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Shlomo Y, Gavriel M, Jaffa AJ, Grisaru D, Elad D. Arrangement into layers and mechanobiology of multi-cell co-culture models of the uterine wall. Hum Reprod 2024:deae130. [PMID: 38876975 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can a co-culture of three cell types mimic the in vivo layers of the uterine wall? SUMMARY ANSWER Three protocols tested for co-culture of endometrial epithelial cells (EEC), endometrial stromal cells (ESC), and myometrial smooth muscle cells (MSMC) led to formation of the distinct layers that are characteristic of the structure of the uterine wall in vivo. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY We previously showed that a layer-by-layer co-culture of EEC and MSMC responded to peristaltic wall shear stresses (WSS) by increasing the polymerization of F-actin in both layers. Other studies showed that WSS induced significant cellular alterations in epithelial and endothelial cells. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Human EEC and ESC cell lines and primary MSMC were co-cultured on a collagen-coated synthetic membrane in custom-designed wells. The co-culture model, created by seeding a mixture of all cells at once, was exposed to steady WSS of 0.5 dyne/cm2 for 10 and 30 min. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The co-culture of the three different cells was seeded either layer-by-layer or as a mixture of all cells at once. Validation of the models was by specific immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy. Alterations of the cytoskeletal F-actin in response to WSS were analyzed from the 2-dimensional confocal images through the Z-stacks following a previously published algorithm. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We generated three multi-cell in vitro models of the uterine wall with distinct layers of EEC, ESC, and MSMC that mimic the in vivo morphology. Exposure of the mixed seeding model to WSS induced increased polymerization of F-actin in all the three layers relative to the unexposed controls. Moreover, the increased polymerization of F-actin was higher (P-value < 0.05) when the length of exposure was increased from 10 to 30 min. Furthermore, the inner layers of ESC and MSMC, which are not in direct contact with the applied shearing fluid, also increased their F-actin polymerization. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, RESONS FOR CAUTION The mixed seeding co-culture model was exposed to steady WSS of one magnitude, whereas the uterus is a dynamic organ with intra-uterine peristaltic fluid motions that vary in vivo with different time-dependent magnitude. Further in vitro studies may explore the response to peristaltic WSS or other physical and/or hormonal perturbations that may mimic the spectrum of pathophysiological aspects. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Numerous in vitro models were developed in order to mimic the human endometrium and endometrium-myometrium interface (EMI) region. The present co-culture models seem to be the first constructed from EEC, ESC, and MSMC on a collagen-coated synthetic membrane. These multi-cell in vitro models better represent the complex in vivo anatomy of the EMI region. The mixed seeding multi-cell in vitro model may easily be implemented in controlled studies of uterine function in reproduction and the pathogenesis of diseases. STUDY FINDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported in part by Tel Aviv University funds. All authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Shlomo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mark Gavriel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel J Jaffa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dan Grisaru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - David Elad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Sakurai J, Oka S, Higuchi Y, Ohsawa S, Fujimori T. Effects of blastocyst elongation and implantation chamber formation on the alignment of the embryonic axis and uterine axis in mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1421222. [PMID: 38946796 PMCID: PMC11211524 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1421222] [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: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation involves a series of events that bring the embryo and maternal tissues into contact to support post-implantation development in mammals. During implantation, alignment of the embryonic-abembryonic (E-Ab) axis of the blastocyst with the mesometrial-antimesometrial (M-AM) axis of the uterus precedes post-implantation embryonic development and placentation. In the present study, we observed the morphological changes in blastocysts and the endometrial luminal epithelium (LE) that occur during the alignment of the embryonic and the uterine axes. We found that at the time that the blastocysts attached to the LE at the mural trophectoderm, the embryonic axis was not aligned with the uterine axis. Alignment of the embryonic E-Ab axis with the uterine M-AM axis occurred after E4.0, and the embryo was significantly elongated during the process. The depth of the implantation chamber (IC) correlated with the degree of alignment, suggesting that elongated embryos are oriented along the M-AM axis during IC formation. Transplantation of the Concanavalin A (Con A)-coated beads induced IC formation, and the alignment of two Con A-coated beads present in the same IC in the M-AM direction suggested that elongated materials can align along the M-AM axis. These data suggest that an elongated shape of the embryo and IC formation coordinate the alignment of the embryonic and uterine axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sakurai
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Deapartment of Basic Biology, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Sanae Oka
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Yoko Higuchi
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Sonoko Ohsawa
- Model Organisms Facility, Trans-Scale Biology Center, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Fujimori
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Deapartment of Basic Biology, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
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Huang X, Zhao J, Zhang Q, Wang Y, Li Y. Ovarian Stimulation Altered Uterine Fluid Extracellular Vesicles miRNA Affecting Implantation in Rats. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1683-1694. [PMID: 38216776 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01448-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fluid (UF) extracellular vesicle (EV) miRNA may affect implantation and could be the potential biomarker of endometrial receptivity (ER). Ovarian stimulation (OS) could damage the ER but its mechanism is still unclear. Here, we evaluate the affections of OS on UF EV miRNA expression and implantation. Female rats were divided into three groups: natural cycle or injection with GnRH-a following HP-HMG or u-FSH. UF was collected on the 5th day of gestation. Affinity membrane columns were utilized to isolate EVs from UF, obtained during implantation flushing. The EV miRNAs were sequenced, and five of them were validated by qRT-PCR. HTR-8/Svneo cells were transfected with miR-223-3p mimic and inhibitor, followed by conducting colony formation, invasion, migration, and adhesion assays to assess the cellular functions. In OS groups, the implantation rate decreased (p < 0.05), and the pinopode was damaged in the OS groups. The EVs were isolated from UF, and the differential expression key miRNAs were involved in several regulation pathways, such as cancer, endocrine, and cell cycles, which were correlated with ER and implantation. Among the miRNAs, miR-223-5p greatly differed and was most consistent with the sequencing results, followed by miR-223-3p and miR-98-5P. miR-223-3p promoted HTR-8/SVneo cells grow and ability of invasion, migration, and adhesion. OS altered UF EVs miRNAs affecting implantation in rats, and miR-223-3p might be the key molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Huang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiong Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yonggang Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yanping Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Women's Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, NO.87, Xiangya Road, Kaifu District, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Azagury M, Buganim Y. Unlocking trophectoderm mysteries: In vivo and in vitro perspectives on human and mouse trophoblast fate induction. Dev Cell 2024; 59:941-960. [PMID: 38653193 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.029] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the pursuit of inducing the trophoblast stem cell (TSC) state has gained prominence as a compelling research objective, illuminating the establishment of the trophoblast lineage and unlocking insights into early embryogenesis. In this review, we examine how advancements in diverse technologies, including in vivo time course transcriptomics, cellular reprogramming to TSC state, chemical induction of totipotent stem-cell-like state, and stem-cell-based embryo-like structures, have enriched our insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that define the mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC states. We delve into disparities between mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC fate establishment, with a special emphasis on the intriguing role of pluripotency in this context. Additionally, we re-evaluate recent findings concerning the potential of totipotent-stem-like cells and embryo-like structures to fully manifest the trophectoderm/trophoblast lineage's capabilities. Lastly, we briefly discuss the potential applications of induced TSCs in pregnancy-related disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meir Azagury
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Yosef Buganim
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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5
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Wang W, Sun Y, Xu P, Liang H, Wang Y, Deng D, Cao J, Yu M. Epigenomic analysis of the myometrium during late implantation revealed regulatory elements in genes related to the cellular zinc homeostasis pathway in pigs. Genomics 2024; 116:110768. [PMID: 38128703 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2023.110768] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The myometrium, composed of the inner circular muscle (CM) and outer longitudinal muscle (LM), is crucial in establishing and maintaining early pregnancy. However, the molecular mechanisms involved are not well understood. In this study, we identified the transcriptomic features of the CM and LM collected from the mesometrial (M) and anti-mesometrial (AM) sides of the pig uterus on day 18 of pregnancy during the placentation initiation phase. Some genes in the cellular zinc ion level regulatory pathways (MT-1A, MT-1D, MT-2B, SLC30A2, and SLC39A2) were spatially and highly enriched in uterine CM at the mesometrial side. In addition, the histone modification profiles of H3K27ac and H3K4me3 in uterine CM and LM collected from the mesometrial side were characterized. Genomic regions associated with the expression of genes regulating the cellular zinc ion level were detected. Moreover, six highly linked variants in the H3K27ac-enriched region of the pig SLC30A2 gene were identified and found to be significantly associated with the total number born at the second parity (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the genes in the pathways of cellular zinc homeostasis and their regulatory elements identified have implications for pig reproduction trait improvement and warrant further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Yan Sun
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Pengfei Xu
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Hao Liang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Yue Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Dadong Deng
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Jianhua Cao
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Mei Yu
- Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China.
