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Juriol L, Valeff N, Dibo M, Ventimiglia MS, Correale J, Jensen F. Human chorionic gonadotropin regulates cytokine production by lymphocytes from patients with multiple sclerosis. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 164:104280. [PMID: 38908336 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that primarily affects young adults, predominantly females. This was partially attributed to sex differences in immunity, which are influenced by changes in sex hormones occurring during women's life, among other factors. Furthermore, MS patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms during pregnancy when levels of female sex-hormones significantly increase. This phenomenon was attributed to immune adaptations occurring during gestation which are regulated by paternal antigens and sex hormones. The human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was shown to have strong immunosuppressive abilities. We aimed to analyze here the capacity of the hCG to regulate pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production by PBMC from MS patients. PBMC isolated from 17 MS patients receiving IFNβ1a treatment were cultured with or without recombinant or urinary hCG. Cytokine production in the supernatants was assessed using a CBA array and cytokine production by lymphocytes and expression of co-stimulatory molecules in B-lymphocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry. hCG reduced the production of TNF by PBMC from MS patients while lowering the percentages of TNF producing T cells and diminishing the production of TNF by B cells. hCG significantly boosted the production of IL-10 by regulatory T cells and CD19high B cells from MS patients. Furthermore, hCG treatment lowered the percentages of CD80+CD86+ expressing B cells within PBMC from MS patients. Overall, our results described a novel and not yet explored mechanisms of action of hCG in the context of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Juriol
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (CEFYBO-UBA-CONICET), Graduate School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, 2155 Paraguay St. 16th Floor, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Natalín Valeff
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (CEFYBO-UBA-CONICET), Graduate School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, 2155 Paraguay St. 16th Floor, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Marcos Dibo
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (CEFYBO-UBA-CONICET), Graduate School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, 2155 Paraguay St. 16th Floor, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - María Silvia Ventimiglia
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (CEFYBO-UBA-CONICET), Graduate School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, 2155 Paraguay St. 16th Floor, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Jorge Correale
- Fleni, 2325 Montañeses St., Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1428AQK, Argentina; Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (IQUIFIB CONICET-UBA), Graduate School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Buenos Aires, 956 Junin St., Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina
| | - Federico Jensen
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (CEFYBO-UBA-CONICET), Graduate School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, 2155 Paraguay St. 16th Floor, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina; Centro Integrativo de Biología Y Química Aplicada, Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago 8307993, Chile.
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Lund M, Pearson AC, Sage MAG, Duffy DM. Luteinizing hormone receptor promotes angiogenesis in ovarian endothelial cells of Macaca fascicularis and Homo sapiens†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:258-268. [PMID: 36214501 PMCID: PMC9930396 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac189] [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: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis within the ovarian follicle is an important component of ovulation. New capillary growth is initiated by the ovulatory surge of luteinizing hormone (LH), and angiogenesis is well underway at the time of follicle rupture. LH-stimulated follicular production of vascular growth factors has been shown to promote new capillary formation in the ovulatory follicle. The possibility that LH acts directly on ovarian endothelial cells to promote ovulatory angiogenesis has not been addressed. For these studies, ovaries containing ovulatory follicles were obtained from cynomolgus macaques and used for histological examination of ovarian vascular endothelial cells, and monkey ovarian microvascular endothelial cells (mOMECs) were enriched from ovulatory follicles for in vitro studies. mOMECs expressed LHCGR mRNA and protein, and immunostaining confirmed LHCGR protein in endothelial cells of ovulatory follicles in vivo. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a ligand for LHCGR, increased mOMEC proliferation, migration and capillary-like sprout formation in vitro. Treatment of mOMECs with hCG increased cAMP, a common intracellular signal generated by LHCGR activation. The cAMP analog dibutyryl cAMP increased mOMEC proliferation in the absence of hCG. Both the protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor H89 and the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor U73122 blocked hCG-stimulated mOMEC proliferation, suggesting that multiple G-proteins may mediate LHCGR action. Human ovarian microvascular endothelial cells (hOMECs) enriched from ovarian aspirates obtained from healthy oocyte donors also expressed LHCGR. hOMECs also migrated and proliferated in response to hCG. Overall, these findings indicate that the LH surge may directly activate ovarian endothelial cells to stimulate angiogenesis of the ovulatory follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merete Lund
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Andrew C Pearson
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Megan A G Sage
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Early Embryogenesis: Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031380. [PMID: 35163303 PMCID: PMC8835849 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has four major isoforms: classical hCG, hyperglycosylated hCG, free β subunit, and sulphated hCG. Classical hCG is the first molecule synthesized by the embryo. Its RNA is transcribed as early as the eight-cell stage and the blastocyst produces the protein before its implantation. This review synthetizes everything currently known on this multi-effect hormone: hCG levels, angiogenetic activity, immunological actions, and effects on miscarriages and thyroid function.
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Placental Development and Pregnancy-Associated Diseases. MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/fm9.0000000000000134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Chae SA, Son JS, Du M. Prenatal exercise in fetal development: a placental perspective. FEBS J 2021; 289:3058-3071. [PMID: 34449982 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Maternal obesity (MO) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are common in Western societies, which impair fetal development and predispose offspring to metabolic dysfunction. Placenta is the organ linking the mother to her fetus, and MO suppresses the development of vascular system and expression of nutrient transporters in placenta, thereby affecting fetal development. For maintaining its proper physiological function, placenta is energy demanding, which is met through extensive oxidative phosphorylation. However, the oxidative capacity of placenta is suppressed due to MO and GDM. Recently, several studies showed that physical activity during pregnancy enhances oxidative metabolism and improves placental function, which might be partially mediated by exerkines, referring to cytokines elicited by exercise. In addition, as an endocrine organ, placenta secretes cytokines, termed placentokines, including apelin, superoxide dismutase 3, irisin, and adiponectin, which mediate fetal development and maternal metabolism. Possible molecular mechanisms linking maternal exercise and placentokines to placental and fetal development are further discussed. As an emerging field, up to now, available studies are limited, mostly conducted in rodents. Given the epidemics of obesity and metabolic disorders, as well as the prevalence of maternal sedentary lifestyle, the effects of exercise of pregnant women on placental function and placentokine secretion, as well as their impacts on fetal development, need to be further examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Ah Chae
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jun Seok Son
- Laboratory of Perinatal Kinesioepigenetics, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Min Du
- Nutrigenomics and Growth Biology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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Meakin AS, Cuffe JSM, Darby JRT, Morrison JL, Clifton VL. Let's Talk about Placental Sex, Baby: Understanding Mechanisms That Drive Female- and Male-Specific Fetal Growth and Developmental Outcomes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126386. [PMID: 34203717 PMCID: PMC8232290 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well understood that sex differences exist between females and males even before they are born. These sex-dependent differences may contribute to altered growth and developmental outcomes for the fetus. Based on our initial observations in the human placenta, we hypothesised that the male prioritises growth pathways in order to maximise growth through to adulthood, thereby ensuring the greatest chance of reproductive success. However, this male-specific “evolutionary advantage” likely contributes to males being less adaptable to shifts in the in-utero environment, which then places them at a greater risk for intrauterine morbidities or mortality. Comparatively, females are more adaptable to changes in the in-utero environment at the cost of growth, which may reduce their risk of poor perinatal outcomes. The mechanisms that drive these sex-specific adaptations to a change in the in-utero environment remain unclear, but an increasing body of evidence within the field of developmental biology would suggest that alterations to placental function, as well as the feto-placental hormonal milieu, is an important contributing factor. Herein, we have addressed the current knowledge regarding sex-specific intrauterine growth differences and have examined how certain pregnancy complications may alter these female- and male-specific adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley S. Meakin
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - James S. M. Cuffe
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Jack R. T. Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Janna L. Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; (A.S.M.); (J.R.T.D.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Vicki L. Clifton
- Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Białas P, Śliwa A, Szczerba A, Jankowska A. The Study of the Expression of CGB1 and CGB2 in Human Cancer Tissues. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11091082. [PMID: 32957442 PMCID: PMC7565995 DOI: 10.3390/genes11091082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a well-known hormone produced by the trophoblast during pregnancy as well as by both trophoblastic and non-trophoblastic tumors. hCG is built from two subunits: α (hCGα) and β (hCGβ). The hormone-specific β subunit is encoded by six allelic genes: CGB3, CGB5, CGB6, CGB7, CGB8, and CGB9, mapped to the 19q13.32 locus. This gene cluster also encompasses the CGB1 and CGB2 genes, which were originally considered to be pseudogenes, but as documented by several studies are transcriptionally active. Even though the protein products of these genes have not yet been identified, based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database analysis we showed that the mutual presence of CGB1 and CGB2 transcripts is a characteristic feature of cancers of different origin, including bladder urothelial carcinoma, cervical squamous cell carcinoma, esophageal carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, rectum adenocacinoma, testis germ cell tumors, thymoma, uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma and uterine carcinosarcoma.
