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Zhang F, Sun W, Zhao J, Zhang C, Sheng K, Wang C, Song L, Zhang X, Cao Y, Luo Q, Shen J, Yu L. Toxoplasma gondii Causes Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes by Damaging Uterine Tissue-Resident NK Cells That Secrete Growth-Promoting Factors. J Infect Dis 2024; 229:547-557. [PMID: 37815195 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad440] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vertical transmission of the intracellular parasite, Toxoplasma gondii can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes especially when infection occurs in early pregnancy. Decidual natural killer (dNK) cells accumulate at the maternal-fetal interface in large numbers during early pregnancy. Their nutritional roles during infection with T. gondii remain poorly defined. In the present study, we demonstrated that a functional deficiency of the uterine tissue-resident NK (trNK) cells, a subset of dNK cells, contributes to the adverse pregnancy outcomes induced by T. gondii in early pregnancy. Adverse pregnancy outcomes could be ameliorated by adoptive transfer of trNK cells. Moreover, fetal growth restriction could be improved after supplementation of growth-promoting factors. In addition to the widely recognized disturbance of the immune balance at the interface between the mother and the fetus, our study reveals a novel mechanism in T. gondii that contributes to the adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Famin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenze Sun
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ji Zhao
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chenlin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Keyuan Sheng
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lingling Song
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiran Zhang
- Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Cao
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qingli Luo
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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2
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Boulanger H, Bounan S, Mahdhi A, Drouin D, Ahriz-Saksi S, Guimiot F, Rouas-Freiss N. Immunologic aspects of preeclampsia. AJOG GLOBAL REPORTS 2024; 4:100321. [PMID: 38586611 PMCID: PMC10994979 DOI: 10.1016/j.xagr.2024.100321] [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] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a syndrome with multiple etiologies. The diagnosis can be made without proteinuria in the presence of dysfunction of at least 1 organ associated with hypertension. The common pathophysiological pathway includes endothelial cell activation, intravascular inflammation, and syncytiotrophoblast stress. There is evidence to support, among others, immunologic causes of preeclampsia. Unlike defense immunology, reproductive immunology is not based on immunologic recognition systems of self/non-self and missing-self but on immunotolerance and maternal-fetal cellular interactions. The main mechanisms of immune escape from fetal to maternal immunity at the maternal-fetal interface are a reduction in the expression of major histocompatibility complex molecules by trophoblast cells, the presence of complement regulators, increased production of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, activation of regulatory T cells, and an increase in immune checkpoints. These immune protections are more similar to the immune responses observed in tumor biology than in allograft biology. The role of immune and nonimmune decidual cells is critical for the regulation of trophoblast invasion and vascular remodeling of the uterine spiral arteries. Regulatory T cells have been found to play an important role in suppressing the effectiveness of other T cells and contributing to local immunotolerance. Decidual natural killer cells have a cytokine profile that is favored by the presence of HLA-G and HLA-E and contributes to vascular remodeling. Studies on the evolution of mammals show that HLA-E, HLA-G, and HLA-C1/C2, which are expressed by trophoblasts and their cognate receptors on decidual natural killer cells, are necessary for the development of a hemochorial placenta with vascular remodeling. The activation or inhibition of decidual natural killer cells depends on the different possible combinations between killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors, expressed by uterine natural killer cells, and the HLA-C1/C2 antigens, expressed by trophoblasts. Polarization of decidual macrophages in phenotype 2 and decidualization of stromal cells are also essential for high-quality vascular remodeling. Knowledge of the various immunologic mechanisms required for adequate vascular remodeling and their dysfunction in case of preeclampsia opens new avenues of research to identify novel biological markers or therapeutic targets to predict or prevent the onset of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henri Boulanger
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Clinique de l'Estrée, Stains, France (Drs Boulanger and Ahriz-Saksi)
| | - Stéphane Bounan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint-Denis Hospital Center, Saint-Denis, France (Drs Bounan and Mahdhi)
| | - Amel Mahdhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint-Denis Hospital Center, Saint-Denis, France (Drs Bounan and Mahdhi)
| | - Dominique Drouin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinique de l'Estrée, Stains, France (Dr Drouin)
| | - Salima Ahriz-Saksi
- Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Clinique de l'Estrée, Stains, France (Drs Boulanger and Ahriz-Saksi)
| | - Fabien Guimiot
- Fetoplacental Unit, Robert-Debré Hospital, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France (Dr Guimiot)
| | - Nathalie Rouas-Freiss
- Fundamental Research Division, CEA, Institut de biologie François Jacob, Hemato-Immunology Research Unit, Inserm UMR-S 976, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Paris University, Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France (Dr Rouas-Freiss)
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3
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Modzelewski S, Oracz A, Iłendo K, Sokół A, Waszkiewicz N. Biomarkers of Postpartum Depression: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6519. [PMID: 37892657 PMCID: PMC10607683 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12206519] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a disorder that impairs the formation of the relationship between mother and child, and reduces the quality of life for affected women to a functionally significant degree. Studying markers associated with PPD can help in early detection, prevention, or monitoring treatment. The purpose of this paper is to review biomarkers linked to PPD and to present selected theories on the pathogenesis of the disease based on data from biomarker studies. The complex etiology of the disorder reduces the specificity and sensitivity of markers, but they remain a valuable source of information to help clinicians. The biggest challenge of the future will be to translate high-tech methods for detecting markers associated with postpartum depression into more readily available and less costly ones. Population-based studies are needed to test the utility of potential PPD markers.
