1
|
De Bie FR, Regin Y, Dubois A, Scuglia M, Arai T, Muylle E, Basurto D, Regin M, Croubels S, Cherlet M, Partridge EA, Allegaert K, Russo FM, Deprest JA. Prenatal treprostinil improves pulmonary arteriolar hypermuscularization in the rabbit model of congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:115996. [PMID: 38086148 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a congenital malformation characterized by pulmonary hypoplasia, pulmonary hypertension, and cardiac dysfunction. Pulmonary hypertension represents the major cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Prenatal diagnosis allows assessment of severity and selection of foetal surgery candidates. We have shown that treprostinil, a prostacyclin analogue with an anti-remodelling effect, attenuates the relative hypermuscularization of the pulmonary vasculature in rats with nitrofen-induced CDH. Here we confirm these observations in a large animal model of surgically-created CDH. In the rabbit model, subcutaneous maternal administration of treprostinil at 150 ng/kg/min consistently reached target foetal concentrations without demonstrable detrimental foetal or maternal adverse effects. In pups with CDH, prenatal treprostinil reduced pulmonary arteriolar proportional medial wall thickness and downregulated inflammation and myogenesis pathways. No effect on alveolar morphometry or lung mechanics was observed. These findings provide further support towards clinical translation of prenatal treprostinil for CDH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix R De Bie
- Unit of Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yannick Regin
- Unit of Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Antoine Dubois
- Unit of Abdominal Transplantation, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marianna Scuglia
- Unit of Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tomohiro Arai
- Unit of Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ewout Muylle
- Unit of Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - David Basurto
- Unit of Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marius Regin
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
| | - Siska Croubels
- Department of Pathobiology, Pharmacology and Zoological Medicine, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Marc Cherlet
- Department of Pathobiology, Pharmacology and Zoological Medicine, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Emily A Partridge
- Center for Fetal Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, United States
| | - Karel Allegaert
- Unit of Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium; Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Francesca M Russo
- Unit of Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan A Deprest
- Unit of Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium; Institute for Women's Health, University College London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jayalekshmi VS, Jaikumar VS, Mehra P, Thulaseedharan T, Vinod VM, Ramachandran S. Differential expression of lipid metabolic genes in hypercholesterolemic rabbit placenta predisposes the offspring to develop atherosclerosis in early adulthood. Life Sci 2023:121823. [PMID: 37263488 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121823] [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: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Maternal hypercholesterolemia (MHC) is a pathological condition that may cause atherosclerosis in the adulthood of the offspring. The study aims to identify the role of in-utero programming by the placenta in atherogenesis and associated liver pathology in offspring. MAIN METHODS Female New Zealand white rabbits with normal lipid profiles were fed a 0.3 % HFD after mating. Lipid levels were monitored, and pregnant rabbits were sacrificed at the end of trimester 1, trimester 2, and trimester 3. Placental histology and expression of lipid metabolism genes were studied. Lipid levels, aortic lesions, and mRNA expression of cholesterol synthesis genes were investigated in fetuses at the end of gestation. A group of fetuses was allowed to attain early adulthood to investigate the liver lipid metabolism and atherogenesis with and without an HFD. KEY FINDINGS Elevated maternal lipid levels and placental gene expression were differentially modulated in HFD-fed mothers. HFD-fed rabbits demonstrated differential expression of the placental genes involved in receptor-mediated endocytosis of cholesterol, lipogenesis, and lipolysis in all three trimesters. It resulted in significant lipid depositions in the placenta, hyperlipidemia, and a decrease in hepatic cholesterol synthesis in fetuses at the end of gestation. There was no atherogenesis in the aorta of offspring at trimester 3, but such offspring of HFD-fed mothers developed atherosclerosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) with profound steatosis in their early adulthood with and without HFD. SIGNIFICANCE Diet-induced MHC differentially expressed placental lipid genes that may program the offspring to develop atherosclerosis and associated NAFL in early adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V S Jayalekshmi
- Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes Biology, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India; Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Vishnu Sunil Jaikumar
- Animal Research Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Priyanka Mehra
- Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes Biology, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India; MSc Biotechnology, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Thushara Thulaseedharan
- Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes Biology, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - V M Vinod
