1
|
Kitakule AS, Amato CM, Yao HHC. Characterization of urethra closure in female neonatal mice at histological and molecular levels. Reproduction 2024; 168:e240239. [PMID: 39190000 PMCID: PMC11427134 DOI: 10.1530/rep-24-0239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
In brief Female hypospadias is a little-known and poorly studied birth defect. This research establishes an anatomical and molecular foundation for future research to investigate the origins of this defect. Abstract Hypospadias is a congenital anomaly of the external genitalia where the urethra does not properly close. In humans, hypospadias is mostly reported in male newborns, whereas in females hypospadias is rare, although it is generally considered to be under-reported. Improper urethra closure in the female genitalia can cause recurrent genitourinary tract infections and infertility. In mice, female hypospadias was induced by exposure to exogenous estrogenic compounds. Aside from the link between estrogen exposure and female hypospadias, the process of female urethra closure is largely unstudied, with the precise timing of urethra closure and associated molecular mechanisms remaining poorly understood. To address this gap, we determined when urethra closure occurs and identified gene expression patterns during the process of urethra closure in female neonatal mice from postnatal day (PND) 5 to 10. Using whole mount imaging and histology, we discovered that the initiation of urethra closure begins at PND7, and urethra closure is fully completed by PND10. To identify the genes associated with urethra closure, we conducted bulk RNA sequencing on female external genitalia prior to and after urethra closure. Gene ontology analyses revealed an increase in steroidogenic gene expression (Star, Hsd3b6, and Cyp17a1) during urethra closure, suggesting that the female genitalia locally produce steroids which could facilitate steroid signaling within the genitalia. With this study, we establish an anatomical timeline of female urethra closure and hypothesize a paracrine steroid signaling mechanism of urethra closure. These observations provide entry points to aid in further understanding external genital abnormalities, like hypospadias, in females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail S. Kitakule
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Ciro M. Amato
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Huang J, Zhang Y, Fang L, Xi F, Tang C, Ou K, Wang C. Chronic exposure to low levels of phenanthrene induces histological damage and carcinogenic risk in the uterus of female mice. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:22858-22869. [PMID: 38413531 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32636-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Phenanthrene (Phe), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with low molecular weight, is detected in the environment at high frequency. To study the toxic effects of Phe on the uterine structure and function, female Kunming mice were exposed to Phe (0.05, 0.5, 5 ng/mL) for 270 days by drinking water. Pathological alterations and their action pathways were analyzed using immunohistochemical and biomolecular technology. Phe significantly increased the percentage of blood vessel area, the number of endometrial neutrophils (indicating the occurrence of inflammation), collagen deposition (indicating fibrosis), and the percentage of Ki-67-positive cells (indicating carcinogenesis) in the uterus. Transcriptome sequencing identified differentially expressed genes that were mainly enriched in some signaling pathways, including inflammation and carcinogenesis, suggesting a carcinogenic risk in the Phe-exposed uterus. Elevated serum estrogen levels and decreased progesterone levels exhibited a disturbance of steroid hormone balance, which might be related to uterine damage. Upregulated protein levels of uterine androgen receptor and estrogen receptor α were linked to the pathological effects. Most of the effects exhibited a nonmonotonic dose response, which might be attributed to the corresponding change in the serum levels of Phe. The results suggest that exposure to low levels of Phe could exert adverse effects on the uterus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China
| | - Feifei Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China
| | - Kunlin Ou
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China
| | - Chonggang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yull S, Shafiei S, Park CB, Kazemi P, Tiemann EB, Pagé MHG, Dufort D. Uterine Nodal expression supports maternal immunotolerance and establishment of the FOXP3 + regulatory T cell population during the preimplantation period. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1276979. [PMID: 38022561 PMCID: PMC10646213 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1276979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy success is dependent on the establishment of maternal tolerance during the preimplantation period. The immunosuppressive function of regulatory T cells is critical to limit inflammation arising from implantation of the semi-allogeneic blastocyst. Insufficient maternal immune adaptations to pregnancy have been frequently associated with cases of female infertility and recurrent implantation failure. The role of Nodal, a secreted morphogen of the TGFβ superfamily, was recently implicated during murine pregnancy as its conditional deletion (NodalΔ/Δ) in the female reproductive tract resulted in severe subfertility. Here, it was determined that despite normal preimplantation processes and healthy, viable embryos, NodalΔ/Δ females had a 50% implantation failure rate compared to NodalloxP/loxP controls. Prior to implantation, the expression of inflammatory cytokines MCP-1, G-CSF, IFN-γ and IL-10 was dysregulated in the NodalΔ/Δ uterus. Further analysis of the preimplantation leukocyte populations in NodalΔ/Δ uteri showed an overabundance of infiltrating, pro-inflammatory CD11bhigh Ly6C+ macrophages coupled with the absence of CD4+ FOXP3+ regulatory T cells. Therefore, it is proposed that uterine Nodal expression during the preimplantation period has a novel role in the establishment of maternal immunotolerance, and its dysregulation should be considered as a potential contributor to cases of female infertility and recurrent implantation failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Yull
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Shiva Shafiei
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Craig B. Park
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Parinaz Kazemi
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Marie-Hélène Godin Pagé
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yusuf ANM, Amri MF, Ugusman A, Hamid AA, Wahab NA, Mokhtar MH. Hyperandrogenism and Its Possible Effects on Endometrial Receptivity: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12026. [PMID: 37569402 PMCID: PMC10419014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is a state of the endometrium defined by its readiness for embryo implantation. When the receptivity of the endometrium is impaired due to hyperandrogenism or androgen excess, this condition can lead to pregnancy loss or infertility. Hyperandrogenism encompasses a wide range of clinical manifestations, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), idiopathic hirsutism, hirsutism and hyperandrogaenemia, non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, acanthosis nigricans (HAIR-AN), ovarian or adrenal androgen-secreting neoplasms, Cushing's syndrome, and hyperprolactinaemia. Recurrent miscarriages have been shown to be closely related to elevated testosterone levels, which alter the endometrial milieu so that it is less favourable for embryo implantation. There are mechanisms for endometrial receptivity that are affected by excess androgen. The HOXA gene, aVβ3 integrin, CDK signalling pathway, MECA-79, and MAGEA-11 were the genes and proteins affect endometrial receptivity in the presence of a hyperandrogenic state. In this review, we would like to explore the other manifestations of androgen excess focusing on causes other than PCOS and learn possible mechanisms of endometrial receptivity behind androgen excess leading to pregnancy loss or infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allia Najmie Muhammad Yusuf
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Fariz Amri
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Malaysia
| | - Azizah Ugusman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Adila A. Hamid
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Norhazlina Abdul Wahab
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Helmy Mokhtar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wan S, Sun Y, Zong J, Meng W, Yan J, Chen K, Wang S, Guo D, Xiao Z, Zhou Q, Yin Z, Yang M. METTL3-dependent m 6A methylation facilitates uterine receptivity and female fertility via balancing estrogen and progesterone signaling. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:349. [PMID: 37270544 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05866-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Infertility is a worldwide reproductive health problem and there are still many unknown etiologies of infertility. In recent years, increasing evidence emerged and confirmed that epigenetic regulation played a leading role in reproduction. However, the function of m6A modification in infertility remains unknown. Here we report that METTL3-dependent m6A methylation plays an essential role in female fertility via balancing the estrogen and progesterone signaling. Analysis of GEO datasets reveal a significant downregulation of METTL3 expression in the uterus of infertile women with endometriosis or recurrent implantation failure. Conditional deletion of Mettl3 in female reproductive tract by using a Pgr-Cre driver results in infertility due to compromised uterine endometrium receptivity and decidualization. m6A-seq analysis of the uterus identifies the 3'UTR of several estrogen-responsive genes with METTL3-dependent m6A modification, like Elf3 and Celsr2, whose mRNAs become more stable upon Mettl3 depletion. However, the decreased expression levels of PR and its target genes, including Myc, in the endometrium of Mettl3 cKO mice indicate a deficiency in progesterone responsiveness. In vitro, Myc overexpression could partially compensate for uterine decidualization failure caused by Mettl3 deficiency. Collectively, this study reveals the role of METTL3-dependent m6A modification in female fertility and provides insight into the pathology of infertility and pregnancy management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Wan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Germ-free animals and Microbiota Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of the Ministry of Education, International Joint Laboratory for Embryonic Development and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yadong Sun
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Germ-free animals and Microbiota Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jinbao Zong
- Clinical Laboratory and Central Laboratory, the Affiliated Qingdao Hiser Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266033, China
| | - Wanqing Meng
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Germ-free animals and Microbiota Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jiacong Yan
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650021, China
| | - Kexin Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650021, China
| | - Sanfeng Wang
- Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, 510010, China
| | - Daji Guo
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, 510123, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiqiang Xiao
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Germ-free animals and Microbiota Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Qinghua Zhou
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Germ-free animals and Microbiota Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Germ-free animals and Microbiota Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, 519000, China.
