on porcine trophectoderm (pTr) and porcine uterine luminal epithelial (pLE) cells. Our results indicated that CCL21 and CCR7 are increased in the glandular (GE) and luminal epithelium (LE) of the endometrium during early pregnancy, compared to estrous pigs. Recombinant CCL21 improved pTr and pLE cell proliferation through activation of the PI3K and MAPK pathways and suppression of tunicamycin-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress or LPS-induced inflammation. Collectively, these results provide novel insights into CCL21-mediated signaling mechanisms at the maternal-fetal interface during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyocheol Bae
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Science and Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics and Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, 77843-2471, Texas, USA
| | - Kwang-Youn Whang
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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Barrios De Tomasi J, Opata MM, Mowa CN. Immunity in the Cervix: Interphase between Immune and Cervical Epithelial Cells. J Immunol Res 2019; 2019:7693183. [PMID: 31143785 PMCID: PMC6501150 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7693183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cervix is divided into two morphologically and immunologically distinct regions, namely, (1) the microbe-laden ectocervix, which is proximal to the vagina, and (2) the "sterile" endocervix, which is distal to the uterus. The two cervical regions are bordered by the cervical transformation zone (CTZ), an area of changing cells, and are predominantly composed of cervical epithelial cells. Epithelial cells are known to play a crucial role in the initiation, maintenance, and regulation of innate and adaptive response in collaboration with immune cells in several tissue types, including the cervix, and their dysfunction can lead to a spectrum of clinical syndromes. For instance, epithelial cells block progression and neutralize or kill microorganisms through multiple ways. These (ways) include mounting physical (intercellular junctions, secretion of mucus) and immune barriers (pathogen-recognition receptor-mediated pathways), which collectively and ultimately lead to the release of specific chemokines and or cytokines. The cytokines subsequently recruit subsets of immune cells appropriate to a particular immune context and response, such as dendritic cells (DCs), T, B, and natural killer (NK) cells. The immune response, as most biological processes in the female reproductive tract (FRT), is mainly regulated by estrogen and progesterone and their (immune cells) responses vary during different physiological phases of reproduction, such as menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and post menopause. The purpose of the present review is to compare the immunological profile of the mucosae and immune cells in the ecto- and endocervix and their interphase during the different phases of female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorgelina Barrios De Tomasi
- Department of Biology, Appalachian State University, Boone 28608, USA
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Medicina, Division de Ciencias de la Salud, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | | | - Chishimba Nathan Mowa
- Department of Biology, Appalachian State University, Boone 28608, USA
- Rusangu University, Monze, Zambia
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36
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Alvergne A, Vlajic Wheeler M, Högqvist Tabor V. Do sexually transmitted infections exacerbate negative premenstrual symptoms? Insights from digital health. Evol Med Public Health 2018; 2018:138-150. [PMID: 30090631 PMCID: PMC6070031 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoy018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The underlying reasons why some women experience debilitating premenstrual symptoms and others do not are largely unknown. Here, we test the evolutionary ecological hypothesis that some negative premenstrual symptoms may be exacerbated by the presence of chronic sexually transmitted infections (STIs). METHODOLOGY 34 511 women were recruited through a digital period-tracker app. Participants were asked: (i) Have you ever been diagnosed with a STI? (ii) If yes, when was it, and were you given treatment? Those data were combined with longitudinal cycle data on menstrual bleeding patterns, the experience of pain and emotions and hormonal contraceptive use. RESULTS 865 women had at least two complete menstrual cycle data and were eligible for analysis. Before diagnosis, the presence of an infection predicts a ca. 2-fold increase in the odds of reporting both headache, cramps and sadness during the late luteal phase and sensitive emotions during the wider luteal phase. After diagnosis, the odds of reporting negative symptoms pre-menstrually remain unchanged among STI negative individuals, but the odds of reporting sensitive emotions decrease among STI positive individuals receiving a treatment. No relationships between STIs, pain and emotions are observed among hormonal contraceptive users. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The results support the idea that a negative premenstrual experience might be aggravated by the presence of undiagnosed STIs, a leading cause of infertility worldwide. Caution is warranted in extrapolating the results as the data are self-reported, inflammatory levels are unknown and the tracker is biased towards recording negative premenstrual symptoms among Western individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Alvergne