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Drwal E, Rak A, Tworzydło W, Gregoraszczuk EŁ. “Real life” polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) mixtures modulate hCG, hPL and hPLGF levels and disrupt the physiological ratio of MMP-2 to MMP-9 and VEGF expression in human placenta cell lines. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 95:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Lim D, Do Y, Kwon BS, Chang W, Lee MS, Kim J, Cho JG. Angiogenesis and vasculogenic mimicry as therapeutic targets in ovarian cancer. BMB Rep 2020. [PMID: 32438972 PMCID: PMC7330806 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2020.53.6.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor angiogenesis is an essential process for growth and metastasis of cancer cells as it supplies tumors with oxygen and nutrients. During tumor angiogenesis, many pro-angiogenic factors are secreted by tumor cells to induce their own vascularization via activation of pre-existing host endothelium. However, accumulating evidence suggests that vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is a key alternative mechanism for tumor vascularization when tumors are faced with insufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients. VM is a tumor vascularization mechanism in which tumors create a blood supply system, in contrast to tumor angiogenesis mechanisms that depend on pre-existing host endothelium. VM is closely associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis in many cancers. Therefore, inhibition of VM may be a promising therapeutic strategy and may overcome the limitations of anti-angiogenesis therapy for cancer patients. In this review, we provide an overview of the current anti-angiogenic therapies for ovarian cancer and the current state of knowledge regarding the links between microRNAs and the VM process, with a focus on the mechanism that regulates associated signaling pathways in ovarian cancer. Moreover, we discuss the potential for VM as a therapeutic strategy against ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dansaem Lim
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Yeojin Do
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Byung Su Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan 49241, Korea
| | - Woochul Chang
- Department of Biology Education, College of Education, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Myeong-Sok Lee
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Research Institute for Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Jongmin Kim
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Research Institute for Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Jin Gu Cho
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
- Research Institute for Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, Korea
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Gridelet V, Perrier d'Hauterive S, Polese B, Foidart JM, Nisolle M, Geenen V. Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin: New Pleiotropic Functions for an "Old" Hormone During Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:343. [PMID: 32231662 PMCID: PMC7083149 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) is the first specific molecule synthesized by the embryo. hCG RNA is transcribed as early as the eight-cell stage, and the blastocyst produces the protein before its implantation. hCG in the uterine microenvironment binds with its cognate receptor, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR), on the endometrial surface. This binding stimulates leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) production and inhibits interleukin-6 (IL-6) production by epithelial cells of the endometrium. These effects ensure essential help in the preparation of the endometrium for initial embryo implantation. hCG also effects angiogenic and immunomodulatory actions as reported in many articles by our laboratories and other ones. By stimulating angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, hCG provides the placenta with an adequate maternal blood supply and optimal embryo nutrition during the invasion of the uterine endometrium. The immunomodulatory properties of hCG are numerous and important for programming maternal immune tolerance toward the embryo. The reported effects of hCG on uterine NK, Treg, and B cells, three major cell populations for the maintenance of pregnancy, demonstrate the role of this embryonic signal as a crucial immune regulator in the course of pregnancy. Human embryo rejection for hCG-related immunological reasons has been studied in different ways, and a sufficient dose of hCG seems to be necessary to maintain maternal tolerance. Different teams have studied the addition of hCG in patients suffering from recurrent miscarriages or implantation failures. hCG could also have a beneficial or a negative impact on autoimmune diseases during pregnancy. In this review, we will discuss the immunological impacts of hCG during pregnancy and if this hormone might be used therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Gridelet
- GIGA-I3 Center of Immunoendocrinology GIGA Research Institute, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium
- Center for Assisted Medical Procreation, University of Liège, CHR Citadelle, Liège, Belgium
| | - Sophie Perrier d'Hauterive
- GIGA-I3 Center of Immunoendocrinology GIGA Research Institute, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium
- Center for Assisted Medical Procreation, University of Liège, CHR Citadelle, Liège, Belgium
| | - Barbara Polese
- GIGA-I3 Center of Immunoendocrinology GIGA Research Institute, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium
| | - Jean-Michel Foidart
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Center for Assisted Medical Procreation, University of Liège, CHR Citadelle, Liège, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHR Citadelle, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Vincent Geenen
- GIGA-I3 Center of Immunoendocrinology GIGA Research Institute, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium
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Gallardo V, González M, Toledo F, Sobrevia L. Role of heme oxygenase 1 and human chorionic gonadotropin in pregnancy associated diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165522. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Schumacher A, Zenclussen AC. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin-Mediated Immune Responses That Facilitate Embryo Implantation and Placentation. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2896. [PMID: 31921157 PMCID: PMC6914810 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) serves as one of the first signals provided by the embryo to the mother. Exactly at the time when the first step of the implantation process is initiated and the blastocyst adheres to the maternal endometrium, the embryonic tissue starts to actively secrete hCG. Shortly thereafter, the hormone can be detected in the maternal circulation where its concentration steadily increases throughout early pregnancy as it is continuously released by the forming placenta. Accumulating evidence underlines the critical function of hCG for embryo implantation and placentation. hCG not only regulates biological aspects of these early pregnancy events but also supports maternal immune cells in their function as helpers in the establishment of an adequate embryo-endometrial relationship. In view of its early presence in the maternal circulation, hCG has the potential to influence both local uterine immune cell populations as well as peripheral ones. The current review aims to summarize recent literature on the participation of innate and adaptive immune cells in embryo implantation and placentation with a specific focus on their regulation by hCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ana C Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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Kumar R, Leng Y, Liu B, Zhou J, Shao L, Yuan J, Fan X, Wan S, Wu T, Liu J, Binns R, Fu YQ, Ng WP, Farrell G, Semenova Y, Xu H, Xiong Y, He X, Wu Q. Ultrasensitive biosensor based on magnetic microspheres enhanced microfiber interferometer. Biosens Bioelectron 2019; 145:111563. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2019.111563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Xie H, Zeng H, He D, Liu N. Effect of intrauterine perfusion of human chorionic gonadotropin before embryo transfer after two or more implantation failures: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 243:133-138. [PMID: 31704529 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.10.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether intrauterine perfusion of hCG before embryo transfer (ET) is effective in women experienced two or more implantation failures. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. In the current meta-analysis, Pubmed, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library were searched for trials which compared the efficacy of intrauterine perfusion of hCG with no perfusion of hCG in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), or frozen embryo transfer (FET) before ET. The primary outcomes are the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR). RESULTS Six trials consisted of 1432 women were eligible for quantitative analysis. CPR (including 6 trials consisted of 1432 women) and LBR (including 3 trials consisted of 870 women) were significantly improved in the hCG group compared to the control group, with a CPR of 41.8 % vs. 31.2 % (RR 1.30, 95 % CI 1.14∼1.50, P < .001), an LBR of 27.8 % vs. 18.0 % (RR 1.52, 95 % CI 1.18∼1.96, P = .001). CONCLUSION Intrauterine perfusion of hCG is effective in improving clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate in women who experienced two or more implantation failures, which might provide a potential therapeutical intervention for recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Although promising, further evidence from multicenter, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the conclusion from the current meta-analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hebin Xie
- Changsha Central Hospital, 410004, Changsha, China.
| | - Hong Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China.
