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Derisoud E, Jiang H, Zhao A, Chavatte-Palmer P, Deng Q. Revealing the molecular landscape of human placenta: a systematic review and meta-analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing studies. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:410-441. [PMID: 38478759 PMCID: PMC11215163 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae006] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With increasing significance of developmental programming effects associated with placental dysfunction, more investigations are devoted to improving the characterization and understanding of placental signatures in health and disease. The placenta is a transitory but dynamic organ adapting to the shifting demands of fetal development and available resources of the maternal supply throughout pregnancy. Trophoblasts (cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblasts, and extravillous trophoblasts) are placental-specific cell types responsible for the main placental exchanges and adaptations. Transcriptomic studies with single-cell resolution have led to advances in understanding the placenta's role in health and disease. These studies, however, often show discrepancies in characterization of the different placental cell types. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We aim to review the knowledge regarding placental structure and function gained from the use of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq), followed by comparing cell-type-specific genes, highlighting their similarities and differences. Moreover, we intend to identify consensus marker genes for the various trophoblast cell types across studies. Finally, we will discuss the contributions and potential applications of scRNAseq in studying pregnancy-related diseases. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a comprehensive systematic literature review to identify different cell types and their functions at the human maternal-fetal interface, focusing on all original scRNAseq studies on placentas published before March 2023 and published reviews (total of 28 studies identified) using PubMed search. Our approach involved curating cell types and subtypes that had previously been defined using scRNAseq and comparing the genes used as markers or identified as potential new markers. Next, we reanalyzed expression matrices from the six available scRNAseq raw datasets with cell annotations (four from first trimester and two at term), using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to compare gene expression among studies and annotate trophoblast cell markers in both first trimester and term placentas. Furthermore, we integrated scRNAseq raw data available from 18 healthy first trimester and nine term placentas, and performed clustering and differential gene expression analysis. We further compared markers obtained with the analysis of annotated and raw datasets with the literature to obtain a common signature gene list for major placental cell types. OUTCOMES Variations in the sampling site, gestational age, fetal sex, and subsequent sequencing and analysis methods were observed between the studies. Although their proportions varied, the three trophoblast types were consistently identified across all scRNAseq studies, unlike other non-trophoblast cell types. Notably, no marker genes were shared by all studies for any of the investigated cell types. Moreover, most of the newly defined markers in one study were not observed in other studies. These discrepancies were confirmed by our analysis on trophoblast cell types, where hundreds of potential marker genes were identified in each study but with little overlap across studies. From 35 461 and 23 378 cells of high quality in the first trimester and term placentas, respectively, we obtained major placental cell types, including perivascular cells that previously had not been identified in the first trimester. Importantly, our meta-analysis provides marker genes for major placental cell types based on our extensive curation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review and meta-analysis emphasizes the need for establishing a consensus for annotating placental cell types from scRNAseq data. The marker genes identified here can be deployed for defining human placental cell types, thereby facilitating and improving the reproducibility of trophoblast cell annotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Derisoud
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Allan Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Qiaolin Deng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
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Founds SA, Stolz DB. Gene expression of four targets in situ of the first trimester maternal-fetoplacental interface. Tissue Cell 2019; 64:101313. [PMID: 32473702 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2019.101313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
EPAS1, FSTL3, IGFBP1, and SEMA3C were localized to determine whether expression is decidual, trophoblastic, or both in the human first trimester maternal-fetoplacental interface. Identified on global genome-wide microarray analysis of chorionic villus sampling tissues in preclinical preeclampsia, these targets were predicted to interact by bioinformatics pathways analysis. In situ hybridization (ISH) with mRNA of each gene was conducted in 10 cases of archived first trimester termination tissues. Randomly selected areas of cells by tissue type yielded the relative proportion of cells expressing mRNA signal in decidual and fetoplacental sites. Data were analyzed using Shapiro-Wilk and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p ≤ .05). The average gestational age was 10.2 weeks. Expression signal for each gene differed by cell type (p < .001). FSTL3 expression was 17 times higher in cells of anchoring columns than areas of decidua without ISH signal. SEMA3C was three times higher in cells of anchoring columns than in decidua. EPAS1 was 1.31 times higher in cells of anchoring columns than in areas of decidua. IGFBP1 was 20 times higher in some decidua versus cells in anchoring columns or villous trophoblast. While all targets were expressed by both maternal and fetoplacental cells, our localizations identified which compartment had relatively higher expression of each gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A Founds
- School of Nursing, Member Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 3500 Victoria St., 448 Victoria Building, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, United States.