- School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Vedrana Högqvist Tabor
- 2018 BOOST THYROID BY VLM HEALTH UG, Pufendorfstrasse 7, Berlin, Germany
- Stanford-SPARK, Berlin, Germany
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Bruner-Tran KL, Mokshagundam S, Herington JL, Ding T, Osteen KG. Rodent Models of Experimental Endometriosis: Identifying Mechanisms of Disease and Therapeutic Targets. CURRENT WOMEN'S HEALTH REVIEWS 2018; 14:173-188. [PMID: 29861705 PMCID: PMC5925870 DOI: 10.2174/1573404813666170921162041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although it has been more than a century since endometriosis was initially described in the literature, understanding the etiology and natural history of the disease has been challenging. However, the broad utility of murine and rat models of experimental endometriosis has enabled the elucidation of a number of potentially targetable processes which may otherwise promote this disease. OBJECTIVE To review a variety of studies utilizing rodent models of endometriosis to illustrate their utility in examining mechanisms associated with development and progression of this disease. RESULTS Use of rodent models of endometriosis has provided a much broader understanding of the risk factors for the initial development of endometriosis, the cellular pathology of the disease and the identification of potential therapeutic targets. CONCLUSION Although there are limitations with any animal model, the variety of experimental endometriosis models that have been developed has enabled investigation into numerous aspects of this disease. Thanks to these models, our under-standing of the early processes of disease development, the role of steroid responsiveness, inflammatory processes and the peritoneal environment has been advanced. More recent models have begun to shed light on how epigenetic alterations con-tribute to the molecular basis of this disease as well as the multiple comorbidities which plague many patients. Continued de-velopments of animal models which aid in unraveling the mechanisms of endometriosis development provide the best oppor-tunity to identify therapeutic strategies to prevent or regress this enigmatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylon L. Bruner-Tran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Shilpa Mokshagundam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Herington
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Tianbing Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Kevin G. Osteen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, NashvilleTN37212, USA
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Raheem KA. Cytokines, growth factors and macromolecules as mediators of implantation in mammalian species. Int J Vet Sci Med 2017; 6:S6-S14. [PMID: 30761315 PMCID: PMC6161864 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijvsm.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation is one of the most critical steps in mammalian reproduction and implantation failure constitutes a major cause of infertility in both animals and humans. The mechanism of implantation is exclusively under the control of ovarian steroids progesterone and oestrogen whose actions are mediated in a complex phenomenon that involves a number of cytokines and growth factors. According to a plethora of literature on implantation in mammalian species, prominent of these cytokines and growth factor playing crucial roles in implantation include integrin, osteopontin, integrin, insulin-like growth factor and leukaemia inhibitory factor. Others are cluster domain 44, hyaluronan system and many non-adhesive molecules such as glycoprotein mucin 1. In this review, the specific roles played by these molecules are expatiated. Generally, they function as adhesive molecules that facilitate attachment of ligands/proteins on the trophectoderm to their respective receptors on endometrial luminal epithelia or vice versa. Sometimes, they also function as signalling molecules that enhance communication between implanting blastocyst and receptive endometrium. This is of particular importance in embryo culture and embryo transfer where in vitro derived blastocyst unlike the in vivo condition, is not exposed to these substances and hence, their absence may be partly responsible for the low implantation rate observed in the surrogate. Appreciation of the roles played by these cytokines, growth factors and molecules as revealed in this review will spur further research on these topics, facilitate their inclusion in embryo culture media (if positively required) and are considered as vital aspect while developing strategies to improve fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabir A Raheem
- Dept. of Theriogenology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria
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39
