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Yamanaka R, Ichii O, Nakamura T, Otani Y, Namaba T, Kon Y. Effects of autoimmune abnormalities on fertility and placental morphology in mice. Autoimmunity 2024; 57:2319209. [PMID: 38389171 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2024.2319209] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) alter the placental immune environment leading to fetal loss. This study investigated the effects of AIDs on pregnancy and the placenta in AID-prone MRL/MpJ-Faslpr/lpr mice and wild-type MRL/MpJ, which were mated with male MRL/MpJ and MRL/MpJ-Faslpr/lpr at five months and defined as moLpr and moMpJ, respectively. AID indices (spleen weight and serum autoantibody levels) and fertility status (number and size of fetuses, morphology, and comprehensive gene expression of placentas) were evaluated on gestational day 15.5. Both strains showed equivalent fertility, but moLpr showed lighter placentas and fetuses than moMpJ, and decreased fertility with AID severity. moLpr placentas had a higher number of T cells, higher expression of genes associated with T helper 2 and T follicular helper functions, and altered expression of genes (Krt15, Slc7a3, Sprr2a3) that significantly regulate pregnancy or immunity. The gene expression of T cell migration-associated chemokines (Ccl5, Cxcl9) was significantly increased in moLpr placentas, and CCL5 and CXCL9 were detected in moLpr placentas, particularly in T cells and placenta-component cells, respectively. Thus, AID altered placental morphofunction and fertility in mice; however, fertility was maintained at the examined time points. This study enhances our understanding of placental alterations and gestational risk due to AIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Yamanaka
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Osamu Ichii
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Laboratory of Agrobiomedical Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- One Health Research Center, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Teppei Nakamura
- Laboratory of Agrobiomedical Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Laboratory of Laboratory Animal Science and Medicine, Department of Applied Veterinary Sciences, Hokkaido Universityty, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yuki Otani
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- One Health Research Center, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takashi Namaba
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kon
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Boccazzi M, Raffaele S, Zanettin T, Abbracchio MP, Fumagalli M. Altered Purinergic Signaling in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Focus on P2 Receptors. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050856. [PMID: 37238724 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
With the umbrella term 'neurodevelopmental disorders' (NDDs) we refer to a plethora of congenital pathological conditions generally connected with cognitive, social behavior, and sensory/motor alterations. Among the possible causes, gestational and perinatal insults have been demonstrated to interfere with the physiological processes necessary for the proper development of fetal brain cytoarchitecture and functionality. In recent years, several genetic disorders caused by mutations in key enzymes involved in purine metabolism have been associated with autism-like behavioral outcomes. Further analysis revealed dysregulated purine and pyrimidine levels in the biofluids of subjects with other NDDs. Moreover, the pharmacological blockade of specific purinergic pathways reversed the cognitive and behavioral defects caused by maternal immune activation, a validated and now extensively used rodent model for NDDs. Furthermore, Fragile X and Rett syndrome transgenic animal models as well as models of premature birth, have been successfully utilized to investigate purinergic signaling as a potential pharmacological target for these diseases. In this review, we examine results on the role of the P2 receptor signaling in the etiopathogenesis of NDDs. On this basis, we discuss how this evidence could be exploited to develop more receptor-specific ligands for future therapeutic interventions and novel prognostic markers for the early detection of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Boccazzi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Raffaele
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Thomas Zanettin
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria P Abbracchio
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Fumagalli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Santos LC, de Souza CA, Silva JF, Ocarino NM, Serakides R. Maternal hyperthyroidism alters the immunological mediators profile and population of natural killers cells in decidua of rats. Acta Histochem 2023; 125:152026. [PMID: 37058857 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2023.152026] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Decidual immunological mediators modulate placental formation, decidualization and fetal development. However, the effect of maternal hyperthyroidism on decidual immunology needs further research. The aim of this study was to evaluate the population of uterine natural killer cells (uNKs) and the expression of immunological mediators in the decidua of female rats throughout pregnancy. Wistar rats were used and hyperthyroidism was induced by daily administration of L-thyroxine (T4) throughout pregnancy. The population of uNK cells in decidua was evaluated by immunostaining Lectin DBA, as well as the expression of interferon γ (INFγ), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), interleukin 15 (IL-15) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) at 7, 10, 12, 14 and 19 days of gestation (DG). Maternal hyperthyroidism reduced the DBA+ uNK cell population in the decidua at 7 (P < 0.05) and 10 (P < 0.01) DGs compared to that in the control group, while it increased in the basal decidua (P < 0.05) and metrial gland (P < 0.0001) at the 12th DG. Hyperthyroidism also increased immunostaining of IL-15 (P < 0.0001), INFγ (P < 0.05), and MIF (P < 0.05) in the 7th DG, and increased immunostaining of IL-15 (P < 0.0001) and MIF (P < 0.01) in the 10th DG. However, excess thyroxine reduced IL-15 expression in the metrial gland and/or basal decidua in the 12th (P < 0.05), 14th (P < 0.01), and 19th (P < 0.001) DGs, as was also observed for INFγ in the basal decidua (P<0.001) and metrial gland (P < 0.0001) in the 12th DG. Regarding iNOS, an antiinflammatory cytokine, lower expression was observed in the basal decidua of hyperthyroid animals at 7 and 12 DGs (P < 0.05), whereas an increase occurred in the 10th DG (P < 0.05). These data demonstrate that maternal hyperthyroidism in female rats, particularly between 7 and 10 DGs, reduces the population of DBA+ uNKs in the decidua and increases the expression of inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a more proinflammatory environment in early pregnancy caused by this gestational disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Cardoso Santos
- Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900 Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Cíntia Almeida de Souza
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinarias, Escola de Veterinaria, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Juneo Freitas Silva
- Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900 Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Natália Melo Ocarino
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinarias, Escola de Veterinaria, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rogéria Serakides
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinarias, Escola de Veterinaria, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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Screening Candidate Genes Regulating Placental Development from Trophoblast Transcriptome at Early Pregnancy in Dazu Black Goats ( Capra hircus). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11072132. [PMID: 34359260 PMCID: PMC8300351 DOI: 10.3390/ani11072132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The trophoblast is an original placental tissue whose normal proliferation, differentiation, migration, adhesion, and angiopoiesis are essential for placenta formation and fetal survival during early pregnancy. However, the key genes and molecular mechanisms involved in placenta development in goats are unknown. Herein, the morphology and histological structures of trophoblast tissues from day 20 to 30 of pregnancy were determined. RNA-sequencing was used to screen potential functional genes in common highly expressed and differentially expressed genes. RAP1 signaling pathway was used as the contact center and coordinated with other pathways to regulate placenta development. This study could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying ruminant placentation. Abstract This study explored the trophoblast transcriptome to understand potential functional genes involved in early placental development in goats and their enriched signaling pathways. Trophoblast samples were collected from nine Dazu Black goats on days 20, 25, and 30 of pregnancy (D20, D25, and D30). As the pregnancy progressed, the morphology and histological structures showed significant growth, adhesion, and angiogenesis. A total of 23,253 commonly expressed genes (CEGs) and 4439 differently expressed genes (DEGs) were detected by RNA sequencing. The common highly expressed genes (ChEGs) (the top 100 CEGs) with the highest FPKM percentage (29.9%) of all CEGs were annotated to the ribosome pathway and maintain pregnancy. DEGs were abundant in D30 vs. D20 (3715 DEGs). Besides, the DEGs were associated with the inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation and activation of PI3K-Akt, focal adhesion, ECM–receptor interaction, Rap1, and CAM signaling pathways. The RAP1 may be a central pathway since it coordinates with others to regulate the cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and fusion of trophoblasts. qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis confirmed the transcriptional expression in IGF1, VEGFC, RAPGEF3, PIK3CA, AKT3, ITGB3, ITGA11, SPP1, NOS1, and ATP6V0B genes and protein levels in VEGF, RAPGEF3, and Akt. This is the first study of transcriptome profiling in goat placenta and provides diverse genetic resources for further research on placenta development.
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Adams AD, Guedj F, Bianchi DW. Placental development and function in trisomy 21 and mouse models of Down syndrome: Clues for studying mechanisms underlying atypical development. Placenta 2020; 89:58-66. [PMID: 31683073 PMCID: PMC10040210 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic disorder leading to developmental disability. The phenotypes associated with DS are complex and vary between affected individuals. Placental abnormalities in DS include differences in cytotrophoblast fusion that affect subsequent conversion to syncytiotrophoblast, atypical oxidative stress/antioxidant balance, and increased expression of genes that are also upregulated in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Placentas in DS are prematurely senescent, showing atypical evidence of mineralization. Fetuses with DS are especially susceptible to adverse obstetric outcomes, including early in utero demise, stillbirth and growth restriction, all of which are related to placental function. The placenta, therefore, may provide key insights towards understanding the phenotypic variability observed in individuals with DS and aid in identifying biomarkers that can be used to evaluate phenotypic severity and prenatal treatments in real time. To address these issues, many different mouse models of DS have been generated to identify the mechanisms underlying developmental changes in many organ systems. Little is known, however, regarding placental development in the currently available mouse models of DS. Based upon the relative paucity of data on placental development in preclinical mouse models of DS, we recommend that future evaluation of new and existing models routinely include histologic and functional assessments of the placenta. In this paper we summarize studies performed in the placentas of both humans and mouse models with DS, highlighting gaps in knowledge and suggesting directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- April D Adams
- Medical Genetics Branch (Prenatal Genomics and Therapy Section), National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Faycal Guedj
- Medical Genetics Branch (Prenatal Genomics and Therapy Section), National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Diana W Bianchi
- Medical Genetics Branch (Prenatal Genomics and Therapy Section), National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Souza C, Silva J, Ocarino N, Silva C, Gomes L, Assunção G, Silva C, Oliveira K, Serakides R. Efeito do hipotireoidismo materno na expressão espaço-temporal de mediadores imunológicos e população de células natural killers na decídua e na glândula metrial de ratas. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-10697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Estudou-se o efeito do hipotireoidismo materno na expressão espaço-temporal de mediadores imunológicos e na população de células natural killers (NK) na decídua e na glândula metrial de ratas durante a gestação. Avaliou-se a detecção imunoistoquímica de interferon γ (IFNγ), do fator inibidor de migração (MIF), da interleucina 15 (IL15), do óxido nítrico sintase induzível (iNOS), a marcação com lectina DBA para evidenciação das células NK uterinas DBA+ e a expressão gênica de Ifnγ e Nos2. O hipotireoidismo aumentou o iNOS aos sete dias, a IL15 e o MIF aos 10 e 12 dias, o IFNγ e o MIF aos 14 DG e a expressão dos transcritos gênicos para iNos aos 12 e 19 dias e para Ifnγ aos 14 DG. O hipotireoidismo reduziu a imunomarcação de MIF e lectina DBA aos sete dias, lectina DBA aos 10 e 14 DG, IFNγ aos 12 dias, e a expressão de Ifnγ aos 10 e 19 DG e de iNOS aos 12, 14 e 19 DG, bem como reduziu seus transcritos gênicos aos 10 e 14 DG. Conclui-se que o hipotireoidismo compromete o perfil imunológico na interface materno-fetal ao longo da gestação, particularmente por reduzir o fator anti-inflamatório iNOS e a população de células uNK DBA+.