| | - Meixiang Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Germ-free animals and Microbiota Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, 519000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xia X, Zhang Y, Cao M, Yu X, Gao L, Qin L, Wu W, Cui Y, Liu J. Adverse effect of assisted reproductive technology-related hyperoestrogensim on the secretion and absorption of uterine fluid in superovulating mice during the peri-implantation period. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:859204. [PMID: 36950692 PMCID: PMC10027003 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.859204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism of hyperoestrogensim elicited by ovulation induction affects endometrial receptivity and leads to embryo implantation abnormality or failure. STUDY DESIGN Establishment of ovulation induction mouse model. Changes in mouse body weight, ovarian weight, serum E2 level and oestrous cycle were observed. During the peri-implantation period, morphological changes in the mouse uterus and implantation sites and the localization and protein levels of oestrogen receptors ERα and ERβ, the tight junction factors CLDN3 and OCLN, the aquaporins AQP3, AQP4 and AQP8, and the sodium channel proteins SCNN1α, SCNN1β and SCNN1γ were observed. The expression and cellular localization of ERα, CLDN3, AQP8 and SCNN1 β in RL95-2 cell line were also detected by western blotting and immunofluorescence. RESULTS Ovarian and body weights were significantly higher in the 5 IU and 10 IU groups than in the CON group. The E2 level was significantly higher in the 10 IU group than in the CON group. The mice in the 10 IU group had a disordered oestrous cycle and were in oestrus for a long time. At 5.5 dpc, significantly fewer implantation sites were observed in the 10 IU group than in the CON (p<0.001) and 5 IU (p<0.05) groups. The probability of abnormal implantation and abortion was higher in the 10 IU group than in the CON and 5 IU groups. CLDN3, OCLN, AQP8 and SCNN1β in the mouse endometrium were localized on the luminal epithelium and glandular epithelium and expression levels were lower in the 10 IU group than in the CON group. The protein expression level of ERα was increased by 50% in the 10 IU group compared to the CON group. The expressions of CLDN3, AQP8, SCNN1β in RL95-2 cell line were significantly depressed by the superphysiological E2, ERα agonist or ERβ agonist, which could be reversed by the oestrogen receptor antagonist. CONCLUSION ART-induced hyperoestrogenism reduces CLDN3, AQP8 and SCNN1β expression through ERα, thereby destroying tight junctions and water and sodium channels in the endometrial cavity epithelium, which may cause abnormal implantation due to abnormal uterine fluid secretion and absorption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinru Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meng Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lianju Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yugui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Jiayin Liu,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jiang L, Cao D, Yeung WSB, Lee KF. Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Reveals Interactions between Endometrial Stromal Cells, Epithelial Cells, and Lymphocytes during Mouse Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010213. [PMID: 36613656 PMCID: PMC9820401 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) is an essential process facilitating embryo implantation. However, the roles of non-decidualized and decidualized ESCs in regulating the microenvironment of a receptive endometrium remain unclear. We investigated single-cell transcriptomic changes in the uterus of a CD-1 mouse model at the post-implantation stage. The implantation and inter-implantation sites of the uteruses of pregnant mice at 4.5 and 5.5 days post-coitum were dissected for single-cell RNA sequencing. We identified eight cell types: epithelial cells, stromal cells, endothelial cells, mesothelial cells, lymphocytes, myocytes, myeloids, and pericytes. The ESC transcriptome suggests that the four ESC subtypes are involved in the extracellular remodeling during implantation. The trajectory plot of ESC subtypes indicates embryo implantation that involves a differentiation pathway from undifferentiated ESCs (ESC 1) to decidualized ESCs (DEC ESCs), with distinct signaling pathways between the ESC subtypes. Furthermore, the ligand-receptor analysis suggests that ESCs communicate with epithelial cells and immune cells through nectin and ICAM signaling. Collectively, both decidualized and non-decidualized ESCs may regulate the endometrial microenvironment for optimal endometrial receptivity and immune tolerance. This study provides insights on the molecular and cellular characteristics of mouse ESCs in modulating the epithelial and lymphocyte functions during early embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luhan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +852-2816-1947
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
MIG-6 Is Critical for Progesterone Responsiveness in Human Complex Atypical Hyperplasia and Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314596. [PMID: 36498921 PMCID: PMC9738720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Women with complex atypical hyperplasia (CAH) or early-stage endometrioid endometrial cancer (EEC) are candidates for fertility preservation. The most common approach is progesterone (P4) therapy and deferral of hysterectomy until after completion of childbearing. However, P4 therapy response rates vary, and molecular mechanisms behind P4 resistance are poorly understood. One potential molecular cause of P4 resistance is a loss or attenuation of PGR expression. Mitogen-inducible gene 6 (MIG-6) is critical for P4 responsiveness. MIG-6 protein expression in the endometrial epithelial and stromal cells from women with CAH and EEC was significantly lower compared to women without CAH or EEC. The P4-responsive women (10/15) exhibited an increase of MIG-6 expression in epithelial and stromal cells compared to P4-resistant women (5/15). In addition, immunohistochemical analysis for PGR results showed that stromal PGR levels are significantly higher in P4-responsive women compared to P4-resistant women, whereas epithelial PGR expression was not different. A reverse correlation of MIG-6 and pAKT levels was observed in early-stage EEC patients. Studies strongly suggest that loss of MIG-6 and PGR and activation of pAKT lead to P4 resistance in CAH and EEC. These results will help to elucidate the molecular mechanism leading to P4 resistance in CAH and EEC.