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Colucci F. Uterine NK Cells Ace an "A" in Education: NKG2A Sets Up Crucial Functions at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 209:1421-1425. [PMID: 36192118 PMCID: PMC7613701 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
I argue here that reproduction was a driving force in the evolution of NK-cell education, which is set by interactions between inhibitory receptors and self MHC. Maternal lymphocytes also interact with allogeneic MHC on fetal trophoblast cells. How the maternal immune system accommodates the semi-allogeneic fetus is a fascinating question. But it may be the wrong question. Tissue lymphocytes, like uterine NK (uNK) cells, do not attack the mismatched fetus and its placenta. Instead, they help the local vasculature to accommodate changes necessary to nourish the fetus. Education of uNK cells, driven by the ancient CD94:NKG2A inhibitory receptor and self MHC, sets them up to deliver these key functions at the maternal-fetal interface. /112
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK,University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
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Understanding the Immune System in Fetal Protection and Maternal Infections during Pregnancy. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:7567708. [PMID: 35785037 PMCID: PMC9249541 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7567708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The fetal-maternal immune system determines the fate of pregnancy. The trophoblast cells not only give an active response against external stimuli but are also involved in secreting most of the cytokines. These cells have an essential function in fetal acceptance or fetal rejection. Other immune cells also play a pivotal role in carrying out a successful pregnancy. The disruption in this mechanism may lead to harmful effects on pregnancy. The placenta serves as an immune barrier in fetus protection against invading pathogens. Once the infections prevail, they may localize in placental and fetal tissues, and the presence of inflammation due to cytokines may have detrimental effects on pregnancy. Moreover, some pathogens are responsible for congenital fetal anomalies and affect almost all organs of the developing fetus. This review article is designed to address the bacterial and viral infections that threaten pregnancy and their possible outcomes. Moreover, training of the fetal immune system against the exposure of infections and the role of CD49a + NK cells in embryonic development will also be highlighted.
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6
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Immunological microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 151:103632. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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7
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Zhou Y, Fu B, Xu X, Zhang J, Tong X, Wang Y, Dong Z, Zhang X, Shen N, Zhai Y, Kong X, Sun R, Tian Z, Wei H. PBX1 expression in uterine natural killer cells drives fetal growth. Sci Transl Med 2021; 12:12/537/eaax1798. [PMID: 32238574 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aax1798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Abundant decidual natural killer (dNK) cells at the maternal-fetal interface are important during early pregnancy. However, functional subsets of dNK cells remain poorly understood. We describe a CD49a+PBX homeobox 1 (PBX1)+ dNK cell subset that promotes fetal development in humans and mice. The expression of PBX1 in dNK cells is up-regulated via the activated AKT1 pathway through the interaction of major histocompatibility complex G with the immunoglobulin-like transcript 2 receptor. PBX1 drives pleiotrophin and osteoglycin transcription in dNK cells, further promoting fetal development. Decreased PBX1 expression or the PBX1G21S mutant correlated with fetal growth restriction and pregnancy failure in patients with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA). Inactivation of Pbx1 in mouse dNK cells impairs fetal development by decreasing growth-promoting factors from CD49a+PBX1+ dNK cells. Impairment of PBX1 in dNK cells has positive correlation with URSA pathogenesis and may provide a potential marker for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonggang Zhou
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.,First Affiliated Hospital, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Binqing Fu
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China. .,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Xiuxiu Xu
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Jinghe Zhang
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Xianhong Tong
- First Affiliated Hospital, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Yanshi Wang
- First Affiliated Hospital, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Zhongjun Dong
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100086, China
| | - Xiaoren Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tissue Microenvironment and Tumor, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Nan Shen
- Shanghai Institute of Rheumatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Yiwen Zhai
- Center for Genetic and Prenatal Diagnosis, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Xiangdong Kong
- Center for Genetic and Prenatal Diagnosis, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China. .,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China. .,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
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8