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Chirichella R, Apollonio M, Luccarini S, Berlinguer F. Laterality in roe deer embryos implantation. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 339:994-1002. [PMID: 37602642 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Female reproductive success is one of the most important life-history traits to be monitored when determining population dynamics in free-ranging ungulates. Several studies have described how phenotypic characteristics of the mother, climatic conditions, population status, and habitat can impact on potential reproductive output in wild ungulates. However, little is known regarding the internal, physiological factors, that may account for differences in implantation rates. The present study investigated the differences in implantation rates and site on the basis of site and number of ovulations through the examination of about 3000 intact uteri collected from pregnant roe deer does (Capreolus capreolus). Although ovulation occurs with the same frequency in the left and right ovary, we revealed a higher frequency of embryos implantation in the left uterine horn in odd litter size, demonstrating that embryos can migrate between the uterine horns. In our study, a greater proportion of reproductive wastage was associated to females with three and four corpora lutea and interestingly, in relation to the site of ovulation, the percentage of corpora lutea that did not correspond to a fetus was higher in the right ovary than in the left one (73.2% vs. 26.8%). Our research described for the first time the absence of laterality in ovulation and the presence of laterality in implantation in roe deer, thus laying the foundations for in-depth studies about the functionality of this uterine side and for comparisons with populations located in other geographical areas to understand whether it is a widespread phenomenon or a local adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Chirichella
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Marco Apollonio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Siriano Luccarini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Furukawa S, Tsuji N, Hayashi S, Kuroda Y, Kimura M, Kojima C, Takeuchi K. Histopathology of fused triplet placenta in rat. J Toxicol Pathol 2023; 36:187-192. [PMID: 37868115 PMCID: PMC10585243 DOI: 10.1293/tox.2023-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A fused triplet placenta was observed in a Wistar Hannover rat on gestation day 15. Each placenta (referred to as PL-A, PL-B, and PL-C) of this fused placenta was attached to one fetus each, but their fetal weights were lower than that of the fetus attached to the only normal placenta (referred to as PL-N) in this dam. Histopathologically, thinning of the trophoblastic septa and dilatation of the maternal sinusoid in the labyrinth zone were observed in PL-B and PL-C, but not in PL-A or PL-N. The points of placental fusion were at the junctional zone derived from each side of the placenta without connective tissues, and the septum was composed of trophoblastic giant cells. Although PL-A had a solitary metrial gland, PL-B and PL-C shared one metrial gland with one spiral artery terminus branching towards each labyrinth zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Furukawa
- Planning and Development Department, Nissan Chemical
Corporation, 2-5-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-6119, Japan
| | - Naho Tsuji
- Planning and Development, Agricultural Chemical Division,
Nissan Chemical Corporation, 2-5-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-6119, Japan
| | - Seigo Hayashi
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical
Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Yusuke Kuroda
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical
Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kimura
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical
Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Chisato Kojima
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical
Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
| | - Kazuya Takeuchi
- Biological Research Laboratories, Nissan Chemical
Corporation, 1470 Shiraoka, Shiraoka-shi, Saitama 349-0294, Japan
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Srivastava P, Romanazzo S, Kopecky C, Nemec S, Ireland J, Molley TG, Lin K, Jayathilaka PB, Pandzic E, Yeola A, Chandrakanthan V, Pimanda J, Kilian K. Defined Microenvironments Trigger In Vitro Gastrulation in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2203614. [PMID: 36519269 PMCID: PMC9929265 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Gastrulation is a stage in embryo development where three germ layers arise to dictate the human body plan. In vitro models of gastrulation have been demonstrated by treating pluripotent stem cells with soluble morphogens to trigger differentiation. However, in vivo gastrulation is a multistage process coordinated through feedback between soluble gradients and biophysical forces, with the multipotent epiblast transforming to the primitive streak followed by germ layer segregation. Here, the authors show how constraining pluripotent stem cells to hydrogel islands triggers morphogenesis that mirrors the stages preceding in vivo gastrulation, without the need for exogenous supplements. Within hours of initial seeding, cells display a contractile phenotype at the boundary, which leads to enhanced proliferation, yes-associated protein (YAP) translocation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and emergence of SRY-box transcription factor 17 (SOX17)+ T/BRACHYURY+ cells. Molecular profiling and pathway analysis reveals a role for mechanotransduction-coupled wingless-type (WNT) signaling in orchestrating differentiation, which bears similarities to processes observed in whole organism models of development. After two days, the colonies form multilayered aggregates, which can be removed for further growth and differentiation. This approach demonstrates how materials alone can initiate gastrulation, thereby providing in vitro models of development and a tool to support organoid bioengineering efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallavi Srivastava
- School of ChemistryAustralian Centre for NanoMedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- Adult Cancer ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Lowy Cancer Research CentreUNSW SydneySydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Sara Romanazzo
- School of ChemistryAustralian Centre for NanoMedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Chantal Kopecky
- School of ChemistryAustralian Centre for NanoMedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- Adult Cancer ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Lowy Cancer Research CentreUNSW SydneySydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Stephanie Nemec
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Jake Ireland
- School of ChemistryAustralian Centre for NanoMedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Thomas G. Molley
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Kang Lin
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Pavithra B. Jayathilaka
- School of ChemistryAustralian Centre for NanoMedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Elvis Pandzic
- Katharina Gaus Light Microscopy FacilityMark Wainwright Analytical CentreUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Avani Yeola
- Adult Cancer ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Lowy Cancer Research CentreUNSW SydneySydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - Vashe Chandrakanthan
- School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- Adult Cancer ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Lowy Cancer Research CentreUNSW SydneySydneyNSW2052Australia
| | - John Pimanda
- School of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- Adult Cancer ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Lowy Cancer Research CentreUNSW SydneySydneyNSW2052Australia
- Department of HaematologyPrince of Wales HospitalRandwickNSW2031Australia
| | - Kristopher Kilian
- School of ChemistryAustralian Centre for NanoMedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- Adult Cancer ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Lowy Cancer Research CentreUNSW SydneySydneyNSW2052Australia
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
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Wang W, Cao C, Zhang B, Wang F, Deng D, Cao J, Li H, Yu M. Integrating Transcriptomic and ChIP-Seq Reveals Important Regulatory Regions Modulating Gene Expression in Myometrium during Implantation in Pigs. Biomolecules 2022; 13:biom13010045. [PMID: 36671430 PMCID: PMC9856092 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010045] [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: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The myometrium is the outer layer of the uterus. Its contraction and steroidogenic activities are required for embryo implantation. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its functions remain unknown in pigs. The myometrium includes the inner circular muscle (CM) and the outer longitudinal muscle (LM) layers. In this study, we collected the CM and LM samples from the mesometrial side (named M) of the uterus on days 12 (pre-implantation stage) and 15 (implantation stage) of pregnancy and day 15 of the estrous cycle. The transcriptomic results revealed distinct differences between the uterine CM and LM layers in early pregnancy: the genes expressed in the LM layer were mainly related to contraction pathways, whereas the transcriptional signatures in the CM layer on day 15 of pregnancy were primarily involved in the immune response processes. Subsequent comparisons in the CM layer between pregnant and cyclic gilts show that the transcriptional signatures of the CM layer are implantation-dependent. Next, we investigated the genome-wide profiling of histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) and histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) in pig uterine CM and LM layers. The genomic regions that had transcriptional activity and were associated with the expression of genes in the two layers were characterized. Taken together, the regulatory regions identified in the study may contribute to modulating the gene expression in pig uterine CM and LM layers during implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Caiqin Cao
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Botao Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
| | - Feiyu Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Dadong Deng
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jianhua Cao
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Hua Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
| | - Mei Yu
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Correspondence:
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Chan CJ, Hirashima T. Tissue hydraulics in reproduction. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 131:124-133. [PMID: 35606275 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The development of functional eggs and sperm are critical processes in mammalian development as they ensure successful reproduction and species propagation. While past studies have identified important genes that regulate these processes, the roles of luminal flow and fluid stress in reproductive biology remain less well understood. Here, we discuss recent evidence that support the diverse functions of luminal fluid in oogenesis, spermatogenesis and embryogenesis. We also review emerging techniques that allow for precise quantification and perturbation of tissue hydraulics in female and male reproductive systems, and propose new questions and approaches in this field. We hope this review will provide a useful resource to inspire future research in tissue hydraulics in reproductive biology and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chii Jou Chan
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Tsuyoshi Hirashima
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; The Hakubi Center/Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan; Japan Science and Technology Agency, PRESTO, Kawaguchi, Japan.
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11
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Ma Q, Beal JR, Song X, Bhurke A, Bagchi IC, Bagchi MK. Extracellular Vesicles Secreted by Mouse Decidual Cells Carry Critical Information for the Establishment of Pregnancy. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6758297. [PMID: 36219207 PMCID: PMC9761388 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The mouse decidua secretes many factors that act in a paracrine/autocrine manner to critically control uterine decidualization, neovascularization, and tissue remodeling that ensure proper establishment of pregnancy. The precise mechanisms that dictate intercellular communications among the uterine cells during early pregnancy remain unknown. We recently reported that conditional deletion of the gene encoding the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 2 alpha (Hif2α) in mouse uterus led to infertility. Here, we report that HIF2α in mouse endometrial stromal cells (MESCs) acts via the cellular trafficking regulator RAB27b to control the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EVs) during decidualization. We also found that Hif2α-regulated pathways influence the biogenesis of EVs. Proteomic analysis of EVs secreted by decidualizing MESCs revealed that they harbor a wide variety of protein cargoes whose composition changed as the decidualization process progressed. The EVs enhanced the differentiation capacity of MESCs and the production of angiogenic factors by these cells. We also established that matrix metalloproteinase-2, a prominent EV cargo protein, modulates uterine remodeling during decidualization. Collectively, our results support the concept that EVs are central to the mechanisms by which the decidual cells communicate with each other and other cell types within the uterus to facilitate successful establishment of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyan Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Jacob R Beal
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Xiangning Song
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Arpita Bhurke
- Carle Woese Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Indrani C Bagchi
- Correspondence: Indrani C. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA. ; or Milan K. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | - Milan K Bagchi
- Correspondence: Indrani C. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA. ; or Milan K. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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12
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Cao R, Yang ZS, Hu SL, Liang SJ, Zhang SM, Zhu SQ, Lu L, Long CH, Yao ST, Ma YJ, Liang XH. Molecular Mechanism of Mouse Uterine Smooth Muscle Regulation on Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012494. [PMID: 36293350 PMCID: PMC9604262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012494] [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: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myometrium plays critical roles in multiple processes such as embryo spacing through peristalsis during mouse implantation, indicating vital roles of smooth muscle in the successful establishment and quality of implantation. Actin, a key element of cytoskeleton structure, plays an important role in the movement and contraction of smooth muscle cells (SMCs). However, the function of peri-implantation uterine smooth muscle and the regulation mechanism of muscle tension are still unclear. This study focused on the molecular mechanism of actin assembly regulation on implantation in smooth muscle. Phalloidin is a highly selective bicyclic peptide used for staining actin filaments (also known as F-actin). Phalloidin staining showed that F-actin gradually weakened in the CD-1 mouse myometrium from day 1 to day 4 of early pregnancy. More than 3 mice were studied for each group. Jasplakinolide (Jasp) used to inhibit F-actin depolymerization promotes F-actin polymerization in SMCs during implantation window and consequently compromises embryo implantation quality. Transcriptome analysis following Jasp treatment in mouse uterine SMCs reveals significant molecular changes associated with actin assembly. Tagln is involved in the regulation of the cell cytoskeleton and promotes the polymerization of G-actin to F-actin. Our results show that Tagln expression is gradually reduced in mouse uterine myometrium from day 1 to 4 of pregnancy. Furthermore, progesterone inhibits the expression of Tagln through the progesterone receptor. Using siRNA to knock down Tagln in day 3 SMCs, we found that phalloidin staining is decreased, which confirms the critical role of Tagln in F-actin polymerization. In conclusion, our data suggested that decreases in actin assembly in uterine smooth muscle during early pregnancy is critical to optimal embryo implantation. Tagln, a key molecule involved in actin assembly, regulates embryo implantation by controlling F-actin aggregation before implantation, suggesting moderate uterine contractility is conducive to embryo implantation. This study provides new insights into how the mouse uterus increases its flexibility to accommodate implanting embryos in the early stage of pregnancy.