- Animal Research Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sferruzzi‐Perri AN, Lopez‐Tello J, Salazar‐Petres E. Placental adaptations supporting fetal growth during normal and adverse gestational environments. Exp Physiol 2023; 108:371-397. [PMID: 36484327 PMCID: PMC10103877 DOI: 10.1113/ep090442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the topic of this review? How the placenta, which transports nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, may alter its support of fetal growth developmentally and with adverse gestational conditions. What advances does it highlight? Placental formation and function alter with the needs of the fetus for substrates for growth during normal gestation and when there is enhanced competition for substrates in species with multiple gestations or adverse gestational environments, and this is mediated by imprinted genes, signalling pathways, mitochondria and fetal sexomes. ABSTRACT The placenta is vital for mammalian development and a key determinant of life-long health. It is the interface between the mother and fetus and is responsible for transporting the nutrients and oxygen a fetus needs to develop and grow. Alterations in placental formation and function, therefore, have consequences for fetal growth and birthweight, which in turn determine perinatal survival and risk of non-communicable diseases for the offspring in later postnatal life. However, the placenta is not a static organ. As this review summarizes, research from multiple species has demonstrated that placental formation and function alter developmentally to the needs of the fetus for substrates for growth during normal gestation, as well as when there is greater competition for substrates in polytocous species and monotocous species with multiple gestations. The placenta also adapts in response to the gestational environment, integrating information about the ability of the mother to provide nutrients and oxygen with the needs of the fetus in that prevailing environment. In particular, placental structure (e.g. vascularity, surface area, blood flow, diffusion distance) and transport capacity (e.g. nutrient transporter levels and activity) respond to suboptimal gestational environments, namely malnutrition, obesity, hypoxia and maternal ageing. Mechanisms mediating developmentally and environmentally induced homeostatic responses of the placenta that help support normal fetal growth include imprinted genes, signalling pathways, subcellular constituents and fetal sexomes. Identification of these placental strategies may inform the development of therapies for complicated human pregnancies and advance understanding of the pathways underlying poor fetal outcomes and their consequences for health and disease risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Nancy Sferruzzi‐Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Jorge Lopez‐Tello
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Esteban Salazar‐Petres
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Facultad de CienciasDepartamento de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Santo TomásValdiviaChile
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wiegel RE, Karsten MJH, Reijnders IF, van Rossem L, Willemsen SP, Mulders AGMGJ, Koning AHJ, Steegers EAP, Danser AHJ, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Corpus luteum number and the maternal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system as determinants of utero-placental (vascular) development: the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:164. [PMID: 34732224 PMCID: PMC8567673 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00843-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancies with > 1 corpus luteum (CL) display a hyperdynamic circulation and an increased risk of small-for-gestational age deliveries. Among the factors released by the CL is prorenin, the inactive precursor of renin. Since the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is involved in early hemodynamic pregnancy adaptation, we linked both CL number and first-trimester concentrations of prorenin (as an indicator of RAAS activity) and the aldosterone/renin ratio (as an indicator of angiotensin-independent aldosterone effectiveness) to non-invasive markers of utero-placental (vascular) development, measured longitudinally from the first trimester onwards. METHODS A total of 201 women, who conceived naturally or after in-vitro fertilization treatment (with 0 (n = 8), 1 (n = 143), or > 1 (n = 51) CL), were selected from the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Maternal RAAS components were determined at 11 weeks gestation. Placental volume and utero-placental vascular volume were measured from transvaginal 3D ultrasound scans at 7, 9 and 11 weeks gestation, pulsatility and resistance indices of the uterine arteries were assessed by pulsed wave Doppler ultrasounds at 7, 9, 11, 13, 22 and 32 weeks gestation. At birth placental weight was obtained using standardized procedures. RESULTS Pregnancies without a CL show lower uterine artery indices throughout gestation than 1 CL and > 1 CL pregnancies, while parameters of placental development are comparable among the CL groups. After adjustment for patient- and treatment-related factors, first-trimester prorenin concentrations are positively associated with uterine artery pulsatility and resistance indices (β 0.06, 95% CI 0.01;0.12, p = 0.04 and β 0.10, 95% CI 0.01;0.20, p = 0.04, respectively), while high prorenin concentrations are negatively associated with first-trimester utero-placental vascular volume (β -0.23, 95% CI -0.44;-0.02, p = 0.04) and placental weight (β -93.8, 95%CI -160.3;-27.4, p = 0.006). In contrast, the aldosterone/renin ratio is positively associated with first-trimester placental volume (β 0.12, 95% CI 0.01;0.24, p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS The absence of a CL, resulting in low prorenin concentrations, associates with low uterine artery pulsatility and resistance, while high prorenin concentrations associate with a low utero-placental vascular volume and weight. These data support a scenario in which excess prorenin, by upregulating angiotensin II, increases uterine resistance, thereby preventing normal placental (vascular) development, and increasing the risk of small-for-gestational age deliveries. Simultaneously, high aldosterone concentrations, by ensuring volume expansion, exert the opposite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosalieke E Wiegel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maud J H Karsten
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Igna F Reijnders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Bioinformatics Unit, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Double-label immunohistochemistry to assess labyrinth structure of the mouse placenta with stereology. Placenta 2020; 94:44-47. [PMID: 32421534 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In mice, the labyrinth zone of the placenta exchanges nutrients and gases between mother and fetus. This placental zone is complex in structure and defects in its morphogenesis can compromise substrate exchange and thus, fetal growth and viability. Numerous mouse models involving genetic and environmental manipulation show abnormalities in labyrinth zone size. However, further structural analysis, normally undertaken using ultrathin resin sections, can pose practical constraints. Here, we validate the use of stereology on paraffin-embedded sections double-labelled for lectin and cytokeratin as a cheap, fast and robust alternative for analysing the structure of the mouse placental labyrinth.