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Guzman-Genuino RM, Hayball JD, Diener KR. Regulatory B Cells: Dark Horse in Pregnancy Immunotherapy? J Mol Biol 2020; 433:166596. [PMID: 32693108 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2020.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There are many unanswered questions surrounding the function of immune cells and how they interact with the reproductive system to support successful pregnancy or contribute to pregnancy pathologies. While the role of immune cells such as uterine natural killer and dendritic cells, and more recently regulatory T cells has been established, the role of another major immune cell population, the B cell, and particularly the regulatory B cells, is relatively poorly understood. This review outlines what is known about B-cell subsets in the context of pregnancy, what constitutes a regulatory B cell and what role they may play, particularly during early pregnancy. Lastly, we discuss why immunotherapies for the treatment of pregnancy disorders is not widely progressed clinically and speculate on the potential of functional regulatory B cells as the basis of novel immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of immune-based pregnancy pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Marian Guzman-Genuino
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - John D Hayball
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kerrilyn R Diener
- Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, University of South Australia Cancer Research Institute, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
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9
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Zhang D, Ren L, Zhao M, Yang C, Liu X, Zhang H, Jiang Y, Sun X, Li T, Cui L, Hu X. Role of Tim-3 in Decidual Macrophage Functional Polarization During Abnormal Pregnancy With Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1550. [PMID: 31354713 PMCID: PMC6637377 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Vertical transmission of the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) can lead to devastating consequences during gestation. Tim-3, a negative immune regulator, is constitutively expressed on decidual macrophages, but its specific role during T. gondii infection has not yet been explored. In the present study, we discovered that Tim-3 plays an important role in the abnormal pregnancy due to T. gondii infection using Tim-3−/− pregnant mice and anti-Tim-3 neutralizing antibody treated human decidual macrophages. The results showed that abnormal pregnancy outcomes were more prevalent in Tim-3−/− infected pregnant mice than in wild-type infected pregnant mice. Tim-3 expression in decidual macrophages was significantly down-regulated after T. gondii infection both in vitro and in vivo. Tim-3 down-regulation by T.gondii infection could strengthen M1 activation and weaken M2 tolerance by changing the M1 and M2 membrane molecule expression, arginine metabolic enzymes synthesis, and cytokine secretion profiles of decidual macrophages. Moreover, Tim-3 down-regulation by T.gondii infection led to PI3K-AKT phosphorylation inhibition, downstream transcription factor C/EBPβ expression, and SOCS1 activation, which resulted in enzymes synthesis regulation and cytokines secretion. Our study demonstrates that Tim-3 plays an indispensable role in the adverse pregnancy outcomes caused by T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Liqin Ren
- Medicine and Pharmacy Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Mingdong Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Chunyan Yang
- Medicine and Pharmacy Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Xianbing Liu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Yuzhu Jiang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Xinyue Sun
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Teng Li
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Lijun Cui
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
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10
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Llurba Olive E, Xiao E, Natale DR, Fisher SA. Oxygen and lack of oxygen in fetal and placental development, feto-placental coupling, and congenital heart defects. Birth Defects Res 2019; 110:1517-1530. [PMID: 30576091 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Low oxygen concentration (hypoxia) is part of normal embryonic development, yet the situation is complex. Oxygen (O2 ) is a janus gas with low levels signaling through hypoxia-inducible transcription factor (HIF) that are required for development of fetal and placental vasculature and fetal red blood cells. This results in coupling of fetus and mother around midgestation as a functional feto-placental unit (FPU) for O2 transport, which is required for continued growth and development of the fetus. Defects in these processes may leave the developing fetus vulnerable to O2 deprivation or other stressors during this critical midgestational transition when common septal and conotruncal heart defects (CHDs) are likely to arise. Recent human epidemiological and case-control studies support an association between placental dysfunction, manifest as early onset pre-eclampsia (PE) and increased serum bio-markers, and CHD. Animal studies support this association, in particular those using gene inactivation in the mouse. Sophisticated methods for gene inactivation, cell fate mapping, and a quantitative bio-reporter of O2 concentration support the premise that hypoxic stress at critical stages of development leads to CHD. The secondary heart field contributing to the cardiac outlet is a key target, with activation of the un-folded protein response and abrogation of FGF signaling or precocious activation of a cardiomyocyte transcriptional program for differentiation, suggested as mechanisms. These studies provide a strong foundation for further study of feto-placental coupling and hypoxic stress in the genesis of human CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Llurba Olive
- Director of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Sant Pau University Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Maternal and Child Health and Development Network II (SAMID II) RD16/0022, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emily Xiao
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - David R Natale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Steven A Fisher
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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11