| | - Donna B Stolz
- Cell Biology Associate Director, Center for Biologic Imaging, University of Pittsburgh, United States
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Liu J, Zhao H, Zhou F, Huang Y, Chen X, Wang S, Hao J, Xu X, He B, Wang J. Human-specific LAIR2 contributes to the high invasiveness of human extravillous trophoblast cells. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:287-292. [PMID: 31548102 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a temporary vital organ for intra-uterine development and growth. The anatomical structure of the placenta has evolved substantially, resulting in broad inter-species diversity. In particular, human placental extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs) have evolved aggressive features, although the mechanism underlying this aggressiveness remains elusive. In the present study, we compared the human and mouse homologous gene databases and obtained 2272 human-specific genes, 807 of which are expressed in the placenta according to the UniGene database. Using the human trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo, we further verified the expression and function of one of these genes, the leukocyte-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor 2 (LAIR2). This gene shows increased expression during pregnancy and its reduced expression is associated with pregnancy complications. Although LAIR2 was expressed in the human placenta villus and decidua in the first trimester of pregnancy, it was not expressed in mouse tissues. Knockdown of LAIR2 markedly improved cell viability and inhibited the invasive ability of HTR8/SVneo cells. These data suggest that species-specific genes are pivotal to the evolution of a more aggressive human placenta to match the physiological demands of human development. Further investigation is required to obtain evidence on the function of LAIR2 and other specific genes in the placenta, providing insight on the mechanism, properties, and possible applications of this in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbing Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Haoqi Zhao
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Fang Zhou
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Computer Teaching, Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Xihua Chen
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Shufang Wang
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jianqing Hao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Xiangbo Xu
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Bin He
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Jiedong Wang
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, China.
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Chang WL, Liu YW, Dang YL, Jiang XX, Xu H, Huang X, Wang YL, Wang H, Zhu C, Xue LQ, Lin HY, Meng W, Wang H. PLAC8, a new marker for human interstitial extravillous trophoblast cells, promotes their invasion and migration. Development 2018; 145:dev.148932. [PMID: 29361555 PMCID: PMC5825838 DOI: 10.1242/dev.148932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Proper differentiation of trophoblast cells in the human placenta is a prerequisite for a successful pregnancy, and dysregulation of this process may lead to malignant pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia. Finding specific markers for different types of trophoblast cells is essential for understanding trophoblast differentiation. Here, we report that placenta-specific protein 8 (PLAC8) is specifically expressed in the interstitial extravillous trophoblast cells (iEVTs) on the fetomaternal interface. Using model systems, including placental villi-decidua co-culture, iEVTs induction by using primary trophoblast cells or explants, etc., we found that PLAC8 promotes invasion and migration of iEVTs. Mechanistically, time-lapse imaging, GTPase activity assay, co-immunoprecipitation and RNA-seq studies show that PLAC8 increases the Cdc42 and Rac1 activities, and further induces the formation of filopodia at the leading edge of the migratory trophoblast cells. More interestingly, PLAC8 is significantly upregulated under hypoxia and expression of PLAC8 is higher in iEVTs from preeclamptic placentas when compared with those from the normal control placentas. Together, PLAC8 is a new marker for iEVTs and plays an important role in promoting trophoblast invasion and migration. Highlighted Article: Oxygen tension-dependent expression of placenta-specific protein 8 positively regulates trophoblast invasion and migration partially through upregulating the activation of Rac1 and Cdc42.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Lin Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Biomedical Research Institute, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen 518036, People's Republic of China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Li Dang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Xiang Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, People's Republic of China
| | - Honglin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Ling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Haibin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Qun Xue
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Yan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenxiang Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
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Founds S, Zeng X, Lykins D, Roberts JM. Developing Potential Candidates of Preclinical Preeclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:27208-27. [PMID: 26580600 PMCID: PMC4661881 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161126023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential for developing molecules of interest in preclinical preeclampsia from candidate genes that were discovered on gene expression microarray analysis has been challenged by limited access to additional first trimester trophoblast and decidual tissues. The question of whether these candidates encode secreted proteins that may be detected in maternal circulation early in pregnancy has been investigated using various proteomic methods. Pilot studies utilizing mass spectrometry based proteomic assays, along with enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), and Western immunoblotting in first trimester samples are reported. The novel targeted mass spectrometry methods led to robust multiple reaction monitoring assays. Despite detection of several candidates in early gestation, challenges persist. Future antibody-based studies may lead to a novel multiplex protein panel for screening or detection to prevent or mitigate preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Founds