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Yang Q, Zhang X, Shi Y, He YP, Sun ZG, Shi HJ, Wang J. Increased Expression of NDRG3 in Mouse Uterus During Embryo Implantation and in Mouse Endometrial Stromal Cells During In Vitro Decidualization. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:1197-1207. [PMID: 29096585 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117737843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is an indispensable event in the embryo implantation process, but its underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we showed that in mice, the uterine expression of N-myc downstream-regulated gene 3 (NDRG3), a member of the α/β hydrolase superfamily, was induced by estradiol and progesterone. During the embryo implantation process, uterine Ndrg3 expression was remarkably upregulated, and its expression level at implantation sites (IS) was significantly higher than that at inter-IS. Increased uterine expression of Ndrg3 was associated with artificial decidualization and the activation of delayed implantation. The in vitro decidualization of mouse endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) induced by estradiol and progesterone was also accompanied by increased Ndrg3 expression, and downregulated Ndrg3 expression in ESCs effectively inhibited decidualization. miR-290b-5p was identified as an upstream regulator of Ndrg3, and the uterine expression level of miR-290b-5p was decreased during the implantation process. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-290b-5p in mouse ESCs inhibited their in vitro decidualization. Taken together, these data suggested that Ndrg3 might play an important role in embryo implantation by regulating decidualization potentially via the estrogen/progesterone/miR-290b-5p pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yang
- 1 NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- 1 NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Shi
- 1 NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya-Ping He
- 1 NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao-Gui Sun
- 1 NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Juan Shi
- 1 NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Wang
- 1 NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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40
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Jeong W, Bae H, Lim W, Bazer FW, Song G. Differential expression and functional roles of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 23 and its receptor chemokine (C-C motif) receptor type 1 in the uterine endometrium during early pregnancy in pigs. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 76:316-325. [PMID: 28694169 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2017.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Many chemokines expressed by cells of the uterine endometrium of mammals are involved in cell-cell interactions. However, little is known about expression and functional roles of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 23 (CCL23) in the uterine endometrium. Results of this study demonstrated that CCL23 and its receptor, chemokine (C-C motif) receptor type 1 (CCR1), are up-regulated in porcine endometria during pregnancy. CCL23 and CCR1 mRNAs were strongly expressed in endometrial glandular (GE) and luminal (LE) epithelial cells. Treatment of porcine uterine luminal epithelial (pLE) cells with recombinant CCL23 increased the abundances of PCNA and cyclin D1, and enhanced proliferation and cell cycle progression in pLE cells. CCL23 also stimulated phosphorylation of cell signaling molecules including AKT and MAPKs in pLE cells. Furthermore, ER stress-related molecules were reduced by CCL23. These results suggest that CCL23-CCR1 signaling is important for endometrial development and establishment of pregnancy in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooyoung Jeong
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, 330-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyocheol Bae
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Catholic Kwandong University, Gangneung, 25601, Republic of Korea
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, 77843-2471, TX, USA
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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Kim SC, Lee JE, Kang SS, Yang HS, Kim SS, An BS. The regulation of oxytocin and oxytocin receptor in human placenta according to gestational age. J Mol Endocrinol 2017; 59:235-243. [PMID: 28694300 DOI: 10.1530/jme-16-0223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is a peptide hormone that plays a central role in the regulation of parturition and lactation. OXT signaling is mediated by OXT receptor (OXTR), which shows species- and tissue-specific expressions and gene regulation. In the present study, we examined the synthesis of OXT and OXTR in human placenta tissue according to gestational age. A total of 48 placentas were divided into early preterm, late preterm and term groups depending on gestational age, and expression of OXT and OXTR was evaluated. First, OXT and OXTR mRNA and protein were detected in normal placenta tissue via Q-PCR, Dot-blot and Western blot assay. Both OXT and OXTR levels in normal placenta increased gradually in the late stage of pregnancy, suggesting that local OXT may play a critical role in the function of the placenta. To determine the regulatory mechanism of OXT, placental BeWo cells were administrated estrogen (E2) or progesterone (P4), and expression of OXT and OXTR was tested. The mRNA and protein levels of OXT and OXTR were upregulated by E2 but blocked by co-treatment with P4 In order to confirm the estrogen receptor (ESR)-mediated signaling, we administrated ESR antagonists together with E2 to BeWo cells. As a result, both OXT and OXTR were significantly altered by ESR1 antagonist (MPP) while moderately regulated by ESR2 antagonist (PHTPP). These results suggest that OXT and OXTR are controlled mainly by E2 in the placenta via ESR1 and thus may play physiological functions in the human placenta during the late stage of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Chul Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Pusan, Korea
