1
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Mistry HD, Klossner R, Scaife PJ, Eisele N, Kurlak LO, Kallol S, Albrecht C, Gennari-Moser C, Briggs LV, Broughton Pipkin F, Mohaupt MG. Alterations of Placental Sodium in Preeclampsia: Trophoblast Responses. Hypertension 2024; 81:1924-1934. [PMID: 38966986 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.124.23001] [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: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that increasing salt intake in pregnancy lowers blood pressure, protecting against preeclampsia. We hypothesized that sodium (Na+) evokes beneficial placental signals that are disrupted in preeclampsia. METHODS Blood and urine were collected from nonpregnant women of reproductive age (n=26) and pregnant women with (n=50) and without (n=55) preeclampsia, along with placental biopsies. Human trophoblast cell lines and primary human trophoblasts were cultured with varying Na+ concentrations. RESULTS Women with preeclampsia had reduced placental and urinary Na+ concentrations, yet increased urinary angiotensinogen and reduced active renin, aldosterone concentrations, and osmotic response signal TonEBP (tonicity-responsive enhancer binding protein) expression. In trophoblast cell cultures, TonEBP was consistently increased upon augmented Na+ exposure. Mechanistically, inhibiting Na+/K+-ATPase or adding mannitol evoked the TonEBP response, whereas inhibition of cytoskeletal signaling abolished it. CONCLUSIONS Enhanced Na+ availability induced osmotic gradient-dependent cytoskeletal signals in trophoblasts, resulting in proangiogenic responses. As placental salt availability is compromised in preeclampsia, adverse systemic responses are thus conceivable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiten D Mistry
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course and Population Health Sciences, King's College London, United Kingdom (H.D.M.)
| | - Rahel Klossner
- Teaching Hospital Internal Medicine, Lindenhofgruppe, Switzerland (R.K., M.G.M.)
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
| | - Paula J Scaife
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom. (P.J.S.)
| | - Nicole Eisele
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
| | - Lesia O Kurlak
- Stroke Trials Unit (School of Medicine), University of Nottingham, United Kingdom. (L.O.K.)
| | - Sampada Kallol
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland (S.K., C.A.)
| | - Christiane Albrecht
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland (S.K., C.A.)
| | - Carine Gennari-Moser
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
| | - Louise V Briggs
- Advanced Material Research Group, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom. (L.V.B.)
| | | | - Markus G Mohaupt
- Teaching Hospital Internal Medicine, Lindenhofgruppe, Switzerland (R.K., M.G.M.)
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland. (R.K., N.E., C.G.-M., M.G.M.)
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2
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Bezemer RE, Faas MM, van Goor H, Gordijn SJ, Prins JR. Decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells in fetal growth restriction. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379537. [PMID: 39007150 PMCID: PMC11239338 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379537] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Placental macrophages, which include maternal decidual macrophages and fetal Hofbauer cells, display a high degree of phenotypical and functional plasticity. This provides these macrophages with a key role in immunologically driven events in pregnancy like host defense, establishing and maintaining maternal-fetal tolerance. Moreover, placental macrophages have an important role in placental development, including implantation of the conceptus and remodeling of the intrauterine vasculature. To facilitate these processes, it is crucial that placental macrophages adapt accordingly to the needs of each phase of pregnancy. Dysregulated functionalities of placental macrophages are related to placental malfunctioning and have been associated with several adverse pregnancy outcomes. Although fetal growth restriction is specifically associated with placental insufficiency, knowledge on the role of macrophages in fetal growth restriction remains limited. This review provides an overview of the distinct functionalities of decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells in each trimester of a healthy pregnancy and aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which placental macrophages could be involved in the pathogenesis of fetal growth restriction. Additionally, potential immune targeted therapies for fetal growth restriction are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy Elisa Bezemer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Marijke M Faas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Sanne Jehanne Gordijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Jelmer R Prins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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3