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13
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Nejabati HR, Roshangar L, Nouri M. Uterosomes: The lost ring of telegony? PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 174:55-61. [PMID: 35843387 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Telegony refers to the appearance of some characteristics of the female's previously mated male in her subsequent offspring by another male. According to evidence, telegony may occur either through the infiltration of sperm into the somatic tissues of the female genital tract or the presence of fetal genes in the mother's blood. It is highlighted that sperm penetrates into the mucosa of the uterine and possibly alters the genetic structure, affecting the embryo and enduring from one pregnancy to the next, which may be one of the potential mechanisms of telegony. Uterine fluid, uterine gland-derived histotroph, supplies key nutrients for successful embryo implantation and it is important during the first trimester, especially, because of its susceptibility to maternal states. The presence of EVs in uterine fluid (uterosomes) was reported in mice, sheep, and humans, including a wide range of biomolecules, such as proteins, and non-coding RNAs. In this review article, we presented a new idea to explain telegony. Based on our idea, after the previous male sperm entry into the female reproductive system, those sperm which do not participate in fertilization penetrate into the somatic cells of the uterus and store their genetic/epigenetic information there. The sperm of the next partner reaches a location in the female reproductive canal where it exchanges information with the uterosomes and obtains the proteins and non-coding RNAs required for fertilization, development, and implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Leila Roshangar
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz, Iran.
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14
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Wilkinson AL, Menelaou K, Rakoczy J, Tan XS, Watson ED. Disruption of Folate Metabolism Causes Poor Alignment and Spacing of Mouse Conceptuses for Multiple Generations. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:723978. [PMID: 34957089 PMCID: PMC8703036 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.723978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal uptake or metabolism of folate increases risk of human pregnancy complications, though the mechanism is unclear. Here, we explore how defective folate metabolism influences early development by analysing mice with the hypomorphic Mtrrgt mutation. MTRR is necessary for methyl group utilisation from folate metabolism, and the Mtrrgt allele disrupts this process. We show that the spectrum of phenotypes previously observed in Mtrrgt/gt conceptuses at embryonic day (E) 10.5 is apparent from E8.5 including developmental delay, congenital malformations, and placental phenotypes. Notably, we report misalignment of some Mtrrgt conceptuses within their implantation sites from E6.5. The degree of misorientation occurs across a continuum, with the most severe form visible upon gross dissection. Additionally, some Mtrrgt/gt conceptuses display twinning. Therefore, we implicate folate metabolism in blastocyst orientation and spacing at implantation. Skewed growth likely influences embryo development since developmental delay and heart malformations (but not defects in neural tube closure or trophoblast differentiation) associate with severe misalignment of Mtrrgt/gt conceptuses. Typically, the uterus is thought to guide conceptus orientation. To investigate a uterine effect of the Mtrrgt allele, we manipulate the maternal Mtrr genotype. Misaligned conceptuses were observed in litters of Mtrr+/+, Mtrr+/gt, and Mtrrgt/gt mothers. While progesterone and/or BMP2 signalling might be disrupted, normal decidual morphology, patterning, and blood perfusion are evident at E6.5 regardless of conceptus orientation. These observations argue against a post-implantation uterine defect as a cause of conceptus misalignment. Since litters of Mtrr+/+ mothers display conceptus misalignment, a grandparental effect is explored. Multigenerational phenotype inheritance is characteristic of the Mtrrgt model, though the mechanism remains unclear. Genetic pedigree analysis reveals that severe conceptus skewing associates with the Mtrr genotype of either maternal grandparent. Moreover, the presence of conceptus skewing after embryo transfer into a control uterus indicates that misalignment is independent of the peri- and/or post-implantation uterus and instead is likely attributed to an embryonic mechanism that is epigenetically inherited. Overall, our data indicates that abnormal folate metabolism influences conceptus orientation over multiple generations with implications for subsequent development. This study casts light on the complex role of folate metabolism during development beyond a direct maternal effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Wilkinson
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Katerina Menelaou
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Rakoczy
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Xiu S Tan
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Erica D Watson
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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15
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Hosono T, Ono M, Daikoku T, Mieda M, Nomura S, Kagami K, Iizuka T, Nakata R, Fujiwara T, Fujiwara H, Ando H. Time-Restricted Feeding Regulates Circadian Rhythm of Murine Uterine Clock. Curr Dev Nutr 2021; 5:nzab064. [PMID: 33981944 PMCID: PMC8099714 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzab064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skipping breakfast is associated with dysmenorrhea in young women. This suggests that the delay of food intake in the active phase impairs uterine functions by interfering with circadian rhythms. OBJECTIVES To examine the relation between the delay of feeding and uterine circadian rhythms, we investigated the effects of the first meal occasion in the active phase on the uterine clock. METHODS Zeitgeber time (ZT) was defined as ZT0 (08:45) with lights on and ZT12 (20:45) with lights off. Young female mice (8 wk of age) were divided into 3 groups: group I (ad libitum consumption), group II (time-restricted feeding during ZT12-16, initial 4 h of the active period), and group III (time-restricted feeding during ZT20-24, last 4 h of the active period, a breakfast-skipping model). After 2 wk of dietary restriction, mice in each group were killed at 4-h intervals and the expression profiles of uterine clock genes, Bmal1 (brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1), Per1 (period circadian clock 1), Per2, and Cry1 (cryptochrome 1), were examined. RESULTS qPCR and western blot analyses demonstrated synchronized circadian clock gene expression within the uterus. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed that BMAL1 protein expression was synchronized among the endometrium and myometrium. In groups I and II, mRNA expression of Bmal1 was elevated after ZT12 at the start of the active phase. In contrast, Bmal1 expression was elevated just after ZT20 in group III, showing that the uterine clock rhythm had shifted 8 h backward. The changes in BMAL1 protein expression were confirmed by western blot analysis. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to indicate that time-restricted feeding regulates a circadian rhythm of the uterine clock that is synchronized throughout the uterine body. These findings suggest that the uterine clock system is a new candidate to explain the etiology of breakfast skipping-induced uterine dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Hosono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Masanori Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Takiko Daikoku
- Institute for Experimental Animals, Advanced Science Research Center, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Michihiro Mieda
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nomura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Kyosuke Kagami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Takashi Iizuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Rieko Nakata
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Nara Women's University, Nara, Japan
| | - Tomoko Fujiwara
- Department of Social Work and Life Design, Kyoto Notre Dame University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Fujiwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ando
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Function Analysis, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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16
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Elad D, Jaffa AJ, Grisaru D. Biomechanics of Early Life in the Female Reproductive Tract. Physiology (Bethesda) 2021; 35:134-143. [PMID: 32027564 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00028.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Early human life that starts at the onset of fertilization and ends with implantation of the embryo in the uterine wall is the foundation for a successful pregnancy. The different stages during this period require biomechanical mechanisms, which are mostly unknown due to difficulties to conduct in vivo studies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Elad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel J Jaffa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dan Grisaru
- Gynecological Oncology Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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17
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Palagiano A, Cozzolino M, Ubaldi FM, Palagiano C, Coccia ME. Effects of Hydrosalpinx on Endometrial Implantation Failures: Evaluating Salpingectomy in Women Undergoing in vitro fertilization. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2021; 43:304-310. [PMID: 33601465 PMCID: PMC10183881 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1722155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrosalpinx is a disease characterized by the obstruction of the salpinx, with progressive accumulation in the shape of a fluid-filled sac at the distal part of the tuba uterina, and closed to the ovary. Women with hydrosalpinges have lower implantation and pregnancy rates due to a combination of mechanical and chemical factors thought to disrupt the endometrial environment. Evidence suggests that the presence of hydrosalpinx reduces the rate of pregnancy with assisted reproductive technology. The main aim of the present is review to make an overview of the possible effects of hydrosalpinx on in vitro fertilization (IVF). We conducted a literature search on the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Google Scholar data bases regarding hydrosalpinx and IVF outcomes. Hydrosalpinx probably has a direct toxic effect on sperm motility and on the embryos. In addition, the increasing liquid inside the salpinges could alter the mechanisms of endometrial receptivity. The window of endometrial receptivity is essential in the implantation of blastocysts, and it triggers multiple reactions arising from the endometrium as well as the blastocysts. Hydrosalpinx could influence the expression of homeobox A10 (HOXA10) gene, which plays an essential role in directing embryonic development and implantation. Salpingectomy restores the endometrial expression of HOXA10; therefore, it may be one mechanism by which tubal removal could result in improved implantation rates in IVF. In addition, salpingectomy does not affect the ovarian response, nor reduces the antral follicle count. Further studies are needed to establish the therapeutic value of fluid aspiration under ultrasonographic guidance, during or after oocyte retrieval, in terms of pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Palagiano
- Department of General and Specialized Surgery for Women and Children, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Mauro Cozzolino
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States.,Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain.,IVIRMA, IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Maria Elisabetta Coccia
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Firenze, Italy
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18
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Flores D, Madhavan M, Wright S, Arora R. Mechanical and signaling mechanisms that guide pre-implantation embryo movement. Development 2020; 147:dev193490. [PMID: 33158924 DOI: 10.1242/dev.193490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
How a mammalian embryo determines and arrives at its attachment site has been studied for decades, but our understanding of this process is far from complete. Using confocal imaging and image analysis, we evaluate embryo location along the longitudinal oviductal-cervical axis of murine uteri. Our analysis reveals three distinct pre-implantation phases: embryo entry, unidirectional movement of embryo clusters and bidirectional scattering and spacing of embryos. We show that unidirectional clustered movement is facilitated by a mechanical stimulus of the embryo and is regulated by adrenergic uterine smooth muscle contractions. Embryo scattering, on the other hand, depends on embryo-uterine communication reliant on the LPAR3 signaling pathway and is independent of adrenergic muscle contractions. Finally, we demonstrate that uterine implantation sites in mice are neither random nor predetermined but are guided by the number of embryos entering the uterine lumen. These studies have implications for understanding how embryo-uterine communication is key to determining an optimal implantation site necessary for the success of a pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Flores
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Manoj Madhavan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Savannah Wright