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Bos M, Schoots MH, Fernandez BO, Mikus-Lelinska M, Lau LC, Eikmans M, van Goor H, Gordijn SJ, Pasch A, Feelisch M, van der Hoorn MLP. Reactive Species Interactome Alterations in Oocyte Donation Pregnancies in the Absence and Presence of Pre-Eclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1150. [PMID: 30845762 PMCID: PMC6429516 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20051150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In pregnancy, maternal physiology is subject to considerable adaptations, including alterations in cardiovascular and metabolic function as well as development of immunological tolerance towards the fetus. In an oocyte donation pregnancy, the fetus is fully allogeneic towards the mother, since it carries both oocyte donor antigens and paternal antigens. Therefore, oocyte donation pregnancies result in an immunologically challenging pregnancy, which is reflected by a higher-than-normal risk to develop pre-eclampsia. Based on the allogeneic conditions in oocyte donation pregnancies, we hypothesized that this situation may translate into alterations in concentration of stable readouts of constituents of the reactive species interactome (RSI) compared to normal pregnancies, especially serum free thiols, nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) related metabolites. Indeed, total free thiol levels and nitrite (NO₂-) concentrations were significantly lower whereas protein-bound NO and sulfate (SO₄2-) concentrations were significantly higher in both oocyte donation and naturally conceived pregnancies complicated by pre-eclampsia. The increased concentrations of nitrite observed in uncomplicated oocyte donation pregnancies suggest that endothelial NO production is compensatorily enhanced to lower vascular tone. More research is warranted on the role of the RSI and bioenergetic status in uncomplicated oocyte donation pregnancies and oocyte donation pregnancies complicated by pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Bos
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Mirthe H. Schoots
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (M.H.S.); (H.v.G.)
| | - Bernadette O. Fernandez
- Clinical & Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (B.O.F.); (M.M.-L.); (L.C.L.); (M.F.)
| | - Monika Mikus-Lelinska
- Clinical & Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (B.O.F.); (M.M.-L.); (L.C.L.); (M.F.)
| | - Laurie C. Lau
- Clinical & Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (B.O.F.); (M.M.-L.); (L.C.L.); (M.F.)
| | - Michael Eikmans
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (M.H.S.); (H.v.G.)
| | - Sanne J. Gordijn
- Department of Obstetrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Andreas Pasch
- Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Martin Feelisch
- Clinical & Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (B.O.F.); (M.M.-L.); (L.C.L.); (M.F.)
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Filipovic I, Chiossone L, Vacca P, Hamilton RS, Ingegnere T, Doisne JM, Hawkes DA, Mingari MC, Sharkey AM, Moretta L, Colucci F. Molecular definition of group 1 innate lymphoid cells in the mouse uterus. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4492. [PMID: 30374017 PMCID: PMC6206068 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06918-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Determining the function of uterine lymphocytes is challenging because of the dynamic changes in response to sex hormones and, during pregnancy, to the invading foetal trophoblast cells. Here we provide a genome-wide transcriptome atlas of mouse uterine group 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) at mid-gestation. Tissue-resident Eomes+CD49a+ NK cells (trNK), which resemble human uterine NK cells, are most abundant during early pregnancy, and have gene signatures associated with TGF-β responses and interactions with trophoblast, epithelial, endothelial, smooth muscle cells, leucocytes and extracellular matrix. Conventional NK cells expand late in gestation and may engage in crosstalk with trNK cells involving IL-18 and IFN-γ. Eomes-CD49a+ ILC1s dominate before puberty, and specifically expand in second pregnancies when the expression of the memory cell marker CXCR6 is upregulated. These results identify trNK cells as the cellular hub of uterine group 1 ILCs, and mark CXCR6+ ILC1s as potential memory cells of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Filipovic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Laura Chiossone
- G. Gaslini Institute, Genoa, 16147, Genoa, Italy
- Innate Pharma Research Labs, Innate Pharma, 13009, Marseille, France
| | - Paola Vacca
- Policlinico San Martino IRCCS per l'Oncologia, Genoa, 16132, Genova, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132, Genova, Italy
- Department of Immunology, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Russell S Hamilton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Tiziano Ingegnere
- Department of Immunology, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Jean-Marc Doisne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Delia A Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK
| | - Maria Cristina Mingari
- Policlinico San Martino IRCCS per l'Oncologia, Genoa, 16132, Genova, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132, Genova, Italy
- Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genova, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Andrew M Sharkey
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Department of Immunology, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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13
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Zhang D, Sun X, Ren L, Yang C, Liu X, Zhang H, Jiang Y, Hu X. Proteomic profiling of human decidual immune proteins during Toxoplasma gondii infection. J Proteomics 2018; 186:28-37. [PMID: 30031066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2018.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy can result in spontaneous abortion, preterm labor, or congenital fetal defects. The decidual immune system plays a critical role in regulating the immune micro-environment and in the induction of immune tolerance. To better understand the factors that mediate the decidual immune response associated with the T. gondii infection, a large-scale study employing TMT proteomics was conducted to characterize the differential decidual immune proteomes from infected and uninfected human decidual immune cells samples. The decidual immune cells from 105 human voluntary abortion tissues were purified, and of the 5510 unique proteins identified, 181 proteins were found to be differentially abundant (>1.2-fold cutoff, p < 0.05) in the T. gondii-infected decidual immune cells. 11 proteins of 181 differentially expressed proteins associated with trophoblast invasion, placental development, intrauterine fetal growth, and immune tolerance were verified using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. This systematic analysis for the proteomics of decidual immune cells identified a broad range of immune factors in human decidual immune cells, shedding a new insight into the decidual immune molecular mechanism for abnormal pregnancy outcomes associated with T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China
