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Shahbazi MN, Pasque V. Early human development and stem cell-based human embryo models. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:1398-1418. [PMID: 39366361 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
The use of stem cells to model the early human embryo promises to transform our understanding of developmental biology and human reproduction. In this review, we present our current knowledge of the first 2 weeks of human embryo development. We first focus on the distinct cell lineages of the embryo and the derivation of stem cell lines. We then discuss the intercellular crosstalk that guides early embryo development and how this crosstalk is recapitulated in vitro to generate stem cell-based embryo models. We highlight advances in this fast-developing field, discuss current limitations, and provide a vision for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vincent Pasque
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Stem Cell Institute & Leuven Institute for Single-Cell Omics (LISCO), Leuven, Belgium.
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2
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Siriwardena D, Munger C, Penfold C, Kohler TN, Weberling A, Linneberg-Agerholm M, Slatery E, Ellermann AL, Bergmann S, Clark SJ, Rawlings TM, Brickman JM, Reik W, Brosens JJ, Zernicka-Goetz M, Sasaki E, Behr R, Hollfelder F, Boroviak TE. Marmoset and human trophoblast stem cells differ in signaling requirements and recapitulate divergent modes of trophoblast invasion. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:1427-1446.e8. [PMID: 39321797 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Early human trophoblast development has remained elusive due to the inaccessibility of the early conceptus. Non-human primate models recapitulate many features of human development and allow access to early postimplantation stages. Here, we tracked the pre- to postimplantation transition of the trophoblast lineage in superficially implanting marmoset embryos in vivo. We differentiated marmoset naive pluripotent stem cells into trophoblast stem cells (TSCs), which exhibited trophoblast-specific transcriptome, methylome, differentiation potential, and long-term self-renewal. Notably, human TSC culture conditions failed to support marmoset TSC derivation, instead inducing an extraembryonic mesoderm-like fate in marmoset cells. We show that combined MEK, TGF-β/NODAL, and histone deacetylase inhibition stabilizes a periimplantation trophoblast-like identity in marmoset TSCs. By contrast, these conditions differentiated human TSCs toward extravillous trophoblasts. Our work presents a paradigm to harness the evolutionary divergence in implantation strategies to elucidate human trophoblast development and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Siriwardena
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Clara Munger
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Christopher Penfold
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Timo N Kohler
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Erin Slatery
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anna L Ellermann
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sophie Bergmann
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephen J Clark
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Altos Labs Cambridge Institute, Cambridge, UK; Epigenetics Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Thomas M Rawlings
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Joshua M Brickman
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (renew), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Wolf Reik
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Altos Labs Cambridge Institute, Cambridge, UK; Epigenetics Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK; Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Erika Sasaki
- Department of Marmoset Biology and Medicine, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kawasaki 210-0821, Japan
| | - Rüdiger Behr
- German Primate Center, Leibniz-Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Thorsten E Boroviak
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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3
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Shukla V, Moreno-Irusta A, Varberg KM, Kuna M, Iqbal K, Galligos AM, Aplin JD, Choudhury RH, Okae H, Arima T, Soares MJ. NOTUM-mediated WNT silencing drives extravillous trophoblast cell lineage development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2403003121. [PMID: 39325428 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2403003121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Trophoblast stem (TS) cells have the unique capacity to differentiate into specialized cell types, including extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells. EVT cells invade into and transform the uterus where they act to remodel the vasculature facilitating the redirection of maternal nutrients to the developing fetus. Disruptions in EVT cell development and function are at the core of pregnancy-related disease. WNT-activated signal transduction is a conserved regulator of morphogenesis of many organ systems, including the placenta. In human TS cells, activation of canonical WNT signaling is critical for maintenance of the TS cell stem state and its downregulation accompanies EVT cell differentiation. We show that aberrant WNT signaling undermines EVT cell differentiation. Notum, palmitoleoyl-protein carboxylesterase (NOTUM), a negative regulator of canonical WNT signaling, was prominently expressed in first-trimester EVT cells developing in situ and up-regulated in EVT cells derived from human TS cells. Furthermore, NOTUM was required for optimal human TS cell differentiation to EVT cells. Activation of NOTUM in EVT cells is driven, at least in part, by endothelial Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS) domain 1 (also called hypoxia-inducible factor 2 alpha). Collectively, our findings indicate that canonical Wingless-related integration site (WNT) signaling is essential for maintenance of human trophoblast cell stemness and regulation of human TS cell differentiation. Downregulation of canonical WNT signaling via the actions of NOTUM is required for optimal EVT cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Shukla
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Ayelen Moreno-Irusta
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Kaela M Varberg
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Marija Kuna
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Anna M Galligos
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - John D Aplin
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
- Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Ruhul H Choudhury
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
- Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Michael J Soares
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
- Center for Perinatal Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's Mercy, Kansas City, MO 64108
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
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4
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Chen EX, Hu SC, Xu JQ, Liu KY, Tang J, Shen XP, Liang X, Xie YL, Ge LX, Luo X, Wang YX, Xiang YL, Ding YB. Suppression of GATA3 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and simultaneous cellular senescence in human extravillous trophoblasts. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119768. [PMID: 38838858 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2024.119768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The regulatory mechanism of the transcription factor GATA3 in the differentiation and maturation process of extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) in early pregnancy placenta, as well as its relevance to the occurrence of pregnancy disorders, remains poorly understood. This study leveraged single-cell RNA sequencing data from placental organoid models and placental tissue to explore the dynamic changes in GATA3 expression during EVT maturation. The expression pattern exhibited an initial upregulation followed by subsequent downregulation, with aberrant GATA3 localization observed in cases of recurrent miscarriage (RM). By identifying global targets regulated by GATA3 in primary placental EVT cells, JEG3, and HTR8/SVneo cell lines, this study offered insights into its regulatory mechanisms across different EVT cell models. Shared regulatory targets among these cell types and activation of trophoblast cell marker genes emphasized the importance of GATA3 in EVT differentiation and maturation. Knockdown of GATA3 in JEG3 cells led to repression of GATA3-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as evidenced by changes in marker gene expression levels and enhanced migration ability. Additionally, interference with GATA3 accelerated cellular senescence, as indicated by reduced proliferation rates and increased activity levels for senescence-associated β-galactosidase enzyme, along with elevated expression levels for senescence-associated genes. This study provides comprehensive insights into the dual role of GATA3 in regulating EMT and cellular senescence during EVT differentiation, shedding light on the dynamic changes in GATA3 expression in normal and pathological placental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- En-Xiang Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Hunan Provincial University Key Laboratory of the Fundamental and Clinical Research on Functional Nucleic Acid, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changsha Medical University, Hunan 410219, China
| | - Si-Chen Hu
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jia-Qi Xu
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Kun-Yan Liu
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jing Tang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xi-Peng Shen
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - You-Long Xie
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Lu-Xin Ge
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Agricultural Biogenomics, Changsha Medical University. Hunan 410219, China
| | - Xin Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yun-Long Xiang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, China; Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
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5
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Huang S, Yao B, Guo Y, Zhang Y, Li H, Zhang Y, Liu S, Wang X. Human trophoblast organoids for improved prediction of placental ABC transporter-mediated drug transport. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 492:117112. [PMID: 39326791 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.117112] [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: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, the important transmembrane efflux transporters, play an irreplaceable role in the placenta barrier. The disposition and drug-drug interaction of clinical drugs are also closely related to the functions of ABC transporters. The trophoblast is a unique feature of the placenta, which is crucial for normal placentation and maintenance during pregnancy. ABC transporters are abundantly expressed in placental syncytiotrophoblast, especially P-gp, BCRP, and MRPs. However, due to the lack of appropriate modeling systems, the molecular mechanisms of regulation between ABC transporters and trophoblast remains unclear. In this report, trophoblast organoids were cultured from human placental villi and developed into three-dimension structures with cavities. Trophoblast organoids exhibited transporter expression and localization comparable to that in villous tissue, indicating their physiological relevance for modeling drug transport. Moreover, fluorescent substrates can accumulate in organoids and be selectively inhibited by inhibitors, indicating the efflux function of ABC transporters (P-gp, BCRP, MRP1, and MRP2) in organoids. Two commonly used hypertension drugs and three antipsychotics were chosen to further validate this drug transport model and demonstrate varying degrees of inhibitory effects on ABC transporters. Overall, a new drug transport model mediated by ABC transporter has been successfully established based on human trophoblast organoids, which can be used to study drug transport in the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengbo Huang
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingyi Yao
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanqing Guo
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanjin Zhang
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haichuan Li
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuwen Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, NMPA Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism Research and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Changning Maternity and Infant Health Hospital and School of Life Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Cinkornpumin JK, Kwon SY, Prandstetter AM, Maxian T, Sirois J, Goldberg J, Zhang J, Saini D, Dasgupta P, Jeyarajah MJ, Renaud SJ, Paul S, Haider S, Pastor WA. Hypoxia and loss of GCM1 expression prevents differentiation and contact inhibition in human trophoblast stem cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.10.612343. [PMID: 39314437 PMCID: PMC11419009 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.10.612343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
The placenta develops alongside the embryo and nurtures fetal development to term. During the first stages of embryonic development, due to low blood circulation, the blood and ambient oxygen supply is very low (~1-2% O2) and gradually increases upon placental invasion. While a hypoxic environment is associated with stem cell self-renewal and proliferation, persistent hypoxia may have severe effects on differentiating cells and could be the underlying cause of placental disorders. We find that human trophoblast stem cells (hTSC) thrive in low oxygen, whereas differentiation of hTSC to trophoblast to syncytiotrophoblast (STB) and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) is negatively affected by hypoxic conditions. The pro-differentiation factor GCM1 (human Glial Cell Missing-1) is downregulated in low oxygen, and concordantly there is substantial reduction of GCM1-regulated genes in hypoxic conditions. Knockout of GCM1 in hTSC caused impaired EVT and STB formation and function, reduced expression of differentiation-responsive genes, and resulted in maintenance of self-renewal genes. Treatment with a PI3K inhibitor reported to reduce GCM1 protein levels likewise counteracts spontaneous or directed differentiation. Additionally, chromatin immunoprecipitation of GCM1 showed enrichment of GCM1-specific binding near key transcription factors upregulated upon differentiation including the contact inhibition factor CDKN1C. Loss of GCM1 resulted in downregulation of CDKN1C and corresponding loss of contact inhibition, implicating GCM1 in regulation of this critical process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sin Young Kwon
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anna-Maria Prandstetter
- Placental Development Group, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa Maxian
- Placental Development Group, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Jacinthe Sirois
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - James Goldberg
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Joy Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Deepak Saini
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Purbasa Dasgupta
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas, Kansas City, United States
| | - Mariyan J Jeyarajah
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario
| | - Stephen J Renaud
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario
| | - Soumen Paul
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas, Kansas City, United States
- Institute for Reproduction and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas, Kansas City, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas, Kansas City, United States
| | - Sandra Haider
