1
|
Song W, Guo Q, Puttabyatappa M, Elangovan VR, Wang J, Li F, Liu F, Bi X, Li H, Fu G, Padmanabhan V, Wu X. FGR-associated placental insufficiency and capillary angiogenesis involves disruptions in human placental miRNAs and mRNAs. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28007. [PMID: 38509973 PMCID: PMC10951647 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is one of the most common pregnancy complications culminating in adverse fetal outcome, including preterm birth, neonatal mortality and stillbirth. Compromised placental development and function, especially disruption in angiogenesis and inadequate nutrient supply are contributing factors. Fetal sex also influences placental function. Knowledge of gene expression changes and epigenetic factors contributing to placental dysfunction in FGR pregnancies will help identify biomarkers and help target interventions. This study tested the hypothesis that FGR pregnancies are associated with disruptions in miRNA - an epigenetic factor and mRNAs involving key mediators of angiogenesis and microvessel development. Changes in expression of key genes/proteins involved in placental dysfunction by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry and miRNA changes by RNA sequencing were undertaken with term placenta from 12 control and 20 FGR pregnancies. Findings showed changes in expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis, steroid action, IGF family members, inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic factors in FGR pregnancies. In addition, upregulation of MIR451A and downregulation of MIR543 in placentas from FGR group with female newborns and upregulation of MIR520G in placentas from FGR group with male newborns were also noted. MIR451A and MIR543 have been implicated in angiogenesis. Consistent with gene changes, CD34, the microvessel angiogenesis marker, also showed reduced staining only in female FGR group. These findings provide evidence that epigentically regulated gene expression changes in angiogenesis and capillary development influence placental impairment in FGR pregnancies. Our preliminary observations also support for these changes to be driven in a sex-specific manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Qing Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hebei Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | | | | | - Jianping Wang
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Fang Li
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Fangfang Liu
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Xuejie Bi
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Haiying Li
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Guangping Fu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, College for Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | | | - XiaoHua Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tinel JB, Veras MM, Waked D, Alonso MA, Fernandes CB. Comparative stereological evaluation of the term allantochorion membrane in the mare pregnant with mule foals and equine foals. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 250:107201. [PMID: 36889163 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107201] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Mules are derived from crossing horse mares with a donkey, in which the interest is due to gentleness and ability to work and equestrian sports. As the placenta is responsible for fetal development and maturation, knowing its typical microstructure allows us to understand how fetomaternal interactions occur in this interspecific pregnancy. Thus, the study performed a comparative stereological evaluation of volumetric composition and fetomaternal contact surface in the uterine body (UB), gravid uterine horn (GUH), and nongravid uterine horn (NGUH) of Mangalarga Paulista mare's term allantochorion membrane in mule and equine pregnancies. In equine gestation, the UB microcotyledon surface density was negatively correlated with the NGUH absolute area and the total volume of microvilli. In mule gestation, the base width and the number of microcotyledon were negatively correlated with the height and number of microcotyledons in the NGUH. Mule also showed a negative correlation between (1) the UB microcotyledon surface density and the GUH microcotyledons number per unit of membrane length, (2) the GUH total volume and the NGUH microcotyledon number. Such differences demonstrate a compensatory mechanism in conversion capacity among macrocompartments. A trend toward a greater total volume of allantoid vessels and total volume of allantoid mesoderm in UB microvilli was found in the equine and mule groups, respectively. There was a significant increase in the base width of microcotyledons in the NGUH of mules versus horses. These finds possibly influence the exchange capacity of each placental microregion and suggest a difference between mule versus horse term allantochorion membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Júlia Boldrini Tinel
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87. Cidade Universitária, São Paulo CEP 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Matera Veras
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, LIM05 - Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, A. Dr. Arnaldo, 455 Cerqueira César, São Paulo CEP 01246-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Dunia Waked
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, LIM05 - Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, A. Dr. Arnaldo, 455 Cerqueira César, São Paulo CEP 01246-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Augusta Alonso
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87. Cidade Universitária, São Paulo CEP 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Claudia Barbosa Fernandes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87. Cidade Universitária, São Paulo CEP 05508-270, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lee AG, Tignor N, Cowell W, Colicino E, Bozack A, Baccarelli A, Wang P, Wright RJ. Associations between antenatal maternal asthma status and placental DNA methylation. Placenta 2022; 126:184-195. [PMID: 35858526 PMCID: PMC9679966 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Maternal asthma in pregnancy is associated with adverse perinatal and child health outcomes; however, mechanisms are poorly understood. METHODS The PRogramming of Intergenerational Stress Mechanisms (PRISM) prospective pregnancy cohort characterized asthma history during pregnancy via questionnaires and quantified placental DNAm using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip. We performed epigenome-wide association analyses (n = 223) to estimate associations between maternal active or inactive asthma, as compared to never asthma, and placental differentially methylated positions (DMPs) and differentially variable positions (DVPs). Models adjusted for maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index, smoking status, parity, age and education level and child sex. P-values were FDR-adjusted. RESULTS One hundred and fifty-nine (71.3%) pregnant women reported no history of asthma (never asthma), 15 (6.7%) reported inactive, and 49 (22%) reported active antenatal asthma. Women predominantly self-identified as Black/Hispanic Black [88 (39.5%)] and Hispanic/non-Black [42 (18.8%)]. We identified 10 probes at FDR<0.05 and 4 probes at FDR<0.10 characterized by higher variability in maternal active asthma compared to never asthma mapping to GPX3, LHPP, PECAM1, ATAD3C, and ARHGEF4 and 2 probes characterized by lower variation mapping to CHMP4A and C5orf24. Amongst women with inactive asthma, we identified 52 probes, 41 at FDR<0.05 and an additional 11 at FDR <0.10, with higher variability compared to never asthma; BMP4, LHPP, PHYHIPL, and ZSCAN23 were associated with multiple DVPs. No associations were observed with DMPs. DISCUSSION We observed alterations in placental DNAm in women with antenatal asthma, as compared to women without a history of asthma. Further research is needed to understand the impact on fetal development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison G Lee
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Nicole Tignor
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Whitney Cowell
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elena Colicino
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anne Bozack
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Andrea Baccarelli
- Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pei Wang
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rosalind J Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Exposomic Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cleal JK, Poore KR, Lewis RM. The placental exposome, placental epigenetic adaptations and lifelong cardio-metabolic health. Mol Aspects Med 2022; 87:101095. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2022.101095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
5
|