- School of Nursing and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 3500 Victoria St. 448 VB, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | - Xuemei Zeng
- Biomedical Mass Spectrometry Center Schools of the Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Biomedical Science Tower 3, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | - David Lykins
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - James M Roberts
- School of Medicine, Graduate School of Public Health and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Tao Y, Lin J, Hu YJ, Zhou B, Zhu BQ. Development of a quantitative ELISA kit for human secreted CD306/LAIR-2 and its application. Chin J Nat Med 2014; 12:847-52. [PMID: 25480516 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(14)60127-8] [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: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM A quantitative ELISA kit for the detection of human secreted CD306/LAIR-2 was developed using monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies which were raised against a highly purified recombinant human secreted CD306/LAIR-2. METHODS Anti-human secreted CD306/LAIR-2 monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies were raised by immunizing mouse or rabbit with recombinant human secreted CD306/LAIR-2. The monoclonal antibody was purified by protein G affinity, whereas the polyclonal antibody was purified by protein A affinity. The best match pair of antibodies were found and used to develop a double antibody sandwich ELISA kit for the detection of human secreted CD306/LAIR-2 in human samples. RESULTS A human secreted CD306/LAIR-2 ELISA kit was formulated with highly purified recombinant human secreted CD306/LAIR-2, highly specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. This kit realized the quantitative measurement of recombinant human CD306/LAIR-2 and natural CD306/LAIR-2 in human serum samples. CONCLUSIONS The developed human secreted CD306/LAIR-2 ELISA kit is a reliable quantitation immunoassay kit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Tao
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jun Lin
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - You-Jia Hu
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Bin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Bao-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical Process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 200040, China.
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Oefner CM, Sharkey A, Gardner L, Critchley H, Oyen M, Moffett A. Collagen type IV at the fetal-maternal interface. Placenta 2014; 36:59-68. [PMID: 25465704 PMCID: PMC4302218 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Extracellular matrix proteins play a crucial role in influencing the invasion of trophoblast cells. However the role of collagens and collagen type IV (col-IV) in particular at the implantation site is not clear. Methods Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the distribution of collagen types I, III, IV and VI in endometrium and decidua during the menstrual cycle and the first trimester of pregnancy. Expression of col-IV alpha chains during the reproductive cycle was determined by qPCR and protein localisation by immunohistochemistry. The structure of col-IV in placenta was examined using transmission electron microscopy. Finally, the expression of col-IV alpha chain NC1 domains and collagen receptors was localised by immunohistochemistry. Results Col-IV alpha chains were selectively up-regulated during the menstrual cycle and decidualisation. Primary extravillous trophoblast cells express collagen receptors and secrete col-IV in vitro and in vivo, resulting in the increased levels found in decidua basalis compared to decidua parietalis. A novel expression pattern of col-IV in the mesenchyme of placental villi, as a three-dimensional network, was found. NC1 domains of col-IV alpha chains are known to regulate tumour cell migration and the selective expression of these domains in decidua basalis compared to decidua parietalis was determined. Discussion Col-IV is expressed as novel forms in the placenta. These findings suggest that col-IV not only represents a structural protein providing tissue integrity but also influences the invasive behaviour of trophoblast cells at the implantation site. Our data suggest that progesterone might regulate collagen type IV. Primary extravillous trophoblast cells secrete collagen type IV. A novel three-dimensional network of collagen type IV in placenta is presented. Trophoblast cells express integrin alpha 10, integrin alpha 11 and collagen receptors DDR-1 and DDR-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Oefner
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, United Kingdom.
| | - A Sharkey
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, United Kingdom
| | - L Gardner
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, United Kingdom
| | - H Critchley
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - M Oyen
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, United Kingdom
| | - A Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, United Kingdom
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An integrative view on the physiology of human early placental villi. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 114:33-48. [PMID: 24291663 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2013.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is an indispensable organ for intrauterine protection, development and growth of the embryo and fetus. It provides tight contact between mother and conceptus, enabling the exchange of gas, nutrients and waste products. The human placenta is discoidal in shape, and bears a hemo-monochorial interface as well as villous materno-fetal interdigitations. Since Peter Medawar's astonishment to the paradoxical nature of the mother-fetus relationship in 1953, substantial knowledge in the domain of placental physiology has been gathered. In the present essay, an attempt has been made to build an integrated understanding of morphological dynamics, cell biology, and functional aspects of genomic and proteomic expression of human early placental villous trophoblast cells followed by a commentary on the future directions of research in this field.