- Placental Development Group, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - William A Pastor
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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7
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Lu H, Jiang H, Li C, Derisoud E, Zhao A, Eriksson G, Lindgren E, Pui HP, Risal S, Pei Y, Maxian T, Ohlsson C, Benrick A, Haider S, Stener-Victorin E, Deng Q. Dissecting the Impact of Maternal Androgen Exposure on Developmental Programming through Targeting the Androgen Receptor. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2309429. [PMID: 39075722 PMCID: PMC11423211 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309429] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) exhibit sustained elevation in circulating androgens during pregnancy, an independent risk factor linked to pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes in offspring. Yet, further studies are required to understand the effects of elevated androgens on cell type-specific placental dysfunction and fetal development. Therefore, a PCOS-like mouse model induced by continuous androgen exposure is examined. The PCOS-mice exhibited impaired placental and embryonic development, resulting in mid-gestation lethality. Co-treatment with the androgen receptor blocker, flutamide, prevents these phenotypes including germ cell specification. Comprehensive profiling of the placenta by whole-genome bisulfite and RNA sequencing shows a reduced proportion of trophoblast precursors, possibly due to the downregulation of Cdx2 expression. Reduced expression of Gcm1, Synb, and Prl3b1 is associated with reduced syncytiotrophoblasts and sinusoidal trophoblast giant cells, impairs placental labyrinth formation. Importantly, human trophoblast organoids exposed to androgens exhibit analogous changes, showing impaired trophoblast differentiation as a key feature in PCOS-related pregnancy complications. These findings provide new insights into the potential cellular targets for future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojiang Lu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Congru Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Emilie Derisoud
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Allan Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Gustaw Eriksson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Eva Lindgren
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Han-Pin Pui
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Sanjiv Risal
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Yu Pei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Theresa Maxian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Claes Ohlsson
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, 40530, Sweden
| | - Anna Benrick
- Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, 40530, Sweden
- School of Health Sciences, University of Skövde, Skövde, 54128, Sweden
| | - Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | | | - Qiaolin Deng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
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8
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Balestrini PA, Abdelbaki A, McCarthy A, Devito L, Senner CE, Chen AE, Munusamy P, Blakeley P, Elder K, Snell P, Christie L, Serhal P, Odia RA, Sangrithi M, Niakan KK, Fogarty NME. Transcription factor-based transdifferentiation of human embryonic to trophoblast stem cells. Development 2024; 151:dev202778. [PMID: 39250534 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
During the first week of development, human embryos form a blastocyst composed of an inner cell mass and trophectoderm (TE) cells, the latter of which are progenitors of placental trophoblast. Here, we investigated the expression of transcripts in the human TE from early to late blastocyst stages. We identified enrichment of the transcription factors GATA2, GATA3, TFAP2C and KLF5 and characterised their protein expression dynamics across TE development. By inducible overexpression and mRNA transfection, we determined that these factors, together with MYC, are sufficient to establish induced trophoblast stem cells (iTSCs) from primed human embryonic stem cells. These iTSCs self-renew and recapitulate morphological characteristics, gene expression profiles, and directed differentiation potential, similar to existing human TSCs. Systematic omission of each, or combinations of factors, revealed the crucial importance of GATA2 and GATA3 for iTSC transdifferentiation. Altogether, these findings provide insights into the transcription factor network that may be operational in the human TE and broaden the methods for establishing cellular models of early human placental progenitor cells, which may be useful in the future to model placental-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula A Balestrini
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Ahmed Abdelbaki
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- The Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Afshan McCarthy
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Liani Devito
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Unit, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Claire E Senner
- The Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Alice E Chen
- Trestle Biotherapeutics, Centre for Novel Therapeutics, 9310 Athena Circle, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Prabhakaran Munusamy
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore229899, Singapore
| | - Paul Blakeley
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kay Elder
- Bourn Hall Clinic, Bourn, Cambridge CB23 2TN, UK
| | - Phil Snell
- Bourn Hall Clinic, Bourn, Cambridge CB23 2TN, UK
| | | | - Paul Serhal
- The Centre for Reproductive & Genetic Health, 230-232 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5QS, UK
| | - Rabi A Odia
- The Centre for Reproductive & Genetic Health, 230-232 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5QS, UK
| | - Mahesh Sangrithi
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore229899, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Cancer Stem Cell Biology/OBGYN ACP, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Kathy K Niakan
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
- The Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
- Epigenetics Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Norah M E Fogarty
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
- Human Embryo and Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
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9
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Hawkins A, Pantazi P, Yang L, Coyne CB, Bokun V, Lemme-Dumit JM, Pasetti MF, Barnett S, Culley FJ, Holder B. Long-term culture and passaging of term trophoblast for the investigation of syncytiotrophoblast function. Placenta 2024:S0143-4004(24)00632-5. [PMID: 39261115 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances in the use of trophoblast stem cells and organoid models have markedly enhanced our understanding of placental development and function. These models offer significant improvements over previous systems due to their extended viability in culture and capacity to replicate various trophoblast functions, such as extravillous trophoblast invasion, syncytialisation and 3D architecture. Initially, the generation of trophoblast organoids was confined to first trimester placental tissue; however, it was recently reported that term placentae can also serve as a source of trophoblast stem cells. Here, we report that both 2D proliferative cytotrophoblasts and 3D trophoblast organoids can be effectively derived from cryopreserved term cytotrophoblasts isolated by the 'Kliman' method of sequential trypsin digestion and Percoll density gradient centrifugation, when cultured in specialised medium. This was confirmed by the expression of characteristic trophoblast markers including cytokeratin-7, E-cadherin, and human chorionic gonadotropin beta (β-hCG). The proliferative cytotrophoblasts were induced to differentiate to syncytiotrophoblasts, marked by elevated β-hCG expression, reduced Ki67-positive nuclei, and a fused syncytial phenotype. The protocol described here enables the application of organoid models and in vitro functional studies to stored cytotrophoblast samples for the study of placental function from unique patient cohorts. Moreover, the utilization of term placental sources may alleviate ethical concerns with using cells from pregnancy terminations, thus expanding access for a broader research community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Hawkins
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Paschalia Pantazi
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Liheng Yang
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| | - Carolyn B Coyne
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| | - Vladimir Bokun
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Jose M Lemme-Dumit
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marcela F Pasetti
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sara Barnett
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Fiona J Culley
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Beth Holder
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, Imperial College London, UK.
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10
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Shukla V, Moreno-Irusta A, Varberg KM, Kuna M, Iqbal K, Galligos AM, Aplin JD, Choudhury RH, Okae H, Arima T, Soares MJ. NOTUM-MEDIATED WNT SILENCING DRIVES EXTRAVILLOUS TROPHOBLAST CELL LINEAGE DEVELOPMENT. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.13.579974. [PMID: 38405745 PMCID: PMC10888853 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.13.579974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Trophoblast stem (TS) cells have the unique capacity to differentiate into specialized cell types, including extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells. EVT cells invade into and transform the uterus where they act to remodel the vasculature facilitating the redirection of maternal nutrients to the developing fetus. Disruptions in EVT cell development and function are at the core of pregnancy-related disease. WNT-activated signal transduction is a conserved regulator of morphogenesis of many organ systems, including the placenta. In human TS cells, activation of canonical WNT signaling is critical for maintenance of the TS cell stem state and its downregulation accompanies EVT cell differentiation. We show that aberrant WNT signaling undermines EVT cell differentiation. Notum, palmitoleoyl-protein carboxylesterase (NOTUM), a negative regulator of canonical WNT signaling, was prominently expressed in first trimester EVT cells developing in situ and upregulated in EVT cells derived from human TS cells. Furthermore, NOTUM was required for optimal human TS cell differentiation to EVT cells. Activation of NOTUM in EVT cells is driven, at least in part, by endothelial PAS domain 1 (also called hypoxia-inducible factor 2 alpha). Collectively, our findings indicate that canonical WNT signaling is essential for maintenance of human trophoblast cell stemness and regulation of human TS cell differentiation. Downregulation of canonical WNT signaling via the actions of NOTUM is required for optimal EVT cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Shukla
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Ayelen Moreno-Irusta
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Kaela M. Varberg
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Marija Kuna
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Anna M. Galligos
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - John D. Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
- Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary’s Hospital, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Ruhul H. Choudhury
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
- Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary’s Hospital, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811 Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Michael J. Soares
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
- Center for Perinatal Research, Children’s Research Institute, Children’s Mercy, Kansas City, MO
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
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11
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Lemke KA, Sarkar CA, Azarin SM. Rapid retinoic acid-induced trophoblast cell model from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18204. [PMID: 39107470 PMCID: PMC11303561 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68952-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
A limited number of accessible and representative models of human trophoblast cells currently exist for the study of placentation. Current stem cell models involve either a transition through a naïve stem cell state or precise dynamic control of multiple growth factors and small-molecule cues. Here, we demonstrated that a simple five-day treatment of human induced pluripotent stem cells with two small molecules, retinoic acid (RA) and Wnt agonist CHIR 99021 (CHIR), resulted in rapid, synergistic upregulation of CDX2. Transcriptomic analysis of RA + CHIR-treated cells showed high similarity to primary trophectoderm cells. Multipotency was verified via further differentiation towards cells with syncytiotrophoblast or extravillous trophoblast features. RA + CHIR-treated cells were also assessed for the established criteria defining a trophoblast cell model, and they possess all the features necessary to be considered valid. Collectively, our data demonstrate a facile, scalable method for generating functional trophoblast-like cells in vitro to better understand the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A Lemke
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Casim A Sarkar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Samira M Azarin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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12
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Lopez I, Truskey GA. Multi-cellular engineered living systems to assess reproductive toxicology. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 127:108609. [PMID: 38759876 PMCID: PMC11179964 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Toxicants and some drugs can negatively impact reproductive health. Many toxicants haven't been tested due to lack of available models. The impact of many drugs taken during pregnancy to address maternal health may adversely affect fetal development with life-long effects and clinical trials do not examine toxicity effects on the maternal-fetal interface, requiring indirect assessment of safety and efficacy. Due to current gaps in reproductive toxicological knowledge and limitations of animal models, multi-cellular engineered living systems may provide solutions for modeling reproductive physiology and pathology for chemical and xenobiotic toxicity studies. Multi-cellular engineered living systems, such as microphysiological systems (MPS) and organoids, model of functional units of tissues. In this review, we highlight the key functions and structures of human reproductive organs and well-known representative toxicants afflicting these systems. We then discuss current approaches and specific studies where scientists have used MPS or organoids to recreate in vivo markers and cellular responses of the female and male reproductive system, as well as pregnancy-associated placenta formation and embryo development. We provide specific examples of organoids and organ-on-chip that have been used for toxicological purposes with varied success. Finally, we address current issues related to usage of MPS, emerging techniques for improving upon these complications, and improvements needed to make MPS more capable in assessing reproductive toxicology. Overall, multi-cellular engineered living systems have considerable promise to serve as a suitable, alternative reproductive biological model compared to animal studies and 2D culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lopez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - George A Truskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States.