Kurosawa K, Noguchi S, Nishimura T, Tomi M, Chiba K. Transplacental pharmacokinetic model of digoxin based on ex vivo human placental perfusion study. Drug Metab Dispos 2021; 50:287-298. [PMID: 34903589 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.121.000648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Digoxin is used as first-line therapy to treat fetal supraventricular tachycardia, though because of the narrow therapeutic window, it is essential to estimate digoxin exposure in the fetus. The data from ex vivo human placental perfusion study are used to predict in vivo fetal exposure noninvasively, but the ex vivo fetal to maternal concentration (F:M) ratios observed in digoxin perfusion studies were much lower than those in vivo In the present study, we developed a human transplacental pharmacokinetic model of digoxin using previously reported ex vivo human placental perfusion data. The model consists of maternal intervillous, fetal capillary, non-perfused tissue and syncytiotrophoblast compartments, with multidrug resistance protein (MDR) 1 and influx transporter at the microvillous membrane (MVM) and influx and efflux transporters at the basal plasma membrane (BM). The model-predicted F:M ratio was 0.66, which is consistent with the mean in vivo value of 0.77 (95% confidence interval: 0.64-0.91). The time to achieve the steady state from the ex vivo perfusion study was estimated as 1,500 min, which is considerably longer than the reported ex vivo experimental durations, and this difference is considered to account for the inconsistency between ex vivo and in vivo F:M ratios. Reported digoxin concentrations in a drug-drug interaction study with MDR1 inhibitors quinidine and verapamil were consistent with the profiles simulated by our model incorporating inhibition of efflux transporter at the BM in addition to MVM. Our modeling and simulation approach should be a powerful tool to predict fetal exposure and DDIs in human placenta. Significance Statement We developed a human transplacental pharmacokinetic model of digoxin based on ex vivo human placental perfusion studies in order to resolve inconsistencies between reported ex vivo and in vivo fetal to maternal concentration ratios. The model successfully predicted the in vivo fetal exposure to digoxin and the drug-drug interactions of digoxin and P-glycoprotein/multidrug resistance protein 1 inhibitors in human placenta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ken Kurosawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Koji Chiba
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Andescavage N, Kapse K, Lu YC, Barnett SD, Jacobs M, Gimovsky AC, Ahmadzia H, Quistorff J, Lopez C, Andersen NR, Bulas D, Limperopoulos C. Normative placental structure in pregnancy using quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Placenta 2021; 112:172-179. [PMID: 34365206 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.07.296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To characterize normative morphometric, textural and microstructural placental development by applying advanced and quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) techniques to the in-vivo placenta. METHODS We enrolled 195 women with uncomplicated, healthy singleton pregnancies in a prospective observational study. Women underwent MRI between 16- and 40-weeks' gestation. Morphometric and textural metrics of placental growth were calculated from T2-weighted (T2W) images, while measures of microstructural development were calculated from diffusion-weighted images (DWI). Normative tables and reference curves were constructed for each measured index across gestation and according to fetal sex. RESULTS Data from 269 MRI studies from 169 pregnant women were included in the analyses. During the study period, placentas undergo significant increases in morphometric measures of volume, thickness, and elongation. Placental texture reveals increasing variability with advancing gestation as measured by grey level non uniformity, run length non uniformity and long run high grey level emphasis. Placental microstructure did not vary with gestational age. Placental elongation was the only metric that differed significantly between male and female fetuses. DISCUSSION We report quantitative metrics of placental morphometry, texture and microstructure in a large cohort of healthy controls during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. These measures can serve as normative references of in-vivo placental development to better understand placental function in high-risk conditions and allow for the early detection of placental mal-development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nickie Andescavage
- Division of Neonatology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Kushal Kapse
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Yuan-Chiao Lu
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Scott D Barnett
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Marni Jacobs
- Division of Biostatistics & Study Methodology, George Washington University School of Medicine, 2300 Eye St. NW, Washington, DC, 20037, USA
| | - Alexis C Gimovsky
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Homa Ahmadzia
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Jessica Quistorff
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Catherine Lopez
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Nicole Reinholdt Andersen
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Dorothy Bulas
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA; Department of Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Catherine Limperopoulos
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA; Department of Radiology, Children's National Hospital, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
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; 22:6386. [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Examining Sex Differences in the Human Placental Transcriptome During the First Fetal Androgen Peak. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:801-818. [PMID: 33150487 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00355-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences in human placenta exist from early pregnancy to term, however, it is unclear whether these differences are driven solely by sex chromosome complement or are subject to differential sex hormonal regulation. Here, we survey the human chorionic villus (CV) transcriptome for sex-linked signatures from 11 to 16 gestational weeks, corresponding to the first window of increasing testis-derived androgen production in male fetuses. Illumina HiSeq RNA sequencing was performed on Lexogen Quantseq 3' libraries derived from CV biopsies (n = 11 females, n = 12 males). Differential expression (DE) was performed to identify sex-linked transcriptional signatures, followed by chromosome mapping, pathway analysis, predicted protein interaction, and post-hoc linear regressions to identify transcripts that trend over time. We observe 322 transcripts DE between male and female CV from 11 to 16 weeks, with 22 transcripts logFC > 1. Contrary to our predictions, the difference between male and female expression of DE autosomal genes was more pronounced at the earlier gestational ages. In females, we found selective upregulation of extracellular matrix components, along with a number of X-linked genes. In males, DE transcripts centered on chromosome 19, with mitochondrial, immune, and pregnancy maintenance-related transcripts upregulated. Among the highest differentially expressed autosomal genes were CCRL2, LGALS13, and LGALS14, which are known to regulate immune cell interactions. Our results provide insight into sex-linked gene expression in late first and early second trimester developing human placenta and lay the groundwork to understand the mechanistic origins of sex differences in prenatal development.
Collapse
|
9
|
Kurosawa K, Chiba K, Noguchi S, Nishimura T, Tomi M. Development of a Pharmacokinetic Model of Transplacental Transfer of Metformin to Predict In Vivo Fetal Exposure. Drug Metab Dispos 2020; 48:1293-1302. [PMID: 33051249 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.120.000127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Two types of systems are used in ex vivo human placental perfusion studies to predict fetal drug exposures, that is, closed systems with recirculation of the maternal and fetal buffer and open systems using a single-pass mode without recirculation. The in vivo fetal/maternal (F:M) ratio of metformin, a cationic drug that crosses the placenta, is consistent with that reported in an open system ex vivo but not with that in a closed system. In the present study, we aimed to develop a pharmacokinetic (PK) model of transplacental transfer of metformin to predict in vivo fetal exposure to metformin and to resolve the apparent inconsistency between open and closed ex vivo systems. The developed model shows that the difference between open and closed systems is due to the difference in the time required to achieve the steady state. The model-predicted F:M ratio (approx. 0.88) is consistent with reported in vivo values [mean (95% confidence interval): 1.10 (0.69-1.51)]. The model incorporates bidirectional transport via organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) at the basal plasma membrane, and simulations indicate that the use of trimethoprim (an OCT3 inhibitor) to prevent microbial growth in the placenta ex vivo has a negligible effect on the overall maternal-to-fetal and fetal-to-maternal clearances. The model could successfully predict in vivo fetal exposure using ex vivo human placental perfusion data from both closed and open systems. This transplacental PK modeling approach is expected to be useful for evaluating human fetal exposures to other poorly permeable compounds, besides metformin. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: We developed a pharmacokinetic model of transplacental transfer of metformin, used to treat gestational diabetes mellitus, in order to predict in vivo fetal exposure and resolve the discrepancy between reported findings in open and closed ex vivo perfusion systems. The discrepancy is due to a difference in the time required to reach the steady state. The model can predict in vivo fetal exposure using data from both closed and open systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ken Kurosawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Tokyo, Japan (K.K.); Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Kanagawa, Japan (K.C.); and Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University of Pharmacy, Tokyo, Japan (K.K., S.N., T.N., M.T.)