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Affiliation(s)
- C.A. Souza
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - J.F. Silva
- Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Brazil
| | | | | | - L.A. Gomes
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Knutson AO, Watters JJ. All roads lead to inflammation: Is maternal immune activation a common culprit behind environmental factors impacting offspring neural control of breathing? Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2019; 274:103361. [PMID: 31874263 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2019.103361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite numerous studies investigating how prenatal exposures impact the developing brain, there remains very little known about how these in utero exposures impact the life-sustaining function of breathing. While some exposures such as alcohol and drugs of abuse are well-known to alter respiratory function, few studies have evaluated other common maternal environmental stimuli, such as maternal infection, inhalation of diesel exhaust particles prevalent in urban areas, or obstructive sleep apnea during pregnancy, just to name a few. The goals of this review article are thus to: 1) highlight data on gestational exposures that impair respiratory function, 2) discuss what is known about the potential role of inflammation in the effects of these maternal exposures, and 3) identify less studied but potential in utero exposures that could negatively impact CNS regions important in respiratory motor control, perhaps by impacting maternal or fetal inflammation. We highlight gaps in knowledge, summarize evidence related to the possible contributions of inflammation, and discuss the need for further studies of life-long offspring respiratory function both at baseline and after respiratory challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew O Knutson
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Training Program and Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Jyoti J Watters
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Training Program and Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, United States.
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The role of maternal immune activation in altering the neurodevelopmental trajectories of offspring: A translational review of neuroimaging studies with implications for autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 104:141-157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Shih J, Lin H, Hsiao A, Su Y, Tsai S, Chien C, Kung H. Unveiling the role of microRNA‐7 in linking TGF‐β‐Smad‐mediated epithelial‐mesenchymal transition with negative regulation of trophoblast invasion. FASEB J 2019; 33:6281-6295. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801898rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jin‐Chung Shih
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell BiologyCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and ProteomicsCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Hua‐Heng Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Hospital Taipei Taiwan
| | - An‐Che Hsiao
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell BiologyCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Yi‐Ting Su
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell BiologyCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Shawn Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell BiologyCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Chung‐Liang Chien
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell BiologyCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Hsiu‐Ni Kung
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell BiologyCollege of MedicineNational Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
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Chiramel AI, Best SM. Role of autophagy in Zika virus infection and pathogenesis. Virus Res 2018; 254:34-40. [PMID: 28899653 PMCID: PMC5844781 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2017.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved cellular pathway that culminates in lysosomal degradation of selected substrates. Autophagy can serve dual roles in virus infection with either pro- or antiviral functions depending on the virus and the stage of the viral replication cycle. Recent studies have suggested a role for autophagy in Zika virus (ZIKV) replication by demonstrating the accumulation of autophagic vesicles following ZIKV infection in both in vitro and in vivo models. In human fetal neural stem cells, ZIKV inhibits Akt-mTOR signaling to induce autophagy, increase virus replication and impede neurogenesis. However, autophagy also has the potential to limit ZIKV replication, with separate studies demonstrating antiviral roles for autophagy at the maternal-placental-fetal interface, and more specifically, at the endoplasmic reticulum where virus replication is established in an infected cell. Interestingly, ZIKV (and related flaviviruses) has evolved specific mechanisms to overcome autophagy at the ER, thus demonstrating important roles for these autophagic pathways in virus replication and host response. This review summarizes the known roles of autophagy in ZIKV replication and how they might influence virus tissue tropism and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhilash I Chiramel
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA.
| | - Sonja M Best
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA.