| | - Xinyue Sun
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China
| | - Liqin Ren
- Medicine & Pharmacy Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China
| | - Chunyan Yang
- Medicine & Pharmacy Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China
| | - Xianbing Liu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China
| | - Yuzhu Jiang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, PR China.
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14
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Flint TR, Jones JO, Ferrer M, Colucci F, Janowitz T. A comparative analysis of immune privilege in pregnancy and cancer in the context of checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. Semin Oncol 2018; 45:170-175. [PMID: 30262396 DOI: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite their abilities to elicit immune responses, both syngeneic tumors and the half-mismatched placenta grow in the host, unlike a tissue allograft that is aggressively rejected. This is because of local and systemic factors that contribute to the immunologic privilege of tumors and the placenta. Checkpoint blockade immunotherapies subvert this privilege, with spectacularly beneficial outcomes in subsets of patients with certain types of cancer. A challenge for the community of scientists and clinicians is to replicate these successes in pregnant patients with cancer, without harm to the placenta. Here we compare and contrast the immunology of cancers and the placenta, and suggest that immunotherapy for pregnant patients with cancer may be a reasonable option, but that this should be explored systematically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R Flint
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - James O Jones
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre and Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK; MRC Cancer Unit, University of Cambridge, Hutchison/MRC Research Centre, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Miriam Ferrer
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tobias Janowitz
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre and Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK; Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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15
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Uppendahl LD, Dahl CM, Miller JS, Felices M, Geller MA. Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapy in Gynecologic Malignancy: A Review. Front Immunol 2018; 8:1825. [PMID: 29354116 PMCID: PMC5760535 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Harnessing the immune system has proven an effective therapy in treating malignancies. Since the discovery of natural killer (NK) cells, strategies aimed to manipulate and augment their effector function against cancer have been the subject of intense research. Recent progress in the immunobiology of NK cells has led to the development of promising therapeutic approaches. In this review, we will focus on the recent advances in NK cell immunobiology and the clinical application of NK cell immunotherapy in ovarian, cervical, and uterine cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Locke D Uppendahl
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Carly M Dahl
- University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jeffrey S Miller
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Martin Felices
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Melissa A Geller
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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16
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Natural Killer Cells Promote Fetal Development through the Secretion of Growth-Promoting Factors. Immunity 2017; 47:1100-1113.e6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2017.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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17
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Gutierrez-Franco J, Hernandez-Gutierrez R, Bueno-Topete MR, Haramati J, Navarro-Hernandez RE, Escarra-Senmarti M, Vega-Magaña N, Del Toro-Arreola A, Pereira-Suarez AL, Del Toro-Arreola S. Characterization of B7H6, an endogenous ligand for the NK cell activating receptor NKp30, reveals the identity of two different soluble isoforms during normal human pregnancy. Immunobiology 2017; 223:57-63. [PMID: 29055565 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
B7H6, an endogenous ligand expressed on tumor cell surfaces, triggers NKp30-mediated activation of human NK cells. In contrast, the release of soluble B7H6 has been proposed as a novel mechanism by which tumors might evade NK cell-mediated recognition. Since NK cells are critical for the maintenance of early pregnancy, it is not illogical that soluble B7H6 might also be an important factor in directing NK cell activity during normal pregnancy. Thus, this study was focused on the characterization of soluble B7H6 during the development of normal pregnancy. Serum samples were obtained from healthy pregnant women who were experiencing their second pregnancies (n=36). Additionally, 17 of these pregnant participants were longitudinally studied for the presence of B7H6 during their second and third trimesters. Age-matched healthy non-pregnant women served as controls (n=30). The presence of soluble B7H6 was revealed by Western blotting. A further characterization was performed using an immunoproteomic approach based on 2DE-Western blotting combined with MALDI-MS. The results show that sera from all pregnant women were characterized by the presence of two novel isoforms of B7H6, both with lower MW than the reported of 51kDa. These