| | - Dongmei He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
| | - Nenghui Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
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Barjaktarovic M, Korevaar TIM, Jaddoe VWV, de Rijke YB, Peeters RP, Steegers EAP. Human chorionic gonadotropin and risk of pre-eclampsia: prospective population-based cohort study. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2019; 54:477-483. [PMID: 30834627 PMCID: PMC6856821 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Abnormal placentation in early pregnancy may play a role in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) regulates placental development and angiogenesis and may affect the ratio of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) in the serum. The aims of this study were to investigate the association of total hCG with the risk of pre-eclampsia and to examine the potential effect of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors on this association. METHODS This was a population-based prospective cohort study of 7754 women with a singleton pregnancy. Total hCG was measured in the first available sample (median gestational age, 14.4 weeks; 95% range, 10.1-26.1 weeks) and sFlt-1 and PlGF concentrations in early (< 18 weeks; median, 13.2 weeks; 95% range, 9.6-17.6 weeks) and in mid- (18-25 weeks; median, 20.4 weeks; 95% range, 18.5-23.5 weeks) pregnancy. We tested the association of hCG concentration and risk of pre-eclampsia using regression analysis, adjusting for maternal age, ethnicity, body mass index, parity, education level, smoking status and fetal sex. Additionally, we assessed whether this association was affected by the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio. RESULTS High hCG concentration was associated with a 1.5-2.7-fold increased risk of pre-eclampsia (P = 0.0001), depending on the cut-off used, and with increased sFlt-1/PlGF ratio during early pregnancy (P < 0.0001). The association between high hCG and pre-eclampsia attenuated by roughly 40% after adjustment for early-pregnancy sFlt-1/PlGF ratio (β-estimate change from 0.19 ± 0.10 (P = 0.052) to 0.12 ± 0.10 (P = 0.22)). CONCLUSIONS High total hCG concentration in early pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of pre-eclampsia. The effect of high hCG concentration on the balance between pro- and anti-angiogenic factors during pregnancy may have a role in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia. © 2019 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Barjaktarovic
- The Generation R Study GroupErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid DiseasesErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Diseases, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - T. I. M. Korevaar
- The Generation R Study GroupErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid DiseasesErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Diseases, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - V. W. V. Jaddoe
- The Generation R Study GroupErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and PediatricsErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Y. B. de Rijke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid DiseasesErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Diseases, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical ChemistryErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - R. P. Peeters
- The Generation R Study GroupErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Center for Thyroid DiseasesErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Diseases, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E. A. P. Steegers
- The Generation R Study GroupErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyErasmus Medical Center, Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
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16
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Śliwa A, Kubiczak M, Szczerba A, Walkowiak G, Nowak-Markwitz E, Burczyńska B, Butler S, Iles R, Białas P, Jankowska A. Regulation of human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit expression in ovarian cancer. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:746. [PMID: 31362717 PMCID: PMC6664497 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-5960-2] [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: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Expression of human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit by cancers is extensively documented, yet regulation of the multiple genes that can code for this protein is poorly understood. The aim of the study was to examine the mechanisms regulating CGB gene expression in ovarian cancer. METHODS Expression of CGB genes and SP1, SP3, TFAP2A transcription factor genes was evaluated by RT-qPCR. The methylation status of CGB genes promoter regions was examined by methylation-specific PCR. RESULTS mRNA arising from multiple CGB genes was detected in both ovarian control and malignant tissues. However, expression of CGB3-9 genes was shown to be significantly higher in malignant than healthy ovarian tissues. CGB1 and CGB2 transcripts were shown to be present in 20% of ovarian cancers, but were not detected in any of the control samples. Malignant tissues were characterized by DNA demethylation of CGB promoter regions. In ovarian cancer CGB expression positively correlated with TFAP2A transcripts level and expression of TFAP2A transcription factor was significantly higher in cancer than in control tissues. In contrast SP3 expression level was significantly lower in ovarian tumours than in control ovarian tissue. CONCLUSIONS In ovarian cancers increased expression of human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit is associated with demethylation of CGB promoter regions. CGB3-9 expression level strongly correlates with expression of the TFAP2A transcription factor. Presence of mRNA arising from CGB1 and CGB2 genes appears to be a unique feature of a subset of ovarian cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Śliwa
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 5D Rokietnicka Street, 60-806, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Marta Kubiczak
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 5D Rokietnicka Street, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Szczerba
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 5D Rokietnicka Street, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Walkowiak
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 5D Rokietnicka Street, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
| | - Ewa Nowak-Markwitz
- Gynaecologic Oncology Department, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 33 Polna Street, 60-101, Poznan, Poland
| | - Beata Burczyńska
- Centre for Investigative and Diagnostic Oncology, Middlesex University, The Burroughs, London, NW4 4BT, UK
| | - Stephen Butler
- MAP Diagnostics Ltd, The iLAB, Stannard Way, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK44 3RZ, UK
| | - Ray Iles
- MAP Diagnostics Ltd, The iLAB, Stannard Way, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK44 3RZ, UK.,College of Health, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Piotr Białas
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 5D Rokietnicka Street, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Jankowska
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 5D Rokietnicka Street, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
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17
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Duran CL, Abbey CA, Bayless KJ. Establishment of a three-dimensional model to study human uterine angiogenesis. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:74-93. [PMID: 29329415 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can primary human uterine microvascular endothelial cells (UtMVECs) be used as a model to study uterine angiogenic responses in vitro that are relevant in pregnancy? SUMMARY ANSWER UtMVECs demonstrated angiogenic responses when stimulated with proangiogenic factors, including sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), physiological levels of wall shear stress (WSS), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and various combinations of estrogen and progesterone. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY During sprouting angiogenesis, signaling from growth factors and cytokines induces a monolayer of quiescent endothelial cells (ECs) lining the vasculature to degrade the extracellular matrix and invade the surrounding tissue to form new capillaries. During pregnancy and the female reproductive cycle, the uterine endothelium becomes activated and undergoes sprouting angiogenesis to increase the size and number of blood vessels in the endometrium. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The study was designed to examine the angiogenic potential of primary human UtMVECs using the well-characterized human umbilical vein EC (HUVEC) line as a control to compare angiogenic potential. ECs were seeded onto three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrices, supplemented with known proangiogenic stimuli relevant to pregnancy and allowed to invade for 24 h. Sprouting responses were analyzed using manual and automated methods for quantification. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS RT-PCR, Western blot analysis and immunostaining were used to characterize UtMVECs. Angiogenic responses were examined using 3D invasion assays. Western blotting was used to confirm signaling responses after proangiogenic lipid, pharmacological inhibitor, and recombinant lentiviral treatments. All experiments were repeated at least three times. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE After ensuring that UtMVECs expressed the proper endothelial markers, we found that UtMVECs invade 3D collagen matrices dose-dependently in response to known proangiogenic stimuli (e.g. S1P, VEGF, bFGF, hCG, estrogen, progesterone and WSS) present during early pregnancy. Invasion responses were positively correlated with phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) and p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK). Inhibition of these second messengers significantly impaired sprouting (P < 0.01). Gene silencing of membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase using multiple approaches completely abrogated sprouting (P < 0.001). Finally, UtMVECs displayed a unique ability to undergo sprouting in response to hCG, and combined estrogen and progesterone treatment. LARGE SCALE DATA Not applicable. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The study of uterine angiogenesis in vitro has limitations and any findings many not fully represent the in vivo state. However, these experiments do provide evidence for the ability of UtMVECs to be used in functional sprouting assays in a 3D environment, stimulated by physiological factors that are produced locally within the uterus during early pregnancy. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We show that UtMVECs can be used reliably to investigate how growth factors, hormones, lipids and other factors, such as flow, affect angiogenesis in the uterus. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by NIH award HL095786 to K.J.B. The authors have no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille L Duran
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 440 Reynolds Medical Building, College Station, TX 77843-1114, USA.,Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Texas A&M University, Mail Stop 2128, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Colette A Abbey
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 440 Reynolds Medical Building, College Station, TX 77843-1114, USA
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 440 Reynolds Medical Building, College Station, TX 77843-1114, USA.,Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Texas A&M University, Mail Stop 2128, College Station, TX 77843, USA.,Interdisciplinary Faculty of Reproductive Biology, Texas A&M University, Mail Stop 2471, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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18
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Wagner V, Winn H, Newtson A, Bender D, McDonald M. hCG production by mucinous adenocarcinoma of the ovary in a reproductive aged woman. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2018; 26:102-104. [PMID: 30533474 PMCID: PMC6258238 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2018.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
When elevated serum hCG is discovered during the work up of a gynecologic tumor, it is paramount to identify the source of hCG prior to initiation of treatment. Potential sources of hCG include viable intrauterine pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, gestational trophoblastic disease, pituitary hCG production, phantom hCG (heterophilic antibody interference), and tumor production. Here, we present a case of elevated hCG in a young women with a large complex pelvic mass. Prior to treatment initiation, the patient underwent work up for hCG elevation, which was ultimately found to be from tumor production. Pathologic examination revealed the mass to be a mucinous adenocarcinoma of the ovary with aberrant expression of hCG, rather than the more typical hCG producing germ cell tumor. We detail the preoperative evaluation process of hCG elevation. Additionally, we discuss the role of hCG in ovarian cancer and influence on tumorigenesis and management. Evaluation of elevated hCG in a premenopausal patient is complex but necessary prior to surgical intervention. Abberant hCG production resulting in elevated serum hCG can be seen in mucinous adenocarcinomas of the ovary. hCG production in ovarian cancer may be a useful marker for surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Wagner
- Division of General Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, United States
| | - Heather Winn
- Division of General Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, United States
| | - Andreea Newtson
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, United States
| | - David Bender
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, United States
| | - Megan McDonald
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, United States
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19
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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: The Pregnancy Hormone and More. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18051059. [PMID: 28505106 PMCID: PMC5454971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18051059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Revised: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
To thoroughly review the uses of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) related to the process of reproduction and also assess new, non-traditional theories. Review of the international literature and research studies. hCG and its receptor, LH/CGR, are expressed in numerous sites of the reproductive tract, both in gonadal and extra-goanadal tissues, promoting oocyte maturation, fertilization, implantation and early embryo development. Moreover, hCG seems to have a potential role as an anti-rejection agent in solid organ transplantation. Future research needs to focus extensively on the functions of hCG and its receptor LH/CGR, in an effort to reveal known, as well as unknown clinical potentials.