| | - Koji Chiba
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Tokyo, Japan (K.K.); Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Kanagawa, Japan (K.C.); and Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University of Pharmacy, Tokyo, Japan (K.K., S.N., T.N., M.T.)
| | - Saki Noguchi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Tokyo, Japan (K.K.); Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Kanagawa, Japan (K.C.); and Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University of Pharmacy, Tokyo, Japan (K.K., S.N., T.N., M.T.)
| | - Tomohiro Nishimura
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Tokyo, Japan (K.K.); Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Kanagawa, Japan (K.C.); and Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University of Pharmacy, Tokyo, Japan (K.K., S.N., T.N., M.T.)
| | - Masatoshi Tomi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Tokyo, Japan (K.K.); Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Kanagawa, Japan (K.C.); and Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University of Pharmacy, Tokyo, Japan (K.K., S.N., T.N., M.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Meakin AS, Saif Z, Seedat N, Clifton VL. The impact of maternal asthma during pregnancy on fetal growth and development: a review. Expert Rev Respir Med 2020; 14:1207-1216. [PMID: 32825809 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2020.1814148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma is a highly prevalent co-morbidity during pregnancy that can worsen as gestation progresses and is associated with several adverse perinatal outcomes. These adverse outcomes often result from uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy and acute asthma exacerbations that are associated with alterations in placental function and fetal growth. AREAS COVERED This paper will discuss how maternal asthma in pregnancy affects fetal growth and development which may alter future offspring health. Changes in placental function occur in a sex-specific manner in pregnancies complicated by asthma and result in differences in fetal growth and development which may influence child health. The follow up of children from mothers with asthma suggests they are at greater risk of developing asthma, have alterations in microvascular structure that may contribute to a future risk of cardiovascular disease and epigenetic modifications in immune cell function. The current evidence suggests that appropriately managed asthma during pregnancy results in normal fetal growth and development. EXPERT OPINION Clinical management of asthma during pregnancy needs significant improvement to prevent adverse outcomes for the fetus. The key to improving maternal and fetal outcomes is through education of health professionals and parents about controlling asthma during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley S Meakin
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Zarqa Saif
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Nabila Seedat
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Vicki L Clifton
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland , Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Independent influences of maternal obesity and fetal sex on maternal cardiovascular adaptation to pregnancy: a prospective cohort study. Int J Obes (Lond) 2020; 44:2246-2255. [PMID: 32541920 PMCID: PMC7577853 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-020-0627-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background/Objectives Successful pregnancy requires the de novo creation of low-resistance utero-placental and feto-placental circulations and incomplete remodeling of this vasculature can lead to maternal or fetal compromise. Maternal BMI and fetal sex are known to influence vascular compliance and placental development, but it is unknown if these are independent or synergistic effects. Here we aim to investigate the impact of maternal obesity, fetal sex, and any interaction thereof on maternal cardiovascular adaptation to pregnancy, by assessing the physiological drop of uterine artery doppler pulsatility (UtA-PI) and umbilical artery doppler pulsatility index (UA-PI) over gestation. Subjects/Methods Nulliparous women with a singleton pregnancy participating in a prospective cohort study (n = 4212) underwent serial UtA-PI and UA-PI measurements at 20-, 28- and 36-weeks gestation. Linear mixed regression models were employed to investigate the influence of maternal BMI, fetal sex and interactions thereof on the magnitude of change in UtA-PI and UA-PI. Results Throughout gestation, UtA-PI was higher for male fetuses and UA-PI was higher for female fetuses. The physiological drop of UtA-PI was significantly smaller in overweight (change −24.3% [95%CI −22.3, −26.2]) and obese women (change −21.3% [−18.3, −24.3]), compared to normal-weight women (change −25.7% [−24.3, −27.0]) but did not differ by fetal sex. The physiological drop in UA-PI was greater for female than male fetuses (–32.5% [−31.5, −33.5] vs. −30.7% [−29.8, −31.7]) but did not differ by maternal BMI. No interactions between maternal BMI and fetal sex were found. Conclusions Maternal cardiovascular adaptation to pregnancy is independently associated with maternal BMI and fetal sex. Our results imply sexual dimorphism in both maternal cardiovascular adaptation and feto-placental resistance.
Collapse
|
12
|
Gibbins KJ, Pinar H, Reddy UM, Saade GR, Goldenberg RL, Dudley DJ, Drews-Botsch C, Freedman AA, Daniels LM, Parker CB, Thorsten V, Bukowski R, Silver RM. Findings in Stillbirths Associated with Placental Disease. Am J Perinatol 2020; 37:708-715. [PMID: 31087311 PMCID: PMC6854286 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1688472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Placental disease is a leading cause of stillbirth. Our purpose was to characterize stillbirths associated with placental disease. STUDY DESIGN The Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network conducted a prospective, case-control study of stillbirths and live births from 2006 to 2008. This analysis includes 512 stillbirths with cause of death assignment and a comparison group of live births. We compared exposures between women with stillbirth due to placental disease and those due to other causes as well as between women with term (≥ 37 weeks) stillbirth due to placental disease and term live births. RESULTS A total of 121 (23.6%) out of 512 stillbirths had a probable or possible cause of death due to placental disease by Initial Causes of Fetal Death. Characteristics were similar between stillbirths due to placental disease and other stillbirths. When comparing term live births to stillbirths due to placental disease, women with non-Hispanic black race, Hispanic ethnicity, lack of insurance, or who were born outside of the United States had higher odds of stillbirth due to placental disease. Nulliparity and antenatal bleeding also increased risk of stillbirth due to placental disease. CONCLUSION Multiple discrete exposures were associated with stillbirth caused by placental disease. The relationship between these factors and utility of surveillance warrants further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Halit Pinar
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Uma M. Reddy
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jones AR, Tuckwell C, Wright IMR, Morrison JL, Kandasamy Y, Wittwer MR, Arstall MA, Stark MJ, Davies M, Hurst C, Okano S, Clifton VL. The impact of maternal asthma during pregnancy on offspring retinal microvascular structure and its relationship to placental growth factor production in utero. Microcirculation 2020; 27:e12622. [PMID: 32330353 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a common chronic disease in pregnancy that affects placental function and fetal growth and associated with cardio-metabolic disorders in the offspring but the mechanisms are unknown. This study explored whether maternal asthma in pregnancy is associated with the development of offspring microvascular structure and whether it was related to biomarkers of angiogenesis in utero. Children aged 4 to 6 years, born to either asthmatic mothers (n = 38) or healthy controls (n = 25), had their retinal microvascular structure examined. Maternal plasma PlGF concentrations at 18 and 36 weeks' gestation were measured. There was a significant global difference in all retinal microvascular measures between children of asthmatic mothers relative to controls and increased retinal venular tortuosity in children born to asthmatic mothers (7.1 (95% CI 0.7-13.5); P = .031). A rise in plasma PlGF from 18 to 36 weeks' gestation was observed in the control population which was significantly lower in the asthma group by 190.9 pg/mL. PlGF concentrations were correlated with microvascular structure including arteriolar branching and venular tortuosity. These exploratory findings indicate that exposure to maternal asthma during pregnancy is associated with persistent changes in microvascular structure in childhood that may be driven by alterations to angiogenic mechanisms in utero.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ailee R Jones