| | - Jae-Eon Lee
- Department of Biomaterials ScienceCollege of Natural Resources and Life Science/Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, Pusan National University, Pusan, Korea
| | - Seong Soo Kang
- Department of Veterinary SurgeryCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Hoe-Saeng Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyMedical College, Dongguk University, Jung-gu, Korea
| | - Sun Suk Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Pusan, Korea
| | - Beum-Soo An
- Department of Biomaterials ScienceCollege of Natural Resources and Life Science/Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, Pusan National University, Pusan, Korea
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Fazio E, Fragalà S, Ferlazzo A, Cravana C, Torrisi K, Medica P. Progesterone, Estradiol-17β, Cortisol, and Hematological Profile During the Estrous Cycle of Lactating Jennies: Preliminary and Comparative Observations. J Equine Vet Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2017.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Vitex agnus-castus dry extract BNO 1095 (Agnucaston®) inhibits uterine hyper-contractions and inflammation in experimental models for primary dysmenorrhea. CLINICAL PHYTOSCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1186/s40816-016-0034-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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44
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Lim W, Bae H, Bazer FW, Song G. Functional Roles of Eph A-Ephrin A1 System in Endometrial Luminal Epithelial Cells During Early Pregnancy. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:1527-1538. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Whasun Lim
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology; College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology; Korea University; Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Hyocheol Bae
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology; College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology; Korea University; Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Fuller W. Bazer
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics and Department of Animal Science; Texas A&M University; College Station Texas
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology; College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology; Korea University; Seoul Republic of Korea
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Yang Q, Gu Y, Zhang X, Wang JM, He YP, Shi Y, Sun ZG, Shi HJ, Wang J. Uterine Expression of NDRG4 Is Induced by Estrogen and Up-Regulated during Embryo Implantation Process in Mice. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155491. [PMID: 27175791 PMCID: PMC4866685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation is an essential step for the establishment of pregnancy and dynamically regulated by estrogen and progesterone. NDRG4 (N-myc down-regulated gene 4) is a tumor suppressor that participates in cell survival, tumor invasion and angiogenesis. The objective of this study was to preliminarily explore the role of NDRG4 in embryo implantation. By immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitive RT-PCR (qRT-PCR), we found that uterine expression of NDRG4 was increased along with puberal development, and its expression in adult females reached the peak at the estrus stage during the estrus cycle. Furthermore, uterine NDRG4 expression was significantly induced by the treatment of estradiol (E2) both in pre-puberty females and ovariectomized adult females. Uterine expression pattern of NDRG4 during the peri-implantation period in mice was determined by IHC, qRT-PCR and Western blot. It was observed that NDRG4 expression was up-regulated during the implantation process, and its expression level at the implantation sites was significantly higher than that at the inter-implantation sites. Meanwhile, an increased expression in NDRG4 was associated with artificial decidualization as well as the activation of delayed implantation. By qRT-PCR and Western blot, we found that the in vitro decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) was accompanied by up-regulation of NDRG4 expression, whereas knockdown of its expression in these cells by siRNA inhibited the decidualization process. In addition, Western blot analysis showed that NDRG4 protein expression was decreased in human villus tissues of recurrent miscarriage (RM) patients compared to normal pregnant women. Collectively, these data suggested that uterine NDRG4 expression could be induced by estrogen, and NDRG4 might play an important role during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yang
- NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, SIPPR, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yan Gu
- The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, SIPPR, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- * E-mail: (XZ); (HJS)
| | - Jian-Mei Wang
- The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Ya-Ping He
- NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, SIPPR, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yan Shi
- NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, SIPPR, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhao-Gui Sun
- NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, SIPPR, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hui-Juan Shi
- NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, SIPPR, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- * E-mail: (XZ); (HJS)
| | - Jian Wang
- NPFPC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, SIPPR, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
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Jeong W, Kim J, Bazer FW, Song G, Kim J. Stimulatory effects of interleukin-1 beta on development of porcine uterine epithelial cell are mediated by activation of the ERK1/2 MAPK cell signaling cascade. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 419:225-34. [PMID: 26520031 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 10/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Successful establishment of pregnancy depends on timely changes in the conceptus (embryo and associated extra-embryonic membranes) and uterine endometrium orchestrated by molecules from both the conceptus and uterus. Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) is an important mediator of that communication regulating development of the peri-implantation conceptus and opening the window of implantation during early pregnancy. However, little is known about IL-1β-mediated intracellular signaling cascades and functional effects in uterine luminal epithelium (LE) during the peri-implantation period of pregnancy in pigs. Therefore, this study determined, using an immortalized porcine LE (pLE) cell line from day 12 pregnant gilts: 1) the intracellular signaling cascade responsible for activities of IL-1β in pLE cells, and 2) the changes in cellular activities induced by IL-1β. IL-1β stimulated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 proteins in pLE cells in a dose-dependent manner. Ten ng/ml IL-1β increased levels of phosphorylated (p)-ERK1/2 proteins in pLE cells within 15 min post-treatment, and this IL-1β-induced phosphorylated status was inhibited by increasing doses of U0126 (ERK1/2 inhibitor). In addition IL-1β increased p-P70S6K, p-P90S6K, p-S6, and p-P38 proteins in a time-dependent manner, but IL-1β-induced activation of P70S6K and S6 proteins was significantly decreased in the presence of pharmacological inhibitors for ERK1/2 (U0126), MTOR (rapamycin), and P38 (SB203580). Moreover, IL-1β treatment potently increased the abundance of p-ERK1/2 proteins in the nucleus and cytoplasm. Similarly cytoplasmic p-S6 proteins were localized abundantly in the pLE cells treated with IL-1β. Furthermore, IL-1β increased proliferation of pLE cells by approximately 200%, and pretreatment of pLE cells with U0126 significantly inhibited this stimulatory effect. Collectively, results of this study indicate that IL-1β plays an important role in development of uterine LE by stimulating cell proliferation, and that these effects are coordinately regulated by activation of the ERK1/2 and P38 MAPK cell signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooyoung Jeong
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhyeon Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics and Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 136-713, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jinyoung Kim
- Department of Animal Resources Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea.
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Curbing Inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis and Endometriosis: Should Mast Cells Be Targeted? Int J Inflam 2015; 2015:452095. [PMID: 26550518 PMCID: PMC4624887 DOI: 10.1155/2015/452095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory diseases and conditions can arise due to responses to a variety of external and internal stimuli. They can occur acutely in response to some stimuli and then become chronic leading to tissue damage and loss of function. While a number of cell types can be involved, mast cells are often present and can be involved in the acute and chronic processes. Recent studies in porcine and rabbit models have supported the concept of a central role for mast cells in a “nerve-mast cell-myofibroblast axis” in some inflammatory processes leading to fibrogenic outcomes. The current review is focused on the potential of extending aspects of this paradigm into treatments for multiple sclerosis and endometriosis, diseases not usually thought of as having common features, but both are reported to have activation of mast cells involved in their respective disease processes. Based on the discussion, it is proposed that targeting mast cells in these diseases, particularly the early phases, may be a fruitful avenue to control the recurring inflammatory exacerbations of the conditions.