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13
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Morey R, Soncin F, Kallol S, Sah N, Manalo Z, Bui T, Slamecka J, Cheung VC, Pizzo D, Requena DF, Chang CW, Farah O, Kittle R, Meads M, Horii M, Fisch K, Parast MM. Single-cell transcriptomics reveal differences between chorionic and basal plate cytotrophoblasts and trophoblast stem cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.12.603155. [PMID: 39071344 PMCID: PMC11275976 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.12.603155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Cytotrophoblast (CTB) of the early gestation human placenta are bipotent progenitor epithelial cells, which can differentiate into invasive extravillous trophoblast (EVT) and multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast (STB). Trophoblast stem cells (TSC), derived from early first trimester placentae, have also been shown to be bipotential. In this study, we set out to probe the transcriptional diversity of first trimester CTB and compare TSC to various subgroups of CTB. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing on six normal placentae, four from early (6-8 weeks) and two from late (12-14 weeks) first trimester, of which two of the early first trimester cases were separated into basal (maternal) and chorionic (fetal) fractions prior to sequencing. We also sequenced three TSC lines, derived from 6-8 week placentae, to evaluate similarities and differences between primary CTB and TSC. CTB clusters displayed notable distinctions based on gestational age, with early first trimester placentae showing enrichment for specific CTB subtypes, further influenced by origin from the basal or chorionic plate. Differential expression analysis of CTB from basal versus chorionic plate highlighted pathways associated with proliferation, unfolded protein response, and oxidative phosphorylation. We identified trophoblast states representing initial progenitor CTB, precursor STB, precursor and mature EVT, and multiple CTB subtypes. CTB progenitors were enriched in early first trimester placentae, with basal plate cells biased toward EVT, and chorionic plate cells toward STB, precursors. Clustering and trajectory inference analysis indicated that TSC were most like EVT precursor cells, with only a small percentage of TSC on the pre-STB differentiation trajectory. This was confirmed by flow cytometric analysis of 6 different TSC lines, which showed uniform expression of proximal column markers ITGA2 and ITGA5. Additionally, we found that ITGA5+ CTB could be plated in 2D, forming only EVT upon spontaneous differentiation, but failed to form self-renewing organoids; conversely, ITGA5-CTB could not be plated in 2D, but readily formed organoids. Our findings suggest that distinct CTB states exist in different regions of the placenta as early as six weeks gestation and that current TSC lines most closely resemble ITGA5+ CTB, biased toward the EVT lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Morey
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Francesca Soncin
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Sampada Kallol
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Nirvay Sah
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Zoe Manalo
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Tony Bui
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jaroslav Slamecka
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Virginia Chu Cheung
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Don Pizzo
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Daniela F Requena
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Ching-Wen Chang
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Omar Farah
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Ryan Kittle
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Morgan Meads
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Mariko Horii
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Kathleen Fisch
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Mana M Parast
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Perinatal Discovery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
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14
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Kumar RP, Kumar R, Ganguly A, Ghosh A, Ray S, Islam MR, Saha A, Roy N, Dasgupta P, Knowles T, Niloy AJ, Marsh C, Paul S. METTL3 shapes m6A epitranscriptomic landscape for successful human placentation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.12.603294. [PMID: 39026770 PMCID: PMC11257629 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.12.603294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), the catalytic enzyme of methyltransferase complex for m6A methylation of RNA, is essential for mammalian development. However, the importance of METTL3 in human placentation remains largely unexplored. Here, we show that a fine balance of METTL3 function in trophoblast cells is essential for successful human placentation. Both loss-of and gain-in METTL3 functions are associated with adverse human pregnancies. A subset of recurrent pregnancy losses and preterm pregnancies are often associated with loss of METTL3 expression in trophoblast progenitors. In contrast, METTL3 is induced in pregnancies associated with fetal growth restriction (FGR). Our loss of function analyses showed that METTL3 is essential for the maintenance of human TSC self-renewal and their differentiation to extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs). In contrast, loss of METTL3 in human TSCs promotes syncytiotrophoblast (STB) development. Global analyses of RNA m6A modification and METTL3-RNA interaction in human TSCs showed that METTL3 regulates m6A modifications on the mRNA molecules of critical trophoblast regulators, including GATA2, GATA3, TEAD1, TEAD4, WWTR1, YAP1, TFAP2C and ASCL2, and loss of METTL3 leads to depletion of mRNA molecules of these critical regulators. Importantly, conditional deletion of Mettl3 in trophoblast progenitors of an early post-implantation mouse embryo also leads to arrested self-renewal. Hence, our findings indicate that METLL3 is a conserved epitranscriptomic governor in trophoblast progenitors and ensures successful placentation by regulating their self-renewal and dictating their differentiation fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Parikshan Kumar
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Rajnish Kumar
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Avishek Ganguly
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Ananya Ghosh
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Soma Ray
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Md. Rashedul Islam
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Abhik Saha
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Namrata Roy
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Purbasa Dasgupta
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Taylor Knowles
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Asef Jawad Niloy
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Courtney Marsh
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Soumen Paul
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
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15
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Keenen MM, Yang L, Liang H, Farmer VJ, Singh R, Gladfelter AS, Coyne CB. Comparative analysis of the syncytiotrophoblast in placenta tissue and trophoblast organoids using snRNA sequencing. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.01.601571. [PMID: 39005304 PMCID: PMC11244908 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.01.601571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The outer surface of chorionic villi in the human placenta consists of a single multinucleated cell called the syncytiotrophoblast (STB). The unique cellular ultrastructure of the STB presents challenges in deciphering its gene expression signature at the single-cell level, as the STB contains billions of nuclei in a single cell. There are many gaps in understanding the molecular mechanisms and developmental trajectories involved in STB formation and differentiation. To identify the underlying control of the STB, we performed comparative single nucleus (SN) and single cell (SC) RNA sequencing on placental tissue and tissue-derived trophoblast organoids (TOs). We found that SN was essential to capture the STB population from both tissue and TOs. Differential gene expression and pseudotime analysis of TO-derived STB identified three distinct nuclear subtypes reminiscent of those recently identified in vivo . These included a juvenile nuclear population that exhibited both CTB and STB marker expression, a population enriched in genes involved in oxygen sensing, and a fully differentiated subtype. Notably, suspension culture conditions of TOs that restore the native orientation of the STB (STB out ) showed elevated expression of canonical STB markers and pregnancy hormones, along with a greater proportion of the terminally differentiated mature STB subtype, compared to those cultivated with an inverted STB polarity (STB in ). Gene regulatory analysis identified novel markers of STB differentiation conserved in tissue and TOs, including the chromatin remodeler RYBP, that exhibited STB-specific RNA and protein expression. Finally, we compared STB gene expression signatures amongst first trimester tissue, full-term tissue, and TOs, identifying many commonalities but also notable variability across each sample type. This indicates that STB gene expression is responsive to its environmental context. Our findings emphasize the utility of TOs to accurately model STB differentiation and the distinct nuclear subtypes observed in vivo , offering a versatile platform for unraveling the molecular mechanisms governing STB functions in placental biology and disease.