- Mater Medical Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Christine Tuckwell
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ian M R Wright
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute and School of Medicine, The University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Melanie R Wittwer
- Lyell McEwin Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Michael J Stark
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Michael Davies
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Cameron Hurst
- Statistics Unit, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Satomi Okano
- Statistics Unit, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Vicki L Clifton
- Mater Medical Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lebold KM, Jacoby DB, Drake MG. Inflammatory mechanisms linking maternal and childhood asthma. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 108:113-121. [PMID: 32040236 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.3mr1219-338r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, inflammation, and remodeling. Asthma often develops during childhood and causes lifelong decrements in lung function and quality of life. Risk factors for childhood asthma are numerous and include genetic, epigenetic, developmental, and environmental factors. Uncontrolled maternal asthma during pregnancy exposes the developing fetus to inflammatory insults, which further increase the risk of childhood asthma independent of genetic predisposition. This review focuses on the role of maternal asthma in the development of asthma in offspring. We will present maternal asthma as a targetable and modifiable risk factor for childhood asthma and discuss the mechanisms by which maternal inflammation increases childhood asthma risk. Topics include how exposure to maternal asthma in utero shapes structural lung development with a special emphasis on airway nerves, how maternal type-2 cytokines such as IL-5 activate the fetal immune system, and how changes in lung and immune cell development inform responses to aero-allergens later in life. Finally, we highlight emerging evidence that maternal asthma establishes a unique "asthma signature" in the airways of children, leading to novel mechanisms of airway hyperreactivity and inflammatory cell responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Lebold
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - David B Jacoby
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Matthew G Drake
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Alur P. Sex Differences in Nutrition, Growth, and Metabolism in Preterm Infants. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:22. [PMID: 30792973 PMCID: PMC6374621 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological differences between the sexes are apparent even from the early part of the pregnancy. The crown-rump length is larger in male fetuses compared to females in the first trimester. Placentae of male and female fetuses have different protein and gene expressions, especially in adverse conditions. Even within the intrauterine milieu, the same extracellular micro RNA may show upregulation in females and downregulation in male fetuses. There appears to be a natural survival advantage for females. Maternal glucocorticoids (GC) play an important role in fetal growth and organ maturation. However, excess glucocorticoids can not only affect growth but the response may be sex-specific and probably mediated through glucocorticoid receptors (GR) in the placenta. Mild pre-eclampsia and asthma are associated with normal growth pattern in males, but in female fetuses, they are associated with a slowing of growth rate without causing IUGR probably as an adaptive response for future adverse events. Thus, female fetuses survive while male fetuses exhibit IUGR, preterm delivery and even death in the face of another adverse event. It is thought that the maternal diet may not influence growth but may influence the programming for adult disease. There is growing evidence that maternal pre-pregnancy overweight or obesity status is directly associated with a higher risk of obesity in a male child, but not in a female child, at 1 year of age. It is observed that exposure to gestational diabetes is a risk factor for childhood overweight in boys but not in girls. It is fascinating that male and female fetuses respond differently to the same intrauterine environment, and this suggests a fundamental biological variation most likely at the cellular and molecular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Alur
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Agnew EJ, Ivy JR, Stock SJ, Chapman KE. Glucocorticoids, antenatal corticosteroid therapy and fetal heart maturation. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R61-R73. [PMID: 29720513 PMCID: PMC5976079 DOI: 10.1530/jme-18-0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are essential in mammals to mature fetal organs and tissues in order to survive after birth. Hence, antenatal glucocorticoid treatment (termed antenatal corticosteroid therapy) can be life-saving in preterm babies and is commonly used in women at risk of preterm birth. While the effects of glucocorticoids on lung maturation have been well described, the effects on the fetal heart remain less clear. Experiments in mice have shown that endogenous glucocorticoid action is required to mature the fetal heart. However, whether the potent synthetic glucocorticoids used in antenatal corticosteroid therapy have similar maturational effects on the fetal heart is less clear. Moreover, antenatal corticosteroid therapy may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Here, we present a narrative review of the evidence relating to the effects of antenatal glucocorticoid action on the fetal heart and discuss the implications for antenatal corticosteroid therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma J Agnew
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jessica R Ivy
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sarah J Stock
- MRC Centre for Reproductive HealthUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Karen E Chapman
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to K E Chapman:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Dallmann A, Ince I, Meyer M, Willmann S, Eissing T, Hempel G. Gestation-Specific Changes in the Anatomy and Physiology of Healthy Pregnant Women: An Extended Repository of Model Parameters for Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling in Pregnancy. Clin Pharmacokinet 2018; 56:1303-1330. [PMID: 28401479 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-017-0539-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past years, several repositories for anatomical and physiological parameters required for physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling in pregnant women have been published. While providing a good basis, some important aspects can be further detailed. For example, they did not account for the variability associated with parameters or were lacking key parameters necessary for developing more detailed mechanistic pregnancy physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, such as the composition of pregnancy-specific tissues. OBJECTIVES The aim of this meta-analysis was to provide an updated and extended database of anatomical and physiological parameters in healthy pregnant women that also accounts for changes in the variability of a parameter throughout gestation and for the composition of pregnancy-specific tissues. METHODS A systematic literature search was carried out to collect study data on pregnancy-related changes of anatomical and physiological parameters. For each parameter, a set of mathematical functions was fitted to the data and to the standard deviation observed among the data. The best performing functions were selected based on numerical and visual diagnostics as well as based on physiological plausibility. RESULTS The literature search yielded 473 studies, 302 of which met the criteria to be further analyzed and compiled in a database. In total, the database encompassed 7729 data. Although the availability of quantitative data for some parameters remained limited, mathematical functions could be generated for many important parameters. Gaps were filled based on qualitative knowledge and based on physiologically plausible assumptions. CONCLUSION The presented results facilitate the integration of pregnancy-dependent changes in anatomy and physiology into mechanistic population physiologically based pharmacokinetic models. Such models can ultimately provide a valuable tool to investigate the pharmacokinetics during pregnancy in silico and support informed decision making regarding optimal dosing regimens in this vulnerable special population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André Dallmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Clinical Pharmacy, Westfälische Wilhelm-University Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ibrahim Ince
- ET-TD-ET Systems Pharmacology CV, Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany.
