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Velez C, Williamson D, Cánovas ML, Giai LR, Rutland C, Pérez W, Barbeito CG. Changes in Immune Response during Pig Gestation with a Focus on Cytokines. Vet Sci 2024; 11:50. [PMID: 38275932 PMCID: PMC10819333 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11010050] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Pigs have the highest percentage of embryonic death not associated with specific diseases of all livestock species, at 20-45%. During gestation processes, a series of complex alterations can arise, including embryonic migration and elongation, maternal immunological recognition of pregnancy, and embryonic competition for implantation sites and subsequent nutrition requirements and development. Immune cells and cytokines act as mediators between other molecules in highly complex interactions between various cell types. However, other non-immune cells, such as trophoblast cells, are important in immune pregnancy regulation. Numerous studies have shed light on the crucial roles of several cytokines that regulate the inflammatory processes that characterize the interface between the fetus and the mother throughout normal porcine gestation, but most of these reports are limited to the implantational and peri-implantational periods. Increase in some proinflammatory cytokines have been found in other gestational periods, such as placental remodeling. Porcine immune changes during delivery have not been studied as deeply as in other species. This review details some of the immune system cells actively involved in the fetomaternal interface during porcine gestation, as well as the principal cells, cytokines, and molecules, such as antibodies, that play crucial roles in sow pregnancy, both in early and mid-to-late gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Velez
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), Buenos Aires 2690, Argentina;
| | - Delia Williamson
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Mariela Lorena Cánovas
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Laura Romina Giai
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Catrin Rutland
- Sutton Bonington Campus, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - William Pérez
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Montevideo, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
| | - Claudio Gustavo Barbeito
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), Buenos Aires 2690, Argentina;
- Laboratory of Descriptive, Comparative and Experimental Histology and Embriology (LHYEDEC), Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Plata (UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina
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2
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Hoffmann JP, Liu JA, Seddu K, Klein SL. Sex hormone signaling and regulation of immune function. Immunity 2023; 56:2472-2491. [PMID: 37967530 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Immune responses to antigens, including innocuous, self, tumor, microbial, and vaccine antigens, differ between males and females. The quest to uncover the mechanisms for biological sex differences in the immune system has intensified, with considerable literature pointing toward sex hormonal influences on immune cell function. Sex steroids, including estrogens, androgens, and progestins, have profound effects on immune function. As such, drastic changes in sex steroid concentrations that occur with aging (e.g., after puberty or during the menopause transition) or pregnancy impact immune responses and the pathogenesis of immune-related diseases. The effect of sex steroids on immunity involves both the concentration of the ligand and the density and distribution of genomic and nongenomic receptors that serve as transcriptional regulators of immune cellular responses to affect autoimmunity, allergy, infectious diseases, cancers, and responses to vaccines. The next frontier will be harnessing these effects of sex steroids to improve therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Hoffmann
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jennifer A Liu
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kumba Seddu
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sabra L Klein
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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3
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Massri N, Loia R, Sones JL, Arora R, Douglas NC. Vascular changes in the cycling and early pregnant uterus. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e163422. [PMID: 37288662 PMCID: PMC10393238 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.163422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine vascular remodeling is intrinsic to the cycling and early pregnant endometrium. Maternal regulatory factors such as ovarian hormones, VEGF, angiopoietins, Notch, and uterine natural killer cells significantly mediate these vascular changes. In the absence of pregnancy, changes in uterine vessel morphology and function correlate with different stages of the human menstrual cycle. During early pregnancy, vascular remodeling in rodents and humans results in decreased uterine vascular resistance and increased vascular permeability necessary for pregnancy success. Aberrations in these adaptive vascular processes contribute to increased risk of infertility, abnormal fetal growth, and/or preeclampsia. This Review comprehensively summarizes uterine vascular remodeling in the human menstrual cycle, and in the peri- and post-implantation stages in rodent species (mice and rats).