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16
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Derisoud E, Jiang H, Zhao A, Chavatte-Palmer P, Deng Q. Revealing the molecular landscape of human placenta: a systematic review and meta-analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing studies. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:410-441. [PMID: 38478759 PMCID: PMC11215163 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With increasing significance of developmental programming effects associated with placental dysfunction, more investigations are devoted to improving the characterization and understanding of placental signatures in health and disease. The placenta is a transitory but dynamic organ adapting to the shifting demands of fetal development and available resources of the maternal supply throughout pregnancy. Trophoblasts (cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblasts, and extravillous trophoblasts) are placental-specific cell types responsible for the main placental exchanges and adaptations. Transcriptomic studies with single-cell resolution have led to advances in understanding the placenta's role in health and disease. These studies, however, often show discrepancies in characterization of the different placental cell types. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We aim to review the knowledge regarding placental structure and function gained from the use of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq), followed by comparing cell-type-specific genes, highlighting their similarities and differences. Moreover, we intend to identify consensus marker genes for the various trophoblast cell types across studies. Finally, we will discuss the contributions and potential applications of scRNAseq in studying pregnancy-related diseases. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a comprehensive systematic literature review to identify different cell types and their functions at the human maternal-fetal interface, focusing on all original scRNAseq studies on placentas published before March 2023 and published reviews (total of 28 studies identified) using PubMed search. Our approach involved curating cell types and subtypes that had previously been defined using scRNAseq and comparing the genes used as markers or identified as potential new markers. Next, we reanalyzed expression matrices from the six available scRNAseq raw datasets with cell annotations (four from first trimester and two at term), using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to compare gene expression among studies and annotate trophoblast cell markers in both first trimester and term placentas. Furthermore, we integrated scRNAseq raw data available from 18 healthy first trimester and nine term placentas, and performed clustering and differential gene expression analysis. We further compared markers obtained with the analysis of annotated and raw datasets with the literature to obtain a common signature gene list for major placental cell types. OUTCOMES Variations in the sampling site, gestational age, fetal sex, and subsequent sequencing and analysis methods were observed between the studies. Although their proportions varied, the three trophoblast types were consistently identified across all scRNAseq studies, unlike other non-trophoblast cell types. Notably, no marker genes were shared by all studies for any of the investigated cell types. Moreover, most of the newly defined markers in one study were not observed in other studies. These discrepancies were confirmed by our analysis on trophoblast cell types, where hundreds of potential marker genes were identified in each study but with little overlap across studies. From 35 461 and 23 378 cells of high quality in the first trimester and term placentas, respectively, we obtained major placental cell types, including perivascular cells that previously had not been identified in the first trimester. Importantly, our meta-analysis provides marker genes for major placental cell types based on our extensive curation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review and meta-analysis emphasizes the need for establishing a consensus for annotating placental cell types from scRNAseq data. The marker genes identified here can be deployed for defining human placental cell types, thereby facilitating and improving the reproducibility of trophoblast cell annotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Derisoud
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Allan Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Qiaolin Deng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
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Horvat Mercnik M, Schliefsteiner C, Sanchez-Duffhues G, Wadsack C. TGFβ signalling: a nexus between inflammation, placental health and preeclampsia throughout pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:442-471. [PMID: 38519450 PMCID: PMC11215164 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is a unique and pivotal organ in reproduction, controlling crucial growth and cell differentiation processes that ensure a successful pregnancy. Placental development is a tightly regulated and dynamic process, in which the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily plays a central role. This family of pleiotropic growth factors is heavily involved in regulating various aspects of reproductive biology, particularly in trophoblast differentiation during the first trimester of pregnancy. TGFβ signalling precisely regulates trophoblast invasion and the cell transition from cytotrophoblasts to extravillous trophoblasts, which is an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-like process. Later in pregnancy, TGFβ signalling ensures proper vascularization and angiogenesis in placental endothelial cells. Beyond its role in trophoblasts and endothelial cells, TGFβ signalling contributes to the polarization and function of placental and decidual macrophages by promoting maternal tolerance of the semi-allogeneic foetus. Disturbances in early placental development have been associated with several pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE) which is one of the severe complications. Emerging evidence suggests that TGFβ is involved in the pathogenesis of PE, thereby offering a potential target for intervention in the human placenta. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This comprehensive review aims to explore and elucidate the roles of the major members of the TGFβ superfamily, including TGFβs, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), activins, inhibins, nodals, and growth differentiation factors (GDFs), in the context of placental development and function. The review focusses on their interactions within the major cell types of the placenta, namely trophoblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, in both normal pregnancies and pregnancies complicated by PE throughout pregnancy. SEARCH METHODS A literature search was carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar, searching terms: 'TGF signalling preeclampsia', 'pregnancy TGF signalling', 'preeclampsia tgfβ', 'preeclampsia bmp', 'preeclampsia gdf', 'preeclampsia activin', 'endoglin preeclampsia', 'endoglin pregnancy', 'tgfβ signalling pregnancy', 'bmp signalling pregnancy', 'gdf signalling pregnancy', 'activin signalling pregnancy', 'Hofbauer cell tgfβ signalling', 'placental macrophages tgfβ', 'endothelial cells tgfβ', 'endothelium tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion Smad', 'trophoblast invasion bmp', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ', 'tgfβ preeclampsia', 'tgfβ placental development', 'TGFβ placental function', 'endothelial dysfunction preeclampsia tgfβ signalling', 'vascular remodelling placenta TGFβ', 'inflammation pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune response pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune tolerance pregnancy tgfβ', 'TGFβ pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy tregs', 'tgfβ pregnancy tregs', 'TGFβ placenta NK cells', 'TGFβ placenta tregs', 'NK cells preeclampsia', 'Tregs preeclampsia'. Only articles published in English until 2023 were used. OUTCOMES A comprehensive understanding of TGFβ signalling and its role in regulating interconnected cell functions of the main placental cell types provides valuable insights into the processes essential for successful placental development and growth of the foetus during pregnancy. By orchestrating trophoblast invasion, vascularization, immune tolerance, and tissue remodelling, TGFβ ligands contribute to the proper functioning of a healthy maternal-foetal interface. However, dysregulation of TGFβ signalling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE, where the shallow trophoblast invasion, defective vascular remodelling, decreased uteroplacental perfusion, and endothelial cell and immune dysfunction observed in PE, are all affected by an altered TGFβ signalling. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The dysregulation of TGFβ signalling in PE has important implications for research and clinical practice. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying mechanisms, including the role of different ligands and their regulation under pathophysiological conditions, in order to discover new therapeutic targets. Distinguishing between clinically manifested subtypes of PE and studying TGFβ signalling in different placental cell types holistically is an important first step. To put this knowledge into practice, pre-clinical animal models combined with new technologies are needed. This may also lead to improved human research models and identify potential therapeutic targets, ultimately improving outcomes for affected pregnancies and reducing the burden of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gonzalo Sanchez-Duffhues
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC), Tissue-Specific BMP Signalling ISPA-HUCA, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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18
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Castillo C, Díaz-Luján C, Liempi A, Fretes R, Kemmerling U. Mammalian placental explants: A tool for studying host-parasite interactions and placental biology. Placenta 2024:S0143-4004(24)00291-1. [PMID: 38910051 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
The placenta plays a critical role in host-pathogen interactions. Thus, ex vivo infection of mammalian placental explants is an excellent and simple method to study the mechanisms of cellular and tissue invasion by different pathogens in different mammalian species. These explants can be maintained in culture for several days, preserving the tissue architecture and resembling in-utero conditions under more physiological conditions than their isolated counterparts in isolated cell culture models. In addition, placental explants not only allow us to study how the placenta responds and defends itself against various infections but also provide a versatile platform for advancing our understanding of placental biology and the immune response. Furthermore, they serve as powerful tools for drug discovery, facilitating the screening of potential therapeutics for placental infections and for the identification of diagnostic markers. This review highlights the utility of mammalian placental explants in studying the host-pathogen interaction of two relevant protozoan parasites, Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, and Toxoplasma gondii, the etiological agent of Toxoplasmosis. Here, we discuss the different methodologies and technical aspects of the model, as well as the effect of both parasites on placental responses in human, canine, and ovine explants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Castillo
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Cintia Díaz-Luján
- Institute and Cathedra of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Health Science Faculty, INICSA (CONICET)-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba and Villa María, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ana Liempi
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ricardo Fretes
- Institute and Cathedra of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Health Science Faculty, INICSA (CONICET)-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba and Villa María, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ulrike Kemmerling
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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Chen Y, Ye X, Zhong Y, Kang X, Tang Y, Zhu H, Pang C, Ning S, Liang S, Zhang F, Li C, Li J, Gu C, Cheng Y, Kuang Z, Qiu J, Jin J, Luo H, Fu M, Hui HX, Li L, Ruan D, Liu P, Chen X, Sun L, Ai S, Gao X. SP6 controls human cytotrophoblast fate decisions and trophoblast stem cell establishment by targeting MSX2 regulatory elements. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1506-1522.e11. [PMID: 38582082 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
The commitment and differentiation of human placental progenitor cytotrophoblast (CT) cells are crucial for a successful pregnancy, but the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Here, we identified the transcription factor (TF), specificity protein 6 (SP6), as a human species-specific trophoblast lineage TF expressed in human placental CT cells. Using pluripotent stem cells as a model, we demonstrated that SP6 controls CT generation and the establishment of trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) and identified msh homeobox 2 (MSX2) as the downstream effector in these events. Mechanistically, we showed that SP6 interacts with histone acetyltransferase P300 to alter the landscape of H3K27ac at targeted regulatory elements, thereby favoring transcriptional activation and facilitating CT cell fate decisions and TSC maintenance. Our results established SP6 as a regulator of the human trophoblast lineage and implied its role in placental development and the pathogenies of placental diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanglin Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xianhua Ye
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yulong Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiangjin Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China
| | - Yanqing Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Haoyun Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Changmiao Pang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shaoqiang Ning
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shiqing Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Feifan Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chao Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jie Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chengtao Gu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yuanxiong Cheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhanpeng Kuang
- Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jingyang Qiu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jin Jin
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Haisi Luo
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Mingyu Fu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hannah Xiaoyan Hui
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China; Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Degong Ruan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Stem Cell, and Regenerative Medicine Consortium, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Pentao Liu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Stem Cell, and Regenerative Medicine Consortium, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Liangzhong Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Shanshan Ai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Xuefei Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong, China; Department of Pediatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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20