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20
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Chen X, Man GCW, Liu Y, Wu F, Huang J, Li TC, Wang CC. Physiological and pathological angiogenesis in endometrium at the time of embryo implantation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2017; 78. [PMID: 28466568 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo establishes contact with the endometrium during implantation. Proper endometrial vascular development and maintenance at the time of embryo implantation is crucial for successful pregnancy. Vascular development at the maternal-embryo interface can be regulated by various cell types, of which uterine natural killer (uNK) cells play an important role. Abnormal angiogenesis and uNK cell number/function may lead to reproductive failure, particularly in women with recurrent miscarriage (RM) and women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) after IVF-ET treatment, which are the important clinical hurdles in reproductive medicine to overcome. In this review, we aim to discuss the current knowledge of physiological angiogenic processes and the pathological angiogenesis at the time of implantation, as well as the possible mechanism and potential treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Gene Chi Wai Man
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yingyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Fangrong Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Jin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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21
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Abdel-Hamid AAM, Firgany AEDL, Mesbah Y, Soliman MF. Vascular and cellular changes accompany altered expression of angiopoietins in placenta of non-complicated ART pregnancies. Exp Mol Pathol 2017; 102:284-289. [PMID: 28238760 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2017.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ART is steadily performed for infertility cases and most of the previous researches have focused on complicated pregnancies. Nonetheless, few ones have concerned with placenta of ART in non-complicated pregnancies. OBJECTIVES To investigate the expression of angiopoietins (ANG) and their receptor, TIE-2, in placenta of full-term non-complicated pregnancies having ART (n=28) versus those with spontaneous conception (n=28) together with the histological as well as morphometric analysis. RESULTS While no prominent changes were noticed in the histological structure of the placenta ART pregnancies, it showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the percentage of syncytial area and numbers of syncytial knots with insignificant reduction in the placental villous area. Vascular changes in the form of significant decrease (p<0.05) in the chorionic vessel diameter and significant increase (p<0.05) in percentage of vessel area were detected in the ART placenta. In addition, the levels ANG-1, ANG-2 and TIE-2 were significantly increased (p<0.05) in the ART placentas compared with those of SC. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that there is an altered expression of angiopoietins accompanying the morphometric changes occurring in placenta of ART pregnancies. These changes may indicate vascular and cellular adaptation mechanism for a potential subclinical hypoxia in placenta of ART even in non-complicated pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A M Abdel-Hamid
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt.
| | - Alaa El-Din L Firgany
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Yaser Mesbah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Mona Fm Soliman
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
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22
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Ekambaram P, Narayanan M, Parasuraman P. Differential expression of survival proteins during decreased intracellular oxygen tension in brain endothelial cells of grey mullets. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 115:421-428. [PMID: 28043644 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The brain requires constant oxygen supply to perform its biological functions essential for survival. Because of low oxygen capacity and poor oxygen diffusibility of water, many fish species have evolved various adaptive mechanisms to cope with depleted oxygen. Endothelial cells (EC) are the primary components responsible for controlled environment of brain. Brain homeostasis largely depends on integrity of the EC. To elucidate their adaptive strategy, EC were isolated from the fish brain of Kovalam-control site and Ennore estuary-test/field hypoxic site and were subjected to low oxygen tension in laboratory. Cell viability, 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were analyzed to ascertain stress. Hypoxic insult, cytoprotective role of HSPs and apoptotic effect were analyzed by assessing hypoxia-inducible-factor-α (HIF1α), heat-shock-protein-70 (HSP70), heme-oxygenase 1 (HO-1), and apoptosis signal regulating kinase-1 (ASK1). This study evidenced that HSP70 and HO-1 are the key stress proteins, confer high tolerance to decreased oxygen tension mediated stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padmini Ekambaram
- P.G. Department of Biochemistry, Bharathi Women's College (A), Affiliated to University of Madras, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Meenakshi Narayanan
- P.G. Department of Biochemistry, Bharathi Women's College (A), Affiliated to University of Madras, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Parimala Parasuraman
- P.G. Department of Biochemistry, Bharathi Women's College (A), Affiliated to University of Madras, Tamil Nadu, India
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23
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Su M, Xu X, Wei W, Gao S, Wang X, Chen C, Zhang Y. Involvement of human chorionic gonadotropin in regulating vasculogenic mimicry and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α expression in ovarian cancer cells. Cancer Cell Int 2016; 16:50. [PMID: 27346985 PMCID: PMC4919850 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-016-0327-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can play a crucial role in angiogenesis. In the present study, we focused on hCG to gain insight into its potential effects on vasculogenic mimicry (VM) in ovarian cancer cells. METHODS Ovarian cancer OVCAR-3 cells were incubated with different concentrations of recombinant hCG in 3-dimensional cultures. VM was identified by morphological observations and vascular endothelial cell marker detection in OVCAR-3 cells. Expression of hCG, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and the endothelial cell markers CD31, VEGF, and factor VIII were detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The effect of hCG on endothelial cell-marker expression in ovarian cancer cells was further explored using small interfering RNA (siRNA) and plasmid-based approaches. RESULTS Incubation of OVCAR-3 cells with recombinant hCG induced vessel-like network formation, which was accompanied by significant elevation of vascular marker expression. Attenuation of hCG expression by siRNA in OVCAR-3 cells suppressed the expression of endothelial cell markers and HIF-1α by tumour cells. Overexpression of hCG in OVCAR-3 cells resulted in increased expression of endothelial cell markers and HIF-1α. CONCLUSIONS HCG was crucial for changing the phenotype of OVCAR-3 cells to endothelial-like cells. The effect of hCG induction on VM in ovarian cancer cells is potentially associated with HIF-1α.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No 20, Xisi Rd, Nantong, 226001 People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangxiang Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No 20, Xisi Rd, Nantong, 226001 People's Republic of China.,Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No 20, Xisi Rd, Nantong, 226001 People's Republic of China.,Changzhou 2nd People's Hospital, Changzhou, China
| | - Sainan Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No 20, Xisi Rd, Nantong, 226001 People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- The Immunology Laboratory of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Caoyi Chen
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu China
| | - Yuquan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No 20, Xisi Rd, Nantong, 226001 People's Republic of China
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24
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Tahaei LS, Eimani H, Hajmusa G, Fathi R, Rezazadeh Valojerdi M, Shahverdi A, Eftekhari-Yazdi P. Follicle Development of Xenotransplanted Sheep Ovarian Tissue into Male and Female Immunodeficient Rats. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2015; 9:354-60. [PMID: 26644859 PMCID: PMC4671375 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2015.4551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Background This study aimed to assess follicle survival after xenotransplantation of
sheep ovarian tissue into male and female immunodeficient rats. We evaluated the effects
of gonadotropin treatment on follicular development in the transplanted tissue. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, sheep ovarian cortical strips were
transplanted into the neck back muscles of 8 male and 8 female immunodeficient, castrated rats. Fourteen days after surgery, each rat was treated with human menopausal
gonadotropin (hMG) for 9 weeks. One day after the last injection, ovarian tissues were
removed and fixed for histology assessment. Histology analyses were performed before
and after grafting. Estradiol (E2) levels were measured before and after gonadectomy, and
at the end of the experiment. The control group consisted of 7 male and 7 female noncastrated/non-grafted rats and the sham group comprised 7 male and 7 female castrated/
non-grafted rats for comparison of serum E2 concentrations. Results The percentage of primordial follicles decreased after transplantation in male
(25.97%) and female (24.14%) rats compared to the control group (ovarian tissue nongrafted; 37.51%). Preantral follicles increased in the male (19.5%) and female (19.49%)
transplanted rats compared to the control group (11.4%). Differences in antral follicles
between male (0.06 ± 0.0%) and female (0.06 ± 0.0%) rats were not noticeable compared
to control (1.25 ± 0.0%) rats. We observed a significantly higher percent of mean E2 secretion in grafted males compared to grafted females (P˂0.05). Conclusion Despite significant differences in E2 secretion between xenografted male
and female rats, we observed no statistical differences in terms of follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Sadat Tahaei
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hussein Eimani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran ; Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazaleh Hajmusa
- Animal Core Facility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Rezazadeh Valojerdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Poopak Eftekhari-Yazdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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25
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Costa MA. The endocrine function of human placenta: an overview. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 32:14-43. [PMID: 26615903 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, several tightly coordinated and regulated processes take place to enable proper fetal development and gestational success. The formation and development of the placenta is one of these critical pregnancy events. This organ plays essential roles during gestation, including fetal nourishment, support and protection, gas exchange and production of several hormones and other mediators. Placental hormones are mainly secreted by the syncytiotrophoblast, in a highly and tightly regulated way. These hormones are important for pregnancy establishment and maintenance, exerting autocrine and paracrine effects that regulate decidualization, placental development, angiogenesis, endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, immunotolerance and fetal development. In addition, because they are released into maternal circulation, the profile of their blood levels throughout pregnancy has been the target of intense research towards finding potential robust and reliable biomarkers to predict and diagnose pregnancy-associated complications. In fact, altered levels of these hormones have been associated with some pathologies, such as chromosomal anomalies or pre-eclampsia. This review proposes to revise and update the main pregnancy-related hormones, addressing their major characteristics, molecular targets, function throughout pregnancy, regulators of their expression and their potential clinical interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana A Costa