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Kelson VC, Kiser JN, Davenport KM, Suarez EM, Murdoch BM, Neibergs HL. Identifying Regions of the Genome Associated with Conception Rate to the First Service in Holstein Heifers Bred by Artificial Insemination and as Embryo Transfer Recipients. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:765. [PMID: 38927701 PMCID: PMC11202900 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060765] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Heifer conception rate to the first service (HCR1) is defined as the number of heifers that become pregnant to the first breeding service compared to the heifers bred. This study aimed to identify loci associated and gene sets enriched for HCR1 for heifers that were bred by artificial insemination (AI, n = 2829) or were embryo transfer (ET, n = 2086) recipients, by completing a genome-wide association analysis and gene set enrichment analysis using SNP data (GSEA-SNP). Three unique loci, containing four positional candidate genes, were associated (p < 1 × 10-5) with HCR1 for ET recipients, while the GSEA-SNP identified four gene sets (NES ≥ 3) and sixty-two leading edge genes (LEGs) enriched for HCR1. While no loci were associated with HCR1 bred by AI, one gene set and twelve LEGs were enriched (NES ≥ 3) for HCR1 with the GSEA-SNP. This included one gene (PKD2) shared between HCR1 AI and ET services. Identifying loci associated or enriched for HCR1 provides an opportunity to use them as genomic selection tools to facilitate the selection of cattle with higher reproductive efficiency, and to better understand embryonic loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria C. Kelson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Jennifer N. Kiser
- Washington Animal Disease Diagnostics Laboratory, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
| | - Kimberly M. Davenport
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Emaly M. Suarez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Brenda M. Murdoch
- Department of Animal, Veterinary and Food Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA;
| | - Holly L. Neibergs
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
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4
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Rokhsartalab Azar P, Karimi S, Haghtalab A, Taram S, Hejazi M, Sadeghpour S, Pashaei MR, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H, Taheri-Anganeh M. The role of the endometrial microbiome in embryo implantation and recurrent implantation failure. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 162:104192. [PMID: 38215650 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104192] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
There is a suggested pathophysiology associated with endometrial microbiota in cases where repeated implantation failure of high-quality embryos is observed. However, there is a suspected association between endometrial microbiota and the pathogenesis of implantation failure. However, there is still a lack of agreement on the fundamental composition of the physiological microbiome within the uterine cavity. This is primarily due to various limitations in the studies conducted, including small sample sizes and variations in experimental designs. As a result, the impact of bacterial communities in the endometrium on human reproduction is still a subject of debate. In this discourse, we undertake a comprehensive examination of the existing body of research pertaining to the uterine microbiota and its intricate interplay with the process of embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarmad Karimi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arian Haghtalab
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Saman Taram
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Milad Hejazi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Pashaei
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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5
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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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6
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Mahajan D, Kumar T, Rath PK, Sahoo AK, Mishra BP, Kumar S, Nayak NR, Jena MK. Dendritic Cells and the Establishment of Fetomaternal Tolerance for Successful Human Pregnancy. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2024; 72:aite-2024-0010. [PMID: 38782369 DOI: 10.2478/aite-2024-0010] [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: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a remarkable event where the semi-allogeneic fetus develops in the mother's uterus, despite genetic and immunological differences. The antigen handling and processing at the maternal-fetal interface during pregnancy appear to be crucial for the adaptation of the maternal immune system and for tolerance to the developing fetus and placenta. Maternal antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as macrophages (Mφs) and dendritic cells (DCs), are present at the maternal-fetal interface throughout pregnancy and are believed to play a crucial role in this process. Despite numerous studies focusing on the significance of Mφs, there is limited knowledge regarding the contribution of DCs in fetomaternal tolerance during pregnancy, making it a relatively new and growing field of research. This review focuses on how the behavior of DCs at the maternal-fetal interface adapts to pregnancy's unique demands. Moreover, it discusses how DCs interact with other cells in the decidual leukocyte network to regulate uterine and placental homeostasis and the local maternal immune responses to the fetus. The review particularly examines the different cell lineages of DCs with specific surface markers, which have not been critically reviewed in previous publications. Additionally, it emphasizes the impact that even minor disruptions in DC functions can have on pregnancy-related complications and proposes further research into the potential therapeutic benefits of targeting DCs to manage these complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deviyani Mahajan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Tarun Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Complex, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana 125001, India
| | - Prasana Kumar Rath
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and AH, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751003, India
| | - Anjan Kumar Sahoo
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and AH, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751003, India