isoforms were either a heavy (∼37kDa) or a light isoform (∼30kDa) and were mutually exclusive. N-glycosylation did not completely explain the different molecular weights exhibited by the two isoforms, as was demonstrated by enzymatic deglycosylation with PNGase F. The confirmation of the identity and molecular mass of each isoform indicates that B7H6, while maintaining the C- and N-termini, is most likely released during pregnancy by a mechanism distinct from proteolytic cleavage. We found that both isoforms, but mainly the heavier B7H6, were released via exosomes; and that the lighter isoform was also released in an exosome-free manner that was not observed in the heavy isoform samples. In conclusion, we find that soluble B7H6 is constitutively expressed during pregnancy and that, moreover, the soluble B7H6 is present in two new isoforms, which are released by exosomal and exosome-free mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Gutierrez-Franco
- Instituto de Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Unidad Académica de Ciencias Químico Biológicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Autónoma de Nayarit, Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico
| | - Rodolfo Hernandez-Gutierrez
- Laboratorio en Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco A.C., Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Miriam Ruth Bueno-Topete
- Instituto de Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Jesse Haramati
- Laboratorio de Inmunobiología, Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, CUCBA, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Rosa Elena Navarro-Hernandez
- Instituto de Investigación en Reumatología y del Sistema Musculo Esquelético, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Marta Escarra-Senmarti
- Instituto de Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Natali Vega-Magaña
- Instituto de Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Alicia Del Toro-Arreola
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Departamento de Fisiología, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Ana Laura Pereira-Suarez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Departamento de Fisiología, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Susana Del Toro-Arreola
- Instituto de Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, CUCS, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.
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18
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Colucci F. The role of KIR and HLA interactions in pregnancy complications. Immunogenetics 2017; 69:557-565. [PMID: 28695287 PMCID: PMC5537332 DOI: 10.1007/s00251-017-1003-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Combinations of KIR and HLA genes associate with pregnancy complications as well as with many other clinical scenarios. Understanding how certain KIR and HLA genes influence the biology of a disease is, however, a formidable challenge. These are the two most variable gene families in the human genome. Moreover, the biology of a disease is best understood by studying the cells of the affected tissue. Natural Killer (NK) cells express KIR and are the most abundant leukocytes in the uterus. Most of our knowledge of NK cells is based on what we have learned from cells isolated from blood, but these are different from their tissue resident counterparts, including uterine NK (uNK) cells. Reproductive immunology faces an additional challenge: Two genotypes must be considered because both maternal and foetal HLA class I molecules may influence the outcome of pregnancy, most likely through interactions with maternal KIR expressed on uNK cells. Maternal uNK cells are not spontaneously cytotoxic and instead engage in interactions with trophoblast. We hypothesise that these interactions regulate allocation of resources between the foetus and the mother and may go wrong in diseases of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 111, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0SP, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Physiology Building, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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19
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Tian Z, Cao X, Chen Y, Lyu Q. Regional immunity in tissue homeostasis and diseases. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2016; 59:1205-1209. [PMID: 27928702 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-016-0351-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Tian
- Institute of Immunology and The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
| | - Xuetao Cao
- National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology & Institute of Immunology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Yongyan Chen
- Institute of Immunology and The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Qunyan Lyu
- Department of Health Sciences, National Natural Science Foundation of China, Beijing, 100085, China
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20
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Decidual natural killer cells and the immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2016; 59:1224-1231. [PMID: 27905000 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-016-0337-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
During early pregnancy, an orchestrated evolutionary maternal adaption toward tolerance of the semiallogeneic fetus is required to ensure decidualization and early embryo development. Remodeling of the immune system involves natural killer cells (NKs), macrophages, T cells and dendritic cells (DCs) altering the microenvironment in the deciduas. In particular, a unique population of NK cells with a CD56brightCD16- phenotype in the decidua has been proposed to play a key role in the maternal adaptation to pregnancy. However, there is a tendency for pregnancy immunology to reflect transplantation immunology regarding the assumption that the maternal immune system should be suppressed. This tendency is misleading. We discuss how the immune system is formed in early deciduas and the interactions between maternal NK cells and fetal growth. We propose that the maternal immune response must not be fully suppressed and is even necessary for the local response of uterine NK cells.