| | - Michaela Meyer
- DD-CS Clinical Pharmacometrics, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Stefan Willmann
- DD-CS Clinical Pharmacometrics, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Thomas Eissing
- ET-TD-ET Systems Pharmacology CV, Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany
| | - Georg Hempel
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Clinical Pharmacy, Westfälische Wilhelm-University Münster, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Linder JE, Batey K, Johnston R, Cohen EM, Wang Y, Wang X, Zaleski NM, Rogers LM, McDonald WH, Reyzer ML, Judd A, Goldstein J, Correa H, Pulley J, Aronoff DM. The PathLink Acquired Gestational Tissue Bank: Feasibility of Project PLACENTA. JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE BIOTECHNOLOGY & FERTILITY 2018; 7:14-27. [PMID: 30637122 PMCID: PMC6326187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research piloted the development of Project PLACENTA (PathLink Acquired gEstatioNal Tissue bAnk). This project investigated the feasibility of a fresh gestational tissue biobank, which provides tissue linked to electronic medical records for investigators interested in maternal-fetal health. METHODS We developed a pipeline for collection of placental tissue from Labor and Delivery within approximately 30 minutes of delivery. An email alert was developed, to signal delivery, with the ability to specifically flag patients with certain phenotypic traits. Once collected, 4 to 8 mm punch biopsy cores were snap frozen and subsequently used for DNA, RNA and protein extraction. Tissue was also collected for Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) histology, flow cytometry, and quality control measures. RESULTS Of 60 deliveries using the email notification system, 25 (42%) were sent to Pathology or assigned to other research protocols and were not available for collection, 10 (16%) were discarded prior to arrival at Labor and Delivery, and 25 (42%) were available for collection. Twenty placentas were collected and averaged 38 minutes per collection. DNA extraction yielded an average of 53 µg/µl per sample and RNA extraction yielded 679 ng/µl on average per sample. Proteomic studies showed no degradation of protein, abundant and similar quantities of protein across samples and differentiation between the amnion, decidua, and villi. Histological studies showed good quality for interpretation and occasional pathology including multifocal chronic villitis, meconium laden macrophages, and Stage 2 acute chorioamnionitis. Flow cytometry demonstrated good cell viability after isolation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jodell E Linder
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Kisha Batey
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Rebecca Johnston
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Ethan M Cohen
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Yu Wang
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Nicole M Zaleski
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Lisa M Rogers
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Medical Center North, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - William Hayes McDonald
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Medical Research Building III, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Michelle L Reyzer
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Medical Research Building III, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Audra Judd
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Medical Research Building III, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Jeffery Goldstein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois 60605
| | - Hernán Correa
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Jill Pulley
- Vanderbilt Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 2525 West End, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - David M Aronoff
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Medical Center North, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Medical Center North, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Meakin AS, Saif Z, Jones AR, Aviles PFV, Clifton VL. Review: Placental adaptations to the presence of maternal asthma during pregnancy. Placenta 2017; 54:17-23. [PMID: 28131319 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.01.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a highly prevalent chronic medical condition affecting an estimated 12% of pregnant, women each year, with prevalence of asthma greatest (up to 16%) among the socially disadvantaged. Maternal asthma is associated with significant perinatal morbidity and mortality including preterm births, neonatal hospitalisations and low birthweight outcomes each year. We have identified that the placenta adapts to the presence of chronic, maternal asthma during pregnancy in a sex specific manner that may confer sex differences in fetal outcome. The male fetus was at greater risk of a poor outcome than a female fetus in the presence of maternal asthma and an acute inflammatory event such as an asthma exacerbation. This review will examine the role of sex specific differences in placental function on fetal growth and survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A S Meakin
- Mater Medical Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Z Saif
- Mater Medical Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - A R Jones
- Mater Medical Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - V L Clifton
- Mater Medical Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Akison LK, Nitert MD, Clifton VL, Moritz KM, Simmons DG. Review: Alterations in placental glycogen deposition in complicated pregnancies: Current preclinical and clinical evidence. Placenta 2017; 54:52-58. [PMID: 28117144 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.01.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Normal placental function is essential for optimal fetal growth. Transport of glucose from mother to fetus is critical for fetal nutrient demands and can be stored in the placenta as glycogen. However, the function of this glycogen deposition remains a matter of debate: It could be a source of fuel for the placenta itself or a storage reservoir for later use by the fetus in times of need. While the significance of placental glycogen remains elusive, mounting evidence indicates that altered glycogen metabolism and/or deposition accompanies many pregnancy complications that adversely affect fetal development. This review will summarize histological, biochemical and molecular evidence that glycogen accumulates in a) placentas from a variety of experimental rodent models of perturbed pregnancy, including maternal alcohol exposure, glucocorticoid exposure, dietary deficiencies and hypoxia and b) placentas from human pregnancies with complications including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). These pregnancies typically result in altered fetal growth, developmental abnormalities and/or disease outcomes in offspring. Collectively, this evidence suggests that changes in placental glycogen deposition is a common feature of pregnancy complications, particularly those associated with altered fetal growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa K Akison
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Marloes Dekker Nitert
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Vicki L Clifton
- Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4101, Australia
| | - Karen M Moritz
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Centre for Children's Health Research, South Brisbane, QLD, 4101, Australia
| | - David G Simmons
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Mater Medical Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4101, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kalisch-Smith JI, Simmons DG, Dickinson H, Moritz KM. Review: Sexual dimorphism in the formation, function and adaptation of the placenta. Placenta 2016; 54:10-16. [PMID: 27979377 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Exposure of the embryo or fetus to perturbations in utero can result in intrauterine growth restriction, a primary risk factor for the development of adult disease. However, despite similar exposures, males and females often have altered disease susceptibility or progression from different stages of life. Fetal growth is largely mediated by the placenta, which, like the fetus is genetically XX or XY. The placenta and its associated trophoblast lineages originate from the trophectoderm (TE) of the early embryo. Rodent models (rat, mouse, spiny mouse), have been used extensively to examine placenta development and these have demonstrated the growth trajectory of the placenta in females is generally slower compared to males, and also shows altered adaptive responses to stressful environments. These placental adaptations are likely to depend on the type of stressor, duration, severity and the window of exposure during development. Here we describe the divergent developmental pathways between the male and female placenta contributing to altered differentiation of the TE derived trophoblast subtypes, placental growth, and formation of the placental architecture. Our focus is primarily genetic or environmental perturbations in rodent models which show altered placental responsiveness between sexes. We suggest that perturbations during early placental development may have greater impact on viability and growth of the female fetus whilst those occurring later in gestation may preferentially affect the male fetus. This may be of great relevance to human pregnancies which result from assisted reproductive technologies or complications such as pre-eclampsia and diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J I Kalisch-Smith
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - D G Simmons
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - H Dickinson
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Australia
| | - K M Moritz
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Centre for Children's Health Research, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, 4101, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Bivol S, Owen SJ, Rose'Meyer RB. Glucocorticoid-induced changes in glucocorticoid receptor mRNA and protein expression in the human placenta as a potential factor for altering fetal growth and development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 29:RD15356. [PMID: 26844822 DOI: 10.1071/rd15356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) control essential metabolic processes in virtually every cell in the body and play a vital role in the development of fetal tissues and organ systems. The biological actions of GCs are mediated via glucocorticoid receptors (GRs), the cytoplasmic transcription factors that regulate the transcription of genes involved in placental and fetal growth and development. Several experimental studies have demonstrated that fetal exposure to high maternal GC levels early in gestation is associated with adverse fetal outcomes, including low birthweight, intrauterine growth restriction and anatomical and structural abnormalities that may increase the risk of cardiovascular, metabolic and neuroendocrine disorders in adulthood. The response of the fetus to GCs is dependent on gender, with female fetuses becoming hypersensitive to changes in GC levels whereas male fetuses develop GC resistance in the environment of high maternal GCs. In this paper we review GR function and the physiological and pathological effects of GCs on fetal development. We propose that GC-induced changes in the placental structure and function, including alterations in the expression of GR mRNA and protein levels, may play role in inhibiting in utero fetal growth.