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Affiliation(s)
- Noura Massri
- Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program and
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Rachel Loia
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Sones
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Nataki C. Douglas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health and
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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4
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Motomura K, Miller D, Galaz J, Liu TN, Romero R, Gomez-Lopez N. The effects of progesterone on immune cellular function at the maternal-fetal interface and in maternal circulation. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 229:106254. [PMID: 36681283 PMCID: PMC10038932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone is a sex steroid hormone that plays a critical role in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. This hormone drives numerous maternal physiological adaptations to ensure the continuation of pregnancy and to facilitate fetal growth, including broad and potent modulation of the maternal immune system to promote maternal-fetal tolerance. In this brief review, we provide an overview of the immunomodulatory functions of progesterone in the decidua, placenta, myometrium, and maternal circulation during pregnancy. Specifically, we summarize current evidence of the regulated functions of innate and adaptive immune cells induced by progesterone and its downstream effector molecules in these compartments, including observations in human pregnancy and in animal models. Our review highlights the gaps in knowledge of interactions between progesterone and maternal cellular immunity that may direct future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichiro Motomura
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Derek Miller
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jose Galaz
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Tzu Ning Liu
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
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Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) induces alterations in epigenetic regulation in the myometrium - An in vitro study. Theriogenology 2023; 200:136-146. [PMID: 36806924 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Previous research by the authors indicated that an extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) evokes molecular alterations in the porcine myometrium. It was hypothesized that the ELF-EMF could induce alterations in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the myometrium. In the current study, slices of the porcine myometrium during the peri-implantation period (n = 4) were used for further in vitro exposition to ELF-EMF (50 Hz, 8 mT, 2 h treatment duration). The study tested whether the ELF-EMF may affect: 1/the expression of DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 3a (DNMT3a), 2/the level of genomic DNA methylation, and 3/the level of amplification of methylated and unmethylated variants of promoter regions of selected genes with altered expression in response to ELF-EMF. It was found that ELF-EMF treatment increased DNMT1, decreased DNMT3a mRNA transcript and protein abundance, and increased the level of genomic DNA methylation. The direction of alterations in the level of amplification of methylated and unmethylated variants of the promoter region of selected genes with altered expression, i.e. prodynorphin (PDYN), interleukin 15 (IL15) signal transducer and activator of transcription 5A (STAT5A), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and between down-regulated genes were early growth response 2 (EGR2), hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein 1 (HAPLN1), and uteroferrin associated basic protein-2 (UABP2), mostly involving the direction of changes in their transcriptional activity, which was evaluated in a previous study by the authors. Thus, ELF-EMF radiation disturbs epigenetic mechanisms, which may underlay ELF-EMF-related transcriptomic alterations in the myometrium.
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6
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Bonney EA. A Framework for Understanding Maternal Immunity. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2023; 43:e1-e20. [PMID: 37179052 PMCID: PMC10484232 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
This is an alternative and controversial framing of the data relevant to maternal immunity. It argues for a departure from classical theory to view, interrogate and interpret existing data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Bonney
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont Robert Larner College of Medicine, Given Building, Room C246, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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7
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Persaud K, Zhao Q, Owusu-Akyaw A, Rameshwar P, Goldsmith LT, Morelli SS. Expression of glucocorticoid and androgen receptors in bone marrow-derived hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic murine endometrial cells. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:255-268. [PMID: 35717521 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether bone marrow (BM)-derived cells engrafting the murine endometrium express the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and androgen receptor (AR). Recent data demonstrate that BM is a long-term source of multiple hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic endometrial cell types. Important roles for glucocorticoids and androgens in regulating endometrial functions, including decidualization and early embryo attachment/invasion, have very recently emerged. Whether endometrial cells of BM origin express glucocorticoid or ARs has not been previously studied. DESIGN Animal study. SETTING Basic science laboratory. ANIMAL(S) Wild-type C57BL/6J male mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) and syngeneic wild-type C57BL/6J female mice aged 6-9 weeks. INTERVENTION(S) Murine bone marrow transplant. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Bone marrow cells were harvested from adult wild-type C57BL/6 mice and subjected to flow cytometry to identify the percentage of hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cells expressing GR or AR. Uterine tissue sections from lethally irradiated syngeneic adult female C57BL/6 mice that had been recipients of BM transplants from adult male transgenic donor mice ubiquitously expressing GFP were studied. Immunohistochemistry was performed in the uterine tissue sections of the recipient mice at 5, 9, and 12 months after transplant using specific anti-GR, anti-AR, anti-GFP, anti-CD45 (pan leukocyte marker), and anti-F4/80 (murine macrophage marker) primary antibodies. Confocal laser microscopy was used to localize and quantitate BM-derived (GFP+) cell types in the endometrial stromal and epithelial compartments and determine whether BM-derived cell types in the murine endometrium express GR or AR. RESULT(S) Hematopoietic cells comprised 93.6%-96.6% of all cells in the BM, of which 98.1% ± 0.2% expressed GR and 92.2% ± 4.4% expressed AR. Nonhematopoietic cells comprised 0.4%-1.3% of BM, of which 52.8% ± 5.9% expressed GR and 48.9% ± 3.4% expressed AR. After BM transplant, the proportion of cells originating from BM in the endometrial stromal compartment increased over time, reaching 13.5% ± 2.3% at 12 months after transplant. In the epithelial compartments, <1% of the cells were of BM origin at 12 months after transplant. Most (60%-72%) GR+ and/or AR+ BM-derived cells in the stroma were hematopoietic (CD45+) cells, of which 37%-51% were macrophages. Nonetheless, 28%-33% of GR+ cells, and 28%-40% of AR+ BM-derived cells, were nonhematopoietic (CD45-) stromal cells of BM origin. CONCLUSION(S) A substantial number of BM-derived cells express GR and AR, suggesting a role for these cells in both glucocorticoid-regulated and androgen-regulated endometrial functions, such as proliferation and/or decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavitha Persaud
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey.