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Abady MM, Jeong JS, Kwon HJ, Assiri AM, Cho J, Saadeldin IM. The reprotoxic adverse side effects of neurogenic and neuroprotective drugs: current use of human organoid modeling as a potential alternative to preclinical models. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1412188. [PMID: 38948466 PMCID: PMC11211546 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1412188] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The management of neurological disorders heavily relies on neurotherapeutic drugs, but notable concerns exist regarding their possible negative effects on reproductive health. Traditional preclinical models often fail to accurately predict reprotoxicity, highlighting the need for more physiologically relevant systems. Organoid models represent a promising approach for concurrently studying neurotoxicity and reprotoxicity, providing insights into the complex interplay between neurotherapeutic drugs and reproductive systems. Herein, we have examined the molecular mechanisms underlying neurotherapeutic drug-induced reprotoxicity and discussed experimental findings from case studies. Additionally, we explore the utility of organoid models in elucidating the reproductive complications of neurodrug exposure. Have discussed the principles of organoid models, highlighting their ability to recapitulate neurodevelopmental processes and simulate drug-induced toxicity in a controlled environment. Challenges and future perspectives in the field have been addressed with a focus on advancing organoid technologies to improve reprotoxicity assessment and enhance drug safety screening. This review underscores the importance of organoid models in unraveling the complex relationship between neurotherapeutic drugs and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam M. Abady
- Organic Metrology Group, Division of Chemical and Material Metrology, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bio-Analytical Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ji-Seon Jeong
- Organic Metrology Group, Division of Chemical and Material Metrology, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bio-Analytical Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha-Jeong Kwon
- Organic Metrology Group, Division of Chemical and Material Metrology, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Abdullah M. Assiri
- Deperament of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Islam M. Saadeldin
- Deperament of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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21
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Tanaka E, Koyanagi-Aoi M, Nakagawa S, Shimode S, Yamada H, Terai Y, Aoi T. Effect of a FOXO1 inhibitor on trophoblast differentiation from human pluripotent stem cells and ERV-associated gene expression. Regen Ther 2024; 26:729-740. [PMID: 39290630 PMCID: PMC11405643 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2024.08.020] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In human placental development, the trophectoderm (TE) appears in blastocysts on day 5 post-fertilization and develops after implantation into three types of trophoblast lineages: cytotrophoblast (CT), syncytiotrophoblast (ST), and extravillous trophoblast (EVT). CDX2/Cdx2 is expressed in the TE, and Cdx2 expression is upregulated by knockdown of Foxo1 in mouse ESCs. However, the significance of FOXO1 in trophoblast lineage differentiation during the early developmental period remains unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of FOXO1 inhibition on the differentiation of naive human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into TE and trophoblast lineages. Methods We induced TE differentiation from naive iPSCs in the presence or absence of a FOXO1 inhibitor, and the resulting cells were subjected to trophoblast differentiation procedures without the FOXO1 inhibitor. The cells obtained in these processes were assessed for morphology, gene expression, and hCG secretion using phase-contrast microscopy, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR), RNA-seq, immunochromatography, and a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay. Results In the induction of trophoblast differentiation from naive iPSCs, treatment with a FOXO1 inhibitor resulted in the enhanced expression of TE markers, CDX2 and HAND1, but conversely decreased the expression of ST markers, such as ERVW1 (Syncytin-1) and GCM1, and an EVT marker, HLA-G. The proportion of cells positive for an early TE marker TACSTD2 and negative for a late TE marker ENPEP was higher in FOXO1 inhibitor-treated cells than in non-treated cells. The expressions of ERVW1 (Syncytin-1), ERVFRD-1 (Syncytin-2), and other endogenous retrovirus (ERV)-associated genes that have been reported to be expressed in trophoblasts were suppressed in the cells obtained by differentiating the TE cells treated with FOXO1 inhibitor. Conclusions Treatment with a FOXO1 inhibitor during TE induction from naive iPSCs promotes early TE differentiation but hinders the progression of differentiation into ST and EVT. The suppression of ERV-associated genes may be involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Tanaka
- Division of Stem Cell Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Division of Advanced Medical Science, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Michiyo Koyanagi-Aoi
- Division of Stem Cell Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Division of Advanced Medical Science, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Center for Human Resource Development for Regenerative Medicine, Kobe University Hospital, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - So Nakagawa
- Department of Molecular Life Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, 259-1193, Japan
| | - Sayumi Shimode
- Division of Advanced Medical Science, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Genome Editing Innovation Center, Hiroshima University, 3-10-23 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, 739-0046, Japan
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, 1-4-4 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8528, Japan
| | - Hideto Yamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Yoshito Terai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Takashi Aoi
- Division of Stem Cell Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Division of Advanced Medical Science, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Center for Human Resource Development for Regenerative Medicine, Kobe University Hospital, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
- Division of Signal Pathways, Biosignal Research Center, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai-cho, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-0013, Japan
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Louwen F, Kreis NN, Ritter A, Yuan J. Maternal obesity and placental function: impaired maternal-fetal axis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:2279-2288. [PMID: 38494514 PMCID: PMC11147848 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07462-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of maternal obesity rapidly increases, which represents a major public health concern worldwide. Maternal obesity is characteristic by metabolic dysfunction and chronic inflammation. It is associated with health problems in both mother and offspring. Increasing evidence indicates that the placenta is an axis connecting maternal obesity with poor outcomes in the offspring. In this brief review, we have summarized the current data regarding deregulated placental function in maternal obesity. The data show that maternal obesity induces numerous placental defects, including lipid and glucose metabolism, stress response, inflammation, immune regulation and epigenetics. These placental defects affect each other and result in a stressful intrauterine environment, which transduces and mediates the adverse effects of maternal obesity to the fetus. Further investigations are required to explore the exact molecular alterations in the placenta in maternal obesity, which may pave the way to develop specific interventions for preventing epigenetic and metabolic programming in the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Louwen
- Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Theodor Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nina-Naomi Kreis
- Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Theodor Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Ritter
- Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Theodor Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Juping Yuan
- Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Theodor Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Parameshwar PK, Li C, Arnauts K, Jiang J, Rostami S, Campbell BE, Lu H, Rosenzweig DH, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Directed biomechanical compressive forces enhance fusion efficiency in model placental trophoblast cultures. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11312. [PMID: 38760496 PMCID: PMC11101427 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61747-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The syncytiotrophoblast is a multinucleated structure that arises from fusion of mononucleated cytotrophoblasts, to sheath the placental villi and regulate transport across the maternal-fetal interface. Here, we ask whether the dynamic mechanical forces that must arise during villous development might influence fusion, and explore this question using in vitro choriocarcinoma trophoblast models. We demonstrate that mechanical stress patterns arise around sites of localized fusion in cell monolayers, in patterns that match computational predictions of villous morphogenesis. We then externally apply these mechanical stress patterns to cell monolayers and demonstrate that equibiaxial compressive stresses (but not uniaxial or equibiaxial tensile stresses) enhance expression of the syndecan-1 and loss of E-cadherin as markers of fusion. These findings suggest that the mechanical stresses that contribute towards sculpting the placental villi may also impact fusion in the developing tissue. We then extend this concept towards 3D cultures and demonstrate that fusion can be enhanced by applying low isometric compressive stresses to spheroid models, even in the absence of an inducing agent. These results indicate that mechanical stimulation is a potent activator of cellular fusion, suggesting novel avenues to improve experimental reproductive modelling, placental tissue engineering, and understanding disorders of pregnancy development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Kaline Arnauts
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Junqing Jiang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sabra Rostami
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Benjamin E Campbell
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Hongyan Lu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Derek Hadar Rosenzweig
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Injury, Repair and Recovery Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, Québec, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, and Research Center Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux (CIUSSS) du Nord-de-L'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
- Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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24
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Slaby EM, Hansen N, Sharma R, Pirrotte P, Weaver JD. Engineered 3D Hydrogel Matrices to Modulate Trophoblast Stem Cell-Derived Placental Organoid Phenotype. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.594007. [PMID: 38798435 PMCID: PMC11118344 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.594007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Placental organoid models are a promising platform to study human placental development and function. Organoid systems typically use naturally derived hydrogel extracellular matrices (ECM), resulting in batch-to-batch variability that limits experimental reproducibility. As an alternative, synthetic ECM-mimicking hydrogel matrices offer greater consistency and control over environmental cues. Here, we generated trophoblast stem cell-derived placental organoids using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels with tunable degradability and placenta-derived ECM cues to evaluate trophoblast differentiation relative to Matrigel and two-dimensional (2D) culture controls. Our data demonstrate that PEG hydrogels support trophoblast viability and metabolic function comparable to gold standard Matrigel. Additionally, phenotypic characterization via proteomic analysis revealed that PEG and Matrigel matrices drive syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast-dominant placental organoid phenotypes, respectively. Further, three-dimensional (3D) environments promoted greater integrin expression and ECM production than 2D culture. This study demonstrates that engineered 3D culture environments can be used to reliably generate placental organoids and guide trophoblast differentiation.
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25
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Hoo R, Ruiz-Morales ER, Kelava I, Rawat M, Mazzeo CI, Tuck E, Sancho-Serra C, Chelaghma S, Predeus AV, Murray S, Fernandez-Antoran D, Waller RF, Álvarez-Errico D, Lee MCS, Vento-Tormo R. Acute response to pathogens in the early human placenta at single-cell resolution. Cell Syst 2024; 15:425-444.e9. [PMID: 38703772 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2024.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
The placenta is a selective maternal-fetal barrier that provides nourishment and protection from infections. However, certain pathogens can attach to and even cross the placenta, causing pregnancy complications with potential lifelong impacts on the child's health. Here, we profiled at the single-cell level the placental responses to three pathogens associated with intrauterine complications-Plasmodium falciparum, Listeria monocytogenes, and Toxoplasma gondii. We found that upon exposure to the pathogens, all placental lineages trigger inflammatory responses that may compromise placental function. Additionally, we characterized the responses of fetal macrophages known as Hofbauer cells (HBCs) to each pathogen and propose that they are the probable niche for T. gondii. Finally, we revealed how P. falciparum adapts to the placental microenvironment by modulating protein export into the host erythrocyte and nutrient uptake pathways. Altogether, we have defined the cellular networks and signaling pathways mediating acute placental inflammatory responses that could contribute to pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Hoo
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Iva Kelava
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mukul Rawat
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | | | | | - Sara Chelaghma
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - David Fernandez-Antoran
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ross F Waller
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Marcus C S Lee
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.
| | - Roser Vento-Tormo
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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26
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Karakis V, Britt JW, Jabeen M, Miguel AS, Rao BM. Derivation of human trophoblast stem cells from placentas at birth. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.01.592064. [PMID: 38746283 PMCID: PMC11092656 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.01.592064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) have emerged as a powerful tool for modeling the placental cytotrophoblast (CTB) in vitro. hTSCs were originally derived from CTBs of the first trimester placenta or blastocyst-stage embryos in trophoblast stem cell medium (TSCM) that contains epidermal growth factor (EGF), the glycogen synthase kinase-beta (GSK3β) inhibitor CHIR99021, the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) inhibitors A83-01 and SB431542, valproic acid (VPA), and the Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor Y-27632. Here we show that hTSCs can be derived from CTBs isolated from the term placenta, using TSCM supplemented with a low concentration of mitochondrial pyruvate uptake inhibitor UK5099 and lipid-rich albumin (TUA medium). Notably, hTSCs could not be derived from term CTBs using TSCM alone, or in the absence of either UK5099 or lipid-rich albumin. Strikingly, hTSCs cultured in TUA medium for a few passages could be transitioned into TSCM and cultured thereafter in TSCM. hTSCs from term CTBs cultured in TUA medium as well as those transitioned into and cultured in TSCM thereafter could be differentiated to the extravillous trophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast lineages and exhibited high transcriptome similarity with hTSCs derived from first trimester CTBs. We anticipate that these results will enable facile derivation of hTSCs from normal and pathological placentas at birth with diverse genetic backgrounds and facilitate in vitro mechanistic studies in trophoblast biology.