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhao F, Grimm SA, Jia S, Yao HHC. Contribution of the Wolffian duct mesenchyme to the formation of the female reproductive tract. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac182. [PMID: 36204418 PMCID: PMC9523451 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract develops from its embryonic precursor, the Müllerian duct. In close proximity to the Müllerian duct lies the precursor for the male reproductive tract, the Wolffian duct, which is eliminated in the female embryo during sexual differentiation. We discovered that a component of the Wolffian duct, its mesenchyme, is not eliminated after sexual differentiation. Instead, the Wolffian duct mesenchyme underwent changes in transcriptome and chromatin accessibility from male tract to female tract identity, and became a unique mesenchymal population in the female reproductive tract with localization and transcriptome distinct from the mesenchyme derived from the Müllerian duct. Partial ablation of the Wolffian duct mesenchyme stunted the growth of the fetal female reproductive tract in ex vivo organ culture. These findings reveal a new fetal origin of mesenchymal tissues for female reproductive tract formation and reshape our understanding of sexual differentiation of reproductive tracts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Zhao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Sara A Grimm
- Integrative Bioinformatics Support Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Shua Jia
- Present address: Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Park DR, Yeo CH, Yoon JE, Hong EY, Choi BR, Lee YJ, Ha IH. Polygonatum sibiricum improves menopause symptoms by regulating hormone receptor balance in an ovariectomized mouse model. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113385. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
|
11
|
Wu SP, Wang T, Yao ZC, Peavey MC, Li X, Zhou L, Larina IV, DeMayo FJ. Myometrial progesterone receptor determines a transcription program for uterine remodeling and contractions during pregnancy. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac155. [PMID: 36120506 PMCID: PMC9470376 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The uterine myometrium expands and maintains contractile quiescence before parturition. While the steroid hormone progesterone blocks labor, the role of progesterone signaling in myometrial expansion remains elusive. This study investigated the myometrial functions of the progesterone receptor, PGR. Pgr ablation in mouse smooth muscle leads to subfertility, oviductal embryo retention, and impaired myometrial adaptation to pregnancy. While gross morphology between mutant and control uteri are comparable, mutant uteri manifest a decrease of 76.6% oxytocin-stimulated contractility in a pseudopregnant context with a reduced expression of intracellular calcium homeostasis genes including Pde5a and Plcb4. At mid-pregnancy, the mutant myometrium exhibits discontinuous myofibers and disarrayed extracellular matrix at the conceptus site. Transcriptome of the mutant mid-pregnant uterine wall manifests altered muscle and extracellular matrix profiles and resembles that of late-pregnancy control tissues. A survey of PGR occupancy, H3K27ac histone marks, and chromatin looping annotates cis-acting elements that may direct gene expression of mid-pregnancy uteri for uterine remodeling. Further analyses suggest that major muscle and matrix regulators Myocd and Ccn2 and smooth muscle building block genes are PGR direct downstream targets. Cataloging enhancers that are topologically associated with progesterone downstream genes reveals distinctive patterns of transcription factor binding motifs in groups of enhancers and identifies potential regulatory partners of PGR outside its occupying sites. Finally, conserved correlations are found between estimated PGR activities and RNA abundance of downstream muscle and matrix genes in human myometrial tissues. In summary, PGR is pivotal to direct the molecular program for the uterus to remodel and support pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Integrative Bioinformatics Support Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Zheng-Chen Yao
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mary C Peavey
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xilong Li
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lecong Zhou
- Integrative Bioinformatics Support Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fang Y, Fang D. Comprehensive analysis of placental gene-expression profiles and identification of EGFR-mediated autophagy and ferroptosis suppression in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Gene 2022; 834:146594. [PMID: 35643225 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) was the most common liver disease specific to pregnancy. The symptoms of ICP were maternal pruritus and increased bile acid level in serum which was related to preterm birth, fetal distress, meconium-stained amniotic fluid and stillbirth. However, the mechanism of ICP progression on fetal development remained obscure. Sequencing data of 2 normal placenta samples and 4 intrahepatic cholestasis samples during pregnancy was analyzed by GEO2R. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used for analysis of differentially expressed genes. MCODE - A plug-in of Cytoscape was used for molecular complex detection. STRING, Cytoscape, GeneMANIA, NetworkAnalyst, TransmiR, JASPAR, DGIdb and DrugBank were used in this study. Furthermore, histopathological and cell experiments were used to verify our results. Our study identified the key KEGG pathway and four MCODEs which were closely with ICP development, further, sorted by degree centrality, we showed top 30 genes from 7209 differential genes, such as TP53, SRC, EGFR, ESR1, IL10, CD8A, MAPK3, PTPRC, EGF, KIT, ITGAM, LEP and CSF2, etc. Moreover, these hub genes participated in JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway and STAT1/3 regulated these genes expression in a direct way or miRNA-mediated manner. Drug-target analysis about up-regulated genes among hub genes showed that these genes contained multiple drug action site. Furthermore, hub gene-EGFR was associated with destroyed autophagy and ferroptosis. In conclusion, our study analyzed key genes and pathways in ICP development. JAK-STAT3 pathway and EGFR might be a potential target for ICP therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, People's Republic of China
| | - Dajun Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cummings MJ, Yu H, Paudel S, Hu G, Li X, Hemberger M, Wang X. Uterine-specific SIRT1 deficiency confers premature uterine aging and impairs invasion and spacing of blastocyst, and stromal cell decidualization, in mice. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 28:gaac016. [PMID: 35536234 PMCID: PMC10689003 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A distinct age-related alteration in the uterine environment has recently been identified as a prevalent cause of the reproductive decline in older female mice. However, the molecular mechanisms that underlie age-associated uterine adaptability to pregnancy are not known. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a multifunctional NAD+-dependent deacetylase that regulates cell viability, senescence and inflammation during aging, is reduced in aged decidua. Thus, we hypothesize that SIRT1 plays a critical role in uterine adaptability to pregnancy and that uterine-specific ablation of Sirt1 gene accelerates premature uterine aging. Female mice with uterine ablation of Sirt1 gene using progesterone receptor Cre (PgrCre) exhibit subfertility and signs of premature uterine aging. These Sirt1-deficient mothers showed decreases in litter size from their 1st pregnancy and became sterile (25.1 ± 2.5 weeks of age) after giving birth to the third litter. We report that uterine-specific Sirt1 deficiency impairs invasion and spacing of blastocysts, and stromal cell decidualization, leading to abnormal placentation. We found that these problems traced back to the very early stages of hormonal priming of the uterus. During the window of receptivity, Sirt1 deficiency compromises uterine epithelial-stromal crosstalk, whereby estrogen, progesterone and Indian hedgehog signaling pathways are dysregulated, hampering stromal cell priming for decidualization. Uterine transcriptomic analyses also link these causes to perturbations of histone proteins and epigenetic modifiers, as well as adrenomedullin signaling, hyaluronic acid metabolism, and cell senescence. Strikingly, our results also identified genes with significant overlaps with the transcriptome of uteri from aged mice and transcriptomes related to master regulators of decidualization (e.g. Foxo1, Wnt4, Sox17, Bmp2, Egfr and Nr2f2). Our results also implicate accelerated deposition of aging-related fibrillar Type I and III collagens in Sirt1-deficient uteri. Collectively, SIRT1 is an important age-related regulator of invasion and spacing of blastocysts, as well as decidualization of stromal cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalina J Cummings
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- The Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Hongyao Yu
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Sudikshya Paudel
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- The Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Guang Hu
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Xiaoling Li
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Myriam Hemberger
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Xiaoqiu Wang
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- The Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tang S, Cope DI, Vasquez YM, Monsivais D. BMP/SMAD1/5 Signaling in the Endometrial Epithelium Is Essential for Receptivity and Early Pregnancy. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6564025. [PMID: 35383354 PMCID: PMC9049119 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The biological processes that control endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation are critical for the successful outcome of pregnancy. The endometrium is the complex inner lining of the uterine wall that is under the cyclical control of estrogen and progesterone and is a site of intimate contact between mother and blastocyst. The bone morphogenetic signaling (BMP) pathway is a highly conserved signaling pathway that controls key cellular processes throughout pregnancy and exerts intracellular effects via the SMAD1/5 transcription factors. To delineate the endometrial compartment-specific roles of BMP signaling, we generated mice with epithelial-specific conditional deletion of SMAD1/5 using Lactoferrin-icre (Smad1flox/flox;Smad5flox/flox;Lactoferrin-cre, "Smad1/5 cKO"). Histological analysis of the reproductive tracts showed that Smad1/5 cKO mice were developmentally normal and displayed no defects in glandular morphology. In fertility analyses, single SMAD1 or SMAD5 deletion had no effect on fertility; however, double-conditional deletion of SMAD1 and SMAD5 resulted in severe subfertility. Timed mating analyses revealed endometrial receptivity defects in the Smad1/5 cKO mice beginning at 3.5 days post coitum (dpc) that perturbed embryo implantation at 4.5 dpc, as demonstrated by the detection of unattached blastocysts in the uterus, decreased COX2 expression, and FOXO1 cytoplasmic mislocalization. We also found that defects that arose during peri-implantation adversely affected embryonic and decidual development at 5.5 and 6.5 dpc. Thus, uterine epithelial BMP/SMAD1/5 signaling is essential during early pregnancy and SMAD1/5 epithelial-specific deletion has detrimental effects on stromal cell decidualization and pregnancy development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Dominique I Cope
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yasmin M Vasquez
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence: Diana Monsivais, PhD, Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Smith S217, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Garrido-Gómez T, Castillo-Marco N, Cordero T, Simón C. Decidualization resistance in the origin of preeclampsia. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S886-S894. [PMID: 33007270 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a major obstetrical complication with short- and long-term life-threatening consequences for both mother and child. Shallow cytotrophoblast invasion through the uterine decidua into the spiral arteries is implicated in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, although the cause of deficient arterial invasion remains unknown. Research that is focused on the "soil"-the maternal decidua-highlights the importance of this poorly understood but influential uterine layer. Decidualization of endometrial cells regulates embryo invasion, which is essential for spiral artery remodeling and establishing the maternal-fetal interface. Exploration of the association between impaired decidualization and preeclampsia revealed suboptimal endometrial maturation and uterine natural killer cells present in the decidua before preeclampsia development. Furthermore, decidualization defects in the endometrium of women with severe preeclampsia, characterized by impaired cytotrophoblast invasion, were detected at the time of delivery and persisted 5 years after the affected pregnancy. Recently, a maternal deficiency of annexin A2 expression was found to influence aberrant decidualization and shallow cytotrophoblast invasion, suggesting that decidualization resistance, which is a defective endometrial cell differentiation during the menstrual cycle, could underlie shallow trophoblast invasion and the poor establishment of the maternal-fetal interface. Based on these findings, the transcriptional signature in the endometrium that promotes decidualization deficiency could be detected before (or after) conception. This would serve to identify women at risk of developing severe preeclampsia and aid the development of therapies focused on improving decidualization, perhaps also preventing severe preeclampsia. Here, we discuss decidualization deficiency as a contributor to the pathogenesis of pregnancy disorders with particular attention to severe preeclampsia. We also review current diagnostic strategies and discuss future directions in diagnostic methods based on decidualization.