| | - Qingshi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Amma Owusu-Akyaw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Laura T Goldsmith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Sara S Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
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8
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Drzewiecka EM, Kozlowska W, Paukszto L, Zmijewska A, Wydorski PJ, Jastrzebski JP, Franczak A. Effect of the Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Radiation on Transcriptomic Profile of Pig Myometrium during the Peri-Implantation Period-An In Vitro Study. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7322. [PMID: 34298942 PMCID: PMC8305477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The electromagnetic field (EMF) affects the physiological processes in mammals, but the molecular background of the observed alterations remains not well established. In this study was tested the effect of short duration (2 h) of the EMF treatment (50 Hz, 8 mT) on global transcriptomic alterations in the myometrium of pigs during the peri-implantation period using next-generation sequencing. As a result, the EMF treatment affected the expression of 215 transcript active regions (TARs), and among them, the assigned gene protein-coding biotype possessed 90 ones (differentially expressed genes, DEGs), categorized mostly to gene ontology terms connected with defense and immune responses, and secretion and export. Evaluated DEGs enrich the KEGG TNF signaling pathway, and regulation of IFNA signaling and interferon-alpha/beta signaling REACTOME pathways. There were evaluated 12 differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DE-lnc-RNAs) and 182 predicted single nucleotide variants (SNVs) substitutions within RNA editing sites. In conclusion, the EMF treatment in the myometrium collected during the peri-implantation period affects the expression of genes involved in defense and immune responses. The study also gives new insight into the mechanisms of the EMF action in the regulation of the transcriptomic profile through lnc-RNAs and SNVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Monika Drzewiecka
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Wiktoria Kozlowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Lukasz Paukszto
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (L.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Agata Zmijewska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Pawel Jozef Wydorski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Jan Pawel Jastrzebski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (L.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Anita Franczak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (E.M.D.); (W.K.); (A.Z.); (P.J.W.)
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Tal R, Shaikh S, Pallavi P, Tal A, López-Giráldez F, Lyu F, Fang YY, Chinchanikar S, Liu Y, Kliman HJ, Alderman M, Pluchino N, Kayani J, Mamillapalli R, Krause DS, Taylor HS. Adult bone marrow progenitors become decidual cells and contribute to embryo implantation and pregnancy. PLoS Biol 2019; 17:e3000421. [PMID: 31513564 PMCID: PMC6742226 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Decidua is a transient uterine tissue shared by mammals with hemochorial placenta and is essential for pregnancy. The decidua is infiltrated by many immune cells promoting pregnancy. Adult bone marrow (BM)-derived cells (BMDCs) differentiate into rare populations of nonhematopoietic endometrial cells in the uterus. However, whether adult BMDCs become nonhematopoietic decidual cells and contribute functionally to pregnancy is unknown. Here, we show that pregnancy mobilizes mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to the circulation and that pregnancy induces considerable adult BMDCs recruitment to decidua, where some differentiate into nonhematopoietic prolactin-expressing decidual cells. To explore the functional importance of nonhematopoietic BMDCs to pregnancy, we used Homeobox a11 (Hoxa11)-deficient mice, having endometrial stromal-specific defects precluding decidualization and successful pregnancy. Hoxa11 expression in BM is restricted to nonhematopoietic cells. BM transplant (BMT) from wild-type (WT) to Hoxa11-/- mice results in stromal expansion, gland formation, and marked decidualization otherwise absent in Hoxa11-/- mice. Moreover, in Hoxa11+/- mice, which have increased pregnancy losses, BMT from WT donors leads to normalized uterine expression of numerous decidualization-related genes and rescue of pregnancy loss. Collectively, these findings reveal that adult BMDCs have a previously unrecognized nonhematopoietic physiologic contribution to decidual stroma, thereby playing important roles in decidualization and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshef Tal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Shafiq Shaikh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Pallavi Pallavi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Aya Tal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Francesc López-Giráldez
- Yale Center for Genome Analysis (YCGA), Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Fang Lyu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Yuan-Yuan Fang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Shruti Chinchanikar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Harvey J. Kliman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Myles Alderman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Jehanzeb Kayani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Ramanaiah Mamillapalli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Diane S. Krause
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Hugh S. Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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10
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Nair RR, Verma P, Singh K. Immune-endocrine crosstalk during pregnancy. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2017; 242:18-23. [PMID: 26965955 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The success of pregnancy depends mostly on a synchronized immune-endocrine crosstalk at the maternal-fetal interface. Hormones are important in terms of maintaining the suitable environment and sufficient nutrition for the developing fetus. They also play a major role during the process of parturition and lactation. Maternal immunomodulation is important for the tolerance of semiallogeneic fetus. This is achieved in concert with a variety of endocrine stimulation. Estrogen, progesterone, and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin play a major role in immune modulation during pregnancy. Hormones modulate B cells, dendritic cells, uterine natural killer cells, macrophages, neutrophils to adopt fetal friendly immune phenotypes. Recently the use of hormones in assisted reproductive technology has been found to improve the pregnancy outcome. The present review focuses on the pregnancy-related hormones, their role in immunomodulation for successful pregnancy outcome. This also shed light on the immune-endocrine crosstalk at maternal-fetal interface during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohini R Nair
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele University and Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Priyanka Verma
- Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Kiran Singh
- Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India.