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and AH, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751003, India
| | - Bidyut Prava Mishra
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and AH, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751003, India
- Department of Livestock Products Technology, College of Veterinary Science and AH, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751003, India
| | - Sudarshan Kumar
- Proteomics and Structural Biology Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana 132001, India
| | - Nihar Ranjan Nayak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMKC School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Manoj Kumar Jena
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
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7
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Greenbaum S, Averbukh I, Soon E, Rizzuto G, Baranski A, Greenwald NF, Kagel A, Bosse M, Jaswa EG, Khair Z, Kwok S, Warshawsky S, Piyadasa H, Goldston M, Spence A, Miller G, Schwartz M, Graf W, Van Valen D, Winn VD, Hollmann T, Keren L, van de Rijn M, Angelo M. A spatially resolved timeline of the human maternal-fetal interface. Nature 2023; 619:595-605. [PMID: 37468587 PMCID: PMC10356615 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06298-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Beginning in the first trimester, fetally derived extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) invade the uterus and remodel its spiral arteries, transforming them into large, dilated blood vessels. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain how EVTs coordinate with the maternal decidua to promote a tissue microenvironment conducive to spiral artery remodelling (SAR)1-3. However, it remains a matter of debate regarding which immune and stromal cells participate in these interactions and how this evolves with respect to gestational age. Here we used a multiomics approach, combining the strengths of spatial proteomics and transcriptomics, to construct a spatiotemporal atlas of the human maternal-fetal interface in the first half of pregnancy. We used multiplexed ion beam imaging by time-of-flight and a 37-plex antibody panel to analyse around 500,000 cells and 588 arteries within intact decidua from 66 individuals between 6 and 20 weeks of gestation, integrating this dataset with co-registered transcriptomics profiles. Gestational age substantially influenced the frequency of maternal immune and stromal cells, with tolerogenic subsets expressing CD206, CD163, TIM-3, galectin-9 and IDO-1 becoming increasingly enriched and colocalized at later time points. By contrast, SAR progression preferentially correlated with EVT invasion and was transcriptionally defined by 78 gene ontology pathways exhibiting distinct monotonic and biphasic trends. Last, we developed an integrated model of SAR whereby invasion is accompanied by the upregulation of pro-angiogenic, immunoregulatory EVT programmes that promote interactions with the vascular endothelium while avoiding the activation of maternal immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Greenbaum
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Inna Averbukh
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Erin Soon
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Immunology Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gabrielle Rizzuto
- Department of Pathology, University of Californica San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alex Baranski
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Noah F Greenwald
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Cancer Biology Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Adam Kagel
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marc Bosse
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Eleni G Jaswa
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Zumana Khair
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shirley Kwok
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Mako Goldston
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Angie Spence
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Geneva Miller
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Morgan Schwartz
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Will Graf
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - David Van Valen
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Virginia D Winn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Travis Hollmann
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Leeat Keren
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Michael Angelo
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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8
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Beltrami S, Rizzo S, Schiuma G, Speltri G, Di Luca D, Rizzo R, Bortolotti D. Gestational Viral Infections: Role of Host Immune System. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1637. [PMID: 37512810 PMCID: PMC10383666 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071637] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral infections in pregnancy are major causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Infections can develop in the neonate transplacentally, perinatally, or postnatally (from breast milk or other sources) and lead to different clinical manifestations, depending on the viral agent and the gestational age at exposure. Viewing the peculiar tolerogenic status which characterizes pregnancy, viruses could exploit this peculiar immunological status to spread or affect the maternal immune system, adopting several evasion strategies. In fact, both DNA and RNA virus might have a deep impact on both innate and acquired immune systems. For this reason, investigating the interaction with these pathogens and the host's immune system during pregnancy is crucial not only for the development of most effective therapies and diagnosis but mostly for prevention. In this review, we will analyze some of the most important DNA and RNA viruses related to gestational infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Beltrami