Collapse
|
23
|
Review: Endocrine regulation of placental phenotype. Placenta 2015; 36 Suppl 1:S50-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
24
|
Malek A, Mattison DR. Drug development for use during pregnancy: impact of the placenta. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eog.10.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
25
|
Braun T, Challis JR, Newnham JP, Sloboda DM. Early-life glucocorticoid exposure: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, placental function, and long-term disease risk. Endocr Rev 2013; 34:885-916. [PMID: 23970762 DOI: 10.1210/er.2013-1012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
An adverse early-life environment is associated with long-term disease consequences. Adversity early in life is hypothesized to elicit developmental adaptations that serve to improve fetal and postnatal survival and prepare the organism for a particular range of postnatal environments. These processes, although adaptive in their nature, may later prove to be maladaptive or disadvantageous if the prenatal and postnatal environments are widely discrepant. The exposure of the fetus to elevated levels of either endogenous or synthetic glucocorticoids is one model of early-life adversity that contributes substantially to the propensity of developing disease. Moreover, early-life glucocorticoid exposure has direct clinical relevance because synthetic glucocorticoids are routinely used in the management of women at risk of early preterm birth. In this regard, reports of adverse events in human newborns have raised concerns about the safety of glucocorticoid treatment; synthetic glucocorticoids have detrimental effects on fetal growth and development, childhood cognition, and long-term behavioral outcomes. Experimental evidence supports a link between prenatal exposure to synthetic glucocorticoids and alterations in fetal development and changes in placental function, and many of these alterations appear to be permanent. Because the placenta is the conduit between the maternal and fetal environments, it is likely that placental function plays a key role in mediating effects of fetal glucocorticoid exposure on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis development and long-term disease risk. Here we review recent insights into how the placenta responds to changes in the intrauterine glucocorticoid environment and discuss possible mechanisms by which the placenta mediates fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal development, metabolism, cardiovascular function, and reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Braun
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, 1280 Main Street West, HSC 4H30A, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8S 4K1.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
Biobanks provide an important repository of samples for research purposes. However, for those samples to reflect the in vivo state, and for experimental reliability and reproducibility, careful attention to collection, processing and storage is essential. This is particularly true for the placenta, which is potentially subjected to stressful conditions during delivery, and sample collection may be delayed owing to routine postpartum inspection by clinical staff. In addition, standardisation of the collection procedure enables samples to be shared among research groups, allowing larger datasets to be established. Here, we provide an evidence-based and experts' review of the factors surrounding collection that may influence data obtained from the human placenta. We outline particular requirements for specific techniques, and propose a protocol for optimal sample collection. We recognise that the relevance of these factors, and of the sample types collected to a particular study will depend on the research questions being addressed. We therefore anticipate that researchers will select from the protocol to meet their needs and resources available. Wherever possible, we encourage researchers to extend their collection to include additional samples that can be shared on an international collaborative basis, with appropriate informed consent, to raise the quality, as well as quantity, of placental research.
Collapse
|
27
|
Wang G, Murphy VE, Namazy J, Powell H, Schatz M, Chambers C, Attia J, Gibson PG. The risk of maternal and placental complications in pregnant women with asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2013; 27:934-42. [PMID: 24111742 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2013.847080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate if maternal asthma is associated with an increased risk of maternal and placental complications in pregnancy. METHODS Electronic databases were searched for the following terms: (asthma or wheeze) and (pregnan* or perinat* or obstet*). Cohort studies published between January 1975 and March 2012 were considered for inclusion. Forty publications met the inclusion criteria, reporting at least one maternal or placental complication in pregnant women with and without asthma. Relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was calculated. RESULTS Maternal asthma was associated with a significantly increased risk of cesarean section (RR = 1.31, 95%CI = [1.22-1.39]), gestational diabetes (RR = 1.39, 95%CI = [1.17-1.66]), hemorrhage (antepartum: RR = 1.25, 95%CI = [1.10-1.42]; postpartum: RR = 1.29, 95%CI = [1.18-1.41]), placenta previa (RR = 1.23, 95%CI = [1.07-1.40]), placental abruption (RR = 1.29, 95%CI = [1.14-1.47]) and premature rupture of membranes (RR = 1.21, 95%CI = 1.07-1.37). Moderate to severe asthma significantly increased the risk of cesarean section (RR = 1.19, 95%CI = [1.09-1.31]) and gestational diabetes (RR = 1.19, 95%CI = [1.06-1.33]) compared to mild asthma. Bronchodilator use was associated with a significantly lowered risk of gestational diabetes (RR = 0.64, 95%CI = [0.57-0.72]). CONCLUSIONS Pregnant women with asthma are at increased risk of maternal and placental complications, and women with moderate/severe asthma may be at particular risk. Further studies are required to elucidate whether adequate control of asthma during pregnancy reduces these risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wang
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Diseases, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute , Newcastle, NSW , Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhou A, Dekker GA, Lumbers ER, Leemaqz SY, Thompson SD, Heinemann G, McCowan LME, Roberts CT. The association of maternal ACE A11860G with small for gestational age babies is modulated by the environment and by fetal sex: a multicentre prospective case-control study. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 19:618-27. [PMID: 23615722 PMCID: PMC3749805 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to determine whether the ACE A11860G genotype is associated with small for gestational age babies (SGA) and to determine whether the association is affected by environmental factors and fetal sex. Overall, 3234 healthy nulliparous women with singleton pregnancies, their partners and babies were prospectively recruited in Adelaide, Australia and Auckland, New Zealand. Data analyses were confined to 2121 Caucasian parent–infant trios, among which 216 were pregnancies with SGA infants and 1185 were uncomplicated pregnancies. Women with the ACE A11860G GG genotype in the combined and Adelaide cohorts had increased risk for SGA [odds ratios (OR) 1.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1–2.1 and OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.3–3.3, respectively) and delivered lighter babies (P = 0.02; P = 0.007, respectively) compared with those with AA/AG genotypes. The maternal ACE A11860G GG genotype was associated with higher maternal plasma ACE concentration at 15 weeks' gestation than AA/AG genotypes (P < 0.001). When the Adelaide cohort was stratified by maternal socio-economic index (SEI) and pre-pregnancy green leafy vegetable intake, the ACE A11860G GG genotype was only associated with an increased risk for SGA (OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.8–13.4 and OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.6–7.0, respectively) and a reduction in customized birthweight centile (P = 0.006 and P = 0.03) if superimposed on maternal SEI <34 or pre-pregnancy green leafy vegetable intake <1 serve/day. Furthermore, the associations of maternal ACE A11860G with customized birthweight centile observed among Adelaide women with SEI <34 or pre-pregnancy green leafy vegetable intake <1 serve/day were female specific. The current study identified a novel association of maternal ACE A11860G with SGA. More interestingly, this association was modified by environmental factors and fetal sex, suggesting ACE A11860G–environment–fetal sex interactions. Trial Registry Name: Screening nulliparous women to identify the combinations of clinical risk factors and/or biomarkers required to predict pre-eclampsia, SGA babies and spontaneous preterm birth. URL: http://www.anzctr.org.au. Registration number: ACTRN12607000551493.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ang Zhou