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11
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Bonney EA, Howard A, Krebs K, Begin K, Veilleux K, Gokina NI. Impact of Immune Deficiency on Remodeling of Maternal Resistance Vasculature 4 Weeks Postpartum in Mice. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:514-525. [PMID: 27899739 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116678691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy manifests changes in the vascular and immune systems that persist postpartum (PP), have important implications for future pregnancies, and may modify responses to cardiovascular stress in late life. The association between immune and vascular function and the generation or progression of cardiovascular disease beg the question of whether altered immunity modifies pregnancy-induced changes in the vasculature. Our objective was to compare changes in the function and remodeling of systemic resistance vessels 4 weeks PP in normal C57BL/6 (B6), and immunodeficient mice recombinase 1-deficient/B6 ( Rag1-/-). Immune deficiency did not change the responsiveness to acetylcholine (ACh) and phenylephrine at baseline but decreased arterial distensibility and increased stiffness PP. Adoptive transfer of CD8 T cells into Rag1-/- mice decreased the response to ACh while increasing distensibility and wall thickness. When compared to PP Rag1-/-, vessels from PP CD4-deficient mice, which have B cells and CD8 T cells, but no CD4 cells, show increased distensibility and decreased responsiveness to ACh in a pattern similar to that seen in Rag1-/- given CD8 T cells prior to mating. These studies suggest a key role for T cell, particularly CD8 T cell, associated factors in the PP remodeling of maternal resistance vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Bonney
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Ann Howard
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kendall Krebs
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kelly Begin
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kelsey Veilleux
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Natalia I Gokina
- 1 Division of Reproductive Science Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
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Uterine activin receptor-like kinase 5 is crucial for blastocyst implantation and placental development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E5098-107. [PMID: 26305969 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1514498112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Members of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily are key regulators in most developmental and physiological processes. However, the in vivo roles of TGF-β signaling in female reproduction remain uncertain. Activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) is the major type 1 receptor for the TGF-β subfamily. Absence of ALK5 leads to early embryonic lethality because of severe defects in vascular development. In this study, we conditionally ablated uterine ALK5 using progesterone receptor-cre mice to define the physiological roles of ALK5 in female reproduction. Despite normal ovarian functions and artificial decidualization in conditional knockout (cKO) mice, absence of uterine ALK5 resulted in substantially reduced female reproduction due to abnormalities observed at different stages of pregnancy, including implantation defects, disorganization of trophoblast cells, fewer uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, and impairment of spiral artery remodeling. In our microarray analysis, genes encoding proteins involved in cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions and NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity were down-regulated in cKO decidua compared with control decidua. Flow cytometry confirmed a 10-fold decrease in uNK cells in cKO versus control decidua. According to these data, we hypothesize that TGF-β acts on decidual cells via ALK5 to induce expression of other growth factors and cytokines, which are key regulators in luminal epithelium proliferation, trophoblast development, and uNK maturation during pregnancy. Our findings not only generate a mouse model to study TGF-β signaling in female reproduction but also shed light on the pathogenesis of many pregnancy complications in human, such as recurrent spontaneous abortion, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction.
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Rätsep MT, Felker AM, Kay VR, Tolusso L, Hofmann AP, Croy BA. Uterine natural killer cells: supervisors of vasculature construction in early decidua basalis. Reproduction 2015; 149:R91-102. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian pregnancy involves tremendousde novomaternal vascular construction to adequately support conceptus development. In early mouse decidua basalis (DB), maternal uterine natural killer (uNK) cells oversee this process directing various aspects during the formation of supportive vascular networks. The uNK cells recruited to early implantation site DB secrete numerous factors that act in the construction of early decidual vessels (neoangiogenesis) as well as in the alteration of the structural components of newly developing and existing vessels (pruning and remodeling). Although decidual and placental development sufficient to support live births occur in the absence of normally functioning uNK cells, development and structure of implantation site are optimized through the presence of normally activated uNK cells. Human NK cells are also recruited to early decidua. Gestational complications including recurrent spontaneous abortion, fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and preterm labor are linked with the absence of human NK cell activation via paternally inherited conceptus transplantation antigens. This review summarizes the roles that mouse uNK cells normally play in decidual neoangiogenesis and spiral artery remodeling in mouse pregnancy and briefly discusses changes in early developmental angiogenesis due to placental growth factor deficiency.
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Intrauterine insemination of cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells prior to embryo transfer improves clinical outcome for patients with repeated implantation failures. ZYGOTE 2015; 24:58-69. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199414000719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
SummaryImplantation failure is a major limiting factor in assisted reproduction improvement. Dysfunction of embryo–maternal immuno-tolerance pathways may be responsible for repeated implantation failures. This fact is supported by immunotropic theory stipulating that maternal immune cells, essentially uterine CD56+ natural killer cells, are determinants of implantation success. In order to test this hypothesis, we applied endometrium immuno-modulation prior to fresh embryo transfer for patients with repeated implantation failures. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from repeated implantation failure patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology cycles. On the day of ovulation induction, cells were isolated and then cultured for 3 days and transferred into the endometrium cavity prior to fresh embryo transfer. This immunotherapy was performed on 27 patients with repeated implantation failures and compared with another 27 patients who served as controls. Implantation and clinical pregnancy were increased significantly in the peripheral blood mononuclear cell test versus control (21.54, 44.44 vs. 8.62, 14.81%). This finding suggests a clear role for endometrium immuno-modulation and the inflammation process in implantation success. Our study showed the feasibility of intrauterine administration of autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells as an effective therapy to improve clinical outcomes for patients with repeated implantation failures and who are undergoing in vitro fertilization cycles.