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Schiuma
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgia Speltri
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Dario Di Luca
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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9
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Stope MB, Mustea A, Sänger N, Einenkel R. Immune Cell Functionality during Decidualization and Potential Clinical Application. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051097. [PMID: 37240742 DOI: 10.3390/life13051097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to a vast influx in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, leukocytes represent 40-50% of the decidua at the time of implantation. Their importance for the implantation, maintenance of pregnancy, and parturition are known yet not fully understood. Thus, in idiopathic infertility, decidual immune-related factors are speculated to be the cause. In this review, the immune cell functions in the decidua were summarized, and clinical diagnostics, as well as interventions, were discussed. There is a rising number of commercially available diagnostic tools. However, the intervention options are still limited and/or poorly studied. In order for us to make big steps towards the proper use of reproductive immunology findings, we need to understand the mechanisms and especially support translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias B Stope
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexander Mustea
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicole Sänger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Rebekka Einenkel
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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10
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Innate and Adaptive Immune Systems in Physiological and Pathological Pregnancy. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12030402. [PMID: 36979094 PMCID: PMC10045867 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
The dynamic immunological changes occurring throughout pregnancy are well-orchestrated and important for the success of the pregnancy. One of the key immune adaptations is the maternal immune tolerance towards the semi-allogeneic fetus. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of what is known about the innate and adaptive immunological changes in pregnancy and the role(s) of specific immune cells during physiological and pathological pregnancy. Alongside this, we provided details of remaining questions and challenges, as well as future perspectives for this growing field of research. Understanding the immunological changes that occur can inform potential strategies on treatments for the optimal health of the neonate and pregnant individual both during and after pregnancy.
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11
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Chen Y, Xiao L, Xu J, Wang J, Yu Z, Zhao K, Zhang H, Cheng S, Sharma S, Liao A, Liu C. Recent insight into autophagy and immunity at the maternal-fetal interface. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 155:103781. [PMID: 36463798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103781] [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: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation pathway that supports metabolic adaptation and energy cycling. It is essential for cell homeostasis, differentiation, development, and survival. Recent studies have shown that autophagy could influence immune responses by regulating immune cell functions. Reciprocally, immune cells strongly influence autophagy. Immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface are thought to play essential roles in pregnancy. Here, we review the induction of autophagy at the maternal-fetal interface and its role in decidualization and placental development. Additionally, we emphasize the role of autophagy in the immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface, including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and immune tolerance molecules. It also suggests new research directions and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Lin Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Jia Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Jingming Wang
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Zhiquan Yu
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Shibin Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Surendra Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
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12
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Zhao QY, Li QH, Fu YY, Ren CE, Jiang AF, Meng YH. Decidual macrophages in recurrent spontaneous abortion. Front Immunol 2022; 13:994888. [PMID: 36569856 PMCID: PMC9781943 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.994888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is defined as two or more pregnancy loss, affecting the happiness index of fertility couples. The mechanisms involved in the occurrence of RSA are not clear to date. The primary problem for the maternal immune system is how to establish and maintain the immune tolerance to the semi-allogeneic fetuses. During the pregnancy, decidual macrophages mainly play an important role in the immunologic dialogue. The purpose of this study is to explore decidual macrophages, and to understand whether there is a connection between these cells and RSA by analyzing their phenotypes and functions. Pubmed, Web of Science and Embase were searched. The eligibility criterion for this review was evaluating the literature about the pregnancy and macrophages. Any disagreement between the authors was resolved upon discussion and if required by the judgment of the corresponding author. We summarized the latest views on the phenotype, function and dysfunction of decidual macrophages to illuminate its relationship with RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yu-Han Meng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