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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19
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Li Z, Bian X, Ma Y, Yang Q, Jia W, Liu J, Wang F, Liu M, Li YX, Shao X, Wang YL. Uterine Scarring Leads to Adverse Pregnant Consequences by Impairing the Endometrium Response to Steroids. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5911727. [PMID: 32976565 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Uterine surgical scarring is an increasing risk factor for adverse pregnant consequences that threaten fetal-maternal health. The detailed molecular features of scar implantation remain largely unknown. We aim to study the pathologic features of uterine surgical scarring and the mechanisms of compromised pregnancy outcomes of scar implantation. We generated a mouse model of uterine surgical scarring with a uterine incision penetrating the myometrium to endometrium to examine the pathologic changes and transcriptome profiles of uterine scarring at various postsurgery (PS) time points, as well as features of the feto-maternal interface during scar implantation. We found that uterine surgical scar recovery was consistently poor at PS3 until PS90, as shown by a reduced number of endometrial glands, inhibition of myometrial smooth muscle cell growth but excessive collagen fiber deposition, and massive leukocyte infiltration. Transcriptome annotation indicated significant chronic inflammation at the scarring site. At the peri-implantation and postimplantation stages, abnormal expression of various steroid-responsive genes at the scarring site was in parallel with lumen epithelial cell hyperplasia, inappropriate luminal closure, and disorientation of the implanted embryo, restricted stromal cell proliferation, and defective decidualization. High embryonic lethality (around 70%) before E10.5 was observed, and the small amount of survival embryos at E10.5 exhibited restricted growth and aberrant placenta defects including overinvasion of trophoblast cells into the decidua and insufficient fetal blood vessel branching in the labyrinth. The findings indicate that chronic inflammation and compromised responses to steroids in uterine scar tissues are the pivotal molecular basis for adverse pregnancy consequences of scar implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotao Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yeling Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wentong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Feiyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Xia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Ling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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20
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Ugwah-Oguejiofor CJ, Okoli CO, Ugwah MO, Okolo RU, Bello SO. Assessment of reproductive impact of the aerial parts of Caralluma dalzielii N. E. Br in female Wistar rats. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05199. [PMID: 33102839 PMCID: PMC7575800 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Caralluma dalzielii N. E. Brown belonging to family Asclepiadaceae, is a popular cactus-shaped plant native to East Africa. The aerial parts are used traditionally for treating various diseases including infertility. The present study evaluated the effects of the aqueous extract of the aerial parts of Caralluma dalzielii (AECD) on reproductive performance of female Wistar rats. Adult female virgin rats were allotted into four major groups namely pre-conception, post-conception, implantation site and ovariectomized rats' groups. Each group was subdivided into 4 groups and treated orally with 125, 250, 500 mg/kg of AECD or distilled water (vehicle). In the pre-conception and post-conception groups, litter sizes, pups' weights, deformities, gestation length and reproductive indices were determined. Number of implantation sites and weights of embryos were assessed in the implantation site group while in the ovariectomised rats' group, uterine weights were determined. AECD produced no difference in litter size and reproductive indices in pre-conception group while in post-conception group the litter size at 500 mg/kg was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced compared to the control. Post-implantation loss index was high, and the other reproductive indices were reduced at 500 mg/kg. Whereas at the dose of 125 mg/kg, post-implantation loss index was reduced, and litter size was increased when compared to the control group. At 500 mg/kg, AECD caused a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the number of implantation sites and weight of embryos while at 125 mg/kg the implantation sites increased. A significant (p < 0.05) increase in the uterine weight in the ovariectomised rats' group was observed at all dose levels. Our study provides scientific evidence that supports the traditional use of AECD in the treatment of infertility. At a lower dose, AECD acts by increasing the number of implantation sites and litter size of animals but at a higher dose, it may be embryotoxic. AECD increases uterine wet weight in ovariectomised rats suggesting that the plant may be oestrogen-like.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinenye J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
- Corresponding author.
| | - Charles O. Okoli
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Michael O. Ugwah
- Department of Pharmacy, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Ray U. Okolo
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Shuaibu O. Bello
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, P.M.B. 2346, Sokoto, Nigeria
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21
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Elad D, Zaretsky U, Kuperman T, Gavriel M, Long M, Jaffa A, Grisaru D. Tissue engineered endometrial barrier exposed to peristaltic flow shear stresses. APL Bioeng 2020; 4:026107. [PMID: 32548541 PMCID: PMC7269682 DOI: 10.1063/5.0001994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic myometrial contractions of the non-pregnant uterus induce intra-uterine peristaltic flows, which have important roles in transport of sperm and embryos during early stages of reproduction. Hyperperistalsis in young females may lead to migration of endometrial cells and development of adenomyosis or endometriosis. We conducted an in vitro study of the biological response of a tissue engineered endometrial barrier exposed to peristaltic wall shear stresses (PWSSs). The endometrial barrier model was co-cultured of endometrial epithelial cells on top of myometrial smooth muscle cells (MSMCs) in custom-designed wells that can be disassembled for mechanobiology experiments. A new experimental setup was developed for exposing the uterine wall in vitro model to PWSSs that mimic the in vivo intra-uterine environment. Peristaltic flow was induced by moving a belt with bulges to deform the elastic cover of a fluid filled chamber that held the uterine wall model at the bottom. The in vitro biological model was exposed to peristaltic flows for 60 and 120 min and then stained for immunofluorescence studies of alternations in the cytoskeleton. Quantification of the F-actin mass in both layers revealed a significant increase with the length of exposure to PWSSs. Moreover, the inner layer of MSMCs that were not in direct contact with the fluid also responded with an increase in the F-actin mass. This new experimental approach can be expanded to in vitro studies of multiple structural changes and genetic expressions, while the tissue engineered uterine wall models are tested under conditions that mimic the in vivo physiological environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Elad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Uri Zaretsky
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Tatyana Kuperman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Mark Gavriel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Mian Long
- Center of Biomechanics and Bioengineering and Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
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22
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Murtinger M, Wirleitner B, Schuff M, Damko AR, Vanderzwalmen P, Stecher A, Spitzer D. Suboptimal endometrial-embryonal synchronization is a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy in assisted reproduction techniques. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:254-262. [PMID: 32540431 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.03.018] [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: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the main risk factors associated with ectopic pregnancy and what is the true incidence of ectopic pregnancies in an IVF programme? DESIGN Retrospective single-centre study of 12,429 blastocyst transfers (8182 fresh and 4247 frozen embryo transfers) conducted between January 2010 and December 2017. IVF outcome was analysed, and ectopic pregnancy risk evaluated according to patient's characteristics and assisted reproductive technology treatment factors. RESULTS Of 5061 patients reporting a positive pregnancy test, 43 were diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy (0.85%). Neither female age (36.7 versus 35.8 years), body mass index, quality of transfer nor stimulation protocol affected the ectopic pregnancy rate, but history of previous ectopic pregnancy (OR 3.26; P = 0.0080), tubal surgery, or both (OR 6.20; P < 0.0001) did. The incidence of ectopic pregnancy was increased in women with uterine malformations (OR 3.85; P = 0.0052), uterine pathologies (OR 5.35; P = 0.0001), uterine surgeries (OR 2.29; P = 0.0154) or sub-optimal endometrial build-up (OR 4.46 to 5.31; P < 0.0001). Transfer of slow-developing blastocysts (expressed by expansion) significantly increased the risk of ectopic pregnancy (OR 2.59; P = 0.0102). CONCLUSIONS Unfavourable uterine environment, including uterine pathologies, uterine or tubal surgery and suboptimal endometrial build-up were related to ectopic pregnancy. Low expansion grade of blastocysts was identified as an additional putative risk factor for ectopic pregnancy, indicating the importance of proper embryonal-maternal synchronization. The overall ectopic pregnancy rate after blastocyst transfer was low, comparable with reported ectopic pregnancy rates in spontaneous conceptions. Proper evaluation of tubal and uterine pathologies, optimizing endometrial preparation and the transfer of expanded blastocysts in a frozen embryo transfer cycle, might be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Murtinger
- NEXTCLINIC IVF Zentren Prof. Zech - Bregenz, Roemerstrasse 2, Bregenz 6900, Austria.
| | - Barbara Wirleitner
- NEXTCLINIC IVF Zentren Prof. Zech - Bregenz, Roemerstrasse 2, Bregenz 6900, Austria
| | - Maximilian Schuff
- NEXTCLINIC IVF Zentren Prof. Zech - Bregenz, Roemerstrasse 2, Bregenz 6900, Austria
| | - Adriane Rima Damko
- NEXTCLINIC IVF Zentren Prof. Zech - Bregenz, Roemerstrasse 2, Bregenz 6900, Austria
| | - Pierre Vanderzwalmen
- NEXTCLINIC IVF Zentren Prof. Zech - Bregenz, Roemerstrasse 2, Bregenz 6900, Austria; Centre Hospitalier Inter Régional Edith Cavell (CHIREC), Braine-l'Alleud, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Astrid Stecher
- NEXTCLINIC IVF Zentren Prof. Zech - Bregenz, Roemerstrasse 2, Bregenz 6900, Austria
| | - Dietmar Spitzer
- IVF Zentren Prof. Zech -Salzburg - Member of NEXTCLINICS, Innsbrucker Bundesstrasse 35, Salzburg 5020, Austria
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23
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Fujiwara H, Ono M, Sato Y, Imakawa K, Iizuka T, Kagami K, Fujiwara T, Horie A, Tani H, Hattori A, Daikoku T, Araki Y. Promoting Roles of Embryonic Signals in Embryo Implantation and Placentation in Cooperation with Endocrine and Immune Systems. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051885. [PMID: 32164226 PMCID: PMC7084435 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation in the uterus is an essential process for successful pregnancy in mammals. In general, the endocrine system induces sufficient embryo receptivity in the endometrium, where adhesion-promoting molecules increase and adhesion-inhibitory molecules decrease. Although the precise mechanisms remain unknown, it is widely accepted that maternal–embryo communications, including embryonic signals, improve the receptive ability of the sex steroid hormone-primed endometrium. The embryo may utilize repulsive forces produced by an Eph–ephrin system for its timely attachment to and subsequent invasion through the endometrial epithelial layer. Importantly, the embryonic signals are considered to act on maternal immune cells to induce immune tolerance. They also elicit local inflammation that promotes endometrial differentiation and maternal tissue remodeling during embryo implantation and placentation. Additional clarification of the immune control mechanisms by embryonic signals, such as human chorionic gonadotropin, pre-implantation factor, zona pellucida degradation products, and laeverin, will aid in the further development of immunotherapy to minimize implantation failure in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fujiwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +81-(0)76-265-2425; Fax: +81-(0)76-234-4266
| | - Masanori Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Yukiyasu Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Takamatsu Red Cross Hospital, Takamatsu 760-0017, Japan;
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Research Institute of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto 862-8652, Japan;
| | - Takashi Iizuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Kyosuke Kagami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (T.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Tomoko Fujiwara
- Department of Home Science and Welfare, Kyoto Notre Dame University, Kyoto 606-0847, Japan;
| | - Akihito Horie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (A.H.); (H.T.)