Collapse
|
6
|
Russo FM, De Bie F, Hodges R, Flake A, Deprest J. Sildenafil for Antenatal Treatment of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: From Bench to Bedside. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:601-608. [PMID: 30894101 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190320151856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity in infants affected by congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Since the structural changes that lead to PPH take place already in utero, a treatment starting in the prenatal phase may prevent the occurrence of this complication. OBJECTIVE To summarize the development process of antenatal sildenafil for CDH. METHODS The pharmacokinetics and efficacy of sildenafil have been assessed in the rat and the rabbit model. The transfer of the drug through the human placenta has been measured with the ex-vivo placenta perfusion model. Results from this experiment are being incorporated in a pregnancy-physiologically based pharmacokinetic (p- PBPK) model. A phase I-IIb placental transfer and safety study is ongoing. RESULTS Sildenafil administration to pregnant rats and rabbits led to therapeutic foetal drug levels without maternal and foetal toxicity, although it was associated with impaired vascular development in foetuses with nonhypoplastic lungs. Peak concentrations and 24-hour exposure were higher in pregnant rabbits compared to nonpregnant ones. In rat and rabbit foetuses with CDH, sildenafil rescued the lung vascular anomalies and partially improved parenchymal development. Sildenafil crossed the human placenta at a high rate ex-vivo, independently from the initial maternal concentration. CONCLUSION There is preclinical evidence that maternally administered sildenafil prevents the vascular changes that lead to PPH in CDH newborns. The phase I/IIb clinical study together with the p-PBPK model will define the maternal dose needed for a therapeutic effect in the foetus. Foetal safety will be investigated both in the clinical study and in the sheep. The final step will be a multicentre, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca M Russo
- Cluster Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Felix De Bie
- Cluster Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ryan Hodges
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute for Medical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alan Flake
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jan Deprest
- Cluster Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lopez-Tello J, Arias-Alvarez M, Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Sferuzzi-Perri AN. Models of Intrauterine growth restriction and fetal programming in rabbits. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1781-1809. [PMID: 31538701 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) affects approximately 10% of human pregnancies globally and has immediate and life-long consequences for offspring health. However, the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of IUGR and its association with later health and disease outcomes are poorly understood. To address these knowledge gaps, the use of experimental animals is critically important. Since the 50's different environmental, pharmacological, and surgical manipulations have been performed in the rabbit to improve our knowledge of the control of fetal growth, fetal responses to IUGR, and mechanisms by which offspring may be programmed by an adverse gestational environment. The purpose of this review is therefore to summarize the utility of the rabbit as a model for IUGR research. It first summarizes the knowledge of prenatal and postnatal development in the rabbit and how these events relate to developmental milestones in humans. It then describes the methods used to induce IUGR in rabbits and the knowledge gained about the mechanisms determining prenatal and postnatal outcomes of the offspring. Finally, it discusses the application of state of the art approaches in the rabbit, including high-resolution ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and gene targeting, to gain a deeper integrative understanding of the physiological and molecular events governing the development of IUGR. Overall, we hope to engage and inspire investigators to employ the rabbit as a model organism when studying pregnancy physiology so that we may advance our understanding of mechanisms underlying IUGR and its consequences in humans and other mammalian species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Maria Arias-Alvarez
- Department of Animal Production. Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Amanda N Sferuzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Akkuş T, Erdoğan G. Ultrasonographic evaluation of feto-placental tissues at different intrauterine locations in rabbit. Theriogenology 2019; 138:16-23. [PMID: 31280181 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The main purpose of examining multiparous species with real-time ultrasonography is to determine the gestational age and make various fetal measurements for early diagnosis of growth anomalies and sibling mismatches. This study investigated changes in fetometric measurements, obstetric Doppler indices and placental image analysis results based on gestational age and fetal location in fetuses located cranially and caudally between 16 and 24 days gestation in 22 healthy pregnant New Zealand rabbits. The first study group consisted of fetuses positioned at the cranial end (n = 22) while the second group consisted of fetuses positioned at the caudal end (n = 22) in each pregnancy. Fetal biparietal head diameter (BPD) and trunk diameter (TD) were measured, and mean grayness values (MGV) were determined from placental image analysis of each fetus. Using Doppler USG, the pulsatile (PI) and resistance (RI) indices of the uterine artery (UtA) and umbilical artery (UmA) were recorded. By the end of the study, BPD and TD values for cranial and caudal fetuses had significantly increased with gestational age (P < 0.001). The MGV values of caudal fetuses were significantly higher (except for the 16th day) (P < 0.05). The UtA PI value of the caudal fetuses was significantly higher (except for the 18th day) (P < 0.01). The UtA RI values of caudal fetuses were significantly higher than cranial ones on the 16 and 24th days (P < 0.05). The PI of the UmA increased until the 20th day before decreasing significantly in both study groups (P < 0.001). The UmA RI value decreased according to the gestational age in both groups (P < 0.001). It was significantly higher in the caudal fetuses on the 20th day (P < 0.05). The somatic rate of all fetuses peaked at the end of the second trimester, although caudal fetuses had higher fetometric values, and this location difference also affected placental echotexture. In both vessels of caudal fetuses, pulsatility and resistance values were higher. The 20th day of pregnancy was a threshold for the Doppler exam results. In conclusion, growth and metabolic status of fetuses located in different uterine locations in healthy pregnant New Zealand rabbits vary. Based on the these growth curves and hemodynamic data, more comprehensive studies of intrauterine life may be possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuğra Akkuş
- Harran University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sanliurfa, Turkey.