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13
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Xie H, Li Z, Zheng G, Yang C, Liu X, Xu X, Ren Y, Wang C, Hu X. Tim-3 downregulation by Toxoplasma gondii infection contributes to decidual dendritic cell dysfunction. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:393. [PMID: 36303229 PMCID: PMC9615254 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05506-1] [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: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Women in early pregnancy infected by Toxoplasma gondii may have severe adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as spontaneous abortion and fetal malformation. The inhibitory molecule T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) is highly expressed on decidual dendritic cells (dDCs) and plays an important role in maintaining immune tolerance. However, whether T. gondii infection can cause dDC dysfunction by influencing the expression of Tim-3 and further participate in adverse pregnancy outcomes is still unclear. Methods An abnormal pregnancy model in Tim-3-deficient mice and primary human dDCs treated with Tim-3 neutralizing antibodies were used to examine the effect of Tim-3 expression on dDC dysfunction after T. gondii infection. Results Following T. gondii infection, the expression of Tim-3 on dDCs was downregulated, those of the pro-inflammatory functional molecules CD80, CD86, MHC-II, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-12 (IL-12) were increased, while those of the tolerant molecules indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were significantly reduced. Tim-3 downregulation by T. gondii infection was closely associated with an increase in proinflammatory molecules and a decrease in tolerant molecules, which further resulted in dDC dysfunction. Moreover, the changes in Tim-3 induced by T. gondii infection further reduced the secretion of the cytokine IL-10 via the SRC-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, which ultimately contributed to abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Conclusions Toxoplasma gondii infection can significantly downregulate the expression of Tim-3 and cause the aberrant expression of functional molecules in dDCs. This leads to dDC dysfunction, which can ultimately contribute to abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Further, the expression of the anti-inflammatory molecule IL-10 was significantly decreased by Tim-3 downregulation, which was mediated by the SRC-STAT3 signaling pathway in dDCs after T. gondii infection. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05506-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbing Xie
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhidan Li
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangmei Zheng
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunyan Yang
- Department of Oral Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianbing Liu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yushan Ren
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Immunological microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 151:103632. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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15
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Isolation of Decidual Macrophages and Hofbauer Cells from Term Placenta-Comparison of the Expression of CD163 and CD80. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116113. [PMID: 35682791 PMCID: PMC9181726 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Placental immune cells are playing a very important role in a successful placentation and the prevention of pregnancy complications. Macrophages dominate in number and relevance in the maternal and the fetal part of the placenta. The evidence on the polarization state of fetal and maternal macrophages involved in both, healthy and pregnancy-associated diseases, is limited. There is no representative isolation method for the direct comparison of maternal and fetal macrophages so far. (2) Material and Methods: For the isolation of decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells from term placenta, fresh tissue was mechanically dissected and digested with trypsin and collagenase A. Afterwards cell enrichment was increased by a Percoll gradient. CD68 is represented as pan-macrophage marker, the surface markers CD80 and CD163 were further investigated. (3) Results: The established method revealed a high cell yield and purity of the isolated macrophages and enabled the comparison between decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells. No significant difference was observed in the percentage of single CD163+ cells in the distinct macrophage populations, by using FACS and immunofluorescence staining. A slight increase of CD80+ cells could be found in the decidual macrophages. Considering the percentage of CD80+CD163− and CD80−CD163+ cells we could not find differences. Interestingly we found an increased number of double positive cells (CD80+CD163+) in the decidual macrophage population in comparison to Hofbauer cells. (4) Conclusion: In this study we demonstrate that our established isolation method enables the investigation of decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells in the placenta. It represents a promising method for direct cell comparison, enzyme independently, and unaffected by magnetic beads, to understand the functional subsets of placental macrophages and to identify therapeutic targets of pregnancy associated diseases.