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Fitzgerald W, Gomez-Lopez N, Erez O, Romero R, Margolis L. Extracellular vesicles generated by placental tissues ex vivo: A transport system for immune mediators and growth factors. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e12860. [PMID: 29726582 PMCID: PMC6021205 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM To study the mechanisms of placenta function and the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in pregnancy, it is necessary to develop an ex vivo system that retains placental cytoarchitecture and the primary metabolic aspects, in particular the release of EVs and soluble factors. Here, we developed such a system and investigated the pattern of secretion of cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles by placental villous and amnion tissues ex vivo. METHODS OF STUDY Placental villous and amnion explants were cultured for 2 weeks at the air/liquid interface and their morphology and the released cytokines and EVs were analyzed. Cytokines were analyzed with multiplexed bead assays, and individual EVs were analyzed with recently developed techniques that involved EV capture with magnetic nanoparticles coupled to anti-EV antibodies and flow cytometry. RESULTS Ex vivo tissues (i) remained viable and preserved their cytoarchitecture; (ii) maintained secretion of cytokines and growth factors; (iii) released EVs of syncytiotrophoblast and amnion epithelial cell origins that contain cytokines and growth factors. CONCLUSION A system of ex vivo placental villous and amnion tissues can be used as an adequate model to study placenta metabolic activity in normal and complicated pregnancies, in particular to characterize EVs by their surface markers and by encapsulated proteins. Establishment and benchmarking the placenta ex vivo system may provide new insight in the functional status of this organ in various placental disorders, particularly regarding the release of EVs and cytokines. Such EVs may have a prognostic value for pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Fitzgerald
- Section of Intercellular Interactions, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Biochemistry, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Offer Erez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Leonid Margolis
- Section of Intercellular Interactions, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
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Tang L, He G, Liu X, Xu W. Progress in the understanding of the etiology and predictability of fetal growth restriction. Reproduction 2018; 153:R227-R240. [PMID: 28476912 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined as the failure of fetus to reach its growth potential for various reasons, leading to multiple perinatal complications and adult diseases of fetal origins. Shallow extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion-induced placental insufficiency and placental dysfunction are considered the main reasons for idiopathic FGR. In this review, first we discuss the major characteristics of anti-angiogenic state and the pro-inflammatory bias in FGR. We then elaborate major abnormalities in placental insufficiency at molecular levels, including the interaction between decidual leukocytes and EVT, alteration of miRNA expression and imprinted gene expression pattern in FGR. Finally, we review current animal models used in FGR, an experimental intervention based on animal models and the progress of predictive biomarker studies in FGR.Free Chinese abstract: A Chinese translation of this abstract is freely available at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/153/6/R215/suppl/DC1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tang
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineSCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education.,Department of Obstetric and Gynecologic DiseasesWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Guolin He
- Department of Obstetric and Gynecologic DiseasesWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinghui Liu
- Department of Obstetric and Gynecologic DiseasesWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenming Xu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineSCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education .,Department of Obstetric and Gynecologic DiseasesWest China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
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Lee ED. Endoplasmic Reticulum Aminopeptidase 2, a common immunological link to adverse pregnancy outcomes and cancer clearance? Placenta 2017; 56:40-43. [PMID: 28343731 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Endoplasmic Reticulum Aminopeptidase 2 (ERAP2) trims HLA class I-binding peptides, determining the peptide repertoire presented for immune recognition. Variation in the ERAP2 amino acid sequence could affect the ability of some fetuses and tumors to achieve immune evasion. For example, homozygosity for an ERAP2 variant that has increased trimming efficiency for hydrophobic molecules has never been detected in mothers and fetuses. Thus, it is possible that this single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ERAP2 gene has been selected against in order to prevent alteration of the immune privileged uterine environment, and to allow tumors to escape immune recognition. Currently, there are no immunological treatments or prophylactic approaches to ensure a healthy pregnancy outcome, and the success of cancer immunotherapies is variable. Understanding the role of ERAP2 in immune evasion mechanisms in pregnancy and cancer may improve fetal survival and tumor clearance. This review summarizes current knowledge about ERAP2 and its N392 variant, and their relationship to pregnancy outcomes and cancer immune evasion/recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun D Lee
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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14
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Boulenouar S, Doisne JM, Sferruzzi-Perri A, Gaynor LM, Kieckbusch J, Balmas E, Yung HW, Javadzadeh S, Volmer L, Hawkes DA, Phillips K, Brady HJM, Fowden AL, Burton GJ, Moffett A, Colucci F. The Residual Innate Lymphoid Cells in NFIL3-Deficient Mice Support Suboptimal Maternal Adaptations to Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2016; 7:43. [PMID: 26925058 PMCID: PMC4759249 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine NK cells are innate lymphoid cells (ILC) that populate the uterus and expand during pregnancy, regulating placental development and fetal growth in humans and mice. We have recently characterized the composition of uterine ILCs (uILCs), some of which require the transcription factor NFIL3, but the extent to which NFIL3-dependent cells support successful reproduction in mice is unknown. By mating Nfil3−/− females with wild-type males, here we show the effects of NFIL3 deficiency in maternal cells on both the changes in uILCs during pregnancy and the downstream consequences on reproduction. Despite the presence of CD49a+Eomes− uILC1s and the considerable expansion of residual CD49a+Eomes+ tissue-resident NK cells and uILC3s in pregnant Nfil3−/− mice, we found incomplete remodeling of uterine arteries and decidua, placental defects, and fetal growth restriction in litters of normal size. These results show that maternal NFIL3 mediates non-redundant functions in mouse reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Boulenouar
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jean-Marc Doisne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital , Cambridge , UK
| | - Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Louise M Gaynor
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jens Kieckbusch
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Elisa Balmas