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27
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Saadeldin IM, Ehab S, Noreldin AE, Swelum AAA, Bang S, Kim H, Yoon KY, Lee S, Cho J. Current strategies using 3D organoids to establish in vitro maternal-embryonic interaction. J Vet Sci 2024; 25:e40. [PMID: 38834510 PMCID: PMC11156602 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.24004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The creation of robust maternal-embryonic interactions and implantation models is important for comprehending the early stages of embryonic development and reproductive disorders. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture systems often fail to accurately mimic the highly complex in vivo conditions. The employment of three-dimensional (3D) organoids has emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these limitations in recent years. The advancements in the field of organoid technology have opened new avenues for studying the physiology and diseases affecting female reproductive tract. OBSERVATIONS This review summarizes the current strategies and advancements in the field of 3D organoids to establish maternal-embryonic interaction and implantation models for use in research and personalized medicine in assisted reproductive technology. The concepts of endometrial organoids, menstrual blood flow organoids, placental trophoblast organoids, stem cell-derived blastoids, and in vitro-generated embryo models are discussed in detail. We show the incorportaion of organoid systems and microfluidic technology to enhance tissue performance and precise management of the cellular surroundings. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This review provides insights into the future direction of modeling maternal-embryonic interaction research and its combination with other powerful technologies to interfere with this dialogue either by promoting or hindering it for improving fertility or methods for contraception, respectively. The merging of organoid systems with microfluidics facilitates the creation of sophisticated and functional organoid models, enhancing insights into organ development, disease mechanisms, and personalized medical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Islam Mohamed Saadeldin
- Comparative Medicine Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seif Ehab
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza 11341, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elsayed Noreldin
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, the Scientific Campus, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Ayman Abdel-Aziz Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Seonggyu Bang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Division in Biomedical Art, Department of Fine Art, Incheon Catholic University Graduate School, Incheon 21986, Korea
| | - Ki Young Yoon
- Department of Companion Animal, Shingu College, Seongnam 13174, Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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28
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Sah N, Soncin F. Conserved and divergent features of trophoblast stem cells. J Mol Endocrinol 2024; 72:e230131. [PMID: 38276878 PMCID: PMC11008758 DOI: 10.1530/jme-23-0131] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) are a proliferative multipotent population derived from the trophectoderm of the blastocyst, which will give rise to all the functional cell types of the trophoblast compartment of the placenta. The isolation and culture of TSCs in vitro represent a robust model to study mechanisms of trophoblast differentiation into mature cells both in successful and diseased pregnancy. Despite the highly conserved functions of the placenta, there is extreme variability in placental morphology, fetal-maternal interface, and development among eutherian mammals. This review aims to summarize the establishment and maintenance of TSCs in mammals such as primates, including human, rodents, and nontraditional animal models with a primary emphasis on epigenetic regulation of their origin while defining gaps in the current literature and areas of further development. FGF signaling is critical for mouse TSCs but dispensable for derivation of TSCs in other species. Human, simian, and bovine TSCs have much more complicated requirements of signaling pathways including activation of WNT and inhibition of TGFβ cascades. Epigenetic features such as DNA and histone methylation as well as histone acetylation are dynamic during development and are expressed in cell- and gestational age-specific pattern in placental trophoblasts. While TSCs from different species seem to recapitulate some select epigenomic features, there is a limitation in the comprehensive understanding of TSCs and how well TSCs retain placental epigenetic marks. Therefore, future studies should be directed at investigating epigenomic features of global and placental-specific gene expression in primary trophoblasts and TSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirvay Sah
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Francesca Soncin
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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29
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Azagury M, Buganim Y. Unlocking trophectoderm mysteries: In vivo and in vitro perspectives on human and mouse trophoblast fate induction. Dev Cell 2024; 59:941-960. [PMID: 38653193 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the pursuit of inducing the trophoblast stem cell (TSC) state has gained prominence as a compelling research objective, illuminating the establishment of the trophoblast lineage and unlocking insights into early embryogenesis. In this review, we examine how advancements in diverse technologies, including in vivo time course transcriptomics, cellular reprogramming to TSC state, chemical induction of totipotent stem-cell-like state, and stem-cell-based embryo-like structures, have enriched our insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that define the mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC states. We delve into disparities between mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC fate establishment, with a special emphasis on the intriguing role of pluripotency in this context. Additionally, we re-evaluate recent findings concerning the potential of totipotent-stem-like cells and embryo-like structures to fully manifest the trophectoderm/trophoblast lineage's capabilities. Lastly, we briefly discuss the potential applications of induced TSCs in pregnancy-related disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meir Azagury
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Yosef Buganim
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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30
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Shannon MJ, McNeill GL, Koksal B, Baltayeva J, Wächter J, Castellana B, Peñaherrera MS, Robinson WP, Leung PCK, Beristain AG. Single-cell assessment of primary and stem cell-derived human trophoblast organoids as placenta-modeling platforms. Dev Cell 2024; 59:776-792.e11. [PMID: 38359834 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) and related trophoblast organoids are state-of-the-art culture systems that facilitate the study of trophoblast development and human placentation. Using single-cell transcriptomics, we evaluate how organoids derived from freshly isolated first-trimester trophoblasts or from established hTSC cell lines reproduce developmental cell trajectories and transcriptional regulatory processes defined in vivo. Although organoids from primary trophoblasts and hTSCs overall model trophoblast differentiation with accuracy, specific features related to trophoblast composition, trophoblast differentiation, and transcriptional drivers of trophoblast development show levels of misalignment. This is best illustrated by the identification of an expanded progenitor state in stem cell-derived organoids that is nearly absent in vivo and transcriptionally shares both villous cytotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast characteristics. Together, this work provides a comprehensive resource that identifies strengths and limitations of current trophoblast organoid platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Shannon
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gina L McNeill
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Burak Koksal
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jennet Baltayeva
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jasmin Wächter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Castellana
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Maria S Peñaherrera
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wendy P Robinson
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Peter C K Leung
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alexander G Beristain
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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31
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Li Q, Turco MY, Moffett A. Trophoblast organoid systems to study human placentation. Dev Cell 2024; 59:693-694. [PMID: 38531305 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Human trophoblast organoids provide a valuable in vitro system to investigate human placental development and function. In this issue of Developmental Cell, Shannon et al. benchmark two organoid models against primary trophoblast at single-cell resolution, identifying their strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | | | - Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK; Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
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32
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Zambuto SG, Scott AK, Oyen ML. Beyond 2D: Novel biomaterial approaches for modeling the placenta. Placenta 2024:S0143-4004(24)00073-0. [PMID: 38514278 PMCID: PMC11399328 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
This review considers fully three-dimensional biomaterial environments of varying complexity as these pertain to research on the placenta. The developments in placental cell sources are first considered, along with the corresponding maternal cells with which the trophoblast interact. We consider biomaterial sources, including hybrid and composite biomaterials. Properties and characterization of biomaterials are discussed in the context of material design for specific placental applications. The development of increasingly complicated three-dimensional structures includes examples of advanced fabrication methods such as microfluidic device fabrication and 3D bioprinting, as utilized in a placenta context. The review finishes with a discussion of the potential for in vitro, three-dimensional placenta research to address health disparities and sexual dimorphism, especially in light of the exciting recent changes in the regulatory environment for in vitro devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G Zambuto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Women's Health Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Adrienne K Scott
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Women's Health Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michelle L Oyen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Women's Health Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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33
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Adu-Gyamfi EA, Cheeran EA, Salamah J, Enabulele DB, Tahir A, Lee BK. Long non-coding RNAs: a summary of their roles in placenta development and pathology†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:431-449. [PMID: 38134961 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs are cellular transcripts that have ˃200 nucleotides in length and do not code for proteins. Due to their low expression levels, long non-coding RNAs were previously considered as mere transcriptional noise. However, current evidence indicates that they regulate a myriad of biological processes such as cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis. Hence, their expression patterns are crucial indicators of the physiological or pathological states of cells, tissues, and organs. The utilization of long non-coding RNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the clinical management of several diseases have been suggested. Gradually, long non-coding RNAs are gaining a substantial attention in the field of feto-maternal medicine. After embryo implantation, the interactions between the trophoblast cells from the embryo and the uterus of the mother facilitate placenta development and pregnancy progression. These processes are tightly regulated, and their impairments result in pregnancy pathologies such as miscarriage and preeclampsia. Accumulating evidence implicates long non-coding RNAs in these processes. Herein, we have summarized the roles of several long non-coding RNAs in human placenta development, have proposed some mechanisms by which they participate in physiological and pathological placentation, have revealed some knowledge deficits, and have recommended ideal experimental approaches that will facilitate the clarification of the mechanistic actions of each long non-coding RNA at the feto-maternal interface during healthy and pathological pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Elisha Ann Cheeran
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Joudi Salamah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Divine Blessing Enabulele
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Ayesha Tahir
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Bum-Kyu Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
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34
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Lin Z, Wu S, Jiang Y, Chen Z, Huang X, Wen Z, Yuan Y. Unraveling the molecular mechanisms driving enhanced invasion capability of extravillous trophoblast cells: a comprehensive review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:591-608. [PMID: 38315418 PMCID: PMC10957806 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03036-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Precise extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion is crucial for successful placentation and pregnancy. This review focuses on elucidating the mechanisms that promote heightened EVT invasion. We comprehensively summarize the pivotal roles of hormones, angiogenesis, hypoxia, stress, the extracellular matrix microenvironment, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), immunity, inflammation, programmed cell death, epigenetic modifications, and microbiota in facilitating EVT invasion. The molecular mechanisms underlying enhanced EVT invasion may provide valuable insights into potential pathogenic mechanisms associated with diseases characterized by excessive invasion, such as the placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), thereby offering novel perspectives for managing pregnancy complications related to deficient EVT invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Lin
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinghui Jiang
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziqi Chen
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoye Huang
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuofeng Wen
- The Sixth Clinical School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Yuan
- School of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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35
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Yang L, Liang P, Yang H, Coyne CB. Trophoblast organoids with physiological polarity model placental structure and function. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261528. [PMID: 37676312 PMCID: PMC10499031 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human trophoblast organoids (TOs) are a three-dimensional ex vivo culture model that can be used to study various aspects of placental development, physiology and pathology. However, standard culturing of TOs does not recapitulate the cellular orientation of chorionic villi in vivo given that the multi-nucleated syncytiotrophoblast (STB) develops largely within the inner facing surfaces of these organoids (STBin). Here, we developed a method to culture TOs under conditions that recapitulate the cellular orientation of chorionic villi in vivo. We show that culturing STBin TOs in suspension with gentle agitation leads to the development of TOs containing the STB on the outer surface (STBout). Using membrane capacitance measurements, we determined that the outermost surface of STBout organoids contain large syncytia comprising >50 nuclei, whereas STBin organoids contain small syncytia (<10 nuclei) and mononuclear cells. The growth of TOs under conditions that mimic the cellular orientation of chorionic villi in vivo thus allows for the study of a variety of aspects of placental biology under physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liheng Yang
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Pengfei Liang
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Huanghe Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Carolyn B. Coyne
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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36
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Parameshwar PK, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Engineering placental trophoblast fusion: A potential role for biomechanics in syncytialization. Placenta 2024:S0143-4004(24)00054-7. [PMID: 38448351 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The process by which placental trophoblasts fuse to form the syncytiotrophoblast around the chorionic villi is not fully understood. Mechanical features of the in vivo and in vitro culture environments have recently emerged as having the potential to influence fusion efficiency, and considering these mechanical cues may ultimately allow predictive control of trophoblast syncytialization. Here, we review recent studies that suggest that biomechanical factors such as shear stress, tissue stiffness, and dimensionally-related stresses affect villous trophoblast fusion efficiency. We then discuss how these stimuli might arise in vivo and how they can be incorporated in cultures to study and enhance villous trophoblast fusion. We believe that this mechanical paradigm will provide novel insight into manipulating the syncytialization process to better engineer improved models, understand disease progression, and ultimately develop novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC, H7B 1B7, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, and Research Center Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux (CIUSSS) du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3L 1K5, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0C5, Canada; Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada.