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Lima PDA, Zhang J, Dunk C, Lye SJ, Croy BA. Leukocyte driven-decidual angiogenesis in early pregnancy. Cell Mol Immunol 2014; 11:522-37. [PMID: 25066422 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2014.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Revised: 06/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy and long-term, post-natal maternal and offspring cardiac, vascular and metabolic health require key maternal cardiovascular adaptations over gestation. Within the pregnant decidualizing uterus, coordinated vascular, immunological and stromal cell changes occur. Considerable attention has been given to the roles of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells in initiating decidual spiral arterial remodeling, a process normally completed by mid-gestation in mice and in humans. However, leukocyte roles in much earlier, region specific, decidual vascular remodeling are now being defined. Interest in immune cell-promoted vascular remodeling is driven by vascular aberrations that are reported in human gestational complications such as infertility, recurrent spontaneous abortion, preeclampsia (PE) and fetal growth restriction. Appropriate maternal cardiovascular responses during pregnancy protect mothers and their children from later cardiovascular disease risk elevation. One of the earliest uterine responses to pregnancy in species with hemochorial placentation is stromal cell decidualization, which creates unique niches for angiogenesis and leukocyte recruitment. In early decidua basalis, the aspect of the implantation site that will cradle the developing placenta and provide the major blood vessels to support mature placental functions, leukocytes are greatly enriched and display specialized properties. UNK cells, the most abundant leukocyte subset in early decidua basalis, have angiogenic abilities and are essential for normal early decidual angiogenesis. The regulation of uNK cells and their roles in determining maternal and progeny cardiovascular health over pregnancy and postpartum are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia D A Lima
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital General Campus, Critical Care Wing, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jianhong Zhang
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Caroline Dunk
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Lye
- 1] Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada [2] Department of Physiology and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada [3] Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - B Anne Croy
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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Schumacher A, Costa SD, Zenclussen AC. Endocrine factors modulating immune responses in pregnancy. Front Immunol 2014; 5:196. [PMID: 24847324 PMCID: PMC4021116 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
How the semi-allogeneic fetus is tolerated by the maternal immune system remains a fascinating phenomenon. Despite extensive research activity in this field, the mechanisms underlying fetal tolerance are still not well understood. However, there are growing evidences that immune–immune interactions as well as immune–endocrine interactions build up a complex network of immune regulation that ensures fetal survival within the maternal uterus. In the present review, we aim to summarize emerging research data from our and other laboratories on immune modulating properties of pregnancy hormones with a special focus on progesterone, estradiol, and human chorionic gonadotropin. These pregnancy hormones are critically involved in the successful establishment, maintenance, and termination of pregnancy. They suppress detrimental maternal alloresponses while promoting tolerance pathways. This includes the reduction of the antigen-presenting capacity of dendritic cells (DCs), monocytes, and macrophages as well as the blockage of natural killer cells, T and B cells. Pregnancy hormones also support the proliferation of pregnancy supporting uterine killer cells, retain tolerogenic DCs, and efficiently induce regulatory T (Treg) cells. Furthermore, they are involved in the recruitment of mast cells and Treg cells into the fetal–maternal interface contributing to a local accumulation of pregnancy-protective cells. These findings highlight the importance of endocrine factors for the tolerance induction during pregnancy and encourage further research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
| | - Serban-Dan Costa
- University Women's Clinic, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
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Ovarian stimulation affects the population of mouse uterine NK cells at early pregnancy. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:182531. [PMID: 24350248 PMCID: PMC3848078 DOI: 10.1155/2013/182531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the influence of ovarian stimulation on endometrial mouse NK cell population. For superovulation, the female adult NMRI mice were injected i.p. with 10 IU of the pregnant mare serum gonadotropin followed 48 h later by an i.p. injection of 10 IU human chorionic gonadotropin hormone. Ovarian stimulated and nonstimulated mice were mated with fertile male. The presence of vaginal plug proved natural pregnancy, and this day was considered as day one of pregnancy. Tissue samples were prepared from the uterine horn and spleen of both groups of study on 7th day of pregnancy. Serum estradiol-17β and progesterone were measured at the same time. The tissue cryosections were prepared and double stained for CD 161 and CD3 markers, and NK cells population was analyzed. Relative frequency of NK cells was significantly lower in stroma and myometrium in hyperstimulated mice compared with the control group. However, no difference was seen in percentage of NK cells in spleen. The ovarian stimulation influences the proportion of uterine NK cells and may affect the embryo implantation.