| | - Güneş Erdoğan
- Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aydin, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhu P, Wang W, Zuo R, Sun K. Mechanisms for establishment of the placental glucocorticoid barrier, a guard for life. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:13-26. [PMID: 30225585 PMCID: PMC11105584 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2918-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The fetus is shielded from the adverse effects of excessive maternal glucocorticoids by 11β-HSD2, an enzyme which is expressed in the syncytial layer of the placental villi and is capable of converting biologically active cortisol into inactive cortisone. Impairment of this placental glucocorticoid barrier is associated with fetal intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and development of chronic diseases in later life. Ontogeny studies show that the expression of 11β-HSD2 is initiated at a very early stage after conception and increases with gestational age but declines around term. The promoter for HSD11B2, the gene encoding 11β-HSD2, has a highly GC-rich core. However, the pattern of methylation on HSD11B2 may have already been set up in the blastocyst when the trophoblast identity is committed. Instead, hCG-initiated signals appear to be responsible for the upsurge of 11β-HSD2 expression during trophoblast syncytialization. By activating the cAMP/PKA pathway, hCG not only alters the modification of histones but also increases the expression of Sp1 which activates the transcription of HSD11B2. Adverse conditions such as stress, hypoxia and nutritional restriction can cause IUGR of the fetus. It appears that different causes of IUGR may attenuate HSD11B2 expression differentially in the placenta. While stress and nutritional restriction may reduce HSD11B2 expression by increasing its methylation, hypoxia may decrease HSD11B2 expression via alternative mechanisms rather than by methylation. Herein, we summarize the advances in the study of mechanisms underlying the establishment of the placental glucocorticoid barrier and the attenuation of this barrier by adverse conditions during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 401 Hospital, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Wangsheng Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Rujuan Zuo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Kang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Russo FM, Mian P, Krekels EH, Van Calsteren K, Tibboel D, Deprest J, Allegaert K. Pregnancy affects the pharmacokinetics of sildenafil and its metabolite in the rabbit. Xenobiotica 2018; 49:98-105. [PMID: 29278046 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2017.1422217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
1. There is growing interest in the use of sildenafil during pregnancy for various maternal and fetal conditions. This study aims to investigate the effect of pregnancy on the maternal pharmacokinetics (PK) of sildenafil and its main metabolite desmethylsildenafil in rabbits. Using NONMEM, population PK modeling was performed based on plasma samples from 31 rabbits of whom 15 were pregnant and 16 were not. All received a single subcutaneous sildenafil dose of 10 mg/kg. One sample was obtained per rabbit at either 30, 60, 120, 360, 720 or 1320 min after sildenafil administration. 2. A two- and one-compartment PK-model best described the data for sildenafil and desmethylsildenafil, respectively. Compared to non-pregnant rabbits, the central and peripheral volume of distribution and inter-compartmental clearance of sildenafil were lower in pregnant rabbits [32.1 versus 12.2 L, 110 versus 44.4 L and 25.5 versus 12.1 L/h; all p < 0.05]. The formation clearance from sildenafil to desmethylsildenafil was also reduced during pregnancy [13.3 versus 7.8 L/h; p < 0.05]. 3. In contrast, the elimination clearance of desmethylsildenafil, was higher in pregnancy [73.5 versus 116. 9; p < 0.05]. In rabbits, pregnancy impacts PK parameters of sildenafil and its metabolite, leading to an increased peak concentration and 24 h exposure for sildenafil and a decreased 24 h exposure for desmethylsildenafil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca M Russo
- a Cluster Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University Hospitals Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Paola Mian
- c Intensive Care and Department of Paediatric Surgery , Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Elke H Krekels
- d Division of Pharmacology , Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University , Leiden , The Netherlands , and
| | - Kristel Van Calsteren
- a Cluster Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University Hospitals Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Dick Tibboel
- c Intensive Care and Department of Paediatric Surgery , Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Jan Deprest
- a Cluster Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University Hospitals Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,e Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Institute of Women's Health, University College London , London , UK
| | - Karel Allegaert
- a Cluster Woman and Child, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,c Intensive Care and Department of Paediatric Surgery , Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Placental 11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2) expression very early during human pregnancy. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2017; 8:149-154. [DOI: 10.1017/s2040174416000611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Maternal physiologic stress during gestation has been reported to be associated with negative developmental outcomes, including intra-uterine growth restriction and reduced birth weight, which can impact postnatal development, behavior and health. The human fetus is partially protected from elevated cortisol exposure by placental 11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), which oxidizes bioactive cortisol into bio-inactive cortisone. Importantly, despite the critical protective role hypothesized for 11β-HSD2, the onset of its placental expression has yet to be clearly established. To this aim, we present immunocytochemical analysis of placentas collected 3–6 weeks post-conception. 11β-HSD2 was present as early as 3 weeks post-conception in syncytiotrophoblasts, where most maternal–fetal exchange occurs, and in columnar epithelial cells encircling uterine endometrial glands, which provide early histiopathic nutrition to the embryo. 11β-HSD2 expression in these critical maternal–fetal exchange areas is consistent with its hypothesized protective role. Future studies should investigate the mechanisms that may modulate embryonic glucocorticoid exposure earlier, immediately post-conception.