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21
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Group 3 innate lymphoid cells regulate neutrophil migration and function in human decidua. Mucosal Immunol 2016; 9:1372-1383. [PMID: 26906405 DOI: 10.1038/mi.2016.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have a central role in innate defenses against pathogens, lymphoid organogenesis, and tissue remodeling. They have been detected in human decidua, however, their role in this tissue remains unclear. Successful pregnancy requires an early inflammatory phase favoring implantation and tissue remodeling as well as a subsequent regulatory phase to prevent fetal rejection and supporting neoangiogenesis. Here, we show that, during the first trimester of pregnancy, neutrophils infiltrate decidua basalis and are more abundant in normal pregnancy than in spontaneous miscarriages. Decidual neutrophils localize in proximity of NCR+ILC3, which may influence neutrophil migration and survival given their production of CXCL8 and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Moreover, NCR+ILC3-derived GM-CSF was found to induce the expression of heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor and IL1ra in neutrophils, two proteins/cytokines involved in tissue remodeling and maintenance of pregnancy. Our data suggest that the simultaneous presence of NCR+ILC3 and neutrophils in decidual tissues and their possible cross talk, may have a role in the early phases of pregnancy.
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22
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Moffett A, Colucci F. Co-evolution of NK receptors and HLA ligands in humans is driven by reproduction. Immunol Rev 2016; 267:283-97. [PMID: 26284484 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic individuals co-exist during pregnancy in eutherian mammals. Maternal and fetal cells intermingle at the site of placental attachment in the uterus, where the arteries are remodeled to supply the fetus with oxygen and nutrients. This access by placental cells to the maternal supply line determines the growth and birth weight of the baby and is subject to stabilizing selection. Invading placental trophoblast cells express human leukocyte antigen class I ligands (HLA-E, HLA-G, and HLA-C) for receptors on maternal uterine natural killer (NK) and myelomonocytic cells, CD94/NKG2, leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor (LILR), and killer immunoglobulin receptor (KIR). Of these, only the KIR/HLA-C system is highly polymorphic. Different combinations of maternal KIR and fetal HLA-C variants are correlated with low birth weight and pre-eclampsia or high birth weight and obstructed labor, the two extremes of the obstetric dilemma. This situation has arisen because of the evolution of bipedalism and subsequently, in the last million years, larger brains. At this point, the human system began to reach a balance between KIR A and KIR B haplotypes and C1 and C2 epitopes of HLA-C alleles that reflects a functional compromise between the competing demands of immunity and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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23
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Boulenouar S, Doisne JM, Sferruzzi-Perri A, Gaynor LM, Kieckbusch J, Balmas E, Yung HW, Javadzadeh S, Volmer L, Hawkes DA, Phillips K, Brady HJM, Fowden AL, Burton GJ, Moffett A, Colucci F. The Residual Innate Lymphoid Cells in NFIL3-Deficient Mice Support Suboptimal Maternal Adaptations to Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2016; 7:43. [PMID: 26925058 PMCID: PMC4759249 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine NK cells are innate lymphoid cells (ILC) that populate the uterus and expand during pregnancy, regulating placental development and fetal growth in humans and mice. We have recently characterized the composition of uterine ILCs (uILCs), some of which require the transcription factor NFIL3, but the extent to which NFIL3-dependent cells support successful reproduction in mice is unknown. By mating Nfil3−/− females with wild-type males, here we show the effects of NFIL3 deficiency in maternal cells on both the changes in uILCs during pregnancy and the downstream consequences on reproduction. Despite the presence of CD49a+Eomes− uILC1s and the considerable expansion of residual CD49a+Eomes+ tissue-resident NK cells and uILC3s in pregnant Nfil3−/− mice, we found incomplete remodeling of uterine arteries and decidua, placental defects, and fetal growth restriction in litters of normal size. These results show that maternal NFIL3 mediates non-redundant functions in mouse reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Boulenouar
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jean-Marc Doisne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital , Cambridge , UK
| | - Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Louise M Gaynor
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jens Kieckbusch
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Elisa Balmas
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hong Wa Yung
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Shagayegh Javadzadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital , Cambridge , UK
| | - Léa Volmer
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Delia A Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital , Cambridge , UK
| | - Keli Phillips
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories , Cambridge , UK
| | - Hugh J M Brady
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Abigail L Fowden
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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24