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16
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Devvanshi H, Kachhwaha R, Manhswita A, Bhatnagar S, Kshetrapal P. Immunological Changes in Pregnancy and Prospects of Therapeutic Pla-Xosomes in Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:895254. [PMID: 35517798 PMCID: PMC9065684 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.895254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stringent balance of the immune system is a key regulatory factor in defining successful implantation, fetal development, and timely parturition. Interference in these primary regulatory mechanisms, either at adolescence or prenatal state led to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Fertility restoration with the help of injectable gonadotrophins/progesterone, ovulation-inducing drugs, immunomodulatory drugs (corticosteroids), and reproductive surgeries provides inadequate responses, which manifest its own side effects. The development of a potential diagnostic biomarker and an effectual treatment for adverse pregnancy outcomes is a prerequisite to maternal and child health. Parent cell originated bi-layered-intraluminal nano-vesicles (30-150 nm) also known as exosomes are detected in all types of bodily fluids like blood, saliva, breast milk, urine, etc. Exosomes being the most biological residual structures with the least cytotoxicity are loaded with cargo in the form of RNAs (miRNAs), proteins (cytokines), hormones (estrogen, progesterone, etc.), cDNAs, and metabolites making them chief molecules of cell-cell communication. Their keen involvement in the regulation of biological processes has portrayed them as the power shots of cues to understand the disease's pathophysiology and progression. Recent studies have demonstrated the role of immunexosomes (immunomodulating exosomes) in maintaining unwavering immune homeostasis between the mother and developing fetus for a healthy pregnancy. Moreover, the concentration and size of the exosomes are extensively studied in adverse pregnancies like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and preterm premature rupture of membrane (pPROMs) as an early diagnostic marker, thus giving in-depth information about their pathophysiology. Exosomes have also been engineered physically as well as genetically to enhance their encapsulation efficiency and specificity in therapy for cancer and adverse pregnancies. Successful bench to bedside discoveries and interventions in cancer has motivated developmental biologists to investigate the role of immunexosomes and their active components. Our review summarizes the pre-clinical studies for the use of these power-shots as therapeutic agents. We envisage that these studies will pave the path for the use of immunexosomes in clinical settings for reproductive problems that arise due to immune perturbance in homeostasis either at adolescence or prenatal state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himadri Devvanshi
- Maternal and Child Health, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Rohit Kachhwaha
- Maternal and Child Health, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Anima Manhswita
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Shinjini Bhatnagar
- Maternal and Child Health, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Pallavi Kshetrapal
- Maternal and Child Health, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
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17
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Manti S, Leonardi S, Rezaee F, Harford TJ, Perez MK, Piedimonte G. Effects of Vertical Transmission of Respiratory Viruses to the Offspring. Front Immunol 2022; 13:853009. [PMID: 35359954 PMCID: PMC8963917 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.853009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Overt and subclinical maternal infections in pregnancy can have multiple and significant pathological consequences for the developing fetus, leading to acute perinatal complications and/or chronic disease throughout postnatal life. In this context, the current concept of pregnancy as a state of systemic immunosuppression seems oversimplified and outdated. Undoubtedly, in pregnancy the maternal immune system undergoes complex changes to establish and maintain tolerance to the fetus while still protecting from pathogens. In addition to downregulated maternal immunity, hormonal changes, and mechanical adaptation (e.g., restricted lung expansion) make the pregnant woman more susceptible to respiratory pathogens, such as influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Depending on the infectious agent and timing of the infection during gestation, fetal pathology can range from mild to severe, and even fatal. Influenza is associated with a higher risk of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women than in the general population, and, especially during the third trimester of pregnancy, mothers are at increased risk of hospitalization for acute cardiopulmonary illness, while their babies show higher risk of complications such as prematurity, respiratory and neurological illness, congenital anomalies, and admission to neonatal intensive care. RSV exposure in utero is associated with selective immune deficit, remodeling of cholinergic innervation in the developing respiratory tract, and abnormal airway smooth muscle contractility, which may predispose to postnatal airway inflammation and hyperreactivity, as well as development of chronic airway dysfunction in childhood. Although there is still limited evidence supporting the occurrence of vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the high prevalence of prematurity among pregnant women infected by SARS-CoV-2 suggests this virus may alter immune responses at the maternal-fetal interface, affecting both the mother and her fetus. This review aims at summarizing the current evidence about the short- and long-term consequences of intrauterine exposure to influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 in terms of neonatal and pediatric outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Manti