| | - Hirohiko Tani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; (A.H.); (H.T.)
| | - Akira Hattori
- Department of System Chemotherapy and Molecular Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan;
| | - Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Transgenic Animal Science, Advanced Science Research Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan;
| | - Yoshihiko Araki
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Urayasu 279-0021, Japan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
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24
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Ye X. Uterine Luminal Epithelium as the Transient Gateway for Embryo Implantation. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:165-180. [PMID: 31866217 PMCID: PMC6983336 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2019.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The uterine luminal epithelium (LE) is the first maternal contact for an implanting embryo. Intrauterine fluid resorption, cessation of LE proliferation and apoptosis, and LE structural changes are prerequisites for establishing transient uterine receptivity for embryo implantation. Vesicle trafficking in the LE and receptor-mediated paracrine and autocrine mechanisms are crucial both for LE preparation and LE communications with the embryo and stroma during the initiation of embryo implantation. This review mainly covers recent in vivo studies in LE of mouse models from 0.5 days post-coitus (D0.5) to ∼D4 20 h when the trophoblasts pass through the LE layer for embryo implantation. The review is organized into three interconnected sections: preimplantation LE preparation for embryo attachment, embryo-LE communications, and LE-stroma communications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Ye
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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25
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Yang Y, Wang L, Chen C, Qi H, Baker PN, Liu X, Zhang H, Han TL. Metabolic Changes of Maternal Uterine Fluid, Uterus, and Plasma during the Peri-implantation Period of Early Pregnancy in Mice. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:488-502. [PMID: 32046443 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00040-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation is a complex process which involves biochemical and physiological interactions between an implantation-competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus. However, the exact biochemical changes of uterine fluid, uterus, and plasma during peri-implantation remain unclear. This study aims to characterize the biochemical and metabolic changes that occur during the peri-implantation period of early pregnancy, using mice as an animal model. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to analyze the metabolite profiles of the uterus, uterine fluid, and maternal plasma at pre-implantation and implantation. The multivariate analyses, ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test, were applied to detect significant changes in metabolites and metabolic pathways. The metabolic networks were reconstructed in silico based on the identified metabolites and KEGG metabolic framework. Between pre-implantation day 1 and day 4, dramatic metabolic changes were observed in the uterine fluid that could be important for blastocyst development and protection against the harsh uterine environment. Palmitoleic acid, fumaric acid, and glutaric acid changed levels at day 4 in the uterus, suggesting that they may be associated with endometrial receptivity. Both the uterus and maternal plasma showed profound changes in cellular metabolism at the early implantation period, including upregulation of branched-chain amino acids and intermediates of one-carbon metabolism, an upregulation of glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, and downregulation of aerobic respiration; all of which could be involved in the regulation of the maternal-fetal interface, alternative nutrient utilization, and energy preservation for implantation as well as later placentation and fetal development to ensure successful embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Longqiong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chang Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongbo Qi
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Philip N Baker
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Xueqing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Ting-Li Han
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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26
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Skowronska A, Tanski D, Jaskiewicz L, Skowronski MT. Modulation by steroid hormones and other factors on the expression of aquaporin-1 and aquaporin-5. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2019; 112:209-242. [PMID: 32061342 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2019.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Skowronska
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - D Tanski
- Department of Anatomy and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - L Jaskiewicz
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - M T Skowronski
- Veterinary Center, University of Nicolaus Copernicus, Torun, Poland
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27
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Vianello S, Lutolf MP. Understanding the Mechanobiology of Early Mammalian Development through Bioengineered Models. Dev Cell 2019; 48:751-763. [PMID: 30913407 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2019.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Research in developmental biology has been recently enriched by a multitude of in vitro models recapitulating key milestones of mammalian embryogenesis. These models obviate the challenge posed by the inaccessibility of implanted embryos, multiply experimental opportunities, and favor approaches traditionally associated with organoids and tissue engineering. Here, we provide a perspective on how these models can be applied to study the mechano-geometrical contributions to early mammalian development, which still escape direct verification in species that develop in utero. We thus outline new avenues for robust and scalable perturbation of geometry and mechanics in ways traditionally limited to non-implanting developmental models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Vianello
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences (SV) and School of Engineering (STI), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias P Lutolf
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences (SV) and School of Engineering (STI), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, School of Basic Science (SB), EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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28
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Xu JW, Gao DD, Peng L, Qiu ZE, Ke LJ, Zhu YX, Zhang YL, Zhou WL. The gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide inhibits transepithelial anion secretion of pregnant mouse endometrial epithelium. Nitric Oxide 2019; 90:37-46. [PMID: 31175932 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2019.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial epithelium exhibits a robust ion transport activity required for dynamical regulation of uterine fluid environment and thus embryo implantation. However, there still lacks a thorough understanding of the ion transport processes and regulatory mechanism in peri-implantation endometrial epithelium. As a gaseous signaling molecule or gasotransmitter, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) regulates a myriad of cellular and physiological processes in various tissues, including the modulation of ion transport proteins in epithelium. This study aimed to investigate the effects of H2S on ion transport across mouse endometrial epithelium and its possible role in embryo implantation. The existence of endogenous H2S in pregnant mouse uterus was tested by the detection of two key H2S-generating enzymes and measurement of H2S production rate in tissue homogenates. Transepithelial ion transport processes were electrophysiologically assessed in Ussing chambers on early pregnant mouse endometrial epithelial layers, demonstrating that H2S suppressed the anion secretion by blocking cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). H2S increased intracellular Cl- concentration ([Cl-]i) in mouse endometrial epithelial cells, which was abolished by pretreatment with the CFTR selective inhibitor CFTRinh-172. The cAMP level in mouse endometrial epithelial cells was not affected by H2S, indicating that H2S blocked CFTR in a cAMP-independent way. In vivo study showed that interference with H2S synthesis impaired embryo implantation. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that H2S inhibits the transepithelial anion secretion of early pregnant mouse endometrial epithelium via blockade of CFTR, contributing to the preparation for embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wen Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dong-Dong Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Peng
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo-Er Qiu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Jiao Ke
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Xin Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Lin Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Wen-Liang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 510006, No. 132, Waihuan Dong Road, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China.
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29
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Zhang Y, Qian J, Zaltzhendler O, Bshara M, Jaffa AJ, Grisaru D, Duan E, Elad D. Analysis of in vivo uterine peristalsis in the non-pregnant female mouse. Interface Focus 2019; 9:20180082. [PMID: 31263529 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2018.0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine peristalsis due to spontaneous contractions of the myometrial smooth muscles has important roles in pre-implantation processes of intra-uterine sperm transport to the fertilization site, and then embryo transport to the implantation sites. We developed a new objective methodology to study in vivo uterine peristalsis in female mice during the pro-oestrus phase. The acquisition procedure of the uterine organ is remote without interfering with the organ function. The uniqueness of the new approach is that video images of physiological pattern were converted using image processing and new algorithms to biological time-dependent signals that can be processed with existing algorithms for signal processing. Using this methodology we found that uterine peristalsis in the pro-oestrus mouse is in the range of 0.008-0.029 Hz, which is about one contraction per minute and with fairly symmetric contractions that occasionally propagate caudally. This rate of contractions is similar to that of human uterine peristalsis acquired in vivo, which is important information for a popular animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Oren Zaltzhendler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Mustafa Bshara
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ariel J Jaffa
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 64239, Israel
| | - Dan Grisaru
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.,Gynecological Oncology Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 64239, Israel
| | - Enkui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - David Elad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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30
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Grimm MJ. Engineering and women's health: a slow start, but gaining momentum. Interface Focus 2019; 9:20190017. [PMID: 31263535 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2019.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
While biomedical engineers have participated in research studies that focus on understanding aspects particular to women's health since the 1950s, the depth and breadth of the research have increased significantly in the last 15-20 years. It has been increasingly clear that engineers can lend important knowledge and analysis to address questions that are key to understanding physiology and pathophysiology related to women's health. This historical survey identifies some of the earliest contributions of engineers to exploring aspects of women's health, from the behaviour of key tissues, to issues of reproduction and breast cancer. In addition, some of the more recent work in each area is identified and areas deserving additional attention are described. The interdisciplinary nature of this area of engineering, along with the growing interest within the field of biomedical engineering, promise to bring exciting new discoveries and expand knowledge that will positively impact women's health in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele J Grimm
- Wielenga Creative Engineering Endowed Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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31
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Munro MG. Uterine polyps, adenomyosis, leiomyomas, and endometrial receptivity. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:629-640. [PMID: 30929720 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial polyps, adenomyosis, and leiomyomas are commonly encountered abnormalities frequently found in both fertile women and those with infertility. The clinician is frequently challenged to determine which of these entities, when found, is likely to impair fertility, and which are "innocent bystanders" unrelated to the problem at hand. Although removing an endometrial polyp may be seen as a relatively benign and safe intervention, myomectomy, and in particular adenomyomectomy, can be substantive surgical procedures, associated with their own potential for disrupting fertility. One of the mechanisms thought to be involved when these entities are contributing to infertility is an adverse impact on endometrial receptivity. Indeed polyps, adenomyosis, and leiomyomas have all been associated with an increased likelihood of abnormal endometrial molecular expressions thought to impair implantation and early embryo development. This review is designed to examine the relationship of these common entities to endometrial receptivity and to identify evidence gaps that should be considered when strategizing research initiatives. It is apparent that we have the tools necessary to fill these gaps, but it will be necessary to approach the issue in a strategic and coordinated fashion. It is likely that we will have to recognize the limitations of imaging alone and look to the evidence-based addition of molecular analysis to provide the individualized phenotyping of disease necessary for patient-specific treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm G Munro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaiser-Permanente, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California.