Collapse
|
16
|
Garrido-Gomez T, Castillo-Marco N, Clemente-Ciscar M, Cordero T, Muñoz-Blat I, Amadoz A, Jimenez-Almazan J, Monfort-Ortiz R, Climent R, Perales-Marin A, Simon C. Disrupted PGR-B and ESR1 signaling underlies defective decidualization linked to severe preeclampsia. eLife 2021; 10:70753. [PMID: 34709177 PMCID: PMC8553341 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Decidualization of the uterine mucosa drives the maternal adaptation to invasion by the placenta. Appropriate depth of placental invasion is needed to support a healthy pregnancy; shallow invasion is associated with the development of severe preeclampsia (sPE). Maternal contribution to sPE through failed decidualization is an important determinant of placental phenotype. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the in vivo defect linking decidualization to sPE is unknown. Methods: Global RNA sequencing was applied to obtain the transcriptomic profile of endometrial biopsies collected from nonpregnant women who suffer sPE in a previous pregnancy and women who did not develop this condition. Samples were randomized in two cohorts, the training and the test set, to identify the fingerprinting encoding defective decidualization in sPE and its subsequent validation. Gene Ontology enrichment and an interaction network were performed to deepen in pathways impaired by genetic dysregulation in sPE. Finally, the main modulators of decidualization, estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and progesterone receptor B (PGR-B), were assessed at the level of gene expression and protein abundance. Results: Here, we discover the footprint encoding this decidualization defect comprising 120 genes—using global gene expression profiling in decidua from women who developed sPE in a previous pregnancy. This signature allowed us to effectively segregate samples into sPE and control groups. ESR1 and PGR were highly interconnected with the dynamic network of the defective decidualization fingerprint. ESR1 and PGR-B gene expression and protein abundance were remarkably disrupted in sPE. Conclusions: Thus, the transcriptomic signature of impaired decidualization implicates dysregulated hormonal signaling in the decidual endometria in women who developed sPE. These findings reveal a potential footprint that could be leveraged for a preconception or early prenatal screening of sPE risk, thus improving prevention and early treatments. Funding: This work has been supported by the grant PI19/01659 (MCIU/AEI/FEDER, UE) from the Spanish Carlos III Institute awarded to TGG. NCM was supported by the PhD program FDGENT/2019/008 from the Spanish Generalitat Valenciana. IMB was supported by the PhD program PRE2019-090770 and funding was provided by the grant RTI2018-094946-B-100 (MCIU/AEI/FEDER, UE) from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation with CS as principal investigator. This research was funded partially by Igenomix S.L.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rogelio Monfort-Ortiz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - Reyes Climent
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alfredo Perales-Marin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simon
- Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain.,Obstetrics & Gynecology, BIDMC Harvard University, Boston, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Main actors behind the endometrial receptivity and successful implantation. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101656. [PMID: 34634636 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation occurs during a short period of time, the implantation window, in the mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. The cross-talk between the endometrium and the embryo, at the stage of blastocyst, is a necessary condition for successful implantation. Till now, no single molecule or receptor has been identified to play an essential role on embryo implantation but a huge number of mediators, including cytokines, lipids, adhesion molecules, growth factors, and others, are reported to support the establishment of pregnancy. Therefore, the aim of this review is not only to describe the different actors involved in the implantation process, but also to try to characterize the relationships between these factors as well as their time-regulated activation. Moreover, the availability of in vitro culture systems to study the interactions between embryo and endometrium as well as the paracrine communication regulated by exosomal vesicles will be investigated, as an innovative approach for a more precise characterization of the interactions between the different molecules involved in this process. The in-depth knowledge of all these complex mechanisms will allow to address the reasons of implantation failure and infertility, thus providing new avenues for promoting the successful establishment of a pregnancy.
Collapse
|
18
|
Dudley JS, Murphy CR, Thompson MB, McAllan BM. Uterine cellular changes during mammalian pregnancy and the evolution of placentation. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1381-1400. [PMID: 34514493 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab170] [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: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many different forms of nutrient provision in viviparous (live bearing) species. The formation of a placenta is one method where the placenta functions to transfer nutrients from mother to fetus (placentotrophy), transfer waste from the fetus to the mother and respiratory gas exchange. Despite having the same overarching function, there are different types of placentation within placentotrophic vertebrates, and many morphological changes occur in the uterus during pregnancy to facilitate formation of the placenta. These changes are regulated in complex ways but are controlled by similar hormonal mechanisms across species. This review describes current knowledge of the morphological and molecular changes to the uterine epithelium preceding implantation among mammals. Our aim is to identify the commonalities and constraints of these cellular changes to understand the evolution of placentation in mammals and propose directions for future research. We compare and discuss the complex modifications to the ultrastructure of uterine epithelial cells and show that there are similarities in the changes to the cytoskeleton and gross morphology of the uterine epithelial cells, especially of the apical and lateral plasma membrane of the cells during the formation of a placenta in all eutherians and marsupials studied to date. We conclude that further research is needed to understand the evolution of placentation among viviparous mammals, particularly concerning the level of placental invasiveness, hormonal control and genetic underpinnings of pregnancy in marsupial taxa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica S Dudley
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Christopher R Murphy
- School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michael B Thompson
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Bronwyn M McAllan
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Tanaka T, Wada T, Uno K, Ogihara S, Ie H, Okekawa A, Ishikawa A, Ito T, Miyazawa Y, Sameshima A, Onogi Y, Tsuneki H, Sasahara M, Nakashima A, Saito S, Sasaoka T. Oestrogen receptor α in T cells controls the T cell immune profile and glucose metabolism in mouse models of gestational diabetes mellitus. Diabetologia 2021; 64:1660-1673. [PMID: 33796910 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-021-05447-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS The imbalance between maternal insulin resistance and a relative lack of insulin secretion underlies the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Alterations in T cell subtypes and increased levels of circulating proinflammatory cytokines have been proposed as potential mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of insulin resistance in GDM. Since oestrogen modulates T cell immunity, we hypothesised that oestrogen plays a homeostatic role in visceral adipose tissue by coordinating T cell immunity through oestrogen receptor α (ERα) in T cells to prevent GDM. METHODS Female CD4-cre ERαfl/fl (KO) mice on a C57BL/6 background with ERα ablation specifically in T cells, and ERαfl/fl (ERα-floxed [FL]) mice were fed 60 kJ% high-fat diet (HFD) for 4 weeks. Female mice mated with male BALB/c mice to achieve allogenic pregnancy and were maintained on an HFD to generate the GDM model. Mice were divided into four experimental groups: non-pregnant FL, non-pregnant KO, pregnant FL (FL-GDM) and pregnant KO (KO-GDM). GTTs and ITTs were performed on day 12.5 or 13.5 and 16.5 after breeding, respectively. On day 18.5 after breeding, mice were killed and T cell subsets in the gonadal white adipose tissue (gWAT) and spleen were analysed using flow cytometry. Histological examination was also conducted and proinflammatory gene expression in gWAT and the liver was evaluated. RESULTS KO mice that mated with BALB/c mice showed normal fertility rates and fetal weights as compared with FL mice. Body and tissue weights were similar between FL and KO mice. When compared with FL-GDM mice, KO-GDM mice showed decreased insulin secretion (serum insulin concentration 15 min after glucose loading: 137.3 ± 18.3 pmol/l and 40.1 ± 36.5 pmol/l, respectively; p < 0.05), impaired glucose tolerance (glucose AUC in GTT: 2308.3 ± 54.0 mmol/l × min and 2620.9 ± 122.1 mmol/l × min, respectively; p < 0.05) and increased numbers of T helper (Th)17 cells in gWAT (0.4 ± 0.0% vs 0.8 ± 0.1%; p < 0.05). However, the contents of Th1 and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in gWAT remained similar between FL-GDM and KO-GDM. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was similar between isolated islets derived from FL and KO mice, but was reduced by IL-17A treatment. Moreover, the levels of proinflammatory gene expression, including expression of Emr1 and Tnfa in gWAT, were significantly higher in KO-GDM mice than in FL-GDM mice (5.1-fold and 2.7-fold, respectively; p < 0.01 for both). Furthermore, KO-GDM mice showed increased expression of genes encoding hepatokines, Ahsg and Fgf21 (both were 2.4-fold higher vs FL-GDM mice; p < 0.05 and p = 0.09, respectively), with no changes in inflammatory gene expression (e.g., Tnfa and Ifng) in the liver compared with FL-GDM mice. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Deletion of ERα in T cells caused impaired maternal adaptation of insulin secretion, changes in hepatokine profiles, and enhanced chronic inflammation in gWAT alongside an abnormal increase in Th17 cells. These results suggest that the ERα-mediated oestrogen signalling effects in T cells regulate T cell immunity and contribute to glucose homeostasis in pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Wada
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan.