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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26
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Coleson MPT, Sanchez NS, Ashley AK, Ross TT, Ashley RL. Human chorionic gonadotropin increases serum progesterone, number of corpora lutea and angiogenic factors in pregnant sheep. Reproduction 2015; 150:43-52. [PMID: 25861798 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Early gestation is a critical period when implantation and placental vascularization are established, processes influenced by progesterone (P4). Although human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is not endogenously synthesized by livestock, it binds the LH receptor, stimulating P4 synthesis. We hypothesized treating pregnant ewes with hCG would increase serum P4, number of corpora lutea (CLs) and concepti, augment steroidogenic enzymes, and increase membrane P4 receptors (PAQRs) and angiogenic factors in reproductive tissues. The objective was to determine molecular alterations induced by hCG in pregnant sheep that may promote pregnancy. Ewes received either 600 IU of hCG or saline i.m. on day 4 post mating. Blood samples were collected daily from day 0 until tissue collection for serum P4 analysis. Reproductive tissues were collected on either day 13 or 25 of gestation and analyzed for PAQRs, CXCR4, proangiogenic factors and steroidogenic enzymes. Ewes receiving hCG had more CL and greater serum P4, which remained elevated. On day 25, StAR protein production decreased in CL from hCG-treated ewes while HSD3B1 was unchanged; further, expression of CXCR4 significantly increased and KDR tended to increase. PAQR7 and CXCR4 protein was increased in caruncle tissue from hCG-treated ewes. Maternal hCG exposure influenced fetal extraembryonic tissues, as VEGFA, VEGFB, FLT1, and ANGPT1 expression increased. Our results indicate hCG increases serum P4 due to augmented CL number per ewe. hCG treatment resulted in greater PAQR7 and CXCR4 in maternal endometrium and promoted expression of proangiogenic factors in fetal extraembryonic membranes. Supplementing livestock with hCG may boost P4 levels and improve reproductive efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan P T Coleson
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Nicole S Sanchez
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Amanda K Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Timothy T Ross
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
| | - Ryan L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range SciencesNew Mexico State University, PO Box 30003, MSC 3I, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
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Lee R, Pattillo R, Bouzyk M, Oprea-Ilies G, Matthews R. Endometrial carcinoma with ectopic human chorionic gonadotropin expression. Gynecol Oncol Rep 2015; 12:45-8. [PMID: 26076157 PMCID: PMC4442660 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggressive course and treatment resistance characterize ectopic human chorionic gonadotropin. Recurrence of endometrial cancer with ectopic hCG was treated with brachytherapy and EMACO. The serum hCG level can serve as a marker in tumors with ectopic hCG expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Roland Pattillo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Gabriela Oprea-Ilies
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Roland Matthews
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Schanz A, Lukosz M, Hess AP, Baston-Büst DM, Krüssel JS, Heiss C. hCG stimulates angiogenic signals in lymphatic endothelial and circulating angiogenic cells. J Reprod Immunol 2015; 110:102-8. [PMID: 25843522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2015.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has long been associated with the initiation and maintenance of pregnancy, where angiogenesis plays an important role. However, the function of hCG in angiogenesis and the recruitment of vascular active cells are not fully understood. In this study, the role of hCG and its receptor in circulating angiogenic and human endothelial cells, including lymphatic, uterine microvascular, and umbilical vein endothelial cells, was examined. Immunohistochemistry and immunoblot analysis were used to detect LH/hCG receptor expression and the expression of hCG-induced angiogenic molecules. HIF-1α was determined via ELISA and downstream molecules, such as CXCL12 and CXCR4, via real-time PCR. Chemotaxis was analyzed using Boyden chambers. Our results show that the LH/hCG receptor was present in all tested cells. Furthermore, hCG was able to stimulate LH/hCG-receptor-specific migration in a dose-dependent fashion and induce key angiogenic molecules, including HIF-1α, CXCL12, and CXCR4. In conclusion, our findings underscore the importance of hCG as one of the first angiogenic molecules produced by the conceptus. hCG itself alters endothelial motility, recruitment, and expression of pro-angiogenic molecules and may therefore play an important role in vascular adaption during implantation and early placental formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Schanz
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and REI (UniKiD), Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Margarete Lukosz
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Vascular Medicine, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany(1).
| | - Alexandra P Hess
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and REI (UniKiD), Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Dunja M Baston-Büst
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and REI (UniKiD), Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Jan S Krüssel
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and REI (UniKiD), Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Christian Heiss
- University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Vascular Medicine, Moorenstrasse 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany(1); Department of Cardiology, University of California San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA(2).
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Sun Y, Ji X. Association of rs7260002 of chorionic gonadotrophin β5 with idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortion in Chinese population. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:1497-500. [PMID: 25193288 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0321-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Low levels of serum hCG during the first trimester is regarded as a predictor of miscarriage. This study was designed to examine whether variance in chorionic gonadotrophin β5 (Cgb5) gene confers risk to recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA) in Chinese women. METHODS We recruited a total of 454 RSA subjects and 460 controls from our medical center between the years 2010 to 2013. rs7260002, which resides in the promoter region of Cgb5, was genotyped through direct sequencing. RESULTS The carriers with the minor allele of rs7260002 had reduced risk of RSA (P = 0.018; P adjusted = 0.032; OR: 0.76; 95 % CI: 0.61-0.96). Genotype frequency was further analyzed under additive, recessive, and dominant models. Significant differences between the RSA subjects and controls were detected under additive and recessive models (P additive = 0.040; P recessive = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS The current study identified a protective allele of the Cgb5 gene against RSA. Functional studies are required to elucidate the effect of the identified SNP on CGB expression and HCG hormone activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, 276003, China,
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Głodek A, Kubiczak MJ, Walkowiak GP, Nowak-Markwitz E, Jankowska A. Methylation status of human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit promoter and TFAP2A expression as factors regulating CGB gene expression in placenta. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1175-1182.e8. [PMID: 25063728 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate mechanisms regulating the expression of CGB genes in placental tissues from uncomplicated pregnancies and chorionic samples from spontaneous miscarriages. DESIGN Molecular analyses in human samples. SETTING Laboratory of molecular biology. PATIENT(S) Nine placental samples from term deliveries and 21 chorionic samples from miscarriages at 7-13 weeks of gestation. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The expression level of CGBs and genes encoding SP1, SP3, and AP2 transcription factors was analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The methylation status of the CGBs' promoter regions was determined using methylation-specific PCR. RESULT(S) The experiments showed significant differences in CGBs' expression and their regulation between placental and chorionic tissues. In placental tissues and chorionic tissues from 7 to 9 weeks of gestation, the expression level of CGBs was shown to be associated with the amount of TFAP2A transcripts. It was also demonstrated that variation in the expression level of CGB genes relies on changes in methylation of CGB3-9 and CGB1-2 promoter sequences. CONCLUSION(S) During pregnancy, regulation of hCG beta subunit genes expression correlates with both methylation of their promoters and TFAP2A expression level. The results suggest that these factors may be very influential in the early stages of pregnancy and may be associated with pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Głodek
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta J Kubiczak
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Grzegorz P Walkowiak
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Ewa Nowak-Markwitz
- Gynecologic Oncology Department, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Jankowska
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
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Alfaidy N, Hoffmann P, Boufettal H, Samouh N, Aboussaouira T, Benharouga M, Feige JJ, Brouillet S. The multiple roles of EG-VEGF/PROK1 in normal and pathological placental angiogenesis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:451906. [PMID: 24955357 PMCID: PMC4052057 DOI: 10.1155/2014/451906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Placentation is associated with several steps of vascular adaptations throughout pregnancy. These vascular changes occur both on the maternal and fetal sides, consisting of maternal uterine spiral arteries remodeling and placental vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, respectively. Placental angiogenesis is a pivotal process for efficient fetomaternal exchanges and placental development. This process is finely controlled throughout pregnancy, and it involves ubiquitous and pregnancy-specific angiogenic factors. In the last decade, endocrine gland derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF), also called prokineticin 1 (PROK1), has emerged as specific placental angiogenic factor that controls many aspects of normal and pathological placental angiogenesis such as recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTD), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and preeclampsia (PE). This review recapitulates EG-VEGF mediated-angiogenesis within the placenta and at the fetomaternal interface and proposes that its deregulation might contribute to the pathogenesis of several placental diseases including FGR and PE. More importantly this paper argues for EG-VEGF clinical relevance as a potential biomarker of the onset of pregnancy pathologies and discusses its potential usefulness for future therapeutic directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Alfaidy
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique (CEA), DSV-iRTSV, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, 38041 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1036 (INSERM U1036), Biologie du Cancer et de l'Infection, Laboratoire BCI-iRTSV, CEA Grenoble, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Pascale Hoffmann
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique (CEA), DSV-iRTSV, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, 38041 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1036 (INSERM U1036), Biologie du Cancer et de l'Infection, Laboratoire BCI-iRTSV, CEA Grenoble, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
- CHU de Grenoble, Hôpital Couple Enfant, Département de Génétique et Procréation, Centre d'Aide Médicale à la Procréation, CS 10217, 38043 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Houssine Boufettal
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique “C”, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Ibn Rochd, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Université Hassan II, Ain Chok, 1 rue des Hôpitaux-ex Banaflous, 20360 Casablanca, Morocco