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32
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Nie L, Zhao YB, Zhao D, Long Y, Lei Y, Liu M, Wang YC, Zhang XQ, Zhang JH, Yuan DZ, Yue LM. Progesterone-induced miR-152 interferes with embryonic implantation by downregulating GLUT3 in endometrial epithelium. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2019; 316:E557-E567. [PMID: 30668148 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00245.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the role of progesterone-induced micro-RNA (miR)-152 in early embryonic development and implantation by regulating GLUT3 in endometrial epithelium, qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-152, GLUT1, and GLUT3 in the endometrial epithelial cells of female mice. GLUT1 and GLUT3 proteins were detected by immunohistochemical staining in the mouse endometrial epithelium. Bioinformatics prediction associated with a luciferase assay was performed to determine whether GLUT1 and GLUT3 are target genes of miR-152. Specific miR-152 mimics or inhibitors were transfected into the endometrial epithelial cells to, respectively, overexpress or downregulate miR-152. Next, the glucose concentration of uterine fluid was measured by conducting high-performance liquid chromatography in vivo, and the glucose uptake of the endometrial epithelial cells was observed using a fluorometric assay in vitro. Early embryonic development and implantation were also observed after the miR-152 mimics or inhibitors had been transfected. Embryo transfer was observed after the miR-152 mimic transfection. miR-152 was found to directly target and thereby downregulate GLUT3 expression. The expressions of both miR-152 and GLUT3 in the mouse endometrial epithelium had spatiotemporal characteristics on days 1-4 of pregnancy. miR-152 affected the glucose concentration of uterine fluid and the glucose uptake of endometrial epithelial cells. The transfection of specific miR-152 mimics led to impaired embryonic development and implantation. To conclude, in endometrial epithelial cells, progesterone-induced miR-152 downregulates GLUT3 at the posttranscriptional level to maintain a proper glucose concentration in the uterine fluid, which is necessary for early embryonic development and implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Nie
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - You-Bo Zhao
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Dan Zhao
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Yun Long
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Yi Lei
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Yi-Cheng Wang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Xue-Qin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Jin-Hu Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Dong-Zhi Yuan
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
| | - Li-Min Yue
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University , Chengdu 610041 , China
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Li H, Zhou R, Li Y, Liu R, Miao Y, Zhang B, Wu X, Zhang S, Tang F, Li X. Effects of Intrauterine Air Bubbles on Embryonic Development in Mice. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE 2019; 58:7-15. [PMID: 30497539 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-jaalas-18-000031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
During murine embryo transfer, air bubbles frequently are loaded with embryos into the transfer catheter, but the role of air bubbles on embryonic development is unclear. This study shows that intrauterine air disrupted embryo spacing, induced deciduoma, and impaired postimplantation development. RNA sequencing showed that the gene expression profile of air-induced deciduoma differed significantly from that of embryo-induced decidua but is similar to tetraploid-induced deciduoma. A subset of 33 common genes was upregulated in the embryo-induced decidua compared with air- or tetraploid-induced deciduoma. These data suggest that the inner cell mass (ICM) plays a key role in regulating decidualization and that the trophectoderm is an intermediate that relays ICM-derived signals to other target cells. Our results may provide an innovative approach for detecting the developmental status of embryos in human reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Rongyan Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Yimeng Li
- School of Basic Medical Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Ruonan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Yanping Miao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Xinglong Wu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fuchou Tang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China;,
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Matheson SM, Walling GA, Edwards SA. Genetic selection against intrauterine growth retardation in piglets: a problem at the piglet level with a solution at the sow level. Genet Sel Evol 2018; 50:46. [PMID: 30227828 PMCID: PMC6145367 DOI: 10.1186/s12711-018-0417-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In polytocous livestock species, litter size and offspring weight act antagonistically; in modern pig breeds, selection for increased litter size has resulted in lower mean birth weights, an increased number of small piglets and an increased number of those affected by varying degrees of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). IUGR poses life-long challenges, both mental, with morphological brain changes and altered cognition, and physical, such as immaturity of organs, reduced colostrum intake and weight gain. In pigs, head morphology of newborn piglets is a good phenotypic marker for identifying such compromised piglets. Growth retardation could be considered as a property of the dam, in part due to either uterine capacity or insufficiency. A novel approach to this issue is to consider the proportion of IUGR-affected piglets in a litter as an indirect measure of uterine capacity. However, uterine capacity or sufficiency cannot be equated solely to litter size and thus is a trait difficult to measure on farm. Results A total of 21,159 Landrace × Large White or Landrace × White Duroc piglets (born over 52 weeks) with recorded head morphology and birth weights were followed from birth until death or weaning. At the piglet level, the estimated heritability for IUGR (as defined by head morphology) was low at 0.01 ± 0.01. Piglet direct genetic effects of birth weight (h2 = 0.07 ± 0.02) were strongly negatively correlated with head morphology (− 0.93), in that IUGR-affected piglets tended to have lower birth weights. At the sow level, analysis of the proportion of IUGR-affected piglets in a litter gave a heritability of 0.20 ± 0.06, with high and negative genetic correlations of the proportion of IUGR-affected piglets with average offspring birth weight (− 0.90) and with the proportion of piglets surviving until 24 h (− 0.80). Conclusions This suggests that the proportion of IUGR-affected piglets in a litter is a suitable indirect measure of uterine capacity for inclusion in breeding programmes that aim at reducing IUGR in piglets and improving piglet survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Matheson
- Agriculture, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
| | - Grant A Walling
- JSR Genetics, Southburn, Driffield, East Yorkshire, YO25 9ED, UK
| | - Sandra A Edwards
- Agriculture, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
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35
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Matson BC, Pierce SL, Espenschied ST, Holle E, Sweatt IH, Davis ES, Tarran R, Young SL, Kohout TA, van Duin M, Caron KM. Adrenomedullin improves fertility and promotes pinopodes and cell junctions in the peri-implantation endometrium. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:466-477. [PMID: 29025060 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation is a complex event demanding contributions from both embryo and endometrium. Despite advances in assisted reproduction, endometrial receptivity defects persist as a barrier to successful implantation in women with infertility. We previously demonstrated that maternal haploinsufficiency for the endocrine peptide adrenomedullin (AM) in mice confers a subfertility phenotype characterized by defective uterine receptivity and sparse epithelial pinopode coverage. The strong link between AM and implantation suggested the compelling hypothesis that administration of AM prior to implantation may improve fertility, protect against pregnancy complications, and ultimately lead to better maternal and fetal outcomes. Here, we demonstrate that intrauterine delivery of AM prior to blastocyst transfer improves the embryo implantation rate and spacing within the uterus. We then use genetic decrease-of-function and pharmacologic gain-of-function mouse models to identify potential mechanisms by which AM confers enhanced implantation success. In epithelium, we find that AM accelerates the kinetics of pinopode formation and water transport and that, in stroma, AM promotes connexin 43 expression, gap junction communication, and barrier integrity of the primary decidual zone. Ultimately, our findings advance our understanding of the contributions of AM to uterine receptivity and suggest potential broad use for AM as therapy to encourage healthy embryo implantation, for example, in combination with in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke C Matson
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stephanie L Pierce
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Scott T Espenschied
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eric Holle
- Animal Models Core Facility, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Imani H Sweatt
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eric S Davis
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Cystic Fibrosis Center/Marsico Lung Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert Tarran
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Cystic Fibrosis Center/Marsico Lung Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Trudy A Kohout
- Ferring Research Institute Inc., San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Kathleen M Caron
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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36
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Molecular Pathogenesis of Chlamydia Disease Complications: Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Fibrosis. Infect Immun 2017; 86:IAI.00585-17. [PMID: 29084894 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00585-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The reproductive system complications of genital chlamydial infection include fallopian tube fibrosis and tubal factor infertility. However, the molecular pathogenesis of these complications remains poorly understood. The induction of pathogenic epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation was recently proposed as the pathogenic basis of chlamydial complications. Focusing on fibrogenesis, we investigated the hypothesis that chlamydia-induced fibrosis is caused by EMT-driven generation of myofibroblasts, the effector cells of fibrosis that produce excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. The results revealed that the targets of a major category of altered miRNAs during chlamydial infection are key components of the pathophysiological process of fibrogenesis; these target molecules include collagen types I, III, and IV, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), TGF-β receptor 1 (TGF-βR1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), E-cadherin, SRY-box 7 (SOX7), and NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells) kinase dual-specificity tyrosine (Y) phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1a (Dyrk1a). Chlamydial induction of EMT resulted in the generation of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-positive myofibroblasts that produced ECM proteins, including collagen types I and III and fibronectin. Furthermore, the inhibition of EMT prevented the generation of myofibroblasts and production of ECM proteins during chlamydial infection. These findings may provide useful avenues for targeting EMT or specific components of the EMT pathways as a therapeutic intervention strategy to prevent chlamydia-related complications.