| | - Kimie Uno
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Saki Ogihara
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hiromi Ie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Akira Okekawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Akari Ishikawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Ito
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Miyazawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Azusa Sameshima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Onogi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tsuneki
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | | | - Akitoshi Nakashima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Shigeru Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Toshiyasu Sasaoka
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Endometrial receptivity and implantation require uterine BMP signaling through an ACVR2A-SMAD1/SMAD5 axis. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3386. [PMID: 34099644 PMCID: PMC8184938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23571-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During early pregnancy in the mouse, nidatory estrogen (E2) stimulates endometrial receptivity by activating a network of signaling pathways that is not yet fully characterized. Here, we report that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) control endometrial receptivity via a conserved activin receptor type 2 A (ACVR2A) and SMAD1/5 signaling pathway. Mice were generated to contain single or double conditional deletion of SMAD1/5 and ACVR2A/ACVR2B receptors using progesterone receptor (PR)-cre. Female mice with SMAD1/5 deletion display endometrial defects that result in the development of cystic endometrial glands, a hyperproliferative endometrial epithelium during the window of implantation, and impaired apicobasal transformation that prevents embryo implantation and leads to infertility. Analysis of Acvr2a-PRcre and Acvr2b-PRcre pregnant mice determined that BMP signaling occurs via ACVR2A and that ACVR2B is dispensable during embryo implantation. Therefore, BMPs signal through a conserved endometrial ACVR2A/SMAD1/5 pathway that promotes endometrial receptivity during embryo implantation. Building on the known role of BMP signalling in implantation, the authors define the role of uterine ACVR2A and ALK3 (via SMAD1/5) in vivo in regulating murine endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation.
Collapse
|
21
|
Takahashi A, Yamanaka A, Takebayashi A, Kimura F, Murakami T. The expression of hepatoma upregulated protein in human endometrium during the menstrual cycle. Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:171-176. [PMID: 32840162 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1811965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Human endometrium resists embryo implantation except during the window period. Currently, uterine HURP expression is known to be involved in endometrial stromal proliferation during embryo implantation of mice. Thus, we demonstrated hepatoma up-regulated protein (HURP) expression in the human endometrium during the menstrual cycle, as well as HURP regulation in endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). MATERIALS AND METHODS We collected human endometrial samples from different menstrual cycle phases (early/late proliferative, and early/mid/late secretory), and then analyzed these samples by immunohistochemistry, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting. We also assessed the effects of two sex-steroid hormones, 17β-estradiol (E2) and 4-pregnene-3,20-dione (P4) on the cultured stromal cells. RESULTS HURP protein was localized to the nucleus of the endometrial both epithelial and stromal cells in all stages. Also, HURP mRNA and protein in human endometrial tissue was significantly up-regulated during late-proliferative and secretory phase, compared with early-proliferative phase. In ESCs, HURP expression was regulated by E2, but not P4. CONCLUSIONS We indicated that cyclic changes in HURP expression in human normal ESC strongly suggested up-regulation by estrogen. Taken together, since estrogen responses are fundamental in endometrial biology, uterine expression of HURP may be involved in female reproductive function during the menstrual cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akimasa Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Yamanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Akie Takebayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Fuminori Kimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Takashi Murakami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chadchan SB, Maurya VK, Krekeler GL, Jungheim ES, Kommagani R. A Role for Malignant Brain Tumor Domain-Containing Protein 1 in Human Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:745. [PMID: 32850854 PMCID: PMC7432280 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to 30% of women experience early miscarriage due to impaired decidualization. For implantation to occur, the uterine endometrial stromal fibroblast-like cells must differentiate into decidual cells, but the genes required for decidualization have not been fully defined. Here, we show that Malignant Brain Tumor Domain-containing Protein 1 (MBTD1), a member of the polycomb group protein family, is critical for human endometrial stromal cell (HESC) decidualization. MBTD1 predominantly localized to HESCs during the secretory phase and the levels were significantly elevated during in vitro decidualization of both immortalized and primary HESCs. Importantly, siRNA-mediated MBTD1 knockdown significantly impaired in vitro decidualization of both immortalized and primary HESCs, as evidenced by reduced expression of the decidualization markers PRL and IGFBP1. Further, knockdown of MBTD1 reduced cell proliferation and resulted in G2/M cell cycle arrest in decidualizing HESCs. Although progesterone signaling is required for decidualization, MBTD1 expression was not affected by progesterone signaling; however, MBTD1 knockdown significantly reduced expression of the progesterone target genes WNT4, FOXOA1, and GREB1. Collectively, our data suggest that MBTD1 contributes to in vitro decidualization of HESCs by sustaining progesterone signaling. This work could have implications for designing diagnostic and therapeutic tools for recurrent pregnancy loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangappa B Chadchan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Vineet K Maurya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Gwendalyn L Krekeler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Emily S Jungheim
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fienberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Marquardt RM, Lee K, Kim TH, Lee B, DeMayo FJ, Jeong JW. Interleukin-13 receptor subunit alpha-2 is a target of progesterone receptor and steroid receptor coactivator-1 in the mouse uterus†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:760-768. [PMID: 32558878 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium, composed of epithelial and stromal cell compartments, is tightly regulated by the ovarian steroid hormones estrogen (E2) and progesterone (P4) during early pregnancy. Through the progesterone receptor (PGR), steroid receptor coactivators, and other transcriptional coregulators, progesterone inhibits E2-induced cell proliferation and induces the differentiation of stromal cells in a process called decidualization to promote endometrial receptivity. Although interleukin-13 receptor subunit alpha-2 (Il13ra2) is expressed in the human and mouse endometrium, its potential role in the steroid hormone regulation of the endometrium has not been thoroughly examined. In this study, we employed PGR knockout mice and steroid receptor coactivator-1 knockout mice (SRC-1-/-) to profile the expression of Il13ra2 in the murine endometrium and determine the role of these transcriptional regulators in the hormone-responsiveness of Il13ra2 expression. Furthermore, we utilized a well-established decidualization-inducing steroidogenic cocktail and a siRNA-based knockdown of IL13RA2 to determine the importance of IL13RA2 in the decidualization of primary human endometrial stromal cells. Our findings demonstrate that Il13ra2 is expressed in the subepithelial stroma of the murine endometrium in response to ovarian steroid hormones and during early pregnancy in a PGR- and SRC-1-dependent manner. Furthermore, we show that knockdown of IL13RA2 before in vitro decidualization of primary human endometrial stromal cells partially compromises the full decidualization response. We conclude that Il13ra2 is a downstream target of progesterone through PGR and SRC-1 and plays a role in mediating the stromal action of ovarian steroid hormones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.,Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kevin Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Brandon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.,Program of Neuroscience, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, ME, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Development Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Nasir S, Ziaullah S, Alam S, Khan MM. Morphological spectrum of endometrium with thyroid hormone profile in infertile female population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci 2020; 36:904-908. [PMID: 32704261 PMCID: PMC7372647 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.36.5.1791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To study the morphological spectrum of endometrial changes with the thyroid hormone levels in infertile women. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted at Department of Pathology, Peshawar Medical College, Health Care Centre and Madina Medical Laboratory, Peshawar from April 2013 to August 2013. Total 160 cases of infertile women were included in the study. Biopsies were taken on 22-23rd day of menstrual cycle. Statistical Analysis was performed using SPSS version 19 statistical program. Difference between endometrial findings of patients with normal thyroid profile and abnormal one were analyzed for statistical significance using Chi square test. Probability values p ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: In our study, majority infertile women were euthyroid (80%), followed by hyperthyroid (18%) and only two% to be hypothyroid. The correlation of endometrial morphology with thyroid hormones levels turned out to be insignificant. While correlating histological details of endometrial biopsy with thyroid hormone status, we found significant association of leukocytic infiltrate with thyroid hormone levels. Conclusion: This study shows that thyroid hormones may have role in early leukocytic infiltration into stroma, and a possibility of immune modulation by altered thyroid hormones in causing infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabeen Nasir
- Dr. Sabeen Nasir, MBBS, M. Phil., Department of Pathology, Peshawar Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Sara Ziaullah
- Dr. Sara Ziaullah, MBBS, M. Phil., Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, Peshawar Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Sadaf Alam
- Dr. Sadaf Alam, MBBS, M. Phil., Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, Peshawar Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Mumtaz Khan
- Dr. Muhammad Mumtaz Khan, MBBS, M. Phil., Department of Pathology, Peshawar Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Liu X, Zhang L, Yang L, Cui J, Che S, Liu Y, Han J, An X, Cao B, Song Y. miR-34a/c induce caprine endometrial epithelial cell apoptosis by regulating circ-8073/CEP55 via the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:10051-10067. [PMID: 32474960 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) are important for endometrial receptivity establishment and embryo implantation in mammals. miR-34a and miR-34c are highly expressed in caprine receptive endometrium (RE). Herein, the functions and mechanisms of miR-34a/c in caprine endometrial epithelial cell (CEEC) apoptosis and RE establishment were investigated. miR-34a/c downregulated the expression level of centrosomal protein 55 (CEP55) and were sponged by circRNA8073 (circ-8073), thereby exhibiting a negative interaction in CEEC. miR-34a/c induced CEEC apoptosis by targeting circ-8073/CEP55 through the regulation of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and phosphoitide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways. Positive and negative feedback loops and cross-talk were documented between the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. miR-34a/c regulated the levels of RE marker genes, including forkhead box M1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and osteopontin (OPN). These results suggest that miR-34a/c not only induce CEEC apoptosis by binding to circ-8073 and CEP55 via the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, but may also regulate RE establishment in dairy goats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lichun Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiuzeng Cui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sicheng Che
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuexia Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jincheng Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaopeng An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Binyun Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuxuan Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Graubner FR, Tavares Pereira M, Boos A, Kowalewski MP. Canine decidualization in vitro: extracellular matrix modification, progesterone mediated effects and selective blocking of prostaglandin E2 receptors. J Reprod Dev 2020; 66:319-329. [PMID: 32201411 PMCID: PMC7470904 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, we established an in vitro model with immortalized dog uterine stromal (DUS) cells for investigations into canine-specific decidualization. Their capability to decidualize was assessed with cAMP and prostaglandin (PG) E2. Here, we show that the effects of PGE2 are mediated through both of the cAMP-mediating PGE2 receptors (PTGER2/4). Their functional inhibition suppressed gene expression of PRLR and PGR in DUS cells. We also assessed the effects of cAMP and PGE2 on selected extracellular matrix components and CX43, and showed that cAMP, but not PGE2, increases COL4, extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) and CX43 protein levels during in vitro decidualization, indicating a mesenchymal-epithelial decidual transformation in these cells. Thus, although PGE2 is involved in decidualization, it does not appear to regulate extracellular matrix. Further, the role of progesterone (P4) during in vitro decidualization was addressed. P4 upregulated PRLR and PGR in DUS cells, but these effects were not influenced by PGE2; both P4 and PGE2 hormones appeared to act independently. P4 did not affect IGF1 expression, which was upregulated by PGE2, however, it suppressed expression of IGF2, also in the presence of PGE2. Similarly, P4 did not affect PGE2 synthase (PTGES), but in the presence of PGE2 it increased PTGER2 levels and, regardless of the presence of PGE2, suppressed expression of PTGER4. Our results indicate a reciprocal regulatory loop between PGE2 and P4 during canine in vitro decidualization: whereas P4 may be involved in regulating PGE2-mediated decidualization by regulating the availability of its receptors, PGE2 regulates PGR levels in a manner dependent on PTGER2 and -4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix R Graubner
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Miguel Tavares Pereira
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alois Boos
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mariusz P Kowalewski
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Eozenou C, Lesage-Padilla A, Mauffré V, Healey GD, Camous S, Bolifraud P, Giraud-Delville C, Vaiman D, Shimizu T, Miyamoto A, Sheldon IM, Constant F, Pannetier M, Sandra O. FOXL2 is a Progesterone Target Gene in the Endometrium of Ruminants. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041478. [PMID: 32098259 PMCID: PMC7073057 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Forkhead Box L2 (FOXL2) is a member of the FOXL class of transcription factors, which are essential for ovarian differentiation and function. In the endometrium, FOXL2 is also thought to be important in cattle; however, it is not clear how its expression is regulated. The maternal recognition of pregnancy signal in cattle, interferon-Tau, does not regulate FOXL2 expression. Therefore, in the present study, we examined whether the ovarian steroid hormones that orchestrate implantation regulate FOXL2 gene expression in ruminants. In sheep, we confirmed that FOXL2 mRNA and protein was expressed in the endometrium across the oestrous cycle (day 4 to day 15 post-oestrus). Similar to the bovine endometrium, ovine FOXL2 endometrial expression was low during the luteal phase of the oestrous cycle (4 to 12 days post-oestrus) and at implantation (15 days post-oestrus) while mRNA and protein expression significantly increased during the luteolytic phase (day 15 post-oestrus in cycle). In pregnant ewes, inhibition of progesterone production by trilostane during the day 5 to 16 period prevented the rise in progesterone concentrations and led to a significant increase of FOXL2 expression in caruncles compared with the control group (1.4-fold, p < 0.05). Ovariectomized ewes or cows that were supplemented with exogenous progesterone for 12 days or 6 days, respectively, had lower endometrial FOXL2 expression compared with control ovariectomized females (sheep, mRNA, 1.8-fold; protein, 2.4-fold; cattle; mRNA, 2.2-fold; p < 0.05). Exogenous oestradiol treatments for 12 days in sheep or 2 days in cattle did not affect FOXL2 endometrial expression compared with control ovariectomized females, except at the protein level in both endometrial areas in the sheep. Moreover, treating bovine endometrial explants with exogenous progesterone for 48h reduced FOXL2 expression. Using in vitro assays with COS7 cells we also demonstrated that progesterone regulates the FOXL2 promoter activity through the progesterone receptor. Collectively, our findings imply that endometrial FOXL2 is, as a direct target of progesterone, involved in early pregnancy and implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Eozenou
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
- Institut Pasteur, UMR 3738, Biologie du Développement et Cellules Souches, Laboratoire de Génétique du Développement Humain, 25 rue du docteur roux, F75015 Paris, France
- Correspondence: (C.E.); (O.S.); Tel.: +33-144389136 (C.E.); +33-134642343 (O.S.)
