1
|
Feijo LS, Wolfsdorf KE, Canisso IF, Parry S, Felippe MJB. Application of blood parameters for the early diagnosis of natural ascending placentitis in pregnant mares. Theriogenology 2024; 228:37-53. [PMID: 39089073 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.07.025] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Placental infection is an important cause of late-term pregnancy loss and neonatal diseases in horses. Detection of changes in blood parameters especially during early placentitis could improve the diagnostic accuracy, treatment decision, and potential outcomes. The objectives of this 2-part study were to identify differences in circulating immunological, inflammatory, and hormonal parameters between mares with natural ascending placentitis and control mares; evaluate each and combination of parameters as predictors of placentitis; and determine how these parameters indicate severity of placentitis. Reproductive examination and blood sampling were prospectively performed on pregnant mares in a natural setting. Study 1 enrolled mares diagnosed with early stage of ascending placentitis based on ultrasonographic findings (n = 12), and gestationally age-matched mares with healthy pregnancies as controls (n = 12). Blood samples were classified as pre-onset (before) and early onset (at the time of ultrasonographic changes) of placentitis. There were no detected statistically significant differences between groups and timepoints in immunological and inflammatory parameters, including peripheral lymphocyte subpopulations, cytokine, and serum amyloid A concentrations. The placentitis group showed a reduced (P = 0.01) DHP/20α-DHP ratio when compared to the control group at the early onset timepoint. Plasma estradiol-17β concentration <359 pg/mL predicted ascending placentitis with acceptable accuracy (area under the curve, AUC = 0.71). Combined albumin <3.7 g/dL, estradiol-17β < 499 ng/mL, and DHP <33 ng/mL predicted 100 % of cases of ascending placentitis. In study 2, samples were classified according to the presence and severity of the abnormal ultrasonographic findings as mild (n = 11) and moderate-severe (n = 23), and gestationally age-matched with samples from control mares (n = 34). Mares with moderate-severe ascending placentitis had increased (P = 0.03) plasma 20α-DHP concentration and reduced (P = 0.03) DHP/20α-DHP ratio when compared to control mares. Our results suggest that the early events of ascending placentitis detected by ultrasonographic findings include hormonal alterations of feto-placental metabolism measurable in the mare's circulation, yet without obvious systemic immunological and inflammatory changes. Additional studies are warranted to further assess how hormonal markers and cutoff values could guide decisions for timely therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena S Feijo
- Equine Immunology Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - Igor F Canisso
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Stephen Parry
- Cornell Statistical Consulting Unit, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - M Julia B Felippe
- Equine Immunology Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sielhorst J, Koether K, Volkmann N, Blanco M, Vicioso R, Baade S, Kemper N, de Mestre AM, Sieme H. Occurrence of ultrasonographic assessed placental abnormalities, treatments, pregnancy outcome, and subsequent fertility on a large warmblood stud farm: A retrospective field study. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 137:105076. [PMID: 38697370 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Little is known about the incidence and outcome of high-risk pregnancies in equine practice and clinical studies on spontaneous occurring placentitis cases and treatments are missing. Therefore, the aims of this retrospective field study were to (1) describe the incidence and severity of ultrasonographic assessed placental abnormalities (UPA) in 4,192 pregnancies on a large commercial warmblood stud farm in 2017 - 2019 and (2) characterize these UPA cases and their pregnancy outcome. UPA severity (Placental abnormality score (PSc) 1-3; low to high), nine treatment regimens (TM1-9) used in UPA cases and treatment duration as well as subsequent fertility were analyzed in the group of UPA mares. The proportion of pregnancies affected by UPA was 4.2 % (n=177/4192). Placental abnormality severity was scored as PSc1 (51.4 %), PSc2 (32.8 %) and PSc3 (15.8 %). The generalized mixed model revealed PSc was affected by mare age and mare status (own pregnancy (OP) or embryo transfer recipient (ER)) (P=0.035) with ER mares having increased PSc compared with mares having their own pregnancy. Abortion occurred in 17/177 (9.6 %) UPA pregnancies. Overall, at the end of the next season, 61.1 % of UPA mares were pregnant, 32.0 % barren, and 6.9 % open (n=175). Pregnancy was established in 62/91(68.1 %) of mares with PSc1, 31/58 (53.4 %) with PSc2 and 14/26 (53.8 %) with PSc3. Most pregnancies were achieved in the first 81/107 (75.7 %) or second 18/107 (16.8 %) inseminated cycle. In conclusion, early detection and treatment of ultrasonographic assessed placental abnormalities can save high-risk pregnancies in > 90 % of cases with a satisfying subsequent fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Sielhorst
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buenteweg 15, Hanover 30559, Germany; ReproTraining, Rolandstrasse 62, Verl 33415, Germany.