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Clark DA. Mouse is the new woman? Translational research in reproductive immunology. Semin Immunopathol 2016; 38:651-668. [DOI: 10.1007/s00281-015-0553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Kieckbusch J, Balmas E, Hawkes DA, Colucci F. Disrupted PI3K p110δ Signaling Dysregulates Maternal Immune Cells and Increases Fetal Mortality In Mice. Cell Rep 2015; 13:2817-28. [PMID: 26711346 PMCID: PMC4700049 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.11.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune cells are an integral part of reproduction, but how they might cause pregnancy complications remains elusive. Macrophages and their dual function in inflammation and tissue repair are thought to play key yet undefined roles. Altered perinatal growth underpins adult morbidity, and natural killer (NK) cells may sustain fetal growth by establishing the placental blood supply. Using a mouse model of genetic inactivation of PI3K p110δ, a key intracellular signaling molecule in leukocytes, we show that p110δ regulates macrophage dynamics and NK-cell-mediated arterial remodeling. The uterus of dams with inactive p110δ had decreased IFN-γ and MHC class IIlow macrophages but enhanced IL-6. Poor vascular remodeling and a pro-inflammatory uterine milieu resulted in fetal death or growth retardation. Our results provide one mechanism that explains how imbalanced adaptations of maternal innate immune cells to gestation affect offspring well-being with consequence perinatally and possibly into adulthood. Genetic inactivation of p110δ in pregnant mice perturbs maternal immune cells Uterine NK cells produce less cytokines, resulting in fetal growth restriction Inflammatory macrophages are overrepresented, resulting in increased fetal loss
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kieckbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Box 111, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0SP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Physiology Building, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Elisa Balmas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Box 111, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0SP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Physiology Building, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Delia A Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Box 111, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0SP, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Box 111, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0SP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Physiology Building, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
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Kieckbusch J, Gaynor LM, Colucci F. Assessment of Maternal Vascular Remodeling During Pregnancy in the Mouse Uterus. J Vis Exp 2015:e53534. [PMID: 26710086 PMCID: PMC4692775 DOI: 10.3791/53534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta mediates the exchange of factors such as gases and nutrients between mother and fetus and has specific demands for supply of blood from the maternal circulation. The maternal uterine vasculature needs to adapt to this temporary demand and the success of this arterial remodeling process has implications for fetal growth. Cells of the maternal immune system, especially natural killer (NK) cells, play a critical role in this process. Here we describe a method to assess the degree of remodeling of maternal spiral arteries during mouse pregnancy. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained tissue sections are scanned and the size of the vessels analysed. As a complementary validation method, we also present a qualitative assessment for the success of the remodeling process by immunohistochemical detection of smooth muscle actin (SMA), which normally disappears from within the arterial vascular media at mid-gestation. Together, these methods enable determination of an important parameter of the pregnancy phenotype. These results can be combined with other endpoints of mouse pregnancy to provide insight into the mechanisms underlying pregnancy-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kieckbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge;
| | - Louise M Gaynor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge
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Zhang J, Dunk C, Croy AB, Lye SJ. To serve and to protect: the role of decidual innate immune cells on human pregnancy. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:249-265. [PMID: 26572540 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2315-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The maternal-fetal interface undergoes dynamic changes that promote successful development of the embryo/fetal allograft during pregnancy. This immune privilege of the conceptus is mediated through local and systemic cellular responses. In species in which endometrial decidualization accompanies pregnancy, unique immune cell niches are found. Many studies have addressed the enigmatic roles of uterine (u)NK cells as killers and helpers because they are frequently found in the uterine lining and decidua of normal and pathological pregnancies. Accumulating evidence indicates that uNK cells are induced and transformed by sensing signals within their microenvironment to both protect the mother from the fetal allograft and support the fetus during its development. Here, we review the mechanisms that modulate these functions of uNK cells during pregnancy. We suggest that uNK cells must be tightly regulated in order to serve these two roles and support a healthy pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhong Zhang
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde St., Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada.
| | - Caroline Dunk
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde St., Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anne B Croy
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Lye
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde St., Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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