| | - Audrey Lesage-Padilla
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Vincent Mauffré
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Gareth D. Healey
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK; (G.D.H.); (I.M.S.)
| | - Sylvaine Camous
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Philippe Bolifraud
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Corinne Giraud-Delville
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Daniel Vaiman
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, UMR 8104 CNRS, Faculté René Descartes, 24 rue du Faubourg St Jacques, 75014 Paris, France;
| | - Takashi Shimizu
- Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (T.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; (T.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Iain Martin Sheldon
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK; (G.D.H.); (I.M.S.)
| | - Fabienne Constant
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Maëlle Pannetier
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
| | - Olivier Sandra
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, ENVA, UVSQ, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.L.-P.); (V.M.); (S.C.); (P.B.); (C.G.-D.); (F.C.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (C.E.); (O.S.); Tel.: +33-144389136 (C.E.); +33-134642343 (O.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zheng J, Qu D, Wang C, Ding L, Zhou W. Involvement of CXCL12/CXCR4 in the motility of human first-trimester endometrial epithelial cells through an autocrine mechanism by activating PI3K/AKT signaling. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:87. [PMID: 32041571 PMCID: PMC7011269 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-2788-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background CXCL12(chemokine ligand 12, CXCL12) and its receptors CXCR4 are widely expressed in maternal-fetal interface and plays an adjust role in materno-fetal dialogue and immune tolerance during early pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate the role and mechanism of self-derived CXCL12 in modulating the functions of human first-trimester endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) and to identify the potential protein kinase signaling pathways involved in the CXCL12/CXCR4’s effect on EECs. Methods The expression of CXCL12 and CXCR4 in EECs was measured by using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effects of EEC-conditioned medium (EEC-CM) and recombinant human CXCL12 (rhCXCL12) on EEC migration and invasion in vitro were evaluated with migration and invasion assays. In-cell western blot analysis was used to examine the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERKs) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) after CXCL12 treatment. Results CXCL12 and CXCR4 were both expressed in human first-trimester EECs at the mRNA and protein level. Both EEC-CM and rhCXCL12 significantly increased the migration and invasion of EECs (P < 0.05), which could be blocked by neutralizing antibodies against CXCR4 (P < 0.05) or CXCL12 (P < 0.05), respectively. CXCL12 activated both PI3K/AKT and ERK1/2 signaling and CXCR4 neutralizing antibody effectively reduced CXCL12-induced phosphorylation of AKT and ERK1/2. LY294002, a PI3K-AKT inhibitor, was able to reverse the promotive effect of EEC-CM or rhCXCL12 on EEC migration and invasion. Conclusions Human first-trimester EECs promoted their own migration and invasion through the autocrine mechanism with CXCL12/CXCR4 axis involvement by activating PI3K/AKT signaling. This study contributes to a better understanding of the epithelium function mediated by chemokine and chemokine receptor during normal pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Zheng
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Danni Qu
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Ding
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhui Zhou
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhang C, Yang C, Li N, Liu X, He J, Chen X, Ding Y, Tong C, Peng C, Yin H, Wang Y, Gao R. Elevated insulin levels compromise endometrial decidualization in mice with decrease in uterine apoptosis in early-stage pregnancy. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:3601-3615. [PMID: 31642978 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02601-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Women with hyperinsulinism and insulin resistance have reduced fertility, but the underlying mechanism is still poorly understood. Aberrant endometrial decidualization in early pregnancy was linked to pregnancy complications. In this study, we aimed to test whether elevated insulin levels compromise decidualization in early-stage pregnancy. C57BL/6J mice in high insulin-exposed group were given a subcutaneous injection of recombinant insulin at a concentration of 0.05 IU daily. During decidualization in early pregnancy, serum levels of insulin, E2, P4, LH, FSH and blood glucose were significantly altered in mice treated with high insulin levels. The number of embryo implantation sites and endometrial decidual markers BMP2, ER, PR was significantly decreased by high insulin levels in vivo. Artificial decidual induction in primary mouse endometrial stromal cells and immortal human endometrial stromal cells line were all compromised after treated with 100 nmol/L insulin levels. All these results on flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy and western blotting of Bax, Bcl2, cleaved Caspase3, cleaved PARP proteins level showed that decidual cells apoptosis was significantly decreased. Mitochondrial transmembrane potential also significantly increased by the influence of high insulin levels. PI3K and p-Akt were much higher after insulin exposure and the compromised decidualization by high insulin treatment was rescued by PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002 both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, we demonstrated that elevated insulin levels could compromise mice decidualization in early-stage pregnancy and PI3K/p-Akt-regulated apoptosis was essential for this role. It provides a clue for future investigation on compromised reproduction in women with hyperinsulinemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chengshun Yang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Na Li
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xueqing Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Junlin He
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yubin Ding
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chao Tong
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chuan Peng
- Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Hubin Yin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yingxiong Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Rufei Gao
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China. .,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Haider S, Gamperl M, Burkard TR, Kunihs V, Kaindl U, Junttila S, Fiala C, Schmidt K, Mendjan S, Knöfler M, Latos PA. Estrogen Signaling Drives Ciliogenesis in Human Endometrial Organoids. Endocrinology 2019; 160:2282-2297. [PMID: 31290979 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The human endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus consisting of stromal and epithelial (secretory and ciliated) cells. It undergoes a hormonally regulated monthly cycle of growth, differentiation, and desquamation. However, how these cyclic changes control the balance between secretory and ciliated cells remains unclear. Here, we established endometrial organoids to investigate the estrogen (E2)-driven control of cell fate decisions in human endometrial epithelium. We demonstrate that they preserve the structure, expression patterns, secretory properties, and E2 responsiveness of their tissue of origin. Next, we show that the induction of ciliated cells is orchestrated by the coordinated action of E2 and NOTCH signaling. Although E2 is the primary driver, inhibition of NOTCH signaling provides a permissive environment. However, inhibition of NOTCH alone is not sufficient to trigger ciliogenesis. Overall, we provide insights into endometrial biology and propose endometrial organoids as a robust and powerful model for studying ciliogenesis in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Magdalena Gamperl
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas R Burkard
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Victoria Kunihs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrich Kaindl
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Katy Schmidt
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sasha Mendjan
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Knöfler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulina A Latos
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ding T, Mokshagundam S, Rinaudo PF, Osteen KG, Bruner-Tran KL. Paternal developmental toxicant exposure is associated with epigenetic modulation of sperm and placental Pgr and Igf2 in a mouse model. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:864-876. [PMID: 29741588 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB), parturition prior to 37 weeks' gestation, is the leading cause of neonatal mortality. The causes of spontaneous PTB are poorly understood; however, recent studies suggest that this condition may arise as a consequence of the parental fetal environment. Specifically, we previously demonstrated that developmental exposure of male mice (F1 animals) to the environmental endocrine disruptor 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) was associated with reduced sperm quantity/quality in adulthood and control female partners frequently delivered preterm. Reproductive defects persisted in the F2 and F3 descendants, and spontaneous PTB was common. Reproductive changes in the F3 males, the first generation without direct TCDD exposure, suggest the occurrence of epigenetic alterations in the sperm, which have the potential to impact placental development. Herein, we conducted an epigenetic microarray analysis of control and F1 male-derived placentae, which identified 2171 differentially methylated regions, including the progesterone receptor (Pgr) and insulin-like growth factor (Igf2). To assess if Pgr and Igf2 DNA methylation changes were present in sperm and persist in future generations, we assessed methylation and expression of these genes in F1/F3 sperm and F3-derived placentae. Although alterations in methylation and gene expression were observed, in most tissues, only Pgr reached statistical significance. Despite the modest gene expression changes in Igf2, offspring of F1 and F3 males consistently exhibited IUGR. Taken together, our data indicate that paternal developmental TCDD exposure is associated with transgenerational placental dysfunction, suggesting epigenetic modifications within the sperm have occurred. An evaluation of additional genes and alternative epigenetic mechanisms is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianbing Ding