| | - K Koether
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buenteweg 15, Hanover 30559, Germany; Lewitz Stud, Lewitzhof, Neustadt-Glewe 19306, Germany
| | - N Volkmann
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behavior, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, Hanover 30173, Germany
| | - M Blanco
- Lewitz Stud, Lewitzhof, Neustadt-Glewe 19306, Germany
| | - R Vicioso
- Lewitz Stud, Lewitzhof, Neustadt-Glewe 19306, Germany
| | - S Baade
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buenteweg 15, Hanover 30559, Germany
| | - N Kemper
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behavior, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, Hanover 30173, Germany
| | - A M de Mestre
- Cornell Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell Department of Biomedical Sciences, Equine Pregnancy Laboratory, 235 Hungerford Hill Road, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - H Sieme
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Buenteweg 15, Hanover 30559, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gao Y, Yoshida S, Takeyama A, Tagami M, Rajabi-Toustani R, Tsogtgerel M, Nambo Y. Use of Transabdominal Ultrasound and Maternal Hormone Testing for the Prenatal Monitoring of Equine Fetal Enlarged Bladder. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 128:104867. [PMID: 37329927 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104867] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound examination during late gestation is one of the best methods for monitoring potential pregnancy risks. Enlarged bladder is a urological disorder rarely observed in equine fetuses. This clinical case report aimed to present a case illustrating the development of equine fetal enlarged bladder using transabdominal ultrasound examinations and maternal hormone evaluation during gestation. An 8-year-old Hokkaido native pony was impregnated by embryo transfer, and at 215 days of gestation, abnormalities of the fetal bladder were detected. The bladder volume increased with gestational age, and a second bladder was observed at 257 days of gestation. No abnormalities were observed in the fetal kidneys. Moreover, the maternal plasma progesterone concentration was measured throughout the gestation period. The progesterone concentration was elevated from 36 weeks of gestation until parturition. At 363 days of gestation, parturition induction was conducted, and a foal successfully delivered. This case report is the first to describe the development of equine fetal enlarged bladder and record the corresponding ultrasound and hormone profiles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanzhi Gao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Sakura Yoshida
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Akiko Takeyama
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Masaaki Tagami
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Reza Rajabi-Toustani
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Munkhtuul Tsogtgerel
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yasuo Nambo
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fedorka CE, El-Sheikh Ali H, Scoggin KE, Loux SC, Ball BA, Troedsson MHT. Tumor necrosis factor signaling during equine placental infection leads to pro-apoptotic and necroptotic outcomes. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 152:103655. [PMID: 35716439 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103655] [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: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Ascending placentitis is the leading cause of abortion in the horse. The pleiotropic cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is an upstream regulator of this disease, but little is understood regarding its function in pregnancy maintenance or placental infection. To assess this, RNA sequencing was performed on chorioallantois and endometrium of healthy pregnant mares at various gestational lengths (n = 4/gestational age), in addition to postpartum chorioallantois, and diestrus endometrium to assess expression of TNF, TNFR-1, and TNFR-2. Additionally, ascending placentitis was induced via trans-cervical inoculation of S. equi spp. zooepidemicus in pregnant mares (n = 6 infected / n = 6 control) and tissues and serum were collected to evaluate TNF-related transcripts. IHC was performed to confirm protein localization of TNFR-1 and TNFR-2. In healthy pregnancy, TNFR-1 appears to be the predominant TNF-related receptor. Following induction of disease, TNF concentrations increased in maternal serum, but expression did not alter at the tissue level. While both TNFR-1 and TNFR-2 increased following induction of disease, alterations in downstream pathways indicate that TNFR-1 is the dominant receptor in ascending placentitis, and is primarily activated within the chorioallantois, with minimal signaling occurring within the endometrium. In conclusion, TNF appears to be involved in the pathophysiology of ascending placentitis. An increase in this cytokine during disease progression is believed to activate TNFR-1 within the chorioallantois, leading to various pro-apoptotic and necroptotic outcomes, all of which may signal for fetal demise and impending abortion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | - Hossam El-Sheikh Ali
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Department of Theriogenology, Mansoura University, Dakahlia, Eqypt