- Robinson Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
O'Connell BA, Moritz KM, Walker DW, Dickinson H. Synthetic Glucocorticoid Dexamethasone Inhibits Branching Morphogenesis in the Spiny Mouse Placenta1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:26. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.100644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
|
30
|
Developmental perturbation induced by maternal asthma during pregnancy: the short- and long-term impacts on offspring. J Pregnancy 2012; 2012:741613. [PMID: 22830026 PMCID: PMC3399337 DOI: 10.1155/2012/741613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal asthma is a common disease to complicate human pregnancy. Epidemiological studies have identified that asthma during pregnancy increases the risk of a number of poor outcomes for the neonate including growth restriction, lower birthweight, preterm delivery, neonatal resuscitation, and stillbirth. Asthma therefore represents a significant health burden to society and could have an impact on the lifelong health of the children of women with asthma. Our research has identified that maternal asthma in pregnancy induces placental dysfunction and developmental perturbation in the fetus in a sex specific manner. These alterations in development could increase the risk of metabolic disease in adulthood of children of asthmatic mothers, especially females. In this paper, we will discuss the evidence currently available that supports the hypothesis that children of mothers with asthma may be at risk of lifelong health complications which include diabetes and hypertension.
Collapse
|
31
|
Allina J, Grabowski J, Doherty-Lyons S, Fiel MI, Jackson CE, Zelikoff JT, Odin JA. Maternal allergy acts synergistically with cigarette smoke exposure during pregnancy to induce hepatic fibrosis in adult male offspring. J Immunotoxicol 2011; 8:258-64. [PMID: 21718087 DOI: 10.3109/1547691x.2011.589412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal environmental exposures during pregnancy are known to affect disease onset in adult offspring. For example, maternal asthma exacerbations during pregnancy can worsen adult asthma in the offspring. Cigarette smoking during pregnancy is associated with future onset of cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. However, little is known about the effect of maternal environmental exposures on offspring susceptibility to liver disease. This pilot study examined the long-term effect of maternal allergen challenge and/or cigarette smoking during pregnancy on hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in adult mouse offspring. Ovalbumin (OVA) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-sensitized/challenged CD-1 dams were exposed to mainstream cigarette smoke (MCS) or filtered air from gestational day 4 until parturition. Eight weeks postnatally, offspring were sacrificed for comparison of hepatic histology and mRNA expression. Adult male offspring of OVA-sensitized/challenged dams exposed to MCS (OSM) displayed significantly increased liver fibrosis (9.2% collagen content vs. <4% for all other treatment groups). These mice also had 1.8-fold greater collagen 1A1 mRNA levels. From the results here, we concluded that maternal allergen challenge in combination with cigarette smoke exposure during pregnancy may be an important risk factor for liver disease in adult male offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Allina
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, Tuxedo, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Worldwide the prevalence of asthma among pregnant women is on the rise, and pregnancy leads to a worsening of asthma for many women. This article examines the changes in asthma that may occur during pregnancy, with particular reference to asthma exacerbations. Asthma affects not only the mother but the baby as well, with potential complications including low birth weight, preterm delivery, perinatal mortality, and preeclampsia. Barriers to effective asthma management and opportunities for optimized care and treatment are discussed, and a summary of the clinical guidelines for the management of asthma during pregnancy is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa E Murphy
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Diseases, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Locked Bag 1, HRMC, Newcastle, New South Wales 2310, Australia; Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1, HRMC, Newcastle, New South Wales 2310, Australia.
| | - Peter G Gibson
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Diseases, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Locked Bag 1, HRMC, Newcastle, New South Wales 2310, Australia; Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1, HRMC, Newcastle, New South Wales 2310, Australia; Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, 431 Glebe Point Road, Glebe (Sydney), New South Wales 2037, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Clifton VL, Hodyl NA, Murphy VE, Giles WB, Baxter RC, Smith R. Effect of maternal asthma, inhaled glucocorticoids and cigarette use during pregnancy on the newborn insulin-like growth factor axis. Growth Horm IGF Res 2010; 20:39-48. [PMID: 19695914 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2009.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2008] [Revised: 07/23/2009] [Accepted: 07/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal growth varies in a sex-specific manner in response to maternal asthma during pregnancy, but the mechanisms are unclear. OBJECTIVE We examined the influence of maternal asthma severity and associated exposures, inhaled glucocorticoid treatment, maternal cigarette use, and fetal sex on fetal growth and placental function during pregnancy and on the newborn insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis. STUDY SUBJECTS AND DESIGN: Fetal growth was assessed in a prospective cohort of asthmatic and non-asthmatic women (n=145). At delivery, umbilical vein plasma was collected from male (n=61, controls n=16 and asthmatic n=45) or female (n=84, controls n=22 and asthmatic n=62) fetuses. Cord plasma insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein (BP)-1, IGFBP-3, IGF-1 and IGF-2 were measured by radioimmunoassay and ELISA. RESULTS Cord plasma IGF-1 was the main component of the neonatal IGF axis altered by asthma and cigarette use. IGF-1 was increased in the presence of mild asthma and a male fetus and decreased in the presence of a female fetus and maternal asthma with cigarette use. IGFBP-3 was also decreased in the female fetuses of pregnancies complicated by asthma and cigarette use. Inhaled glucocorticoid use for the treatment of asthma did not affect the IGF axis. The strongest overall predictor of female birth weight after accounting for asthma severity, inhaled glucocorticoid treatment and cigarette use was IGF-1. For males, the strongest predictor of birth weight was IGFBP-3. CONCLUSION The data suggest male and female fetuses institute different strategies in response to adverse pregnancy conditions such as asthma and cigarette use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicki L Clifton
- Department of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Asthma and pregnancy: emerging evidence of epigenetic interactions in utero. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2009; 9:417-26. [PMID: 19652594 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0b013e328330634f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pregnancy is arguably the most critical period of developmental programming. Here, we particularly focus on the emerging paradigm that disease propensity is epigenetically determined by maternal exposures that have the capacity to activate or silence fetal genes through alterations in DNA and histone methylation, histone acetylation, and chromatin structure. RECENT FINDINGS The most notable recent candidate to emerge in this role has been dietary folate, a methyl donor clearly associated with changes in gene expression and disease susceptibility through gene hypermethylation. Animal studies also provide the first evidence that the allergy protective effects of microbial exposure in pregnancy may be mediated by changes in methylation of Th1 genes of the offspring. There is also emerging evidence that perinatal differences in immune function of allergy-prone newborns extend beyond previously recognized differences in effector T cell (Th1/Th2) function, to also include differences in neonatal regulatory T cell (Treg) and Th17 function, and moreover, that these pathways are also epigenetically regulated. SUMMARY New studies reinforce the importance of in-utero exposures (including dietary nutrients, microbial products, cigarette smoking, and certain maternal mediations) in fetal immune development and in programming the susceptibility to asthma and allergic disease.