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Leonardi
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Fariba Rezaee
- Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Center for Pediatric Pulmonology, Cleveland Clinic Children’s, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Terri J. Harford
- Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Miriam K. Perez
- Department of General Pediatrics, Cleveland Clinic Children’s, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Giovanni Piedimonte
- Department of Pediatrics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
- *Correspondence: Giovanni Piedimonte,
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18
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Zhou J, Chen H, Xu X, Liu Y, Chen S, Yang S, He F, Yu B. Uterine damage induces placenta accreta and immune imbalance at the maternal-fetal interface in the mouse. Placenta 2022; 119:8-16. [PMID: 35066308 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorder is one of the major complications resulting in maternal death and serious adverse pregnancy outcomes. Uterine damage - principally that associated with cesarean section - is the leading risk factor for the development of PAS. However, the underlying pathogenesis of PAS related to uterine damage remains unclear. METHODS For this study, we constructed a mouse PAS model using hysterotomy to simulate a cesarean section in humans. Pregnant mice were sacrificed on embryonic days 12.5 (E12.5) and E17.5. Trophoblast invasion and placental vascularization were analyzed using Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the proportions of immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface were analyzed using flow cytometry. We analyzed the expressions of genes in the decidua and placenta using RNA sequencing and subsequent validation by QPCR, and measured serum angiogenic factors by ELISA. RESULTS Uterine damage led to increased trophoblast invasion and placental vascularization, with extensive changes to the immune-cell profiles at the maternal-fetal interface. The proportions of T and NK cells in the deciduas diminished significantly, with the decidual NK cells and M - 2 macrophages showing the greatest decline. The expression of TNF-α and IL4 was upregulated in the deciduas, while that of IFN-γ and IL10 was downregulated significantly. The expression of Mmp2, Mmp9, Mmp3, and Dock4 was significantly elevated in the placenta, and the serum levels of anti-angiogenic factors were significantly attenuated. DISCUSSION Uterine damage can cause immune imbalance at the maternal-fetal interface, which may contribute to abnormal trophoblast invasion and enhanced vascularization of the mouse placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; BioResource Research Center, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huanpeng Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; BioResource Research Center, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuting Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; BioResource Research Center, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunyun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; BioResource Research Center, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shengzhu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; BioResource Research Center, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Si Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; BioResource Research Center, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bolan Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China; BioResource Research Center, China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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19
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Monaco-Brown M, Lawrence DA. Obesity and Maternal-Placental-Fetal Immunology and Health. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:859885. [PMID: 35573953 PMCID: PMC9100592 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.859885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity rates in women of childbearing age is now at 29%, according to recent CDC reports. It is known that obesity is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, including disruptions in cellular function and cytokine levels. In pregnant women who are obese, associated placental dysfunction can lead to small for gestational age (SGA) infants. More frequently, however, maternal obesity is associated with large for gestational age (LGA) newborns, who also have higher incidence of metabolic disease and asthma due to elevated levels of inflammation. In addition, anthropogenic environmental exposures to "endocrine disrupting" and "forever" chemicals affect obesity, as well as maternal physiology, the placenta, and fetal development. Placental function is intimately associated with the control of inflammation during pregnancy. There is a large amount of literature examining the relationship of placental immunology, both cellular and humoral, with pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Cells such as placental macrophages and NK cells have been implicated in spontaneous miscarriage, preeclampsia, preterm birth, perinatal neuroinflammation, and other post-natal conditions. Differing levels of placental cytokines and molecular inflammatory mediators also have known associations with preeclampsia and developmental outcomes. In this review, we will specifically examine the literature regarding maternal, placental, and fetal immunology and how it is altered by maternal obesity and environmental chemicals. We will additionally describe the relationship between placental immune function and clinical outcomes, including neonatal conditions, autoimmune disease, allergies, immunodeficiency, metabolic and endocrine conditions, neurodevelopment, and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Monaco-Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, Bernard and Millie Duker Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, United States