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Shavahn C Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Magalhaes HB, Canisso IF. Title. Fetoplacental unit ultrasonography and immunoreactive steroid concentrations in jennies experiencing late-term pregnancy loss. J Equine Vet Sci 2022; 115:104009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.104009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
6
|
Fedorka CE, Ball BA, Walker OF, McCormick ME, Scoggin KE, Kennedy LA, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Alterations of Circulating Biomarkers During Late Term Pregnancy Complications in the Horse Part I: Cytokines. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 99:103425. [PMID: 33781421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Equine abortions are attributed to both infectious and noninfectious causes. Clinical extrapolations are often made from the experimental model for ascending placentitis towards other causes of fetal compromise, including various markers of inflammation, including the cytokines IL-2, 5, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNF. It is unknown if these cytokine changes are noted under field conditions, or if they increase preceding other pregnancy related complications. To assess this, Thoroughbred mares (n = 702) had weekly blood obtained beginning in December 2013 and continuing until parturition. Fetal membranes were submitted to the UKVDL for complete gross and pathologic assessment and classified as either ascending placentitis (n = 6), focal mucoid placentitis (n = 6), idiopathic abortion (n = 6) or control (n = 20). Weekly serum samples were analyzed via immunoassay for concentrations of IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNF. For both focal mucoid placentitis and ascending placentitis, an increase (P < .05) in the concentrations of IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, and TNF was noted preceding parturition in comparison to controls. Cytokine profiles preceding idiopathic abortion did not differ from controls. In conclusion, serum cytokines may be considered potential biomarkers for the prediction of placental infection, while no changes in cytokine profiles were noted when noninfectious causes of abortion occurred. Additionally, this is the first study to report an increase in cytokines during the disease process of focal mucoid placentitis, the etiology of which includes Nocardioform placentitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C E Fedorka
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - B A Ball
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY.
| | - O F Walker
- Lincoln Memorial University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Harrogate, TN
| | - M E McCormick
- Rhode Island College, College of Nursing. Providence, RI; Rhode Island Department of Health. Providence, RI
| | - K E Scoggin
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - L A Kennedy
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - E L Squires
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| | - M H T Troedsson
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Lexington, KY
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fedorka CE, Scoggin KE, El-Sheikh Ali H, Loux SC, Dini P, Troedsson MHT, Ball BA. Interleukin-6 pathobiology in equine placental infection. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 85:e13363. [PMID: 33098605 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Ascending placentitis is the leading cause of abortion in the horse. Interleukin (IL)-6 is considered predictive of placental infection in other species, but little is understood regarding its role in the pathophysiology of ascending placentitis. METHOD OF STUDY Sub-acute ascending placentitis was induced via trans-cervical inoculation of S zooepidemicus, and various fluids/serum/tissues collected 8 days later. Concentrations of IL-6 were detected within fetal fluids and serum in inoculated (n = 6) and control (n = 6) mares. RNASeq was performed on the placenta (endometrium and chorioallantois) to assess transcripts relating to IL-6 pathways. IHC was performed for immunolocalization of IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) in the placenta. RESULTS IL-6 concentrations increased in allantoic fluid following inoculation, with a trend toward an increase in amniotic fluid. Maternal serum IL-6 was increased in inoculated animals, while no changes were noted in fetal serum. mRNA expression of IL-6-related transcripts within the chorioallantois indicates that IL-6 is activating the classical JAK/STAT pathway, thereby acting as anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and pro-survival. The IL-6R was expressed within the chorioallantois, indicating a paracrine signaling pathway of maternal IL-6 to fetal IL-6R. CONCLUSION IL-6 plays a crucial role in the placental response to induction of sub-acute equine ascending placentitis, and this could be noted in amniotic fluid, allantoic fluid, and maternal serum. Additionally, IL-6 is acting as anti-inflammatory in this disease, potentially altering disease progression, impeding abortion signals, and assisting with the production of a viable neonate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Hossam El-Sheikh Ali
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.,Department of Theriogenology, University of Mansoura, Dakahlia, Egypt
| | - Shavahn C Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Pouya Dini