Collapse
|
35
|
Braun T, Li S, Sloboda DM, Li W, Audette MC, Moss TJM, Matthews SG, Polglase G, Nitsos I, Newnham JP, Challis JRG. Effects of maternal dexamethasone treatment in early pregnancy on pituitary-adrenal axis in fetal sheep. Endocrinology 2009; 150:5466-77. [PMID: 19846612 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Fetal exposure to elevated levels of bioactive glucocorticoids early in gestation, as in suspected cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, may result in adverse neurological events. Fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal development and function may be involved. We investigated immediate and long-term effects of maternal dexamethasone (DEX) administration early in pregnancy on fetal growth and pituitary-adrenal activity in sheep. Pregnant ewes carrying singleton fetuses (total n = 119) were randomized to control (2 ml saline/ewe) or DEX-treated groups (im injections of 0.14 mg/kg ewe weight . 12 h) at 40-41 d gestation (dG). At 50, 100, 125, and 140 dG, fetal plasma and tissues were collected. DEX-exposed fetuses were lighter than controls at 100 dG (P < 0.05) but not at any other times. Fetal plasma ACTH levels and pituitary POMC and PC-1 mRNA levels were similar between groups. Fetal plasma cortisol levels were significantly reduced after DEX exposure in both male and female fetuses at 50 dG (P < 0.05), were similar at 100 and 125 dG, but were significantly higher than controls at 140 dG. At 140 dG, there was increased adrenal P450C(17) and 3beta-HSD mRNA in female fetuses and reduced expression of ACTH-R mRNA in males. Fetal hepatic CBG mRNA levels mimicked plasma cortisol patterns. DEX exposure reduced CBG only in males at 50 dG (P < 0.05). Placental mRNA levels of 11beta-HSD2 were increased after DEX in males (P < 0.05). Therefore, in sheep, early DEX may alter the developmental trajectory of the fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, directly increasing fetal adrenal activation but not anterior pituitary function. In females, this effect may be attributed, in part, to increased fetal adrenal steroidogenic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Braun
- Department of Physiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Piette V, Demoly P. [Asthma and pregnancy. Review of the current literature and management according to the GINA 2006-2007 guidelines]. Rev Mal Respir 2009; 26:359-79; quiz 478, 482. [PMID: 19421090 DOI: 10.1016/s0761-8425(09)74042-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many pregnant women are asthmatics and maternal asthma is a source of questions and complications concerning both the progress of the pregnancy itself and the impact on the foetus. In this situation good asthma control is essential as the disease can deteriorate with acute exacerbations, possibly precipitated by reduction or even withdrawal of treatment on account of fear of teratogenicity. BACKGROUND Even though asthma treatments are not totally harmless during pregnancy, their use has been validated by several studies and guidelines. To help clinicians, we undertake here a review of the complications induced by maternal asthma and its medications, and then suggest management guidelines according to the most recent publications. CONCLUSIONS The risks and benefits of asthma treatments should be explained in a real partnership between the patient and her general practitioner and specialists (obstetrician, chest physician or allergist). In order to reduce complications to both mother and child, perfect control of asthma is required and inhaled steroids remain the treatment of choice for partially or uncontrolled asthma in the pregnant woman.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Piette
- Service de pneumologie, CHU de Liège, domaine universitaire du Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgique
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Veras MM, Damaceno-Rodrigues NR, Caldini EG, Ribeiro AAM, Mayhew TM, Saldiva PH, Dolhnikoff M. Particulate Urban Air Pollution Affects the Functional Morphology of Mouse Placenta1. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:578-84. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.069591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
|
38
|
Mayhew TM. A stereological perspective on placental morphology in normal and complicated pregnancies. J Anat 2008; 215:77-90. [PMID: 19141109 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2008.00994.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Stereology applied to randomly-generated thin sections allows minimally-biased and economical quantitation of the 3D structure of the placenta from molecular to whole-organ levels. With these sampling and estimation tools, it is possible to derive global quantities (tissue volumes, interface surface areas, tubule lengths and particle numbers), average values (e.g. mean cell size or membrane thickness), spatial relationships (e.g. between compartments and immunoprobes) and functional potential (e.g. diffusive conductance). This review indicates ways in which stereology has been used to interpret the morphology of human and murine placentas including the processes of villous growth, trophoblast differentiation, vascular morphogenesis and diffusive transport. In human placenta, global quantities have shown that villous maturation involves differential growth of fetal capillaries and increases in endothelial cell number. Villous trophoblast is a continuously renewing epithelium and, through much of gestation, exhibits a steady state between increasing numbers of nuclei in cytotrophoblast (CT) and syncytiotrophoblast (ST). The epithelium gradually becomes thinner because its surface expands at a faster rate than its volume. These changes help to ensure that placental diffusing capacity matches the growth in fetal mass. Comparable events occur in the murine placenta. Some of these processes are perturbed in complicated pregnancies: 1) fetoplacental vascular growth is compromised in pregnancies accompanied by maternal asthma, 2) changes in trophoblast turnover occur in pre-eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction, and 3) uteroplacental vascular development is impoverished, but diffusive transport increases, in pregnant mice exposed to particulate urban air pollution. Finally, quantitative immunoelectron microscopy now permits more rigorous analysis of the spatial distributions of interesting molecules between subcellular compartments or shifts in distributions following experimental manipulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terry M Mayhew
- Centre for Integrated Systems Biology & Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, UK.
| |
Collapse
|