- Plateau Commun de Recherche, Unité de Culture Cellulaire, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, 19 rue Tarek Bnou Ziad, 20360 Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Naima Samouh
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique “C”, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Ibn Rochd, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Université Hassan II, Ain Chok, 1 rue des Hôpitaux-ex Banaflous, 20360 Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Touria Aboussaouira
- Plateau Commun de Recherche, Unité de Culture Cellulaire, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, 19 rue Tarek Bnou Ziad, 20360 Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Benharouga
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique (CEA), DSV-iRTSV, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, 38041 Grenoble, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 5249, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Feige
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique (CEA), DSV-iRTSV, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, 38041 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1036 (INSERM U1036), Biologie du Cancer et de l'Infection, Laboratoire BCI-iRTSV, CEA Grenoble, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Sophie Brouillet
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique (CEA), DSV-iRTSV, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, 38041 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1036 (INSERM U1036), Biologie du Cancer et de l'Infection, Laboratoire BCI-iRTSV, CEA Grenoble, 17 rue des Martyrs, 38054 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
- CHU de Grenoble, Hôpital Couple Enfant, Département de Génétique et Procréation, Centre d'Aide Médicale à la Procréation, CS 10217, 38043 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
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Asvold BO, Vatten LJ, Tanbo TG, Eskild A. Concentrations of human chorionic gonadotrophin in very early pregnancy and subsequent pre-eclampsia: a cohort study. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1153-60. [PMID: 24722241 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are low serum concentrations of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in very early pregnancy associated with pre-eclampsia risk? SUMMARY ANSWER Low hCG concentrations in very early pregnancy are associated with increased risk of severe pre-eclampsia. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Low maternal serum concentrations of hCG early in pregnancy may indicate impaired proliferation or invasion of trophoblast cells, and thus low hCG concentrations may serve as a marker for impaired placental development. Impaired placental development is assumed to be a cause of pre-eclampsia, but there is little prospective evidence to support this hypothesis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We performed a prospective cohort study of pregnancies after IVF at Oslo University Hospital 1996-2010 with linkage to the Medical Birth Registry of Norway to obtain information on pre-eclampsia development. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We included 2405 consecutive singleton pregnancies and examined the association of maternal serum hCG concentrations (measured using Elecsys, Roche) on Day 12 after embryo transfer with the risk of any pre-eclampsia and of mild and severe pre-eclampsia. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE HCG concentrations were inversely associated with pre-eclampsia risk in a dose-dependent manner (Ptrend 0.02). Compared with women with hCG ≥150 IU/l, women with hCG <50 IU/l were at 2-fold higher overall risk of pre-eclampsia [absolute risk 6.4 versus 2.8%; odds ratio (OR) 2.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2-4.7]. The inverse association was restricted to severe pre-eclampsia (Ptrend 0.01), thus, women with hCG <50 IU/l were at 4-fold higher risk of severe pre-eclampsia than women with hCG ≥150 IU/l (absolute risk 3.6 versus 0.9%; OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.4-12.2). For mild pre-eclampsia, there was no corresponding association (Ptrend 0.36). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Results for IVF pregnancies may not be generalizable to spontaneously conceived pregnancies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Plausible causes of low maternal hCG concentrations very early in pregnancy include impaired placental development and delayed implantation. Thus, these results provide prospective evidence to support the hypothesis that impaired placental development may be associated with subsequent development of severe pre-eclampsia. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST The study was financially supported by the Research Council of Norway. None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- B O Asvold
- Department of Public Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Postboks 8905, N-7491 Trondheim, Norway
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The interplay of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) with basic fibroblast growth factor and adipokines on angiogenesis in vitro. Placenta 2014; 35:249-53. [PMID: 24560494 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is suggested to regulate placental angiogenesis, however, its role is incompletely understood. hCG may directly stimulate angiogenesis or influence the effect of other angiogenic factors. We examined the effect of hCG and the interplay of hCG with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and with various adipokines on proliferation of vascular endothelial cells in vitro. METHODS Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were incubated for 2 days with combinations of hCG, bFGF, leptin, resistin, adiponectin, IL6 and TNFα. Incorporation of radiolabelled thymidine was used to assess cell proliferation. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry were used to examine activation of p44/42 mitogen-activated kinase (MAPK). RESULTS hCG induced proliferation of HUVEC alone and in combination with bFGF. Cells exposed to both hCG and bFGF displayed increased activation of p44/42 MAPK as compared to hCG or bFGF alone. Increased HUVEC proliferation was observed in the presence of increasing concentrations of leptin, resistin, adiponectin, and IL6, whereas HUVEC proliferation decreased in the presence of TNFα. hCG in combination with leptin, resistin, adiponectin or IL6 stimulated HUVEC proliferation beyond the effect of hCG alone. DISCUSSION An interplay of hCG with adipose tissue-derived factors with angiogenic properties is plausible. Thus, maternal obesity may affect placental angiogenesis in pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS hCG may directly stimulate angiogenesis. Also, hCG may indirectly stimulate angiogenesis through interplay with bFGF and adipokines.
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Polese B, Gridelet V, Araklioti E, Martens H, Perrier d’Hauterive S, Geenen V. The Endocrine Milieu and CD4 T-Lymphocyte Polarization during Pregnancy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:106. [PMID: 25071722 PMCID: PMC4083450 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Acceptance of the fetal semi-allograft by the mother's immune system has become the focus of intensive research. CD4+ T cells are important actors in the establishment of pregnancy. Th1/Th2 paradigm has been expanded to include CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) and T helper 17 (Th17) cells. Pregnancy hormones exert very significant modulatory properties on the maternal immune system. In this review, we describe mechanisms by which the endocrine milieu modulates CD4 T cell polarization during pregnancy. We first focused on Treg and Th17 cells and on their importance for pregnancy. Secondly, we review the effects of pregnancy hormones [progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2)] on immune cells previously described, with a particular attention to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The importance of Treg cells for pregnancy is evidenced. They are recruited before implantation and are essential for pregnancy maintenance. Decreased number or less efficient Treg cells are implicated in fertility disorders. As for Th17 cells, the few available studies suggest that they have a negative impact on fertility. Th17 frequency is increased in infertile patients. With the combination of its pro-effects on Th2 and Treg cells and anti-effects on Th1 and Th17 cells, P4 contributes to establishment of a favorable environment for pregnancy. E2 effects are more dependent on the context but it seems that E2 promotes Treg and Th2 cells while it inhibits Th1 cells. hCG positively influences activities of Treg and uterine natural killer cells. This embryo signal is an essential actor for the success of pregnancy, both as the endocrine factor regulating P4 secretion by the ovarian corpus luteum, but also as a paracrine agent during implantation as well as an angiogenic and immunologic mediator during the course of gestation. Luteinizing hormone (LH) immune properties begin to be studied but its positive impact on Treg cells suggests that LH could be a considerable immunomodulator in the mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Polese
- GIGA-I3, Center of Immunoendocrinology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Barbara Polese, GIGA-I3, Center of Immunoendocrinology, University of Liege, CHU-B34, Sart Tilman, Liège B-4000, Belgium e-mail:
| | - Virginie Gridelet
- GIGA-I3, Center of Immunoendocrinology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Eleni Araklioti
- GIGA-I3, Center of Immunoendocrinology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Henri Martens
- GIGA-I3, Center of Immunoendocrinology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | - Vincent Geenen
- GIGA-I3, Center of Immunoendocrinology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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Placental trophoblast cell differentiation: Physiological regulation and pathological relevance to preeclampsia. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:981-1023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Revised: 12/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Boufettal H, Feige JJ, Benharouga M, Aboussaouira T, Nadifi S, Mahdaoui S, Samouh N, Alfaidy N. [Potential role of the angiogenic factor "EG-VEGF" in gestational trophoblastic diseases]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 61:178-83. [PMID: 23647696 DOI: 10.1016/j.patbio.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Gestational trophoblastic disease (MGT) includes a wide spectrum of pathologies of the placenta, ranging from benign precancerous lesions, with gestational trophoblastic tumors. Metastases are the leading causes of death as a result of this tumor. They represent a major problem for obstetrics and for the public health system. To date, there is no predictor of the progression of molar pregnancies to gestational trophoblastic tumor (GTT). Only an unfavorable plasma hCG monitoring after evacuation of hydatidiform mole is used to diagnose a TTG. The causes of the development of this cancer are still poorly understood. Increasing data in the literature suggests a close association between the development of this tumor and poor placental vascularization during the first trimester of pregnancy. The development of the human placenta depends on a coordination between the trophoblast and endothelial cells. A disruption in the expression of angiogenic factors could contribute to uterine or extra-uterine tissue invasion by extravillous trophoblast, contributing to the development of TTG. This review sheds lights on the phenomenon of angiogenesis during normal and abnormal placentation, especially during the MGT and reports preliminary finding concerning, the variability of expression of "Endocrine Gland-Derived Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor" (EG-VEGF), a specific placental angiogenic factor, in normal and molar placentas, and the potential role of differentiated expressions of the main placental angiogenic factors in the scalability of hydatidiform moles towards a recovery or towards the development of gestational trophoblastic tumor. Deciphering the mechanisms by which the angiogenic factor influences these processes will help understand the pathophysiology of MGT and to create opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment of the latter.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Boufettal
- 29, lotissement Abdelmoumen, résidence Al Mokhtar, 20340 Casablanca, Maroc; Centre d'études doctorales, formation doctorale en génétique et biologie moléculaire, faculté de médecine et de pharmacie, université Aïn Chok, Casablanca, Maroc; Service de gynécologie-obstétrique « C », faculté de médecine et de pharmacie, université Aïn Chok, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Maroc.