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fedorka CE, Ball BA, Wynn MAA, McCormick ME, Scoggin KE, Esteller-Vico A, Curry TE, Kennedy LA, Squires EL, Troedsson MHT. Alterations of Circulating Biomarkers During Late Term Pregnancy Complications in the Horse Part II: Steroid Hormones and Alpha-Fetoprotein. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 99:103395. [PMID: 33781417 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Preterm labor and/or abortion causes considerable economic impact on the equine industry. Unfortunately, few experimental models exist for the induction of various pregnancy-related complications, and therefore extrapolations are made from the experimental model for ascending placentits, although inferences may be minimal. Certain steroid hormones (progestogens, estrogens) and fetal proteins (alpha-fetoprotein; AFP) might improve the diagnostics for abnormal pregnancy, but the utility of these markers in the field is unknown. To assess this, thoroughbred mares (n = 702) were bled weekly beginning in December 2013 until parturition/abortion. Following parturition, fetal membranes were assessed histopathologically and classified as either ascending placentitis (n = 6), focal mucoid placentitis (n = 6), idiopathic abortion (n = 6) or no disease (n = 20). Weekly serum samples were analyzed for concentrations of progesterone, estradiol-17β, and AFP. Samples were analyzed retrospectively from the week of parturition/abortion in addition to the preceding four weeks. For both ascending and focal mucoid placentitis, a significant increase in progesterone and AFP was noted, alongside a significant decrease in estradiol-17β and the ratio of estradiol-17β to progesterone in comparison to controls. In contrast, idiopathic abortions experienced a decrease in progesterone concentrations alongside an increase in AFP, and this was only noted in the week preceding parturition/abortion. In conclusion, spontaneous placental infection in the horse altered both endocrine and feto-secretory markers in maternal circulation, while minimal changes were noted preceding noninfectious idiopathic abortion. Additionally, this is the first study to report an alteration in steroid hormones and AFP during the disease process of focal mucoid placentitis, the etiology of which includes Nocardioform placentitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY.
| | - Michelle A A Wynn
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Meghan E McCormick
- Rhode Island College, College of Nursing, Providence, RI; Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, RI
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | | | - Thomas E Curry
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY
| | - Laura A Kennedy
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Edward L Squires
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fedorka CE, El-Sheikh Ali H, Walker OF, Scoggin KE, Dini P, Loux SC, Troedsson MHT, Ball BA. The imbalance of the Th17/Treg axis following equine ascending placental infection. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 144:103268. [PMID: 33454392 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ascending placentitis is a leading cause of abortion in the horse, but adaptive immune response to this disease is unknown. To evaluate this, sub-acute placentitis was experimentally-induced via trans-cervical inoculation of S. zooepidemicus, and endometrium and chorioallantois was collected 8 days later (n = 6 inoculated/n = 6 control). The expression of transcripts relating to Th1, Th2, Th17, and Treg maturation was assessed via RNASeq. IHC of transcription factors relating to each subtype in the same tissues (Th1: TBX21, Th2: GATA3, Th17: IRF4, Treg: FOXp3). An immunoassay was utilized to assess circulating cytokines (Th1: IFNg, IL-2; Th2: IL-4, IL-5; Th17: IL-17, IL-6; Treg: IL-10, GM-CSF). An increase in Th1 and Th17-related transcripts were noted in the chorioallantois, although no alterations were seen in the endometrium. Th2 and Treg-related transcripts altered in a dysregulated manner, as some transcripts increased in expression while others decreased. Immunolocalization of Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells was increased in diseased chorioallantois, while no Treg cells were noted in the diseased tissue. Secreted cytokines relating to Th1 (IFNg, IL-2), Th17 (IL-6), Th2 (IL-5), and Treg (IL-10) populations increased in maternal circulation eight days after inoculation. In conclusion, the Th1/Th17 response to ascending placentitis occurs primarily in the chorioallantois, indicating the adaptive immune response to occur in fetal derived placental tissue. Additionally, ascending placentitis leads to an increase in the helper T cell populations (Th1/Th17/Th2) while decreasing the Treg response. This increase in Th17-related responses alongside a diminishing Treg-related response may precede or contribute to fetal demise, abortion, or preterm labor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C E Fedorka
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences. Lexington KY, USA
| | - H El-Sheikh Ali
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences. Lexington KY, USA; University of Mansoura, Department of Theriogenology, Dakahlia, Egypt
| | - O F Walker
- Lincoln Memorial University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Harrogate TN, USA
| | - K E Scoggin
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences. Lexington KY, USA
| | - P Dini