Collapse
|
12
|
Mourier E, Tarrade A, Duan J, Richard C, Bertholdt C, Beaumont M, Morel O, Chavatte-Palmer P. Non-invasive evaluation of placental blood flow: lessons from animal models. Reproduction 2016; 153:R85-R96. [PMID: 27845691 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In human obstetrics, placental vascularisation impairment is frequent as well as linked to severe pathological events (preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction), and there is a need for reliable methods allowing non-invasive evaluation of placental blood flow. Uteroplacental vascularisation is complex, and animal models are essential for the technical development and safety assessment of these imaging tools for human clinical use; however, these techniques can also be applied in the veterinary context. This paper reviews how ultrasound-based imaging methods such as 2D and 3D Doppler can provide valuable insight for the exploration of placental blood flow both in humans and animals and how new approaches such as the use of ultrasound contrast agents or ultrafast Doppler may allow to discriminate between maternal (non-pulsatile) and foetal (pulsatile) blood flow in the placenta. Finally, functional magnetic resonance imaging could also be used to evaluate placental blood flow, as indicated by studies in animal models, but its safety in human pregnancy still requires to be confirmed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Mourier
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France .,PremUp FoundationParis, France
| | - A Tarrade
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France.,PremUp FoundationParis, France
| | - J Duan
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - C Richard
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France.,PremUp FoundationParis, France
| | - C Bertholdt
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - M Beaumont
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - O Morel
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - P Chavatte-Palmer
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France.,PremUp FoundationParis, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Valentino SA, Tarrade A, Aioun J, Mourier E, Richard C, Dahirel M, Rousseau-Ralliard D, Fournier N, Aubrière MC, Lallemand MS, Camous S, Guinot M, Charlier M, Aujean E, Al Adhami H, Fokkens PH, Agier L, Boere JA, Cassee FR, Slama R, Chavatte-Palmer P. Maternal exposure to diluted diesel engine exhaust alters placental function and induces intergenerational effects in rabbits. Part Fibre Toxicol 2016; 13:39. [PMID: 27460165 PMCID: PMC4962477 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-016-0151-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Airborne pollution is a rising concern in urban areas. Epidemiological studies in humans and animal experiments using rodent models indicate that gestational exposure to airborne pollution, in particular diesel engine exhaust (DE), reduces birth weight, but effects depend on exposure duration, gestational window and nanoparticle (NP) concentration. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of gestational exposure to diluted DE on feto-placental development in a rabbit model. Pregnant females were exposed to diluted (1 mg/m(3)), filtered DE (NP diameter ≈ 69 nm) or clean air (controls) for 2 h/day, 5 days/week by nose-only exposure (total exposure: 20 days in a 31-day gestation). RESULTS DE exposure induced early signs of growth retardation at mid gestation with decreased head length (p = 0.04) and umbilical pulse (p = 0.018). Near term, fetal head length (p = 0.029) and plasma insulin and IGF1 concentrations (p = 0.05 and p = 0.019) were reduced. Placental function was also affected, with reduced placental efficiency (fetal/placental weight) (p = 0.049), decreased placental blood flow (p = 0.009) and fetal vessel volume (p = 0.002). Non-aggregated and "fingerprint" NP were observed at various locations, in maternal blood space, in trophoblastic cells and in the fetal blood, demonstrating transplacental transfer. Adult female offspring were bred with control males. Although fetoplacental biometry was not affected near term, second generation fetal metabolism was modified by grand-dam exposure with decreased plasma cholesterol (p = 0.008) and increased triglyceride concentrations (p = 0.015). CONCLUSIONS Repeated daily gestational exposure to DE at levels close to urban pollution can affect feto-placental development in the first and second generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Valentino
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Anne Tarrade
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Josiane Aioun
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Eve Mourier
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Richard
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Michèle Dahirel
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Rousseau-Ralliard
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Natalie Fournier
- UFR de Pharmacie, Univ Paris-Sud, EA 4041/4529 Lip (Sys), Châtenay-Malabry, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou (AP-HP), Laboratoire de Biochimie, UF Cardio-Vasculaire, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Christine Aubrière
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Sylvie Lallemand
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Sylvaine Camous
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Marine Guinot
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Madia Charlier
- INRA, UMR1313 Génétique Animale et Biologie Intégrative, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Etienne Aujean
- INRA, UMR1313 Génétique Animale et Biologie Intégrative, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Hala Al Adhami
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Paul H. Fokkens
- Centre for Sustainability, Environment and Health, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Lydiane Agier
- Inserm and Univ. Grenoble Alpes, U823, IAB Research Center, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Reproduction and Respiratory Health, Grenoble, France
| | - John A. Boere
- Centre for Sustainability, Environment and Health, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Flemming R. Cassee
- Centre for Sustainability, Environment and Health, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
- Institute of Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Rémy Slama
- Inserm and Univ. Grenoble Alpes, U823, IAB Research Center, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Reproduction and Respiratory Health, Grenoble, France