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Simone R, Pesce G, Antola P, Merlo DF, Bagnasco M, Saverino D. Serum LAIR-2 is increased in autoimmune thyroid diseases. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63282. [PMID: 23691008 PMCID: PMC3653941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Leukocyte-associated Ig-like receptor (LAIR) is a small family-receptor able to inhibit immune cell function via collagen binding. It exists as both membrane-bound and soluble forms. LAIR-1 functions as an inhibitory receptor on natural killer cells, T lymphocytes and monocytes. In addition to LAIR-1, the human genome encodes LAIR-2, a soluble homolog. Several studies have focused on LAIR-1, whereas few investigations concentrate on the expression and function of LAIR-2. We demonstrate the presence of high LAIR-2 levels in 74/80 sera from patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases (both Graves’ disease and autoimmune thyroiditis). LAIR-2 levels seemed not to be related to specific clinical manifestations, such as thyroid functions (hypo- or hyperthyroidism), or specific clinical features (such as ophtalmopathy). In addition, serum LAIR-2 is able, in vitro, to bind its natural ligand, collagen. Since LAIR-2 has been found to have higher affinity for collagens than LAIR-1 did, we hypothesize a potential regulating capability of serum LAIR-2 in finally regulating the inhibitory capability of LAIR-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Simone
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Human Anatomy, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Departments of Medicine and Cell Biology, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, New York, United States of America
| | - Giampaola Pesce
- Autoimmunity Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Princey Antola
- Autoimmunity Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Domenico F. Merlo
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS AOU San Martino, IST – Istituto Nazionale per le Ricerca sul Cancro, Genova, Italy
| | - Marcello Bagnasco
- Autoimmunity Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Daniele Saverino
- Department of Experimental Medicine – Section of Human Anatomy, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Crosley E, Elliot M, Christians J, Crespi B. Placental invasion, preeclampsia risk and adaptive molecular evolution at the origin of the great apes: Evidence from genome-wide analyses. Placenta 2013; 34:127-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Revised: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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LAIR2-expressing extravillous trophoblasts associate with maternal spiral arterioles undergoing physiologic conversion. Placenta 2013; 34:248-55. [PMID: 23332415 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Leukocyte-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor 2 (LAIR2) was identified on a global gene expression microarray analysis of surplus chorionic villus sampling (CVS) tissues as down-regulated in the first trimester of preeclampsia pregnancies. LAIR2 is the soluble receptor counterpart to LAIR1, an inhibitory receptor found on multiple immune cell subsets. In situ and immunohistochemical studies have previously shown that placental expression of LAIR2 expression is highly restricted, confined to the more distal portions of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell columns. This study examines LAIR2 expression in deeper layers of trophoblasts in the placental implantation site, maternal decidua and maternal spiral arterioles. Immunohistochemical staining detected LAIR2 expression on a subset of EVT within the implantation site. This trophoblast included the invasive EVT infiltrating the maternal decidual vessels and the EVT forming the endovascular trophoblastic plugs. More specifically, LAIR2-positive EVT showed a striking predilection for maternal decidual arterioles and the immediately surrounding decidua. Moreover, the appearance of EVT expressing LAIR2 in these areas was contemporaneous with the process of spiral arteriole remodeling. Based on these findings, we suggest that LAIR2-expressing EVT may play an important role in the remodeling of maternal spiral arterioles.