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hong Wa Yung
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Shagayegh Javadzadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital , Cambridge , UK
| | - Léa Volmer
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Delia A Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital , Cambridge , UK
| | - Keli Phillips
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories , Cambridge , UK
| | - Hugh J M Brady
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Abigail L Fowden
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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15
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Silva JF, Serakides R. Intrauterine trophoblast migration: A comparative view of humans and rodents. Cell Adh Migr 2016; 10:88-110. [PMID: 26743330 DOI: 10.1080/19336918.2015.1120397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Trophoblast migration and invasion through the decidua and maternal uterine spiral arteries are crucial events in placentation. During this process, invasive trophoblast replace vascular endothelial cells as the uterine arteries are remodeled to form more permissive vessels that facilitate adequate blood flow to the growing fetus. Placentation failures resulting from either extensive or shallow trophoblastic invasion can cause pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, placenta creta, gestational trophoblastic disease and even maternal or fetal death. Consequently, the use of experimental animal models such as rats and mice has led to great progress in recent years with regards to the identification of mechanisms and factors that control trophoblast migration kinetics. This review aims to perform a comparative analysis of placentation and the mechanisms and factors that coordinate intrauterine trophoblast migration in humans, rats and mice under physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juneo F Silva
- a Laboratório de Endocrinologia e Metabolismo, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Minas Gerais , Brazil
| | - Rogéria Serakides
- b Laboratório de Patologia, Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Minas Gerais , Brazil
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16
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Moffett A, Hiby SE, Sharkey AM. The role of the maternal immune system in the regulation of human birthweight. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2016; 370:20140071. [PMID: 25602075 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2014.0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human birthweight is subject to stabilizing selection. Large babies are at risk of obstetric complications such as obstructed labour, which endangers both mother and child. Small babies are also at risk with reduced survival. Fetal growth requires remodelling of maternal spiral arteries to provide an adequate maternal blood supply to the placenta. This arterial transformation is achieved by placental trophoblast cells, which invade into the uterine wall. Under-invasion is associated with fetal growth restriction; but if invasion is excessive large babies can result. A growing body of evidence suggests that this process is controlled by interactions between killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) expressed on maternal uterine natural killer cells (uNK) and their corresponding human leukocyte antigen-C (HLA-C) ligands on invading trophoblast. Mothers with the KIR AA genotype and a fetus with a paternal HLA-C2 allele tend to have small babies, because this combination inhibits cytokine secretion by uNK. Mothers with the activating KIR2DS1 gene and an HLA-C2 fetus are more likely to have large babies. When KIR2DS1 binds to HLA-C2 this increases secretion of cytokines that enhance trophoblast invasion. We conclude that specific combinations of the highly polymorphic gene systems, KIR and HLA-C, contribute to successful reproduction by maintaining birthweight between two extremes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology and Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Susan E Hiby
- Department of Pathology and Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Andrew M Sharkey
- Department of Pathology and Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
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17
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Kieckbusch J, Gaynor LM, Colucci F. Assessment of Maternal Vascular Remodeling During Pregnancy in the Mouse Uterus. J Vis Exp 2015:e53534. [PMID: 26710086 PMCID: PMC4692775 DOI: 10.3791/53534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta mediates the exchange of factors such as gases and nutrients between mother and fetus and has specific demands for supply of blood from the maternal circulation. The maternal uterine vasculature needs to adapt to this temporary demand and the success of this arterial remodeling process has implications for fetal growth. Cells of the maternal immune system, especially natural killer (NK) cells, play a critical role in this process. Here we describe a method to assess the degree of remodeling of maternal spiral arteries during mouse pregnancy. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained tissue sections are scanned and the size of the vessels analysed. As a complementary validation method, we also present a qualitative assessment for the success of the remodeling process by immunohistochemical detection of smooth muscle actin (SMA), which normally disappears from within the arterial vascular media at mid-gestation. Together, these methods enable determination of an important parameter of the pregnancy phenotype. These results can be combined with other endpoints of mouse pregnancy to provide insight into the mechanisms underlying pregnancy-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Kieckbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge;
| | - Louise M Gaynor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge
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18
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Cox B, Leavey K, Nosi U, Wong F, Kingdom J. Placental transcriptome in development and pathology: expression, function, and methods of analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:S138-51. [PMID: 26428493 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is the essential organ of mammalian pregnancy and errors in its development and function are associated with a wide range of human pathologies of pregnancy. Genome sequencing has led to methods for investigation of the transcriptome (all expressed RNA species) using microarrays and next-generation sequencing, and implementation of these techniques has identified many novel species of RNA including: micro-RNA, long noncoding RNA, and circular RNA. These species can physically interact with both each other and regulatory proteins to modify gene expression and messenger RNA to protein translation. Transcriptome analysis is actively used to investigate placental development and dysfunction in pathologies ranging from preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction to preterm labor. Genome-wide gene expression analysis is also being applied to identify prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers of these disorders. In this comprehensive review we summarize transcriptome biology, methods of isolation and analysis, application to placental development and pathology, and use in diagnostic analysis in maternal blood. Key information for analysis methods is organized into quick reference tables where current analysis techniques and tools are cited and compared. We have created this review as a practical guide and starting reference for those interested in beginning an investigation into the transcriptome of the placenta.