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37
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Slaby EM, Plaisier SB, Brady SR, Hiremath SC, Weaver JD. Controlling placental spheroid growth and phenotype using engineered synthetic hydrogel matrices. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:933-948. [PMID: 38204396 PMCID: PMC10922805 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01393f] [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] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The human placenta is a complex organ comprised of multiple trophoblast subtypes, and inadequate models to study the human placenta in vitro limit the current understanding of human placental behavior and development. Common in vitro placental models rely on two-dimensional culture of cell lines and primary cells, which do not replicate the native tissue microenvironment, or poorly defined three-dimensional hydrogel matrices such as Matrigel™ that provide limited environmental control and suffer from high batch-to-batch variability. Here, we employ a highly defined, synthetic poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogel system with tunable degradability and presentation of extracellular matrix-derived adhesive ligands native to the placenta microenvironment to generate placental spheroids. We evaluate the capacity of a hydrogel library to support the viability, function, and phenotypic protein expression of three human trophoblast cell lines modeling varied trophoblast phenotypes and find that degradable synthetic hydrogels support the greatest degree of placental spheroid viability, proliferation, and function relative to standard Matrigel controls. Finally, we show that trophoblast culture conditions modulate cell functional phenotype as measured by proteomics analysis and functional secretion assays. Engineering precise control of placental spheroid development in vitro may provide an important new tool for the study of early placental behavior and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Slaby
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85287, USA.
| | - Seema B Plaisier
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85287, USA
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85287, USA
| | - Sarah R Brady
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85287, USA.
| | - Shivani C Hiremath
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85287, USA.
| | - Jessica D Weaver
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, 85287, USA.
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38
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Hori T, Okae H, Shibata S, Kobayashi N, Kobayashi EH, Oike A, Sekiya A, Arima T, Kaji H. Trophoblast stem cell-based organoid models of the human placental barrier. Nat Commun 2024; 15:962. [PMID: 38332125 PMCID: PMC10853531 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45279-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Human placental villi have essential roles in producing hormones, mediating nutrient and waste exchange, and protecting the fetus from exposure to xenobiotics. Human trophoblast organoids that recapitulate the structure of villi could provide an important in vitro tool to understand placental development and the transplacental passage of xenobiotics. However, such organoids do not currently exist. Here we describe the generation of trophoblast organoids using human trophoblast stem (TS) cells. Following treatment with three kinds of culture medium, TS cells form spherical organoids with a single outer layer of syncytiotrophoblast (ST) cells that display a barrier function. Furthermore, we develop a column-type ST barrier model based on the culture condition of the trophoblast organoids. The bottom membrane of the column is almost entirely covered with syndecan 1-positive ST cells. The barrier integrity and maturation levels of the model are confirmed by measuring transepithelial/transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin. Further analysis reveals that the model can be used to derive the apparent permeability coefficients of model compounds. In addition to providing a suite of tools for the study of placental development, our trophoblast models allow the evaluation of compound transfer and toxicity, which will facilitate drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Hori
- Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Systems Engineering, Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering (IBB), Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0062, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 862-0973, Japan
| | - Shun Shibata
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Norio Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Eri H Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Akira Oike
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 862-0973, Japan
| | - Asato Sekiya
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 862-0973, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kaji
- Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Systems Engineering, Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering (IBB), Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0062, Japan.
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39
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Mulaudzi PE, Abrahamse H, Crous A. Insights on Three Dimensional Organoid Studies for Stem Cell Therapy in Regenerative Medicine. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:509-523. [PMID: 38095787 PMCID: PMC10837234 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10655-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine has developed as a promising discipline that utilizes stem cells to address limitations in traditional therapies, using innovative techniques to restore and repair damaged organs and tissues. One such technique is the generation of three-dimensional (3D) organoids in stem cell therapy. Organoids are 3D constructs that resemble specific organs' structural and functional characteristics and are generated from stem cells or tissue-specific progenitor cells. The use of 3D organoids is advantageous in comparison to traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture by bridging the gap between in vivo and in vitro research. This review aims to provide an overview of the advancements made towards regenerative medicine using stem cells to generate organoids, explore the techniques used in generating 3D organoids and their applications and finally elucidate the challenges and future directions in regenerative medicine using 3D organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Precious Earldom Mulaudzi
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 17011, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa
| | - Heidi Abrahamse
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 17011, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa
| | - Anine Crous
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 17011, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa.
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40
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Hu C, Deng J, Liu M, Ni T, Chen ZJ, Yan J, Li Y. Endometrial BMP2 Deficiency Impairs ITGB3-Mediated Trophoblast Invasion in Women With Repeated Implantation Failure. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae002. [PMID: 38195194 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae002] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repeated implantation failure (RIF) leads to a waste of high-quality embryos and remains a challenge in assisted reproductive technology. During early human placentation, the invasion of trophoblast cells into the decidua is an essential step for the establishment of maternal-fetal interactions and subsequent successful pregnancy. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) has been reported to regulate endometrial receptivity and promote trophoblast invasion. However, whether there is dysregulation of endometrial BMP2 expression in patients with RIF remains unknown. Additionally, the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of BMP2 on human trophoblast invasion and early placentation remain to be further elucidated. METHODS Midluteal phase endometrial samples were biopsied from patients with RIF and from routine control in vitro fertilization followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting analyses. Human trophoblast organoids, primary human trophoblast cells, and an immortalized trophoblast cell line (HTR8/SVneo) were used as study models. RESULTS We found that BMP2 was aberrantly low in midluteal phase endometrial tissues from patients with RIF. Recombinant human BMP2 treatment upregulated integrin β3 (ITGB3) in a SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling-dependent manner in both HTR8/SVneo cells and primary trophoblast cells. siRNA-mediated integrin β3 downregulation reduced both basal and BMP2-upregulated trophoblast invasion and vascular mimicry in HTR8/SVneo cells. Importantly, shRNA-mediated ITGB3 knockdown significantly decreased the formation ability of human trophoblast organoids. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate endometrial BMP2 deficiency in patients with RIF. ITGB3 mediates both basal and BMP2-promoted human trophoblast invasion and is essential for early placentation. These findings broaden our knowledge regarding the regulation of early placentation and provide candidate diagnostic and therapeutic targets for RIF clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiping Hu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Jianye Deng
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Mingxi Liu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Tianxiang Ni
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yan Li
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
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Yin T, Li X, Li Y, Zang X, Liu L, Du M. Macrophage plasticity and function in cancer and pregnancy. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1333549. [PMID: 38274812 PMCID: PMC10808357 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1333549] [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: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
As the soil of life, the composition and shaping process of the immune microenvironment of the uterus is worth exploring. Macrophages, indispensable constituents of the innate immune system, are essential mediators of inflammation and tissue remodeling as well. Recent insights into the heterogeneity of macrophage subpopulations have renewed interest in their functional diversity in both physiological and pathological settings. Macrophages display remarkable plasticity and switch from one phenotype to another. Intrinsic plasticity enables tissue macrophages to perform a variety of functions in response to changing tissue contexts, such as cancer and pregnancy. The remarkable diversity and plasticity make macrophages particularly intriguing cells given their dichotomous role in either attacking or protecting tumors and semi-allogeneic fetuses, which of both are characterized functionally by immunomodulation and neovascularization. Here, we reviewed and compared novel perspectives on macrophage biology of these two settings, including origin, phenotype, differentiation, and essential roles in corresponding microenvironments, as informed by recent studies on the heterogeneity of macrophage identity and function, as well as their mechanisms that might offer opportunities for new therapeutic strategies on malignancy and pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingxuan Yin
- Lab of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Li
- Lab of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanhong Li
- Lab of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Xingxing Zang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Lu Liu
- Lab of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Meirong Du
- Lab of Reproduction Immunology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
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42
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Haider S, Knöfler M, Latos PA. Trophoblast Organoids as a Novel Tool to Study Human Placental Development and Function. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2728:195-222. [PMID: 38019403 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3495-0_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The human placenta provides the site of exchange between the maternal and fetal bloodstreams, acts as an endocrine organ, and has immunological functions. The majority of pregnancy disorders including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction have their roots in pathological placentation. Yet, the underlying molecular causes of these complications remain largely unknown, not least due to the lack of reliable in vitro models. Recent establishment of 2D human trophoblast stem cells and 3D trophoblast organoids has been a major advancement that opened new avenues for trophoblast research. Here we provide a protocol detailing isolation of cytotrophoblast from the first trimester human placenta, establishment of trophoblast organoids, their culture and differentiation conditions. Overall, we describe an in vitro system that offers an excellent model to study the molecular basis of placental development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Martin Knöfler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulina A Latos
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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43
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Sun C, James JL, Murthi P. Three-Dimensional In Vitro Human Placental Organoids from Mononuclear Villous Trophoblasts or Trophoblast Stem Cells to Understand Trophoblast Dysfunction in Fetal Growth Restriction. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2728:235-245. [PMID: 38019405 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3495-0_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The placenta plays a critical role in the efficient delivery of nutrients and oxygen from mother to fetus to maintain normal fetal growth. Human placental development and function is a highly orchestrated process, which is spatially and temporally controlled by hormones and growth factors. Specialized epithelial cells called trophoblasts play key roles in placental exchange capacity, and their abnormal function and development contribute to many pregnancy complications, including fetal growth restriction (FGR), a condition in which the fetus does not reach its full growth potential in utero. Great variation in the anatomy and development of the placenta in animal model systems (in vivo) and 2D culture model systems of trophoblasts (in vitro) limits our ability to understand pregnancy disorders. Generating in vitro models that recapitulate the unique features of the human placenta has been challenging. Here, we describe detailed methods to isolate mononuclear villous trophoblasts (containing cytotrophoblasts and trophoblast stem cells) from first trimester placentae, and use both these and trophoblast stem cell populations that can be grown long term in a three-dimensional (3D) placental organoid culture system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherry Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Padma Murthi
- Department of Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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44