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18
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Parker VJ, Solano ME, Arck PC, Douglas AJ. Diet-induced obesity may affect the uterine immune environment in early-mid pregnancy, reducing NK-cell activity and potentially compromising uterine vascularization. Int J Obes (Lond) 2013; 38:766-74. [PMID: 24080794 DOI: 10.1038/ijo.2013.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Revised: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the effect of obesity in early-mid pregnancy on crucial pregnancy hormones and the uterine immune environment. BACKGROUND Obesity impacts reproductive ability, adversely affecting conception and leading to complications in pregnancy. Obesity is often regarded as a stress state and an immune disease, both of which may contribute to pregnancy failure. We previously demonstrated that stress in early pregnancy greatly alters progesterone secretion. As progesterone is an immunomodulator, altered progesterone secretion may adversely modify the maternal immune system. In the current study, we test the hypothesis that obesity during pregnancy adversely alters the uterine immune environment. METHODS An obese mouse model was created by feeding C57/BL6 mice on a high-fat (HF)/sugar diet for 12 weeks before pregnancy. Control mice were fed on lower-fat/sugar chow. Mice were mated, and on day 7.5 of pregnancy plasma progesterone and prolactin were measured by immunoassay. Cells from the uterus-draining inguinal lymph nodes were collected for analysis of the uterine immune response by flow cytometry. RESULTS Diet-induced obesity increased the secretion of progesterone and altered a number of uterine natural killer (NK)- and T-cell responses. These included a marked reduction in the percentage of leucocyte-derived NK cells and reduced expression of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in the NK cells compared with control mice. CONCLUSIONS Maternal obesity, induced by an HF diet, may lead to a reduction in the expression of IFN-γ in NK cells. NK-cell-derived IFN-γ is reported to be involved in supporting uterine spiral artery remodelling. Thus, obesity in early pregnancy may compromise vascularization by reducing the expression of IFN-γ-positive NK cells. Furthermore, the expression of uterine CD8(+) cells was reduced in the HF diet-fed mice, suggesting obesity may adversely alter the maternal immune adaptation that is essential for effective pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- V J Parker
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - M E Solano
- Laboratory for Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - P C Arck
- Laboratory for Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - A J Douglas
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Rodrigues MN, Favaron PO, Dombrowski JG, Souza RMD, Miglino MA. Role of natural killer (NK) cells during pregnancy: A review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/ojas.2013.32021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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20
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Guo W, Li P, Zhao G, Fan H, Hu Y, Hou Y. Glucocorticoid receptor mediates the effect of progesterone on uterine natural killer cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2012; 67:463-73. [PMID: 22380541 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2012.01114.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2011] [Accepted: 02/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Uterine natural killer cells (uNK) do not express progesterone receptor, but express glucocorticoid receptor (GR). So, we speculate that progesterone may regulate uNK cells through a GR-mediated process. METHOD OF STUDY After mouse NK cells were stimulated with CpG with or without IL-12 in the presence or absence pre-treatment of progesterone, the effects of progesterone on NK via GR were investigated by using RU486 (progesterone receptor and GR antagonist) and CDB-2914 (progesterone receptor antagonist). The expressions of CD69 and IFN-γ were determined by flow cytometry and qPCR. Phosphorylation of IκB and STAT4 was determined by Western blot. Furthermore, we purified uNK cells from human decidual tissues using anti-CD56 microbeads to verify the effect of progesterone on uNK via GR. RESULTS Progesterone suppressed CD69 and IFN-γ expression of mouse spleen NK cells and human uNK cells induced by CpG combined with IL-12. CDB-2914 had no effect on IFN-γ expression suppressed by progesterone, while RU486 could abolish the inhibitory effect of progesterone. In addition, progesterone could decrease the phosphorylation of both STAT4 and IκB. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, we first prove that progesterone can regulate NK cells via GR. It is valuable for further understanding the role of uNK in progesterone regulated gestation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Guo
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Lab, Medical School & State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, China
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Karimi K, Solano ME, Ashkar AA, Ho H, Steidle EM, McVey Neufeld KA, Hecher K, Bienenstock J, Arck PC. Regulation of pregnancy maintenance and fetal survival in mice by CD27(low) mature NK cells. J Mol Med (Berl) 2012; 90:1047-57. [PMID: 22358070 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-012-0872-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2011] [Revised: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Uterine natural killer (NK) cells are pivotal for successful mammalian reproduction. However, insights on functionally distinct subpopulations of uterine NK cells are largely elusive. Furthermore, translation of findings from murine into human pregnancy has been overshadowed by the limited number of mutual phenotypic NK cell markers. We here provide evidence that a subset of murine mature NK (mNK) cells present at the feto-maternal interface, identified as CD27(low)DX5(+)CD3(neg), is pivotal in maintaining pregnancy. This mNK subset has low cytotoxic capacity, produces higher amounts of interferon (IFN)-γ, and expresses functional homologs of human NK cell immunoglobulin-like receptors. We further show that bone marrow-derived CD27(low) mNK cells are selectively recruited to the uterus and ameliorate the rate of fetal loss when adoptively transferred into alymphoid RAG2(-/-)/γc(-/-) mice. Additionally, expression of CD27 is down-modulated on mNK cells upon migration to the uterus. Hence, we propose the existence of a regulatory mNK cell subset, which is licensed toward successful pregnancy maintenance at the fetomaternal interface in mice. As CD27(low) NK cells are also present in human decidua, the CD27(low) NK subset may provide a tool to foster translational research in reproduction, aiming to improve pregnancy outcome in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Karimi
- Brain Body Institute, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide a focused review of the scientific literature pertaining to endometrial receptivity. DESIGN Review of the literature and appraisal of relevant articles. SETTING Academic teaching hospital. PATIENT(S) Women with infertility. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Critical review of the literature. RESULT(S) Although a consensus has been achieved regarding the existence of a temporally defined period during which embryo attachment and invasion can occur (called the "window of implantation"), reliable methods to assess "receptivity" have not been established or adequately validated. In women with certain gynecologic disorders, including endometriosis, tubal disease, and polycystic ovary syndrome, endometrial receptivity seems to be compromised, leading to infertility and pregnancy loss. The establishment of reliable biomarkers for the detection of defects in endometrial receptivity has been a long-sought goal that remains an elusive target. The validation of endometrial biomarkers will require properly designed and implemented studies based on the recognition that endometrial receptivity defects are not equally distributed in women with endometriosis or these other conditions. CONCLUSION(S) Rapidly advancing technologies are bringing new biomarkers to the clinical arena that promise to further reveal the complexities of the implantation process.