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19
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Reisinger S, Khan D, Kong E, Berger A, Pollak A, Pollak DD. The poly(I:C)-induced maternal immune activation model in preclinical neuropsychiatric drug discovery. Pharmacol Ther 2015; 149:213-26. [PMID: 25562580 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2015.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 12/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Increasing epidemiological and experimental evidence implicates gestational infections as one important factor involved in the pathogenesis of several neuropsychiatric disorders. Corresponding preclinical model systems based upon maternal immune activation (MIA) by treatment of the pregnant female have been developed. These MIA animal model systems have been successfully used in basic and translational research approaches, contributing to the investigation of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms at the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels. The present article focuses on the application of a specific MIA rodent paradigm, based upon treatment of the gestating dam with the viral mimic polyinosinic-polycytidilic acid (Poly(I:C)), a synthetic analog of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) which activates the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) pathway. Important advantages and constraints of this animal model will be discussed, specifically in light of gestational infection as one vulnerability factor contributing to the complex etiology of mood and psychotic disorders, which are likely the result of intricate multi-level gene×environment interactions. Improving our currently incomplete understanding of the molecular pathomechanistic principles underlying these disorders is a prerequisite for the development of alternative therapeutic approaches which are critically needed in light of the important drawbacks and limitations of currently available pharmacological treatment options regarding efficacy and side effects. The particular relevance of the Poly(I:C) MIA model for the discovery of novel drug targets for symptomatic and preventive therapeutic strategies in mood and psychotic disorders is highlighted in this review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Reisinger
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Deeba Khan
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Eryan Kong
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Angelika Berger
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Arnold Pollak
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela D Pollak
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
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20
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Maternal uterine natural killer cells nurture fetal growth: in medio stat virtus. Trends Mol Med 2015; 21:60-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2014.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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21
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Takeshita A, Kusakabe KT, Hiyama M, Kuniyoshi N, Kondo T, Kano K, Kiso Y, Okada T. Dynamics and reproductive effects of complement factors in the spontaneous abortion model of CBA/J×DBA/2 mice. Immunobiology 2014; 219:385-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2014.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2013] [Revised: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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22
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Moffett A, Colucci F. Uterine NK cells: active regulators at the maternal-fetal interface. J Clin Invest 2014; 124:1872-9. [PMID: 24789879 PMCID: PMC4001528 DOI: 10.1172/jci68107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy presents an immunological conundrum because two genetically different individuals coexist. The maternal lymphocytes at the uterine maternal-fetal interface that can recognize mismatched placental cells are T cells and abundant distinctive uterine NK (uNK) cells. Multiple mechanisms exist that avoid damaging T cell responses to the fetus, whereas activation of uNK cells is probably physiological. Indeed, genetic epidemiological data suggest that the variability of NK cell receptors and their MHC ligands define pregnancy success; however, exactly how uNK cells function in normal and pathological pregnancy is still unclear, and any therapies aimed at suppressing NK cells must be viewed with caution. Allorecognition of fetal placental cells by uNK cells is emerging as the key maternal-fetal immune mechanism that regulates placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology and
Centre for Trophoblast Research, Physiology Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge,United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Pathology and
Centre for Trophoblast Research, Physiology Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge,United Kingdom
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23
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Abstract
The pregnancy disorders associated with placental ischemia share many similar pathological and pathophysiological features and are associated with the failure to deliver adequate nutrients and oxygen to the placenta. The origins of this deficiency are a subject of intense study. In this article, I review the genesis and consequences of this pathology addressing the similarities and the differences with the different disorders and addressing current gaps in our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Roberts MD
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Epidemiology and Clinical and Translational Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh PA 15213
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24
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MHC-dependent inhibition of uterine NK cells impedes fetal growth and decidual vascular remodelling. Nat Commun 2014; 5:3359. [PMID: 24577131 PMCID: PMC3948146 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms4359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells express variable receptors that engage polymorphic MHC class I molecules and regulate their function. Maternal NK cells accumulate at the maternal-fetal interface and can interact with MHC class I molecules from both parents. The relative contribution of the two sets of parental MHC molecules to uterine NK cell function is unknown. Here we show that, in mice, maternal and not paternal MHC educates uterine NK cells to mature and acquire functional competence. The presence of an additional MHC allele that binds more inhibitory than activating NK cell receptors results in suppressed NK cell function, compromised uterine arterial remodelling and reduced fetal growth. Notably, reduced fetal growth occurs irrespectively of the parental origin of the inhibitory MHC. This provides biological evidence for the impact of MHC-dependent NK inhibition as a risk factor for human pregnancy-related complications associated with impaired arterial remodelling.
NK cells are involved in remodelling of the uterine vasculature during pregnancy and the extent of this process is influenced by the combination of maternal NK cell receptors and MHC-I of the fetus. Here, the authors provide further insights into how the presence of MHC-I from each parent differentially affects NK cell function.