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Karvas RM, Theunissen TW. Generation of 3D Trophoblast Organoids from Human Naïve Pluripotent Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2767:85-103. [PMID: 37402094 PMCID: PMC10766861 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2023_496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
The human placenta is a transient organ that functions to support the needs of the fetus throughout gestation. Trophoblasts are the major epithelial cells found within the placenta and comprise a variety of distinct cell types with specialized roles in fetal-maternal communication. Our understanding of human trophoblast development remains limited due to ethical and legal restrictions on accessing first-trimester placental tissues, as well as the inability of common animal models to replicate primate placental development. It is therefore important to advance in vitro models of human trophoblast development as a basis for studying pregnancy-associated complications and diseases. In this chapter, we describe a protocol for generating 3D trophoblast organoids from naïve human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). The resulting stem-cell-derived trophoblast organoids (SC-TOs) contain distinct cytotrophoblast (CTB), syncytiotrophoblast (STB), and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell types, which closely correspond to trophoblast identities in the human post-implantation embryo. We discuss methods for characterizing SC-TOs by immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, mRNA and microRNA expression profiling, and placental hormone secretion. Furthermore, SC-TOs can undergo differentiation into specialized 3D EVT organoids, which display robust invasion when co-cultured with human endometrial cells. Thus, the protocol described herein offers an accessible 3D model system of human placental development and trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan M Karvas
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Thorold W Theunissen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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45
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Wu H, Wang Y, Wang H. Generation of Human Trophoblast Stem Cell-Dependent Placental In Vitro Models. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2767:43-52. [PMID: 36515896 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2022_463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Currently, human trophoblast stem cell (hTSC) is considered to be the most promising laboratory model stimulating trophoblast criteria. Our group has established hTSCs allowing differentiation to syncytiotrophoblast (STB) and extravillous trophoblast (EVT). Further, hTSC-based three-dimensional (3D) trophoblast organoid (hTSC-organoid) provides a transformative model for studying human placental development and the interaction between trophoblast and maternal environment. Here, we present a protocol to obtain different types of placental trophoblast cells and trophoblast organoids using hTSCs. The generation of hTSC-organoids takes 6 days. hTSC-organoids permit passaging and can differentiate into EVT lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hongmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
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46
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Zhang S, Xu G, Wu J, Liu X, Fan Y, Chen J, Wallace G, Gu Q. Microphysiological Constructs and Systems: Biofabrication Tactics, Biomimetic Evaluation Approaches, and Biomedical Applications. SMALL METHODS 2024; 8:e2300685. [PMID: 37798902 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300685] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, microphysiological constructs and systems (MPCs and MPSs) have undergone significant development, ranging from self-organized organoids to high-throughput organ-on-a-chip platforms. Advances in biomaterials, bioinks, 3D bioprinting, micro/nanofabrication, and sensor technologies have contributed to diverse and innovative biofabrication tactics. MPCs and MPSs, particularly tissue chips relevant to absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity, have demonstrated potential as precise, efficient, and economical alternatives to animal models for drug discovery and personalized medicine. However, current approaches mainly focus on the in vitro recapitulation of the human anatomical structure and physiological-biochemical indices at a single or a few simple levels. This review highlights the recent remarkable progress in MPC and MPS models and their applications. The challenges that must be addressed to assess the reliability, quantify the techniques, and utilize the fidelity of the models are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine/Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis/BioResource Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Guoshi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Huairou District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Juan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Huairou District, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yong Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine/Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis/BioResource Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, Australian Institute for Innovative Materials, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, North Wollongong, NSW, 2500, Australia
| | - Gordon Wallace
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, Australian Institute for Innovative Materials, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, North Wollongong, NSW, 2500, Australia
| | - Qi Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Huairou District, Beijing, 100049, China
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47
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Shimizu T, Oike A, Kobayashi EH, Sekiya A, Kobayashi N, Shibata S, Hamada H, Saito M, Yaegashi N, Suyama M, Arima T, Okae H. CRISPR screening in human trophoblast stem cells reveals both shared and distinct aspects of human and mouse placental development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2311372120. [PMID: 38085778 PMCID: PMC10742386 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311372120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta serves as the interface between the mother and fetus, facilitating the exchange of gases and nutrients between their separate blood circulation systems. Trophoblasts in the placenta play a central role in this process. Our current understanding of mammalian trophoblast development relies largely on mouse models. However, given the diversification of mammalian placentas, findings from the mouse placenta cannot be readily extrapolated to other mammalian species, including humans. To fill this knowledge gap, we performed CRISPR knockout screening in human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs). We targeted genes essential for mouse placental development and identified more than 100 genes as critical regulators in both human hTSCs and mouse placentas. Among them, we further characterized in detail two transcription factors, DLX3 and GCM1, and revealed their essential roles in hTSC differentiation. Moreover, a gene function-based comparison between human and mouse trophoblast subtypes suggests that their relationship may differ significantly from previous assumptions based on tissue localization or cellular function. Notably, our data reveal that hTSCs may not be analogous to mouse TSCs or the extraembryonic ectoderm (ExE) in which in vivo TSCs reside. Instead, hTSCs may be analogous to progenitor cells in the mouse ectoplacental cone and chorion. This finding is consistent with the absence of ExE-like structures during human placental development. Our data not only deepen our understanding of human trophoblast development but also facilitate cross-species comparison of mammalian placentas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Shimizu
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Akira Oike
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto860-0811, Japan
| | - Eri H. Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Asato Sekiya
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto860-0811, Japan
| | - Norio Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Shun Shibata
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Hamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Nobuo Yaegashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Mikita Suyama
- Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka812-8582, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto860-0811, Japan
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48
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Mao Q, Ye Q, Xu Y, Jiang J, Fan Y, Zhuang L, Liu G, Wang T, Zhang Z, Feng T, Kong S, Lu J, Zhang H, Wang H, Lin CP. Murine trophoblast organoids as a model for trophoblast development and CRISPR-Cas9 screening. Dev Cell 2023; 58:2992-3008.e7. [PMID: 38056451 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The placenta becomes one of the most diversified organs during placental mammal radiation. The main in vitro model for studying mouse trophoblast development is the 2D differentiation model of trophoblast stem cells, which is highly skewed to certain lineages and thus hampers systematic screens. Here, we established culture conditions for the establishment, maintenance, and differentiation of murine trophoblast organoids. Murine trophoblast organoids under the maintenance condition contain stem cell-like populations, whereas differentiated organoids possess various trophoblasts resembling placental ones in vivo. Ablation of Nubpl or Gcm1 in trophoblast organoids recapitulated their deficiency phenotypes in vivo, suggesting that those organoids are valid in vitro models for trophoblast development. Importantly, we performed an efficient CRISPR-Cas9 screening in mouse trophoblast organoids using a focused sgRNA (single guide RNA) library targeting G protein-coupled receptors. Together, our results establish an organoid model to investigate mouse trophoblast development and a practicable approach to performing forward screening in trophoblast lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Mao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Qinying Ye
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yiwen Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jingwei Jiang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yunhao Fan
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Lili Zhuang
- Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Guohui Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Tengfei Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Zhenwu Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Teng Feng
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Haopeng Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Chao-Po Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
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49
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Lin Q, Cao J, Yu J, Zhu Y, Shen Y, Wang S, Wang Y, Liu Z, Chang Y. YAP-mediated trophoblast dysfunction: the common pathway underlying pregnancy complications. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:353. [PMID: 38098027 PMCID: PMC10722737 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01371-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a pivotal regulator in cellular proliferation, survival, differentiation, and migration, with significant roles in embryonic development, tissue repair, and tumorigenesis. At the maternal-fetal interface, emerging evidence underscores the importance of precisely regulated YAP activity in ensuring successful pregnancy initiation and progression. However, despite the established association between YAP dysregulation and adverse pregnancy outcomes, insights into the impact of aberrant YAP levels in fetal-derived, particularly trophoblast cells, and the ensuing dysfunction at the maternal-fetal interface remain limited. This review comprehensively examines YAP expression and its regulatory mechanisms in trophoblast cells throughout pregnancy. We emphasize its integral role in placental development and maternal-fetal interactions and delve into the correlations between YAP dysregulation and pregnancy complications. A nuanced understanding of YAP's functions during pregnancy could illuminate intricate molecular mechanisms and pave the way for innovative prevention and treatment strategies for pregnancy complications. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qimei Lin
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Human Development and Reproductive Regulation, Nankai University Affiliated Maternity Hospital, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, 300100, China
| | - Jiasong Cao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Human Development and Reproductive Regulation, Nankai University Affiliated Maternity Hospital, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, 300100, China
| | - Jing Yu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yongmei Shen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Human Development and Reproductive Regulation, Nankai University Affiliated Maternity Hospital, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, 300100, China
| | - Shuqi Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Human Development and Reproductive Regulation, Nankai University Affiliated Maternity Hospital, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, 300100, China
| | - Yixin Wang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Academy of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Ying Chang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Human Development and Reproductive Regulation, Nankai University Affiliated Maternity Hospital, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, 300100, China.
- Academy of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
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50
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Brumbaugh J, Aguado BA, Lysaght T, Goldstein LSB. Human fetal tissue is critical for biomedical research. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:2300-2312. [PMID: 37977142 PMCID: PMC10724055 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.10.008] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Human fetal tissue and cells derived from fetal tissue are crucial for biomedical research. Fetal tissues and cells are used to study both normal development and developmental disorders. They are broadly applied in vaccine development and production. Further, research using cells from fetal tissue is instrumental for studying many infectious diseases, including a broad range of viruses. These widespread applications underscore the value of fetal tissue research and reflect an important point: cells derived from fetal tissues have capabilities that cells from other sources do not. In many cases, increased functionality of cells derived from fetal tissues arises from increased proliferative capacity, ability to survive in culture, and developmental potential that is attenuated in adult tissues. This review highlights important, representative applications of fetal tissue for science and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Brumbaugh
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA; University of Colorado Cancer Center, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; Charles C. Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Brian A Aguado
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tamra Lysaght
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lawrence S B Goldstein
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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