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Zhang J, Chen Z, Smith GN, Croy BA. Natural killer cell-triggered vascular transformation: maternal care before birth? Cell Mol Immunol 2011; 8:1-11. [PMID: 20711229 PMCID: PMC3079746 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2010.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2010] [Revised: 06/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are found in lymphoid and non-lymphoid organs. In addition to important roles in immune surveillance, some NK cells contribute to angiogenesis and circulatory regulation. The uterus of early pregnancy is a non-lymphoid organ enriched in NK cells that are specifically recruited to placental attachment sites. In species with invasive hemochorial placentation, these uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, via secretion of cytokines, chemokines, mucins, enzymes and angiogenic growth factors, contribute to the physiological change of mesometrial endometrium into the unique stromal environment called decidua basalis. In humans, uNK cells have the phenotype CD56(bright)CD16(dim) and they appear in great abundance in the late secretory phase of the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy. Gene expression studies indicate that CD56(bright)CD16(dim) uterine and circulating cells are functionally distinct. In humans but not mice or other species with post-implantation decidualization, uNK cells may contribute to blastocyst implantation and are of interest as therapeutic targets in female infertility. Histological and genetic studies in mice first identified triggering of the process of gestation spiral arterial modification as a major uNK cell function, achieved via interferon (IFN)-γ secretion. During spiral arterial modification, branches from the uterine artery that traverse the endometrium/decidua transiently lose their muscular coat and ability to vasoconstrict. The expression of vascular markers changes from arterial to venous as these vessels dilate and become low-resistance, high-volume channels. Full understanding of the vascular interactions of human uNK cells is difficult to obtain because endometrial time-course studies are not possible in pregnant women. Here we briefly review key information concerning uNK cell functions from studies in rodents, summarize highlights concerning human uNK cells and describe our preliminary studies on development of a humanized, pregnant mouse model for in vivo investigations of human uNK cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhong Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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TLR-mediated preterm birth in response to pathogenic agents. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2010; 2010. [PMID: 20827416 PMCID: PMC2933901 DOI: 10.1155/2010/378472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2010] [Revised: 06/28/2010] [Accepted: 07/02/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of preterm birth in developed countries has risen in the past decades. Underlying causes for this enigmatic pregnancy complication are numerous, yet infectious agents that induce dysregulation of immunity at the maternal-fetal interface pose one of the most probable causes of preterm birth. This paper highlights two factors regarding maternal infections that trigger unscheduled inflammatory sequences that are deleterious to the maternal-fetal balance necessary to maintain pregnancy. Firstly, we discuss the role of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) as sentinels of uterine immunity in the context of response to pathogens. We highlight the idea that particular TLR activations lead to differential immune cascades that induce preterm birth. Secondly, two alternative routes of pathogenic entry may prove to be critical for inducing preterm birth via a cytokine storm or a secondary and currently unknown cell-mediated mechanism of uterine inflammation. This paper summarizes pathways that underlie activation of adverse and diverse immune responses to foreign agents that may result in preterm birth.
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Lin Y, Nakashima A, Shima T, Zhou X, Saito S. Toll-like receptor signaling in uterine natural killer cells--role in embryonic loss. J Reprod Immunol 2009; 83:95-100. [PMID: 19889464 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2009.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2009] [Revised: 08/22/2009] [Accepted: 09/07/2009] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Embryonic development is a complex process that is regulated by many cell types and signaling pathways. This review focuses on the role of NK cells and regulatory T-cells (Treg cells) in embryonic loss. Approximately 70% of uterine leukocytes until the time of mid-gestation are found to be CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK cells. This subset of NK cells, along with Treg cells, has been shown to regulate fetal development. We recently found a population of NK cells in the pregnant mouse uterus with a unique CD3(-)CD49b(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) phenotype. This review summarizes the studies indicating critical roles for expression of IL-10 by CD3(-)CD49b(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) cells and CXCR4 expression on CD16(-)CD56(bright) NK cells in preventing embryonic loss. In addition, the roles of toll-like receptors (TLRs) and CXCR4 in NK cell migration and functional modulation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lin
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, PR China.
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Endopolyploidization and the interstitial invasion of the supergiant trophoblast cells of the field vole Microtus rossiaemeridionalis. Tissue Cell 2009; 41:362-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2009.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2008] [Revised: 02/04/2009] [Accepted: 02/20/2009] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Yagel S. The developmental role of natural killer cells at the fetal-maternal interface. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2009; 201:344-50. [PMID: 19788966 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2008] [Revised: 02/16/2009] [Accepted: 02/26/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells have been extensively studied in their traditional roles in host defense against tumor or virally infected cells. Uterine NK cells are of 2 distinct subsets: endometrial NK (eNK) cells, found in the uterus during the menstrual cycle, and decidual NK (dNK) cells, found in the decidua during pregnancy. This review will explore the immunosurveillance and cytotoxicity profiles of NK cells, the inert nature of eNK cells, and the role of dNK cells as builders at the maternal-fetal interface that create a pregnancy-favorable environment by inducing angiogenesis, trophoblast invasion, and vascular remodeling.