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25
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Melford SE, Taylor AH, Konje JC. Of mice and (wo)men: factors influencing successful implantation including endocannabinoids. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:415-28. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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26
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Palei AC, Spradley FT, Warrington JP, George EM, Granger JP. Pathophysiology of hypertension in pre-eclampsia: a lesson in integrative physiology. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2013; 208:224-33. [PMID: 23590594 PMCID: PMC3687012 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 03/26/2013] [Accepted: 04/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite being one of the leading causes of maternal death and a major contributor of maternal and perinatal morbidity, the mechanisms responsible for the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia have yet to be fully elucidated. However, it is evident that this is a complex disorder involving multiple organ systems, and by using integrative approaches, enormous progress has been made towards understanding the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia. Growing evidence supports the concept that the placenta plays a central role in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia and that reduced uteroplacental perfusion, which develops as a result of abnormal cytotrophoblast invasion of spiral arterioles, triggers the cascade of events leading to the maternal disorder. Placental ischaemia leads to release of soluble placental factors, many of which are classified as anti-angiogenic or pro-inflammatory. Once these ischaemic placental factors reach the maternal circulation, they cause widespread activation and dysfunction of the maternal vascular endothelium that results in enhanced formation of endothelin-1 and superoxide, increased vascular sensitivity to angiotensin II and decreased formation of vasodilators such as nitric oxide. This review highlights these links between placental ischaemia, maternal endothelial activation and renal dysfunction in the pathogenesis of hypertension in pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Palei
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
| | - Frank T. Spradley
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
| | - Junie P. Warrington
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
| | - Eric M. George
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
| | - Joey P. Granger
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216
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27
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Fatemi HM, Popovic-Todorovic B. Implantation in assisted reproduction: a look at endometrial receptivity. Reprod Biomed Online 2013; 27:530-8. [PMID: 23933035 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Implantation failure in assisted reproduction is thought to be mainly due to impaired uterine receptivity. With normal uterine anatomy, changes in endocrine profile during ovarian stimulation and medical conditions of the mother (i.e. thrombophilia and abnormal immunological response) could result in a non-receptive endometrium. High oestradiol concentrations during ovarian stimulation lead to premature progesterone elevation, causing endometrial advancement and hampering implantation, which can be overcome by a freeze-all approach and embryo transfer in natural cycles or by milder stimulation protocols. Patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) should be tested for inherited and acquired thrombophilias. Each patient should be individually assessed and counselled regarding therapy with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). Empirical treatment with LMWH, aspirin or corticosteroids is not effective for women with RIF who have negative thrombophilic tests. If thrombophilic tests are normal, patients should be tested for immunological causes. If human leukocyte antigen dissimilarity is proven, treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin might be beneficial. Preliminary observational studies using intralipid infusion in the presence of increased natural killer cytotoxic activity are interesting but the proposed rationale is controversial and randomized controlled trials are needed. Hysteroscopy and/or endometrial scratching in the cycle preceding ovarian stimulation should become standard for patients with RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Fatemi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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28
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Momburg F, Watzl C, Cerwenka A. NK cells--versatile tools for viral defense and cancer treatment. Eur J Immunol 2013; 43:860-3. [PMID: 23592381 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201370044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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29
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Kuśnierczyk P. Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor gene associations with autoimmune and allergic diseases, recurrent spontaneous abortion, and neoplasms. Front Immunol 2013; 4:8. [PMID: 23372569 PMCID: PMC3557723 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) are a family of cell surface inhibitory or activating receptors expressed on natural killer cells and some subpopulations of T lymphocytes. KIR genes are clustered in the 19q13.4 region and are characterized by both allelic (high numbers of variants) and haplotypic (different numbers of genes for inhibitory and activating receptors on individual chromosomes) polymorphism. This contributes to diverse susceptibility to diseases and other clinical situations. Associations of KIR genes, as well as of genes for their ligands, with selected diseases such as psoriasis vulgaris and atopic dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, recurrent spontaneous abortion, and non-small cell lung cancer are discussed in the context of NK and T cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Kuśnierczyk
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences Wrocław, Poland
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30
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Pollheimer J, Knöfler M. The role of the invasive, placental trophoblast in human pregnancy. Wien Med Wochenschr 2012; 162:187-90. [DOI: 10.1007/s10354-012-0071-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2011] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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31
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Rull K, Nagirnaja L, Laan M. Genetics of recurrent miscarriage: challenges, current knowledge, future directions. Front Genet 2012; 3:34. [PMID: 22457663 PMCID: PMC3306920 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2012.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2012] [Accepted: 02/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent miscarriage (RM) occurs in 1-3% of couples aiming at childbirth. Due to multifactorial etiology the clinical diagnosis of RM varies. The design of genetic/"omics" studies to identify genes and biological mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of RM has challenges as there are several options in defining the study subjects (female patient and/or couple with miscarriages, fetus/placenta) and controls. An ideal study would attempt a trio-design focusing on both partners as well as pregnancies of the couple. Application of genetic association studies focusing on pre-selected candidate genes with potential pathological effect in RM show limitations. Polymorphisms in ∼100 genes have been investigated and association with RM is often inconclusive or negative. Also, implication of prognostic molecular diagnostic tests in clinical practice exhibits uncertainties. Future directions in investigating biomolecular risk factors for RM rely on integrating alternative approaches (SNPs, copy number variations, gene/protein expression, epigenetic regulation) in studies of single genes as well as whole-genome analysis. This would be enhanced by collaborative network between research centers and RM clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristiina Rull
- Human Molecular Genetics Research Group, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu Tartu, Estonia