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37
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Gómez E, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Martin D, Carrocera S, Murillo A, Correia-Alvarez E, Herrero P, Canela N, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Ulbrich S, Muñoz M. In vitro cultured bovine endometrial cells recognize embryonic sex. Theriogenology 2017; 108:176-184. [PMID: 29223655 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial cell co-culture (ECC) with single embryo may reflect endometrium responses in vivo. Bovine Day-6 in vitro-produced morulae were cultured until Day-8 in modified synthetic oviductal fluid (mSOF), or on the epithelial side of ECC. Expression of epithelial- and stromal-cell transcripts was analyzed by RT-PCR in ECC with one male (ME) or female embryo (FE). Concentrations of ARTEMIN (ARTN) and total protein were determined in epithelial cell-conditioned medium. ECCs yielded embryos with more cells in the inner cell mass than embryos cultured in mSOF. Embryos altered transcript expression only in epithelial cells, not in stromal ones. Thus, ME induced larger reductions than FE and controls (i.e., no embryos cultured) in hexose transporter solute carrier family 2 member 1 (SLC2A1) and member 5 (SLC2A5), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), artemin (ARTN), and interferon alpha and beta receptors subunit IFNAR1 and IFNAR2. FE reduced SLC2A1 and SLC2A5, and increased ARTN expression with respect to controls. ME tended to reduce total protein concentration (P < 0.082) in ECC-conditioned medium, while ARTN protein and gene expressions strongly correlated (R > 0.90; P < 0.05) in the group of ME or FE, but not in controls (without embryo). Isolated male and female embryos may differentially release signaling factors that induce sexually dimorphic responses in endometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Gómez
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain.
| | - M J Sánchez-Calabuig
- Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, Av. Puerta de Hierro, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - D Martin
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - S Carrocera
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - A Murillo
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - E Correia-Alvarez
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - P Herrero
- Centre for OMIC Sciences, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - N Canela
- Centre for OMIC Sciences, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - A Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro, n°12, local 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - S Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Switzerland
| | - M Muñoz
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
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38
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Kobayashi R, Endo K, Ohmori Y, Hondo E. A novel method of gene transduction to the murine endometrium using in vivo electroporation. J Vet Med Sci 2017; 79:1573-1577. [PMID: 28757524 PMCID: PMC5627331 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.17-0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate the molecular pathways involved in successful embryo implantation in mammals, we developed a novel method for gene transduction into the murine endometrium using in vivo electroporation. Plasmid DNA with an enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) gene was injected into the uterine cavity of non-pregnant female mice, and electrical pulses were subsequently applied to the uterine horn using plate electrodes. EGFP expression was found only in the uterine luminal epithelium (LE), but not in the stroma. EGFP fluorescence in the LE was limited to the site where the positive side of the electrodes was placed during electric stimulation. These results demonstrated that our novel method enabled us to transduce a gene into a desired location of the murine uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Animal Morphology, Division of Biofunctional Development, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Kanako Endo
- Laboratory of Animal Morphology, Division of Biofunctional Development, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yasushige Ohmori
- Laboratory of Animal Morphology, Division of Biofunctional Development, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Eiichi Hondo
- Laboratory of Animal Morphology, Division of Biofunctional Development, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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39
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Zhang Y, Wang Q, Wang H, Duan E. Uterine Fluid in Pregnancy: A Biological and Clinical Outlook. Trends Mol Med 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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40
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Fullerton PT, Monsivais D, Kommagani R, Matzuk MM. Follistatin is critical for mouse uterine receptivity and decidualization. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E4772-E4781. [PMID: 28559342 PMCID: PMC5474784 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1620903114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation remains a significant challenge for assisted reproductive technology, with implantation failure occurring in ∼50% of in vitro fertilization attempts. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying uterine receptivity will enable the development of new interventions and biomarkers. TGFβ family signaling in the uterus is critical for establishing and maintaining pregnancy. Follistatin (FST) regulates TGFβ family signaling by selectively binding TGFβ family ligands and sequestering them. In humans, FST is up-regulated in the decidua during early pregnancy, and women with recurrent miscarriage have lower endometrial expression of FST during the luteal phase. Because global knockout of Fst is perinatal lethal in mice, we generated a conditional knockout (cKO) of Fst in the uterus using progesterone receptor-cre to study the roles of uterine Fst during pregnancy. Uterine Fst-cKO mice demonstrate severe fertility defects and deliver only 2% of the number of pups delivered by control females. In Fst-cKO mice, the uterine luminal epithelium does not respond properly to estrogen and progesterone signals and remains unreceptive to embryo attachment by continuing to proliferate and failing to differentiate. The uterine stroma of Fst-cKO mice also responds poorly to artificial decidualization, with lower levels of proliferation and differentiation. In the absence of uterine FST, activin B expression and signaling are up-regulated, and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signals are impaired. Our findings support a model in which repression of activin signaling by FST enables uterine receptivity by preserving critical BMP signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul T Fullerton
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030;
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
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41
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Arora R, Fries A, Oelerich K, Marchuk K, Sabeur K, Giudice LC, Laird DJ. Insights from imaging the implanting embryo and the uterine environment in three dimensions. Development 2016; 143:4749-4754. [PMID: 27836961 DOI: 10.1242/dev.144386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Although much is known about the embryo during implantation, the architecture of the uterine environment in which the early embryo develops is not well understood. We employed confocal imaging in combination with 3D analysis to identify and quantify dynamic changes to the luminal structure of murine uterus in preparation for implantation. When applied to mouse mutants with known implantation defects, this method detected striking peri-implantation abnormalities in uterine morphology that cannot be visualized by histology. We revealed 3D organization of uterine glands and found that they undergo a stereotypical reorientation concurrent with implantation. Furthermore, we extended this technique to generate a 3D rendering of the cycling human endometrium. Analyzing the uterine and embryo structure in 3D for different genetic mutants and pathological conditions will help uncover novel molecular pathways and global structural changes that contribute to successful implantation of an embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ripla Arora
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and the Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Adam Fries
- Biological Imaging Development Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Karina Oelerich
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Kyle Marchuk
- Biological Imaging Development Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Khalida Sabeur
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and the Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Diana J Laird
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA .,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and the Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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42
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The Clock mutation reduces reproductive performance of mice by affecting the implantation capacity: Maternal Clock mutation is not the only factor affecting implantation. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1670-84. [PMID: 27520292 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Here, we showed that the Clock gene was important for reproductive performance in mice. We compared outcomes from the four possible mating combinations between wild-type mice (WT) and mice homozygous for the Clock delta-19 mutation (CL). We found that the only significant differences were between the WT♂ × WT♀ and CL♂ × CL♀ mating groups; these groups differed with regard to elongation of the pregnancy period (19.3 vs. 20.5 days, respectively, P < 0.05) and the number of newborn pups (13.4 ± 0.8 vs. 8.6 ± 1.5, respectively, P < 0.05). Because CL dams impregnated by male CLs exhibited normal continuous increases in body weight during the entire gestation period and did not show any signs of spontaneous abortion from mid to late gestation, we reasoned that some embryos were lost before or at the time of implantation. Immediately before implantation (88 hours after fertilization), neither the number of embryos collected from uteri nor the percentage of the embryos that reached the blastocyst stage differed significantly among mating groups. In contrast, immediately after implantation (160 hours after fertilization), the average number of implantation sites was significantly lower for the CL♂ × CL♀ mating group than that for the WT♂ × WT♀ mating group (7.0 vs. 13.0, P < 0.05); this decrease was accompanied by a significant lowering of the positions of implantation sites in uteri, and this lowering of the implantation sites was more severe when mothers and embryos bore more CL alleles (WT♂ × WT♀ >CL♂ × WT♀ > WT♂ × CL♀ >CL♂ × CL♀), suggesting that the Clock mutation reduced the reproduction performance of the parents by affecting the implantation capacity via such as embryos' ability to implant.
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43
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Clark AR, Kruger JA. Mathematical modeling of the female reproductive system: from oocyte to delivery. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2016; 9. [PMID: 27612162 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Revised: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
From ovulation to delivery, and through the menstrual cycle, the female reproductive system undergoes many dynamic changes to provide an optimal environment for the embryo to implant, and to develop successfully. It is difficult ethically and practically to observe the system over the timescales involved in growth and development (often hours to days). Even in carefully monitored conditions clinicians and biologists can only see snapshots of the development process. Mathematical models are emerging as a key means to supplement our knowledge of the reproductive process, and to tease apart complexity in the reproductive system. These models have been used successfully to test existing hypotheses regarding the mechanisms of female infertility and pathological fetal development, and also to provide new experimentally testable hypotheses regarding the process of development. This new knowledge has allowed for improvements in assisted reproductive technologies and is moving toward translation to clinical practice via multiscale assessments of the dynamics of ovulation, development in pregnancy, and the timing and mechanics of delivery. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2017, 9:e1353. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1353 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alys R Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jennifer A Kruger
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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44
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Mouse Sox17 haploinsufficiency leads to female subfertility due to impaired implantation. Sci Rep 2016; 6:24171. [PMID: 27053385 PMCID: PMC4823729 DOI: 10.1038/srep24171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic implantation comprises a dynamic and complicated series of events, which takes place only when the maternal uterine endometrium is in a receptive state. Blastocysts reaching the uterus communicate with the uterine endometrium to implant within a narrow time window. Interplay among various signalling molecules and transcription factors under the control of ovarian hormones is necessary for successful establishment of pregnancy. However, the molecular mechanisms that allow embryonic implantation in the receptive endometrium are still largely unknown. Here, we show that Sry-related HMG box gene-17 (Sox17) heterozygous mutant female mice exhibit subfertility due to implantation failure. Sox17 was expressed in the oviduct, uterine luminal epithelium, and blood vessels. Sox17 heterozygosity caused no appreciable defects in ovulation, fertilisation, blastocyst formation, and gross morphology of the oviduct and uterus. Another group F Sox transcription factor, Sox7, was also expressed in the uterine luminal and glandular epithelium relatively weakly. Despite uterine Sox7 expression, a significant reduction in the number of implantation sites was observed in Sox17 heterozygous mutant females due to haploinsufficiency. Our findings revealed a novel role of Sox17 in uterine receptivity to embryo implantation.