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Karsten CM, Behrends J, Wagner AK, Fuchs F, Figge J, Schmudde I, Hellberg L, Kruse A. DC within the pregnant mouse uterus influence growth and functional properties of uterine NK cells. Eur J Immunol 2009; 39:2203-14. [DOI: 10.1002/eji.200838844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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NK cells detect changes in adaptive immunity within mouse decidua from gestation day eight. Placenta 2009; 30:501-6. [PMID: 19427693 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2009] [Revised: 04/01/2009] [Accepted: 04/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Viable human CD56+ CD16- peripheral blood Natural Killer (NK) cells show specific in vitro binding under shear forces to ligands expressed by endothelial cells in cryostat sections of gestation day (gd)7 mouse decidua basalis. In serial assays, numbers of cells adhering to gd7 tissue are constant for men but have cyclical variation for fertile women, suggesting a brief gain in functional decidual homing potential of this NK cell subset during the menstrual cycle. Regardless of gender, numbers of adhering cells from an individual donor, increase dramatically when the substrate is decidua basalis from a later gestational timepoint. Here, we report that human blood CD56+ CD16- NK cells which adhere as single cells over gd7 decidua basalis, adhere as large clusters over gd8 and gd9 tissues, suggestive of antigen recognition and lymphocyte activation. We asked which cells within mouse decidua basalis trigger this response in CD56+ CD16- cells. Using decidua from mice transgenic for myeloid dendritic cell (mDC) expression of enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (eYFP), we found cluster formation was independent of mDC contact. Use of decidua from alymphoid mice showed clustering behavior required substrate lymphocytes. By use of decidua containing NK cells but lacking T and B cells, decidual T and/or B lymphocytes were identified as the cells altered after gd7 in a manner that activates CD56+ CD16- cell clustering. This timepoint is just prior to mouse spiral arterial modification and its detection by these indicator cells implicates adaptive, decidual immune responses in the regulation of NK cell function.
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Nakamura O. Children's Immunology, what can we learn from animal studies (1): Decidual cells induce specific immune system of feto-maternal interface. J Toxicol Sci 2009; 34 Suppl 2:SP331-9. [DOI: 10.2131/jts.34.sp331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Orie Nakamura
- Osaka Medical Center and Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health
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Croy BA, Wessels J, Linton N, Tayade C. Comparison of immune cell recruitment and function in endometrium during development of epitheliochorial (pig) and hemochorial (mouse and human) placentas. Placenta 2008; 30 Suppl A:S26-31. [PMID: 19010536 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2008.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2008] [Revised: 09/30/2008] [Accepted: 09/30/2008] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The role of maternal immune cells in early implantation sites has received special attention from reproductive biologists because immune cells participate in tissue transplant rejection. During normal pregnancy, endometrial immune cells differ from those in blood by subset distribution and appear to be activated but non-destructive of conceptuses. The immune system evolved well before placental mammals. By comparing the regulation and functions of endometrial immune cells between species in two phylogenetic clades that model differently evolved placental types (pig (Sus scrofa) versus mouse (Mus musculus) and human (Homo sapiens)), we seek to understand how "non-self" trophoblast cells thrive in most pregnancies. Our studies suggest recruitment of specific immune cells to conceptus-associated endometrium and immune cell-promoted endometrial angiogenesis are of key importance for mammalian conceptus well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Croy
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada.
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Abstract
Recent advances in our understanding of dendritic cells (DCs) and their role in tolerance and immunity has fuelled study of their normal development and function within the reproductive tract. The common hypothesis that pregnancy is a state of immune suppression or deviation now includes the idea that alterations in DC phenotype and function are critical for maternal tolerance. We chose to study DCs in the uterus and lymphoid tissue in non-pregnant and pregnant mice at mid-gestation to understand what DC-related factors may be involved in premature birth. We used a mouse model where the mother's immune system has been shown to respond to the male antigen H-Y. Observed differences among DCs in the uterus, uterine draining nodes and spleen, even in non-pregnant mice, suggest the existence of a specialized uterus-specific subset of DCs. We further found that, amongst CD45(+) CD11c(+) cells in the uterus and peripheral lymphoid tissue of pregnant mice, expression of major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) and costimulatory molecules (i.e. CD80) was similar to that in the non-pregnant state. Moreover, there was no pregnancy-related decrease in the proportion of CD11c(+) cells in the uterus or in the uterine node that were CD11b(-) CD8(+). Pregnancy increased the CD11b(+) subsets and the expression of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 6 (CCL6) in DCs of the uterine draining nodes. Finally, DC subsets showed variable expression, with respect to tissue and pregnancy, of the cytokine interleukin-15, which is important in lymphoid cell homeostasis. For DCs, pregnancy is not a state of immune paralysis, but of dynamic developmental change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peyman Bizargity
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
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