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Bansal AS, Bora SA, Saso S, Smith JR, Johnson MR, Thum MY. Mechanism of human chorionic gonadotrophin-mediated immunomodulation in pregnancy. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2013; 8:747-53. [PMID: 23167686 DOI: 10.1586/eci.12.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) is released within hours of fertilization and has a profound ability to downregulate maternal cellular immunity against trophoblastic paternal antigens. It also promotes angiogenic activity of the extravillous trophoblast, and impairment of this function may lead to inadequate placentation and an increased risk of preeclampsia. There is increasing evidence that hCG alters the activity of dendritic cells via an upregulation of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase activity. This reduces T-cell activation and cytokine production, as well as encouraging Treg cell recruitment to the fetal-maternal interface. These changes are critical in promoting maternal tolerance. hCG is also able to increase the proliferation of uterine natural killer cells, while reducing the activity of cytotoxic peripheral blood natural killer cells. There are rare reports of autoantibodies directed against hCG or the luteinizing hormone/hCG receptor in women with recurrent miscarriage. These autoantibodies are more frequent in women with thyroid autoimmunity. This may explain the association between thyroid autoimmunity and impaired fertility. Downregulating these anti-hCG and anti-luteinizing hormone/hCG receptor autoantibodies may be helpful in some women with early miscarriage or recurrent failed in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amolak S Bansal
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, St. Helier Hospital, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 1AA, UK.
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Hutson JR, Lubetsky A, Eichhorst J, Hackmon R, Koren G, Kapur BM. Adverse placental effect of formic acid on hCG secretion is mitigated by folic acid. Alcohol Alcohol 2013; 48:283-7. [PMID: 23408242 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agt008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Formic acid has recently been detected in maternal blood and umbilical cord blood of infants born to alcohol abusing mothers. This toxic metabolite of methanol requires folate for detoxification. We hypothesized that formic acid produced in the maternal circulation will transfer across the placenta and will be toxic to the placenta. Our objectives were, first, to determine whether formic acid transfers across the human placenta and whether it is toxic to the placenta and second, to determine whether folate can decrease transplacental transfer of formic acid and mitigate toxicity. METHODS Dual perfusion of a single placental lobule ex vivo was used to characterize the transfer of formic acid across the placenta. After a 1-h control period, formic acid (2 mM) was introduced into the maternal circulation with (n = 4) or without folate (1 µM) (n = 4) and was allowed to equilibrate for 3 h. RESULTS Formic acid transferred rapidly from the maternal to the fetal circulation, and transfer was not altered with the addition of folate. Compared with the control period, there was a significant decrease in hCG secretion (P = 0.03) after addition of formic acid. The addition of folic acid to the perfusate mitigated the decrease in hCG. CONCLUSIONS Formic acid rapidly transfers across the placenta and thus has the potential to be toxic to the developing fetus. Formic acid decreases hCG secretion in the placenta, which may alter steroidogenesis and differentiation of the cytotrophoblasts, and this adverse effect can be mitigated by folate.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Hutson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
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Brouillet S, Hoffmann P, Feige JJ, Alfaidy N. EG-VEGF: a key endocrine factor in placental development. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2012; 23:501-8. [PMID: 22709436 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2012.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF), also named prokineticin 1, is the canonical member of the prokineticin family. Numerous reports suggest a direct involvement of this peptide in normal and pathological reproductive processes. Recent advances propose EG-VEGF as a key endocrine factor that controls many aspects of placental development and suggest its involvement in the development of preeclampsia (PE), the most threatening pathology of human pregnancy. This review describes the finely tuned action and regulation of EG-VEGF throughout human pregnancy, argues for its clinical relevance as a potential diagnostic marker of the onset of PE, and discusses future research directions for therapeutic targeting of EG-VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Brouillet
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unité 1036, Grenoble, France
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41
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Eskild A, Fedorcsak P, Mørkrid L, Tanbo TG. Maternal body mass index and serum concentrations of human chorionic gonadotropin in very early pregnancy. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:905-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 05/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Abstract
Ectopic pregnancies remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality in women of reproductive age. Management of these pregnancies has changed dramatically over the years. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein hormone composed of 2 dissimilar subunits, alpha and beta, joined non-covalently. The free beta-subunit is the principal immuno-reactive agent in pregnancy serum samples. Improved diagnostic methods using hCG levels in combination with transvaginal ultrasound have lead to earlier detection rates, subsequent treatment and a reduction in mortality resulting from ectopic pregnancies. This chapter will describe current trends in ectopic pregnancy diagnosis based on hCG levels.
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Kutluer G, Ciçek NM, Moraloğlu O, Ertargın P, Sarıkaya E, Artar I, Erdem O. Low VEGF expression in conceptus material and maternal serum AFP and β-hCG levels as indicators of defective angiogenesis in first-trimester miscarriages. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2012; 13:111-7. [PMID: 24592019 DOI: 10.5152/jtgga.2012.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Accepted: 12/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to assess the relationship between early miscarriages and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and to determine the serum levels of first-trimester maternal alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) as markers of angiogenesis and predictors of abortion and intrauterine fetal loss. MATERIAL AND METHODS The present study was a prospective, single-center, randomized controlled clinical trial. Ninety-five women who were 6-10 weeks pregnant between May and June 2010 were included in the study. The subjects were divided into three groups, i.e., incomplete abortion (IA) (n=31), intrauterine death (IU-D) (n=32) and control (elective pregnancy termination) (n=32). Feto-placental materials were compared based on immune staining for VEGF in the pathology laboratory, and maternal serum samples were tested in the hormone laboratory. RESULTS Serum β-hCG levels in the patient groups were significantly lower than the controls (p=0.001). The serum AFP level was lower than the controls in the IA group while it was higher than the controls in the IU-D (p=0.016). Immunohistochemistry showed that the cytotrophoblast, syncytiotrophoblast and endometrial gland epithelium were weakly stained for VEGF in the patient groups (IA and IU-D) in comparison to the control group (p=0.06, p=0.028, p=0.006). CONCLUSION Early pregnancy losses are related to insufficient angiogenesis, and maternal serum AFP and β-hCG can be used as markers of angiogenesis in the first trimester.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülşen Kutluer
- Department of Perinatology and Family Planning, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Resource and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nedim Mahmut Ciçek
- Department of Perinatology and Family Planning, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Resource and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Moraloğlu
- Department of Perinatology and Family Planning, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Resource and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Pervin Ertargın
- Department of Perinatology and Family Planning, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Resource and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Esma Sarıkaya
- Department of Perinatology and Family Planning, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Resource and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ishak Artar
- Department of Perinatology and Family Planning, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Resource and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Erdem
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
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Brouillet S, Hoffmann P, Chauvet S, Salomon A, Chamboredon S, Sergent F, Benharouga M, Feige JJ, Alfaidy N. Revisiting the role of hCG: new regulation of the angiogenic factor EG-VEGF and its receptors. Cell Mol Life Sci 2012; 69:1537-50. [PMID: 22138749 PMCID: PMC11115148 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-011-0889-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Revised: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF) is an angiogenic factor reported to be specific for endocrine tissues, including the placenta. Its biological activity is mediated via two G protein-coupled receptors, prokineticin receptor 1 (PROKR1) and prokineticin receptor 2 (PROKR2). We have recently shown that (i) EG-VEGF expression peaks between the 8th and 11th weeks of gestation, (ii) its mRNA and protein levels are up-regulated by hypoxia, (iii) EG-VEGF is a negative regulator of trophoblast invasion and (iv) its circulating levels are increased in preeclampsia (PE), the most threatening pathology of pregnancy. Here, we investigated the regulation of the expression of EG-VEGF and its receptors by hCG, a key pregnancy hormone that is also deregulated in PE. During the first trimester of pregnancy, hCG and EG-VEGF exhibit the same pattern of expression, suggesting that EG-VEGF is potentially regulated by hCG. Both placental explants (PEX) and primary cultures of trophoblasts from the first trimester of pregnancy were used to investigate this hypothesis. Our results show that (i) LHCGR, the hCG receptor, is expressed both in cyto- and syncytiotrophoblasts, (ii) hCG increases EG-VEGF, PROKR1 and PROKR2 mRNA and protein expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner, (iii) hCG increases the release of EG-VEGF from PEX conditioned media, (iv) hCG effects are transcriptional and post-transcriptional and (v) the hCG effects are mediated by cAMP via cAMP response elements present in the EG-VEGF promoter region. Altogether, these results demonstrate a new role for hCG in the regulation of EG-VEGF and its receptors, an emerging regulatory system in placental development.