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Russo FM, Toelen J, Eastwood MP, Jimenez J, Miyague AH, Vande Velde G, DeKoninck P, Himmelreich U, Vergani P, Allegaert K, Deprest J. Transplacental sildenafil rescues lung abnormalities in the rabbit model of diaphragmatic hernia. Thorax 2016; 71:517-25. [PMID: 26987998 DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2015-207949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (DH) would benefit from an antenatal medical therapy, which addresses both lung hypoplasia and persistent pulmonary hypertension. We aimed at evaluating the pulmonary effects of sildenafil in the fetal rabbit model for DH. METHODS We performed a dose-finding study to achieve therapeutic fetal plasmatic concentrations without toxicity following maternal sildenafil administration. Subsequently, DH fetuses were randomly exposed to transplacental placebo or sildenafil 10 mg/kg/day from gestational day 24 until examination at term (day 30). Efficacy measures were ipsilateral pulmonary vascular and airway morphometry, micro-CT-based branching analysis, Doppler flow in the main pulmonary artery and postnatal lung mechanics. RESULTS Fetal sildenafil plasmatic concentration was above the minimal therapeutic level for at least 22 h/day without maternal and fetal side effects. The placebo-exposed DH fetuses had increased wall thickness in peripheral pulmonary vessels and significantly less fifth-order vessels compared with controls (CTR). Sildenafil-exposed DH fetuses, instead, had a medial and adventitial thickness in peripheral pulmonary vessels in the normal range and normal vascular branching. Fetal pulmonary artery Doppler showed a reduction of pulmonary vascular resistances both in DH and in CTR fetuses treated by sildenafil compared with the placebo-treated ones. Sildenafil also reversed the mean terminal bronchiolar density to normal and improved lung mechanics, yet without measurable impact on lung-to-bodyweight ratio. CONCLUSIONS In the rabbit model for DH, antenatal sildenafil rescues vascular branching and architecture, reduces pulmonary vascular resistances and also improves airway morphometry and respiratory mechanics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca M Russo
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jaan Toelen
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M Patrice Eastwood
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Julio Jimenez
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinica Alemana, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andre Hadyme Miyague
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip DeKoninck
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrizia Vergani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Karel Allegaert
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium Department of Neonatalogy, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Deprest
- Cluster Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
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]
|
16
|
Food restriction during pregnancy in rabbits: Effects on hormones and metabolites involved in energy homeostasis and metabolic programming. Res Vet Sci 2015; 98:7-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2014.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Revised: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
17
|
Cuffe J, Walton S, Steane S, Singh R, Simmons D, Moritz K. The effects of gestational age and maternal hypoxia on the placental renin angiotensin system in the mouse. Placenta 2014; 35:953-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
18
|
Tarrade A, Rousseau-Ralliard D, Aubrière MC, Peynot N, Dahirel M, Bertrand-Michel J, Aguirre-Lavin T, Morel O, Beaujean N, Duranthon V, Chavatte-Palmer P. Sexual dimorphism of the feto-placental phenotype in response to a high fat and control maternal diets in a rabbit model. PLoS One 2013; 8:e83458. [PMID: 24386205 PMCID: PMC3873307 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0083458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal environment during early developmental stages plays a seminal role in the establishment of adult phenotype. Using a rabbit model, we previously showed that feeding dams with a diet supplemented with 8% fat and 0.2% cholesterol (HH diet) from the prepubertal period and throughout gestation induced metabolic syndrome in adult offspring. Here, we examined the effects of the HH diet on feto-placental phenotype at 28 days post-coïtum (term = 31 days) in relation to earlier effects in the blastocyst (Day 6). At 28 days, both male and female HH fetuses were intrauterine growth retarded and dyslipidemic, with males more affected than females. Lipid droplets accumulated in the HH placentas' trophoblast, consistent with the increased concentrations in cholesteryl esters (3.2-fold), triacylglycerol (2.5-fold) and stored FA (2.12-fold). Stored FA concentrations were significantly higher in female compared to male HH placentas (2.18-fold, p<0.01), whereas triacylglycerol was increased only in HH males. Trophoblastic lipid droplet accumulation was also observed at the blastocyst stage. The expression of numerous genes involved in lipid pathways differed significantly according to diet both in term placenta and at the blastocyst stage. Among them, the expression of LXR-α in HH placentas was reduced in HH males but not females. These data demonstrate that maternal HH diet affects the blastocyst and induces sex-dependent metabolic adaptations in the placenta, which appears to protect female fetuses from developing severe dyslipidemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Tarrade
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Rousseau-Ralliard
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Christine Aubrière
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Peynot
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
| | - Michèle Dahirel
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | | | - Tiphaine Aguirre-Lavin
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
| | - Olivier Morel
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Beaujean
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
| | - Véronique Duranthon
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- ENVA, Maisons Alfort, France
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lecarpentier E, Morel O, Tarrade A, Dahirel M, Bonneau M, Gayat E, Evain-brion D, Chavatte-palmer P, Tsatsaris V. Quantification of utero-placental vascularization in a rabbit model of IUGR with three-dimensional power Doppler angiography. Placenta 2012; 33:769-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 05/22/2012] [Accepted: 06/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
20
|
Fischer B, Chavatte-Palmer P, Viebahn C, Navarrete Santos A, Duranthon V. Rabbit as a reproductive model for human health. Reproduction 2012; 144:1-10. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The renaissance of the laboratory rabbit as a reproductive model for human health is closely related to the growing evidence of periconceptional metabolic programming and its determining effects on offspring and adult health. Advantages of rabbit reproduction are the exact timing of fertilization and pregnancy stages, high cell numbers and yield in blastocysts, relatively late implantation at a time when gastrulation is already proceeding, detailed morphologic and molecular knowledge on gastrulation stages, and a hemochorial placenta structured similarly to the human placenta. To understand, for example, the mechanisms of periconceptional programming and its effects on metabolic health in adulthood, these advantages help to elucidate even subtle changes in metabolism and development during the pre- and peri-implantation period and during gastrulation in individual embryos. Gastrulation represents a central turning point in ontogenesis in which a limited number of cells program the development of the three germ layers and, hence, the embryo proper. Newly developed transgenic and molecular tools offer promising chances for further scientific progress to be attained with this reproductive model species.