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48
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Gu Y, Zhang X, Yang Q, Wang JM, He YP, Sun ZG, Zhang HQ, Wang J. Uterine NDRG2 expression is increased at implantation sites during early pregnancy in mice, and its down-regulation inhibits decidualization of mouse endometrial stromal cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:49. [PMID: 26013399 PMCID: PMC4447025 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0047-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N-myc down-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) is a tumor suppressor involved in cell proliferation and differentiation. The aim of this study was to determine the uterine expression pattern of this gene during early pregnancy in mice. METHODS Uterine NDRG2 mRNA and protein expression levels were determined by RT-PCR and Western blot analyses, respectively, during the peri-implantation period in mice. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis was performed to examine the spatial localization of NDRG2 expression in mouse uterine tissues. The in vitro decidualization model of mouse endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) was used to evaluate decidualization of ESCs following NDRG2 knock down by small interfering RNA (siRNA). Statistical significance was analyzed by one-way ANOVA using SPSS 19.0 software. RESULTS Uterine NDRG2 gene expression was significantly up-regulated and was predominantly localized to the secondary decidual zone on days 5 and 8 of pregnancy in mice. Its increased expression was associated with artificial decidualization as well as the activation of delayed implantation. Furthermore, uterine NDRG2 expression was induced by estrogen and progesterone treatments. The in vitro decidualization of mouse ESCs was accompanied by up-regulation of NDRG2 expression, and knock down of its expression in these cells by siRNA inhibited the decidualization process. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that NDRG2 might play an important role in the process of decidualization during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Gu
- Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xuan Zhang
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs & Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qian Yang
- Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jian-mei Wang
- The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Ya-ping He
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs & Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhao-gui Sun
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs & Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hui-qin Zhang
- Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jian Wang
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs & Devices, Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai, China.
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49
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The role of sex hormones in immune protection of the female reproductive tract. Nat Rev Immunol 2015; 15:217-30. [PMID: 25743222 DOI: 10.1038/nri3819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Within the human female reproductive tract (FRT), the challenge of protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is coupled with the need to enable successful reproduction. Oestradiol and progesterone, which are secreted during the menstrual cycle, affect epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells in the FRT to modify their functions and hence the individual's susceptibility to STIs in ways that are unique to specific sites in the FRT. The innate and adaptive immune systems are under hormonal control, and immune protection in the FRT varies with the phase of the menstrual cycle. Immune protection is dampened during the secretory phase of the cycle to optimize conditions for fertilization and pregnancy, which creates a 'window of vulnerability' during which potential pathogens can enter and infect the FRT.
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50
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Kintner J, Schoborg RV, Wyrick PB, Hall JV. Progesterone antagonizes the positive influence of estrogen on Chlamydia trachomatis serovar E in an Ishikawa/SHT-290 co-culture model. Pathog Dis 2015; 73:ftv015. [PMID: 25724891 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftv015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies indicate that estrogen enhances Chlamydia trachomatis serovar E infection in genital epithelial cells. Hormones have direct and indirect effects on endometrial epithelial cells. Estrogen and progesterone exposure induces endometrial stromal cells to release effectors that subsequently regulate growth and maturation of uterine epithelial cells. Estrogen enhances C. trachomatis infection by aiding entry and intracellular development in endometrial epithelial cell (Ishikawa, IK)/SHT-290 stromal cell co-culture. Enhanced chlamydial infection was mediated by direct estrogen-stimulated signaling events in epithelial cells and indirectly via estrogen-induced stromal cell effectors. The current study investigates the effects of hormones on chlamydial development using culture conditions representative of the menstrual cycle. Chlamydia trachomatis-infected IK or IK/SHT-290 cultures were exposed to 10(-8) M estrogen (E2), 10(-7) M progesterone (P4) or a combination of both hormones (10(-8) M E2 followed by 10(-9) M E2/10(-7) M P4). Chlamydial infectivity and progeny production were significantly decreased (30-66%) in cultures exposed to progesterone or estrogen/progesterone combination compared to estrogen alone. Thus, progesterone antagonized the positive effects of estrogen on chlamydial infection. These data indicate the susceptibility of endometrial epithelial cells to C. trachomatis infection during the menstrual cycle is altered by phase specific actions of sex hormones in the genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Kintner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614-0579, USA
| | - Robert V Schoborg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614-0579, USA Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Priscilla B Wyrick
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614-0579, USA
| | - Jennifer V Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614-0579, USA Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
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