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Shilpa Mokshagundam
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Paolo F Rinaudo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kevin G Osteen
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville Tennessee, USA
| | - Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Korzekwa AJ, Kotlarczyk AM, Zadroga A. Profiles of maternal origin factors during transition from embryonic diapause to implantation in roe deer. Anim Sci J 2019; 90:1444-1452. [PMID: 31486226 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13289] [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: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to evaluate in female roe deer: (a) PAG mRNA relative abundance in endometrial uterine tissue for determination of the duration of embryonic diapause, (b) mRNA relative abundance of progesterone, estradiol, and prolactin (P4, E2, and PRL) receptors (PGR, ESR, and PRLR) during diapause and after implantation in the endometrium; (c) concentration of P4, E2, and PRL in the blood, and (d) a noninvasive method of hormone detection by measurement of P4 and E2 concentrations in feces. A total of fifteen individuals were obtained post mortem during hunting seasons and divided into three experimental groups (November, December, January). The results did not reveal mRNA relative abundance for PAGs in the endometrium or detectable PAG concentrations in the serum of all examined females. Concentration of PRL and mRNA relative abundance for PRLR long isoform in the endometrium was the highest in January (p < .01). mRNA relative abundance for PGR, P4 concentration in the endometrium, serum, and feces was the highest in January (p < .01). Endometrial origin PRL and P4 may be responsible for the termination of this process and pregnancy development after implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna J Korzekwa
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IARFR PAS), Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Angelika M Kotlarczyk
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IARFR PAS), Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Anna Zadroga
- Department of Biodiversity Protection, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IARFR PAS), Olsztyn, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Marquardt RM, Kim TH, Shin JH, Jeong JW. Progesterone and Estrogen Signaling in the Endometrium: What Goes Wrong in Endometriosis? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3822. [PMID: 31387263 PMCID: PMC6695957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the healthy endometrium, progesterone and estrogen signaling coordinate in a tightly regulated, dynamic interplay to drive a normal menstrual cycle and promote an embryo-receptive state to allow implantation during the window of receptivity. It is well-established that progesterone and estrogen act primarily through their cognate receptors to set off cascades of signaling pathways and enact large-scale gene expression programs. In endometriosis, when endometrial tissue grows outside the uterine cavity, progesterone and estrogen signaling are disrupted, commonly resulting in progesterone resistance and estrogen dominance. This hormone imbalance leads to heightened inflammation and may also increase the pelvic pain of the disease and decrease endometrial receptivity to embryo implantation. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms governing progesterone and estrogen signaling supporting endometrial function and how they become dysregulated in endometriosis. Understanding how these mechanisms contribute to the pelvic pain and infertility associated with endometriosis will open new avenues of targeted medical therapies to give relief to the millions of women suffering its effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Jung-Ho Shin
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guro Hospital, Korea University Medical Center, Seoul 08318, Korea
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kliman HJ, Frankfurter D. Clinical approach to recurrent implantation failure: evidence-based evaluation of the endometrium. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:618-628. [PMID: 30929719 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The endometrium is a dynamic, repetitively cycling tissue that mediates the implantation of the blastocyst. Evaluation of this complex tissue necessitates sophisticated methods that can assess its functional potential. Beginning in the 1950s with simple histological endometrial "dating," these methods have crossed into the molecular era with the use of arrays aimed at dating, functional tests that assess for proliferation and differentiation, and tests that screen for inflammatory markers. In addition to these specialized tests, histologic evaluation for pathologic conditions-such as growth disorders (i.e. polyps and hyperplasia), inflammatory lesions, and retained products of conception-are critical for a complete assessment of the patient with recurrent implantation failure. Whatever the means of testing, the goal is to reveal actionable findings that can assist in offering the best options to patients who have failed multiple transfers with high quality embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harvey J Kliman
- Reproductive and Placental Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - David Frankfurter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Fertility and IVF, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, D.C
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Flores‐Vivaldo YM, Camacho‐Abrego I, Picazo O, Flores G. Pregnancies alters spine number in cortical and subcortical limbic brain regions of old rats. Synapse 2019; 73:e22100. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.22100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yaredit Margarita Flores‐Vivaldo
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla Puebla Mexico
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional Mexico City Mexico
| | - Israel Camacho‐Abrego
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla Puebla Mexico
| | - Ofir Picazo
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional Mexico City Mexico
| | - Gonzalo Flores
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla Puebla Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Teasley HE, Jeong MP, Kim TH. A calcium-dependent phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) expression is regulated by MIG-6 during endometrial tumorigenesis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 511:129-134. [PMID: 30773264 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian steroid hormones, estrogen (E2) and progesterone (P4), are essential regulators of uterine biology. The imbalance of these ovarian steroid hormones leads to uterine diseases such as endometrial cancer, endometriosis, and infertility. Mitogen-inducible gene 6 (MIG-6) is an adaptor protein. MIG-6 mediates P4 signaling and acts as a tumor suppressor during endometrial tumorigenesis in both humans and mice. In previous studies, we developed the conditional knockout of Mig-6 in all uterine compartments (Pgrcre/+Mig-6f/f; Mig-6KO) and endometrial epithelial cell-specific Mig-6 knockout (Sprr2fcre/+Mig-6f/f; Mig-6Ep-KO) mice. Both mouse models developed endometrial hyperplasia and E2-dependent endometrial cancer. P4 treatment significantly decreases aberrant epithelial proliferation and AKT signaling in Mig-6Ep-KO mice but not in Mig-6KO mice. In the present study, we identified a calcium-dependent phospholipase A2 (cPla2) as one of the genes down-regulated by Mig-6 in the uterus. We performed immunohistochemistry and Western Blot analysis to investigate the regulation of cPLA2 by MIG-6 as well as determine the expression patterns of cPLA2 in the uterus. While the expression of cPLA2 was stronger at the uterine epithelial cells of Mig-6KO and Mig-6Ep-KO mice compared to control mice, P4 suppressed the expression of cPLA2 in Mig-6Ep-KO mice but not in Mig-6KO mice. To determine the ovarian steroid hormone regulation of cPLA2, we examined the expression of cPLA2 in ovariectomized control, Mig-6KO, Mig-6Ep-KO, and PRKO mice treated with P4 or E2. After P4 treatment, cPLA2 expression was remarkably reduced in Mig-6Ep-KO mice but not in Mig-6KO mice. However, the expression of cPLA2 was not changed in PRKO mice. Our results identified cPLA2 as a novel target of MIG-6 in the murine uterus and identified its important role during endometrial tumorigenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna E Teasley
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA
| | - Munseok Paul Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Vasquez YM. Estrogen-regulated transcription: Mammary gland and uterus. Steroids 2018; 133:82-86. [PMID: 29289754 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen (E2) plays a central role in the developmental, metabolic and reproductive functions of both males and females. E2 acts via the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) to regulate the transcription of genes involved in numerous cellular functions. The E2-dependent engagement of ERα across regulatory regions of the genome, termed "enhancers", exhibits a high degree of complexity and plasticity. The E2-transcriptional response is defined by pioneer factors, transcription co-factors, posttranslational modifications of ERα, the chromatin environment, and cross talk with other signaling pathways. These inputs collectively define the normal functions of tissues like the mammary gland and the uterus. This mechanism can also provide a selective and aberrant growth advantage in pathological conditions, such as cancer. E2-regulated transcription continues to be an area of great interest in the fields of reproduction and cancer. The goal of these field is to decipher the molecular mechanisms governing ERα transcription to design effective therapeutic strategies for the improvement of clinical care and control of fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin M Vasquez
- The Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| |
Collapse
|