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Founds SA, Shi H, Conley YP, Jeyabalan A, Roberts JM, Lyons-Weiler J. Variations in discovery-based preeclampsia candidate genes. Clin Transl Sci 2012; 5:333-9. [PMID: 22883611 DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-8062.2012.00413.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a common and potentially lethal pregnancy disorder with lifelong increased risk of cardiovascular disease in survivors. Our prior global gene expression microarray analysis led to a novel set of 36 candidates in first trimester placentas of women who subsequently developed preeclampsia. In this report, we present preliminary studies demonstrating biomarkers of genotype and methylation variations in a subset of these candidate genes in maternal leukocyte and fetoplacental DNA of 28 case and 27 control dyads. We tested 84 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using MassArray iPLEX and 50 CpG sites using EpiTYPER assays. Promising prediction modeling was identified with 25 SNPs selected using Fisher's exact tests (p ≤ 0.05) and 20 CpG sites selected on fold change. Genotype Distribution Analysis identified SNP variations that differed between nine paired cases versus paired controls. The findings validate the examined candidate genes and support feasibility of methods for further biomarker development. The integrative approach that was implemented begins to translate the 36 candidates toward clinical utility as a screening modality for preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra A Founds
- Department of Health Promotion and Development, School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
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Olde Nordkamp MJM, van Roon JAG, Douwes M, de Ruiter T, Urbanus RT, Meyaard L. Enhanced secretion of leukocyte-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor 2 (LAIR-2) and soluble LAIR-1 in rheumatoid arthritis: LAIR-2 is a more efficient antagonist of the LAIR-1-collagen inhibitory interaction than is soluble LAIR-1. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 63:3749-57. [PMID: 22127695 DOI: 10.1002/art.30612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human leukocyte-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor 1 (hLAIR-1) is an immune inhibitory receptor for collagen that is expressed on most immune cells. We previously showed that the LAIR-1-collagen interaction could be antagonized by the secreted homolog hLAIR-2, which can be detected in the synovial fluid of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. In addition, the extracellular part of hLAIR-1 is a putative antagonist upon shedding from the cell membrane. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative roles of hLAIR-2 and soluble hLAIR-1 (shLAIR-1) in the regulation of the LAIR-1-collagen interaction. METHODS The ability of recombinant LAIR proteins to abrogate LAIR-1-collagen binding was tested by flow cytometry and adhesion assays. Collagen binding capacity was analyzed by surface plasmon resonance. Plasma, urine, and synovial fluid were screened for the presence of sLAIR-1 and LAIR-2 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Recombinant LAIR-2 proteins abrogated the binding of collagen to LAIR-1 more efficiently than did recombinant sLAIR-1. Consistent with these findings, surface plasmon resonance analysis showed that LAIR-2 had a higher affinity for collagen than did LAIR-1. Activated CD4+ T cells were the main producers of LAIR-2, whereas the source of sLAIR-1 remains elusive. Both soluble LAIR-1 and LAIR-2 could be detected in the plasma and urine of healthy control subjects and patients with RA. Urinary levels of both proteins were significantly increased in RA patients, and LAIR-2 levels in urine were significantly correlated with markers of inflammation. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that LAIR-2 is a more potent antagonist of LAIR-1 function in vivo, while both sLAIR-1 and LAIR-2 are potential biomarkers that may be used to monitor urine samples for evidence of systemic inflammation.
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Apps R, Sharkey A, Gardner L, Male V, Trotter M, Miller N, North R, Founds S, Moffett A. Genome-wide expression profile of first trimester villous and extravillous human trophoblast cells. Placenta 2010; 32:33-43. [PMID: 21075446 PMCID: PMC3065343 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2010.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2010] [Revised: 10/11/2010] [Accepted: 10/12/2010] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
We have examined the transcriptional changes associated with differentiation from villous to extravillous trophoblast using a whole genome microarray. Villous trophoblast (VT) is in contact with maternal blood and mediates nutrient exchange whereas extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invades the decidua and remodels uterine arteries. Using highly purified first trimester trophoblast we identified over 3000 transcripts that are differentially expressed. Many of these transcripts represent novel functions and pathways that show co-ordinated up-regulation in VT or EVT. In addition we identify new players in established functions such as migration, immune modulation and cytokine or angiogenic factor secretion by EVT. The transition from VT to EVT is also characterised by alterations in transcription factors such as STAT4 and IRF9, which may co-ordinate these changes. Transcripts encoding several members of the immunoglobulin-superfamily, which are normally expressed on leukocytes, were highly transcribed in EVT but not expressed as protein, indicating specific control of translation in EVT. Interactions of trophoblast with decidual leukocytes are involved in regulating EVT invasion. We show that decidual T-cells, macrophages and NK cells express the inhibitory collagen receptor LAIR-1 and that EVT secrete LAIR-2, which can block this interaction. This represents a new mechanism by which EVT can modulate leukocyte function in the decidua. Since LAIR-2 is detectable in the urine of pregnant, but not non-pregnant women, trophoblast-derived LAIR-2 may also have systemic effects during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Apps
- Department of Pathology and Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
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