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Gallino L, Calo G, Hauk V, Fraccaroli L, Grasso E, Vermeulen M, Leirós CP, Ramhorst R. VIP treatment prevents embryo resorption by modulating efferocytosis and activation profile of maternal macrophages in the CBAxDBA resorption prone model. Sci Rep 2016; 6:18633. [PMID: 26733206 PMCID: PMC4702085 DOI: 10.1038/srep18633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful embryo implantation occurs followed by a local pro-inflammatory response subsequently shifted toward a tolerogenic one. VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide) has embryotrofic, anti-inflammatory and tolerogenic effects. In this sense, we investigated whether the in vivo treatment with VIP contributes to an immunosuppressant local microenvironment associated with an improved pregnancy outcome in the CBA/J × DBA/2 resorption prone model. Pregnancy induced the expression of VIP, VPAC1 and VPAC2 in the uterus from CBA/J × DBA/2 mating females on day 8.5 of gestation compared with non-pregnant mice. VIP treatment (2 nmol/mouse i.p.) on day 6.5 significantly increased the number of viable implantation sites and improved the asymmetric distribution of implanted embryos. This effect was accompanied by a decrease in RORγt and an increase in TGF-β and PPARγ expression at the implantation sites. Moreover, VIP modulated the maternal peritoneal macrophages efferocytosis ability, tested using latex beads-FITC or apoptotic thymocytes, displaying an increased frequency of IL-10-producer F4/80 cells while did not modulate TNF-α and IL-12 secretion. The present data suggest that VIP treatment increases the number of viable embryos associated with an increase in the efferocytic ability of maternal macrophages which is related to an immunosuppressant microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucila Gallino
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. IQUIBICEN-CONICET
| | - Guillermina Calo
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. IQUIBICEN-CONICET
| | - Vanesa Hauk
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. IQUIBICEN-CONICET
| | - Laura Fraccaroli
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. IQUIBICEN-CONICET
| | - Esteban Grasso
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. IQUIBICEN-CONICET
| | - Mónica Vermeulen
- Institute of Experimental Medicine IMEX-CONICET, National Academy of Sciences, Buenos Aires
| | - Claudia Pérez Leirós
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. IQUIBICEN-CONICET
| | - Rosanna Ramhorst
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, School of Sciences, University of Buenos Aires. IQUIBICEN-CONICET
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Zhang D, Xu G, Zhang R, Zhu Y, Gao H, Zhou C, Sheng J, Huang H. Decreased expression of aquaporin 2 is associated with impaired endometrial receptivity in controlled ovarian stimulation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 28:499-506. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 07/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, there has been evidence of decreased implantation rates with in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer due to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of COS on embryo implantation and the role of aquaporin 2 (AQP2). We recruited eight patients who underwent COS and 40 matched controls. Endometrial samples were collected on Day 4~8 after injection of human chorionic gonadotrophin in the COS group and in the mid-secretory phase in the control group. Human endometrial morphological changes after COS were examined and expression of AQP2, leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and integrin B3 (ITGB3) were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and immunohistochemistry in human endometrium and Ishikawa cells. Attachment rates were obtained using the embryo attachment test. The results showed that endometrial epithelial cells from the COS group were disrupted and lacked pinopodes. Messenger RNA and protein levels of AQP2, LIF and ITGB3 decreased in endometrial samples from the COS group. Knockdown of AQP2 resulted in reduced expression of LIF and ITGB3 and reduced embryo attachment rates. In conclusion, impaired endometrial receptivity in patients who underwent COS is correlated with a decreased expression of AQP2.
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Role of Epithelial-Mesenchyme Transition in Chlamydia Pathogenesis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0145198. [PMID: 26681200 PMCID: PMC4683008 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection in women causes serious adverse reproductive complications, and is a strong co-factor for human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated cervical epithelial carcinoma. We tested the hypothesis that Chlamydia induces epithelial-mesenchyme transition (EMT) involving T cell-derived TNF-alpha signaling, caspase activation, cleavage inactivation of dicer and dysregulation of micro-RNA (miRNA) in the reproductive epithelium; the pathologic process of EMT causes fibrosis and fertility-related epithelial dysfunction, and also provides the co-factor function for HPV-related cervical epithelial carcinoma. Using a combination of microarrays, immunohistochemistry and proteomics, we showed that chlamydia altered the expression of crucial miRNAs that control EMT, fibrosis and tumorigenesis; specifically, miR-15a, miR-29b, miR-382 and MiR-429 that maintain epithelial integrity were down-regulated, while miR-9, mi-R-19a, miR-22 and miR-205 that promote EMT, fibrosis and tumorigenesis were up-regulated. Chlamydia induced EMT in vitro and in vivo, marked by the suppression of normal epithelial cell markers especially E-cadherin but up-regulation of mesenchymal markers of pathological EMT, including T-cadherin, MMP9, and fibronectin. Also, Chlamydia upregulated pro-EMT regulators, including the zinc finger E-box binding homeobox protein, ZEB1, Snail1/2, and thrombospondin1 (Thbs1), but down-regulated anti-EMT and fertility promoting proteins (i.e., the major gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43), Mets1, Add1Scarb1 and MARCKSL1). T cell-derived TNF-alpha signaling was required for chlamydial-induced infertility and caspase inhibitors prevented both infertility and EMT. Thus, chlamydial-induced T cell-derived TNF-alpha activated caspases that inactivated dicer, causing alteration in the expression of reproductive epithelial miRNAs and induction of EMT. EMT causes epithelial malfunction, fibrosis, infertility, and the enhancement of tumorigenesis of HPV oncogene-transformed epithelial cells. These findings provide a novel understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of chlamydia-associated diseases, which may guide a rational prevention strategy.
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Salamonsen LA, Evans J, Nguyen HPT, Edgell TA. The Microenvironment of Human Implantation: Determinant of Reproductive Success. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 75:218-25. [PMID: 26661899 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful implantation requires synchronous development of embryo and endometrium. Endometrial receptivity results from progesterone-induced differentiation of endometrial cells, generally achieved during the mid-secretory phase of the cycle. Failure to properly develop receptivity results in failed or inadequate implantation and hence no ongoing pregnancy. The blastocyst undergoes final development, apposition, attachment and initiates invasion of the endometrial epithelium within the uterine cavity. Thus, the microenvironment provided by uterine fluid, particularly glandular secretions, is essential for implantation. Analysis of endometrial fluid has identified cytokines, chemokines, proteases, antiproteases and other factors that modulate blastocyst functions relevant to implantation. Exosomes/microvesicular bodies released from the endometrium (and likely also the embryo) are present in uterine fluid. These can transfer miRNA, proteins and lipids between cells, thus providing endometrial-embryo communication in the peri-implantation period. Understanding the uterine microenvironment, and its effects on endometrial-embryo interactions, will provide opportunities to modify current infertility treatments to improve success rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jemma Evans
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Vic., Australia
| | - Hong P T Nguyen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Vic., Australia
| | - Tracey A Edgell
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Vic., Australia
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Skowronska A, Mlotkowska P, Nielsen S, Skowronski MT. Difference in expression between AQP1 and AQP5 in porcine endometrium and myometrium in response to steroid hormones, oxytocin, arachidonic acid, forskolin and cAMP during the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle and luteolysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:131. [PMID: 26625724 PMCID: PMC4665864 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0128-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, we demonstrated in vitro that AQP1 and AQP5 in the porcine uterus are regulated by steroid hormones (P4, E2), arachidonic acid (AA), forskolin (FSK) and cAMP during the estrous cycle. However, the potential of the porcine separated uterine tissues, the endometrium and myometrium, to express these AQPs remains unknown. Thus, in this study, the responses of AQP1 and AQP5 to P4, E2 oxytocin (OT), AA, FSK and cAMP in the porcine endometrium and myometrium were examined during the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle and luteolysis. METHODS Real-time PCR and western blot analysis. RESULTS Progesterone up-regulated the expression of AQP1/AQP5 mRNAs and proteins in the endometrium and myometrium, especially during luteolysis. Similarly, E2 also stimulated the expression of both AQPs, but only in the endometrium. AA led to the upregulation of AQP1/AQP5 in the endometrium during luteolysis. In turn, OT increased the expression of AQP1/AQP5 mRNAs and proteins in the myometrium during mid-luteal phase. Moreover, a stimulatory effect of forskolin and cAMP on the expression of AQP1/AQP5 mRNAs and proteins in the endometrium and myometrium dominated during luteolysis, but during the mid-luteal phase their influence on the expression of these AQPs was differentiated depending on the type of tissue and the incubation duration. CONCLUSIONS These results seem to indicate that uterine tissues; endometrium and myometrium, exhibit their own AQP expression profiles in response to examined factors. Moreover, the responses of AQP1/AQP5 at mRNA and protein levels to the studied factors in the endometrium and myometrium are more pronounced during luteolysis. This suggests that the above effects of the studied factors are connected with morphological and physiological changes taking place in the pig uterus during the estrous cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Skowronska
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Warszawska 30, 10-082, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Patrycja Mlotkowska
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Soren Nielsen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mariusz T Skowronski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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Diao H, Li R, El Zowalaty AE, Xiao S, Zhao F, Dudley EA, Ye X. Deletion of Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor 3 (Lpar3) Disrupts Fine Local Balance of Progesterone and Estrogen Signaling in Mouse Uterus During Implantation. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:123. [PMID: 26447143 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.131110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Lpar3 encodes LPA3, the third G protein-coupled receptor for lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). Lpar3(-/-) female mice had delayed embryo implantation. Their serum progesterone and estrogen levels were comparable with control on Gestation Day 3.5 (D3.5) at 1100 h. There was reduced cell proliferation in D3.5 and D4.5 Lpar3(-/-) stroma. Progesterone receptor (PGR) disappeared from D4.5 Lpar3(+/+) uterine luminal epithelium (LE) but remained highly expressed in D4.5 Lpar3(-/-) LE. Pgr and PGR- target genes but not estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha [Esr1]) or ESR target genes, were upregulated in D4.5 Lpar3(-/-) LE. It was hypothesized that suppression of PGR activity in LE could restore on-time uterine receptivity in Lpar3(-/-) mice. A low dose of RU486 (5 μg/mouse) given on D3.5 at 900 h rescued delayed implantation in all pregnant Lpar3(-/-) females and significantly increased number of implantation sites compared to vehicle-treated pregnant Lpar3(-/-) females detected on D4.5. E2 (25 ng/mouse) had a similar effect as 5 μg RU486 on embryo implantation in Lpar3(-/-) females. However, when the ovaries were removed on late D2.5 to create an experimentally induced delayed implantation model, 25 ng E2 activated implantation in Lpar3(+/+) but not Lpar3(-/-) females detected on D4.5. These results demonstrate that deletion of Lpar3 leads to an increased ratio of progesterone signaling/estrogen signaling that can be optimized by low doses of RU486 or E2 to restore on-time implantation in Lpar3(-/-) females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglu Diao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Rong Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Ahmed E El Zowalaty
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Shuo Xiao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Elizabeth A Dudley
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Xiaoqin Ye
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
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