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences. Lexington KY, USA; University of California, Davis, Department of Population Health and Reproduction, Davis, CA, USA
| | - S C Loux
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences. Lexington KY, USA
| | - M H T Troedsson
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences. Lexington KY, USA
| | - B A Ball
- University of Kentucky, Department of Veterinary Sciences. Lexington KY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
El-Sheikh Ali H, Dini P, Scoggin K, Loux S, Fedorka C, Boakari Y, Norris J, Esteller-Vico A, Kalbfleisch T, Ball B. Transcriptomic analysis of equine placenta reveals key regulators and pathways involved in ascending placentitis†. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:638-656. [PMID: 33345276 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying ascending equine placentitis holds the potential for the development of new diagnostic tools and therapies to forestall placentitis-induced preterm labor. The current study characterized the equine placental transcriptome (chorioallantois [CA] and endometrium [EN]) during placentitis (placentitis group, n = 6) in comparison to gestationally-matched controls (control group, n = 6). Transcriptome analysis identified 2953 and 805 differentially expressed genes in CA and EN during placentitis, respectively. Upstream regulator analysis revealed the central role of toll-like receptors (TLRs) in triggering the inflammatory signaling, and consequent immune-cell chemotaxis. Placentitis was associated with the upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP1, MMP2, and MMP9) and apoptosis-related genes such as caspases (CASP3, CASP4, and CASP7) in CA. Also, placentitis was associated with downregulation of transcripts coding for proteins essential for placental steroidogenesis (SRD5A1 and AKR1C1), progestin signaling (PGRMC1 and PXR) angiogenesis (VEGFA, VEGFR2, and VEGFR3), and nutrient transport (GLUT12 and SLC1A4), as well as upregulation of hypoxia-related genes (HIF1A and EGLN3), which could explain placental insufficiency during placentitis. Placentitis was also associated with aberrant expression of several placenta-regulatory genes, such as PLAC8, PAPPA, LGALS1, ABCG2, GCM1, and TEPP, which could negatively affect placental functions. In conclusion, our findings revealed for the first time the key regulators and mechanisms underlying placental inflammation, separation, and insufficiency during equine placentitis, which might lead to the development of efficacious therapies or diagnostic aids by targeting the key molecular pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossam El-Sheikh Ali
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.,Theriogenology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Dakahlia, Egypt
| | - Pouya Dini
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.,Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Kirsten Scoggin
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Shavahn Loux
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Carleigh Fedorka
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Yatta Boakari
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jamie Norris
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Alejandro Esteller-Vico
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.,Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, USA
| | - Theodore Kalbfleisch
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Barry Ball
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Aleman M, Chigerwe M, Varga A, Madigan JE. Steroid precursors, steroids, neuroactive steroids, and neurosteroids concentrations in serum and saliva of healthy neonatal heifer Holstein calves. J Vet Intern Med 2020; 34:2767-2775. [PMID: 33201530 PMCID: PMC7694825 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistence of high neurosteroid concentrations in blood is associated with neonatal encephalopathy and septicemia in foals. This has not been investigated in calves. OBJECTIVES To determine concentrations of steroid compounds in serum and saliva within the first 48 hours after birth in healthy neonatal calves, identify potential markers for disease, and investigate the association between serum steroid compounds concentrations in calves and their respective dams within 2 hours after birth. ANIMALS Twelve healthy neonatal heifer Holstein calves and their dams. METHODS Prospective study. Serum and saliva were collected from calves at 2, 6, 24, and 48 hours after birth. Steroid compounds were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. A nonlinear regression model was used to determine half-lives of the neurosteroids. Serum concentrations of neurosteroids between the cows and calves were compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. RESULTS Half-lives (95% confidence intervals) of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and 17α,20α-dihydroxyprogesterone in calf serum were 2.9 (2.1, 4.3), and 2.1 (1.3, 3.0) hours, respectively. Pregnanediol in saliva had a half-life (95% confidence interval) of 24.5 (14.2, 66.5) hours. Serum DHEA (1718.7 ± 2313 vs 57.7 ± 44) and 17α,20α-dihydroxyprogesterone (207.8 ± 198.2 vs 43.5 ± 33.5) concentrations respectively were higher (P < .05) in calves compared to cows. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Dehydroepiandrosterone, 17α,20α-dihydroxyprogesterone, and pregnanediol could be potential markers of disease in neonatal heifer calves with unexplained failure to thrive or encephalopathy. However, because of the wide 95% confidence interval of the half-life, pregnanediol in saliva might not be a potential marker.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Aleman