Collapse
|
21
|
Bloise E, Lin W, Liu X, Simbulan R, Kolahi KS, Petraglia F, Maltepe E, Donjacour A, Rinaudo P. Impaired placental nutrient transport in mice generated by in vitro fertilization. Endocrinology 2012; 153:3457-67. [PMID: 22562173 PMCID: PMC3380310 DOI: 10.1210/en.2011-1921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
More than 4.5 million children have been conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF). Interestingly, singleton IVF offspring born at term have an increased incidence of low birth weight. The mechanism responsible for the lower birth weight is unknown, but alterations in placental function are possible. Hence, the goal of our study was to examine placental growth and function in mice generated in vivo or in vitro. To assess placental function, blastocysts were generated by IVF or produced by natural mating (control group); both IVF and control blastocysts were transferred to pseudopregnant recipients. Placental weights did not differ at embryonic d 15.5 (E15.5) but were increased at E18.5 in the IVF group (25.4%, P < 0.001) compared with control. Proliferation was increased in IVF placentae, whereas overall placental gross morphology and apoptosis were not affected. Both fetal weights (16.4% lower at E15.5 and 8.8% lower at E18.5, P < 0.05) and fetal to placental ratios were lower (P < 0.001) in the IVF compared with the control group at both time points, whereas birth weights did not differ. At E18.5, the mRNA for selected glucose, system A amino acid transporters, and imprinted genes were down-regulated in IVF placentae. GLUT3 protein level was decreased in the IVF group (P < 0.05). Importantly, intrajugular injections of (14)C-methyl-D-glucose or (14)C-MeAIB tracers (n = 6 litters per group) showed that placental transport of glucose and amino acids were 24.8% (not significant) and 58.1% (P < 0.05) lower in the IVF group. Fetal accumulation of glucose was not different, but amino acid accumulation was significantly (36 %) lower in IVF fetuses (P < 0.05). We conclude that IVF alters both fetal and placental growth and, importantly, decreases placental transport efficiency in mice conceived by IVF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrrico Bloise
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Science, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, California 94143-0916, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Carey LC, Rose JC. The midgestational maternal blood pressure decline is absent in mice lacking expression of the angiotensin II AT2 receptor. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2010; 12:29-35. [DOI: 10.1177/1470320310376986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The midgestational maternal blood pressure (BP) decrease is absent in mice treated with an angiotensin II AT2 receptor blocker. We tested the hypotheses that there would be 1) no midgestational decrease in maternal systolic BP (SBP) in AT2-/- mice, and 2) a pattern of increased AT2 and/or decreased AT1a mRNA expression in tissues from normal (wild-type, WT) mice, corresponding with SBP changes. Heart, aorta, placenta and kidney tissue were obtained from WT and AT2-/- mice before pregnancy and on gestational days (Gd) 5-6, 12-13 and 18-19. AT1a and AT2 mRNA expression was quantified. SBP was measured. SBP was significantly decreased in WT Gd12-13 mice, but did not change during pregnancy in AT2-/- mice. In WT mice, aortic AT1a mRNA expression levels were significantly higher at Gd12-13 and Gd18-19 compared with before pregnancy. AT1a kidney and heart mRNA did not change during pregnancy. There were no changes in AT2 mRNA expression. There was no distinct pattern of change in AT1a expression in AT2-/mice. Placental AT1a and AT2 expression levels increased markedly between Gd12-13 and Gd18-19 in WT mice. We conclude that the AT2 receptor is essential for the midgestational SBP decline in WT mice. There is no consistent relationship between changes in tissue angiotensin II receptor mRNA expression and SBP in WT mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luke C Carey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA, The Center of Research for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - James C Rose
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA, The Center of Research for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Delle Piane L, Lin W, Liu X, Donjacour A, Minasi P, Revelli A, Maltepe E, Rinaudo PF. Effect of the method of conception and embryo transfer procedure on mid-gestation placenta and fetal development in an IVF mouse model. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:2039-46. [PMID: 20576634 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal placentation is a potential mechanism to explain the increased incidence of low birthweight observed after IVF. This study evaluates, in a mouse model, whether the method of conception and embryo transfer affect placentation and fetal development. METHODS IVF blastocysts (CF1 x B6D2F1/J) were cultured in Whitten's medium (IVF(WM), n = 55) or K modified simplex optimized medium with amino acids (IVF(KAA), n = 56). Embryos were transferred to the uteri of pseudo-pregnant recipients. Two control groups were created: unmanipulated embryos produced by natural mating (in vivo group, n = 64) and embryos produced by natural mating that were flushed from uterus and immediately transferred to pseudo-pregnant recipients (flushed blastocysts, FB group, n = 57). At gestation age 12.5 days, implantation sites were collected and fixed; fetuses and placentas were weighed and their developmental stage (DS) evaluated. Placental areas and vascular volume fractions were calculated; parametric statistics were applied as appropriate. RESULTS IVF fetuses showed a modest but significant delay in development compared with FB mice (P < 0.05). In addition, IVF conceptuses were consistently smaller than FB (P < 0.05). Importantly, these differences persisted when analyzing fetuses of similar DS. The placenta/fetus ratio was larger in the IVF group (IVF(WM) 0.95; IVF(KAA) = 0.90) than the FB group (0.72) (P < 0.05 for all comparisons). Gross morphology of the placenta and ratio labyrinth/fetal area were equivalent in the IVF and FB groups, as were percentage of fetal blood vessels, maternal blood spaces and trophoblastic components. CONCLUSIONS In vitro embryo culture affects fetal and placental development; this could explain the lower birthweight in IVF offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Delle Piane