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Noronha LE, Huggler KE, de Mestre AM, Miller DC, Antczak DF. Molecular evidence for natural killer-like cells in equine endometrial cups. Placenta 2012; 33:379-86. [PMID: 22357194 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2011] [Revised: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/31/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify equine orthologs of major NK cell marker genes and utilize them to determine whether NK cells are present among the dense infiltration of lymphocytes that surround the endometrial cup structures of the horse placenta during early pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN PCR primers were developed to detect the equine orthologs of NKP46, CD16, CD56, and CD94; gene expression was detected in RNA isolated from lymphocytes using standard 2-step reverse transcriptase (RT) PCR and products were cloned and sequenced. Absolute real-time RT-PCR was used to quantitate gene expression in total, CD3+, and CD3- peripheral lymphocytes, and invasive trophoblast. Lymphocytes surrounding the endometrial cups (ECL) of five mares in early pregnancy were isolated and NK marker gene expression levels were assayed by quantitative RT-PCR. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Absolute mRNA transcript numbers were determined by performing quantitative RT-PCR and comparing values to plasmid standards of known quantities. RESULTS NKP46 gene expression in peripheral CD3- lymphocytes was higher than in CD3+ lymphocytes, CD16 levels were higher in the CD3+ population, and no significant differences were detected for CD56 and CD94 between the two groups. Expression of all four NK cell markers was significantly higher in lymphocytes isolated from the endometrial cups of pregnant mares compared to PBMC isolated from the same animal on the same day (NKP46, 14-fold higher; CD94, 8-fold higher; CD16, 20-fold higher; CD56, 44-fold higher). CONCLUSIONS These data provide the first evidence for the expression of major NK cell markers by horse cells and an enrichment of NK-like cells in the equine endometrium during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Noronha
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Hungerford Hill Road, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Malmberg KJ, Michaëlsson J, Parham P, Ljunggren HG. Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor workshop: insights into evolution, genetics, function, and translation. Immunity 2012; 35:653-7. [PMID: 22118518 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2011.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The seventh killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) workshop was held at Tammsvik, Stockholm, Sweden, in the summer of 2011. This intimate and isolated setting brought together approximately 100 investigators, from a range of scientific disciplines, who are all actively working on KIRs in humans or closely related primate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl-Johan Malmberg
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Parham P, Norman PJ, Abi-Rached L, Hilton HG, Guethlein LA. Review: Immunogenetics of human placentation. Placenta 2011; 33 Suppl:S71-80. [PMID: 22177321 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Revised: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a population of lymphocytes that function in both immune defense and reproduction. Diversifying NK cell phenotype and function are interactions between NK cell receptors and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I ligands. As a consequence of strong and variable selection these ligand-receptor systems are polymorphic, rapidly evolving, and considerably species-specific. Counterparts to the human system of HLA class I ligands and killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) are present only in apes and Old World monkeys. HLA-C, the dominant ligand for human KIR and the only polymorphic HLA class I expressed by trophoblast, is further restricted to humans and great apes. Even then, the human system appears qualitatively different from that of chimpanzees, in that it has evolved a genetic balance between particular groups of receptors and ligands that favor reproductive success and other groups of receptors and ligands that have been correlated with disordered placentation. Human populations that have survived successive episodes of epidemic disease and population bottlenecks maintain a breadth of diversity for KIR and HLA class I, implying that loss of such diversity disfavors long-term survival of a human population.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Parham
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells can be swiftly mobilized by danger signals and are among the earliest arrivals in target organs of disease. However, the role of NK cells in regulating inflammatory responses is far from completely understood in different organs. It is often complex and sometimes paradoxical. The phenotypes and functions of NK cells in the liver, mucosal tissues, uterus, pancreas, joints and brain are influenced by the unique cellular interactions and the local microenvironment within each organ. Hepatic NK cells exhibit an activated phenotype with high levels of cytotoxic effector molecules. These cells have been implicated in promoting liver injury and inhibiting liver fibrosis and regeneration. The liver is also enriched in NK cells with memory-like adaptive immune features. NK cells are detected in healthy lymphoid tissues of the lung, skin and gut, and are recruited to these tissues during infection or inflammation. In the gastrointestinal tract, classical NK cells and a variety of innate lymphoid cells, such as the family of lymphoid tissue-inducer (LTi) cells, are likely to have crucial roles in controlling inflammatory responses. NK cells represent the major lymphocyte subset in the pregnant uterus, with a unique phenotype resembling an early developmental state. Emerging evidence indicates that these cells play a crucial part in mediating the uterine vascular adaptations to pregnancy and promoting the maintenance of healthy pregnancy. In non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice, NK cells are recruited early to the pancreas, become locally activated and then adopt a hyporesponsive phenotype. Although NK cells have a pathogenic role in the natural progression of diabetes in NOD mice, they contribute to diabetes protection induced by complete Freund's adjuvant and to islet allograft tolerance induced by co-stimulatory blockade. NK cells in the inflamed joint uniquely express receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), which promote osteoclast differentiation. Although NK cells have a pathogenic role in collagen-induced arthritis in mice, they are also crucial for protection against antibody-induced arthritis mediated by CpG oligonucleotides. Studies in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis have shown that NK cells arrive in the central nervous system (CNS) before pathogenic T cells and have a protective role in the development of CNS inflammation, probably by killing CNS-resident microglia that prime effector T cells. During evolution, different organs might have evolved distinct ways to recruit and influence the effector functions of NK cells. Once we understand these mechanisms, the next challenge will be to exploit this information for harnessing NK cells to develop prophylactic and therapeutic measures against infectious agents, tumours and inflammatory diseases.
Each tissue in our body contains a unique microenvironment that can differentially shape immune reactivity. In this Review article, Shiet al. describe how organ-specific factors influence natural killer cell homing and phenotype, and discuss the local molecular and cellular interactions that determine the protective or pathogenic functions of natural killer cells in the different tissues. Natural killer (NK) cells can be swiftly mobilized by danger signals and are among the earliest arrivals at target organs of disease. However, the role of NK cells in mounting inflammatory responses is often complex and sometimes paradoxical. Here, we examine the divergent phenotypic and functional features of NK cells, as deduced largely from experimental mouse models of pathophysiological responses in the liver, mucosal tissues, uterus, pancreas, joints and brain. Moreover, we discuss how organ-specific factors, the local microenvironment and unique cellular interactions may influence the organ-specific properties of NK cells.
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