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Munashe Chigerwe
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Anita Varga
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - John E. Madigan
- Department of Medicine and EpidemiologySchool of Veterinary Medicine, University of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Aleman M, McCue PM, Chigerwe M, Madigan JE. Plasma concentrations of steroid precursors, steroids, neuroactive steroids, and neurosteroids in healthy neonatal foals from birth to 7 days of age. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 33:2286-2293. [PMID: 31489708 PMCID: PMC6766486 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transient hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction occurs in critically ill foals with sepsis and neonatal maladjustment syndrome (NMS). Cortisol is the most commonly measured steroid. However, a complex interaction of various steroid compounds might play a role in pathophysiology of this disorder. OBJECTIVE To identify steroid compounds present at high concentrations at birth that rapidly and steadily decrease within the first 7 days of life in healthy foals and that might be supportive diagnosis of NMS and other neonatal disorders. ANIMALS Ten healthy neonatal Quarter Horse foals (5 females and 5 males). METHODS Prospective study. Blood was collected in heparinized tubes within 30 minutes after birth, and at 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 hours of age. Plasma was separated and a panel of steroid compounds was analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. A nonlinear regression model was used to determine decay concentrations over time. Confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and significance was set a P ≤ .05. RESULTS Five compounds were identified: pregnenolone, progesterone, deoxycorticosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. Pregnenolone and progesterone concentrations rapidly decreased by 24 hours of age and remained low throughout the first 7 days of life. Their half-life (95% CI) was short at 3.7 (3.4, 4.0) and 4.5 (2.8, 6.1) hours, respectively. No statistical differences in the concentrations of these compounds were found between males and females. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Progesterone might be a useful marker for identifying continuous endogenous production of neuroactive steroids in foals with suspected NMS and other neonatal diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Aleman
- Medicine and EpidemiologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisCalifornia
| | | | - Munashe Chigerwe
- Medicine and EpidemiologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisCalifornia
| | - John E. Madigan
- Medicine and EpidemiologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisCalifornia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fedorka CE, Ball BA, Scoggin KE, Loux SC, Troedsson MHT, Adams AA. The feto-maternal immune response to equine placentitis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 82:e13179. [PMID: 31373743 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Ascending placentitis is one of the leading causes of abortion in the horse. Minimal work has focused on its effect on fetal fluids or the antenatal immune response of the fetus. METHODOLOGY Placentitis was induced via transcervical inoculation of Streptococcus equi ssp Zooepidemicus, and fluids/serum/tissues were collected 4-6 days later following euthanasia. Cytokine concentrations were detected using a multiplex immunoassay within fetal fluids (amniotic and allantoic) and serum (maternal and fetal) in inoculated and control mares. In addition, tissues from fetal (spleen, liver, lung, umbilicus, amnioallantois) and maternal (spleen, liver, lung, chorioallantois, endometrium) origin were analyzed in inoculated and control mares utilizing qPCR for expression of cytokines. RESULTS No difference in cytokine concentrations in maternal or fetal serum was noted between inoculated and control mares. Concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and GRO were upregulated in the amniotic fluid following inoculation, with a trend toward higher IL-6 concentration in allantoic fluid. The amnioallantoic tissue separating the two fluids had higher expression of IL-1β and IL-6 following inoculation, while chorioallantois and endometrium upregulated IL-1β and IL-8 expression. IL-1β was upregulated in the maternal spleen following inoculation. Fetal spleens were upregulated in expression of IL-1β, GRO, and IL-6, while IL-6 was higher in fetal liver after inoculation than in controls. CONCLUSION The maternal response to placentitis is primarily pro-inflammatory while the fetus appears to play a regulatory role in this inflammation. Additionally, amniotic fluid sampling may be more diagnostic of ascending placentitis than circulating cytokines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carleigh E Fedorka
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Barry A Ball
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kirsten E Scoggin
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Shavahn C Loux
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mats H T Troedsson
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Amanda A Adams
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|