- Obstetric, Gynecology and Reproductive Science Division, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chronic maternal hypertension affects placental gene expression and differentiation in rabbits. J Hypertens 2010; 28:959-68. [DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e3283369f1e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
25
|
McArdle AM, Roberts CT, Maduwegedera D, Flower RL, Denton KM. Chronic maternal hypertension characterized by renal dysfunction is associated with reduced placental blood flow during late gestation in rabbits. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2010; 298:R1043-9. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00202.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Maternal hypertension associated with renal disease is a common pregnancy complication. Previously, we have shown in a rabbit model of mild hypertension that offspring from hypertensive mothers have increased blood pressure as adults. In human pregnancy, hypertension has been associated with decreased utero-placental blood flow. The aim of this study was to determine placental blood flow (PBF) in mild (2-kidney-1-wrapped; 2K-1W) and moderate (2-kidney-2-wrapped; 2K-2W) rabbit models of maternal hypertension. We hypothesized that PBF would be inversely related to the severity of the hypertension. PBF and renal blood flow (RBF) were measured using microspheres on day 28 of a 32-day gestation, in normotensive (sham), 2K-1W, and 2K-2W hypertensive groups. Mean arterial pressure (MAP, ∼7 mmHg, P < 0.05) was increased, and RBF (∼35%, P < 0.05) was reduced in the 2K-1W and 2K-2W (MAP ∼20 mmHg, P < 0.01; RBF ∼53%, P < 0.05) groups compared with the sham group. In the 2K-1W group, PBF fell by ∼12% ( P = 0.08) and fetal-to-placental weight ratio increased by ∼12% ( P < 0.01) compared with the sham group, reflecting an increase in the functional capacity of the placenta to deliver nutrients to the fetus. In the 2K-2W group, PBF decreased ∼51% ( P < 0.05) compared with the sham group, without changes in placental efficiency. Thus, in late gestation, placental blood flow was significantly reduced in the moderate hypertension group, without accompanying changes in fetal or placental weight or placental efficiency. In contrast, mild hypertension resulted in an increase in placental efficiency, without significant changes in placental blood flow. These findings suggest that mild and moderate hypertension may alter placental delivery of nutrients via differing mechanisms dependent upon the severity of the hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adelle M. McArdle
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne Australia; and
| | - Claire T. Roberts
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Rebecca L. Flower
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne Australia; and
| | - Kate M. Denton
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne Australia; and
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Moritz KM, Cuffe JSM, Wilson LB, Dickinson H, Wlodek ME, Simmons DG, Denton KM. Review: Sex specific programming: a critical role for the renal renin-angiotensin system. Placenta 2010; 31 Suppl:S40-6. [PMID: 20116093 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2010.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2009] [Revised: 01/06/2010] [Accepted: 01/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The "Developmental Origins of Health and Disease" hypothesis has caused resurgence of interest in understanding the factors regulating fetal development. A multitude of prenatal perturbations may contribute to the onset of diseases in adulthood including cardiovascular and renal diseases. Using animal models such as maternal glucocorticoid exposure, maternal calorie or protein restriction and uteroplacental insufficiency, studies have identified alterations in kidney development as being a common feature. The formation of a low nephron endowment may result in impaired renal function and in turn may contribute to disease. An interesting feature in many animal models of developmental programming is the disparity between males and females in the timing of onset and severity of disease outcomes. The same prenatal insult does not always affect males and females in the same way or to the same degree. Recently, our studies have focused on changes induced in the kidney of both the fetus and the offspring, following a perturbation during pregnancy. We have shown that changes in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) occur in the kidney. The changes are often sex specific which may in part explain the observed sex differences in disease outcomes and severity. This review explores the evidence suggesting a critical role for the RAS in sex specific developmental programming of disease with particular reference to the immediate and long term changes in the local RAS within the kidney.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K M Moritz
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|