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MESH Headings
- Base Sequence
- Cells, Cultured
- Chorionic Gonadotropin/metabolism
- Chorionic Gonadotropin/pharmacology
- DNA Primers/genetics
- Female
- Gene Expression/drug effects
- Humans
- In Vitro Techniques
- Models, Biological
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Placenta/drug effects
- Placenta/metabolism
- Placentation
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Trimester, First
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Receptors, LH/metabolism
- Receptors, Peptide/genetics
- Receptors, Peptide/metabolism
- Trophoblasts/drug effects
- Trophoblasts/metabolism
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Endocrine-Gland-Derived/genetics
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Endocrine-Gland-Derived/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- S Brouillet
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 1036, Laboratoire Biologie du Cancer et de l'Infection, Grenoble, France
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Abstract
BACKGROUND hCG is a wonder. Firstly, because hCG is such an extreme molecule. hCG is the most acidic glycoprotein containing the highest proportion of sugars. Secondly, hCG exists in 5 common forms. Finally, it has so many functions ranging from control of human pregnancy to human cancer. This review examines these molecules in detail. CONTENT These 5 molecules, hCG, sulfated hCG, hyperglycosylated hCG, hCG free beta and hyperglycosylated free beta are produced by placental syncytiotrophoblast cells and pituitary gonadotrope cells (group 1), and by placental cytotrophoblast cells and human malignancies (group 2). Group 1 molecules are both hormones that act on the hCG/LH receptor. These molecules are central to human menstrual cycle and human pregnancy. Group 2 molecules are autocrines, that act by antagonizing a TGF beta receptor. These molecules are critical to all advanced malignancies. CONCLUSIONS The hCG groups are molecules critical to both the molecules of pregnancy or human life, and to the advancement of cancer, or human death.
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Role of Ureaplasma urealyticum in altering the endothelial metal concentration during preeclampsia. Placenta 2012; 33:304-11. [PMID: 22280558 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2011] [Revised: 01/08/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Preeclampsia is a pregnancy specific disorder connected with endothelial cell dysfunction. In vitro stimulation of preeclamptic placental endothelial cell with Ureaplasma urealyticum will help in understanding its relationship with the host cell. Metals and metal-containing compounds are known to play important roles in many biological processes, including metabolic pathway, inflammation and function of proteins. STUDY DESIGN The variation in expression of various metals was assessed for the first time using FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope) with EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) technique in endothelial cells isolated from normotensive and preeclamptic placenta with and without in vitro U. urealyticum stimulation. The results were correlated with the expression of HSP (heat shock protein) 70 in all the 4 endothelial cells. RESULTS Preeclampsia and U. urealyticum infection alters endothelial cell size, HSP70 expression and metal (sodium, potassium, calcium, iron) concentration. There is a significant increase in the concentration of iron and calcium and decrease in HSP70 expression and endothelial cell size in preeclamptic endothelial cell with U. urealyticum stimulation. CONCLUSION This work is the first step in the identification of metals pertinent to mollicute infection and lays the foundation for future studies concentrating on characterization of these metal associated or containing molecules. The ionic imbalance observed infers that calcium and iron supplementation should be executed with caution both during preeclampsia and U. urealyticum infection in pregnancy. This study also suggests that the HSP70 mediated protection exhibited in endothelial cell during preeclampsia is lost upon U. urealyticum infection which further contributes to the observed endothelial cell damage.
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Kirkegaard I, Uldbjerg N, Henriksen TB. PAPP-A and free β
-hCG in relation to admission to neonatal intensive care unit and neonatal disease. Prenat Diagn 2011; 31:1169-75. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.2858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2011] [Revised: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 08/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ida Kirkegaard
- Perinatal Research Unit; Aarhus University Hospital; Skejby Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Aarhus University Hospital; Skejby Aarhus Denmark
| | - Niels Uldbjerg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Aarhus University Hospital; Skejby Aarhus Denmark
| | - Tine B. Henriksen
- Perinatal Research Unit; Aarhus University Hospital; Skejby Aarhus Denmark
- Department of Pediatrics; Aarhus University Hospital; Skejby Aarhus Denmark
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Martínez-Martos JM, Carrera-González MDP, Dueñas B, Mayas MD, García MJ, Ramírez-Expósito MJ. Renin angiotensin system-regulating aminopeptidase activities in serum of pre- and postmenopausal women with breast cancer. Breast 2011; 20:444-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2011.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Revised: 03/28/2011] [Accepted: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Expression patterns of Notch receptors and their ligands Jagged and Delta in human placenta. Placenta 2011; 32:554-63. [PMID: 21726900 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2010] [Revised: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The establishment of an appropriate fetomaternal vessel system is a prerequisite for prevention of pregnancy associated pathologies. Notch receptors and ligands are manifoldly involved in vascular development and angiogenesis. To further characterize the process of human placental vasculo- and angiogenesis we investigated the expression pattern of Notch receptors and their ligands during pregnancy. Real time RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry analysis were performed in early (6-12) weeks of gestation (w.o.g.) and late placenta (37-41 w.o.g.). To specify the exact cellular localization immunofluorescent labelling of epithelial and endothelial cells (EC), respectively, with cytokeratin-7 and vonWillebrand factor (vWF) was done. One placenta from a patient with Alagille syndrome (AGS) was examined with real time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. The receptors Notch2, -3, -4 and their ligands Jagged1, -2 and Delta1, -4 were detected at both the mRNA and protein level in early and late placenta. Notch1 was only detected at protein level. The expression was found mainly in the stromal compartment: placental EC expressed Notch1, Delta4, Jagged1 and Delta1. A strong Jagged1 expression was found in the endothelium of arteries and veins supporting a role in differentiation of capillaries. Hofbauer cells (HC) primarily displayed the receptors Notch2, -3 and -4. Placental stromal cells (SC) were positive for Jagged2. The syncytiotrophoblast (ST) and cytotrophoblast (CT) cells revealed a weak but detectable co-localization with cytokeratin-7 and Notch1, -3 and Delta1. These results were verified by flow cytometry of freshly isolated placental cells of placental tissue. Interestingly Jagged1 expression was absent in endothelial cells from an AGS placenta. The Notch receptors and their ligands are expressed in human placental ST, CT, EC, SC and HC. The distribution pattern of Notch receptors and their ligands suggests their involvement in the process of placental vasculo- and angiogenesis via cell-cell communication between trophoblast, -stroma and endothelial cells.
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50
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Norris W, Nevers T, Sharma S, Kalkunte S. Review: hCG, preeclampsia and regulatory T cells. Placenta 2011; 32 Suppl 2:S182-5. [PMID: 21295851 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Revised: 01/10/2011] [Accepted: 01/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is crucial for successful pregnancy. Its many functions include angiogenesis and immune regulation. Despite years of research, the etiology of preeclampsia remains unknown. Marked by insufficient trophoblast invasion and poor spiral artery remodeling, preeclampsia has also been linked to immune dysregulation. Here we discuss the roles of hCG in the context of endovascular cross-talk between trophoblasts and endothelial cells and immune tolerance. We propose that functional and glycosylation modifications of hCG may contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Norris
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital-Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02905, USA
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