| | - David A Lawrence
- New York State Department of Health, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY, United States.,Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany School of Public Health, Rensselaer, NY, United States
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20
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Understanding human immunity in idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2021; 270:17-29. [PMID: 35007974 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Miscarriage, defined as the loss of a pregnancy before a viable gestation, affects 1 in 6 couples. Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), defined as two or more miscarriages, affects up to 1.9% of couples. The physical, psychological, and financial impact of miscarriage can be substantial. However, despite its multifactorial etiology, for up to 50% of couples a reason behind this condition cannot be identified, termed 'idiopathic RPL'. Much recent research has strived to understand this, with immune dysregulation being a source of particular interest. In this short review we summarize the current evidence on the complex role of the immune system both pre- and early post-conception in RPL. A key question is whether systemic peripheral blood markers, in particular natural killer cell and T cells, may be utilized to accurately predict and/ or diagnose those pregnancies at high risk of loss. Given the invasive nature of endometrial testing, identification of reliable peripheral immune biomarkers is particularly appealing. Clinical trials using potent immunomodulatory agents, including intravenous immunoglobulin, donor leukocyte immunization, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors, have been undertaken with the primary objective of preventing miscarriage in women with RPL. Standardisation of both diagnostic and prognostic immune cell testing assays is required to permit accurate identification of those women who may benefit from immunomodulation. Prompt clarification is required to meet the increasing expectation from couples and clinicians, as without these advancements women are at risk of exposure to potent immune-therapies and subsequent studies are at risk of failure, generating further controversy regarding the role of immune dysregulation in women with RPL. Through this review we highlight clear gaps in our current knowledge on immune activity in RPL.
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21
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Sirilert S, Tongsong T, Kumfu S, Chattipakorn SC, Chattipakorn N. Effects of intrauterine exposure to hepatitis B virus in foetuses. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70. [PMID: 34779762 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Foetal response to hepatitis B viral infection is still unknown. The mechanisms of persistent infection that occurs more often in mother-to-child transmission than adult transmission are also unclear. Various aspects of the environmental factors that accelerate or inhibit infection and the cytokine responses are associated with the persistence of infection. Several studies showed that the cytokine poor immune response in immaturity causes the persistence of the infection. However, some reports suggested that a mature immune response was the cause of this persistent infection. This review comprehensively summarized the reports from in vitro, in vivo as well as clinical reports regarding the responses of the foetuses of hepatitis B infected mothers to the micro-organism. The mechanism of more opportunities to be persistently infected via the mother-to-child transmission route is also summarized and discussed. Since there are limited clinical reports at this time, this review will provide evidence for future studies regarding the intrauterine infection mechanism and foetal response to hepatitis B virus to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for mother-to-child transmission. This understanding may lead to effective interventions to control mother-to-child hepatitis B infection in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirinart Sirilert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Theera Tongsong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sirinart Kumfu
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Siriporn C Chattipakorn
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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22
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Diao L, Hierweger AM, Wieczorek A, Arck PC, Thiele K. Disruption of Glucocorticoid Action on CD11c + Dendritic Cells Favors the Generation of CD4 + Regulatory T Cells and Improves Fetal Development in Mice. Front Immunol 2021; 12:729742. [PMID: 34764952 PMCID: PMC8576435 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.729742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A wealth of innate and adaptive immune cells and hormones are involved in mounting tolerance towards the fetus, a key aspect of successful reproduction. We could recently show that the specific cross talk between the pregnancy hormone progesterone and dendritic cells (DCs) is significantly engaged in the generation of CD4+ FoxP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells while a disruption led to placental alterations and intra-uterine growth restriction. Apart from progesterone, also glucocorticoids affect immune cell functions. However, their functional relevance in the context of pregnancy still needs clarification. We developed a mouse line with a selective knockout of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) on DCs, utilizing the cre/flox system. Reproductive outcome and maternal immune and endocrine adaptation of Balb/c-mated C57Bl/6 GRflox/floxCD11ccre/wt (mutant) females was assessed on gestation days (gd) 13.5 and 18.5. Balb/c-mated C57Bl/6 GRwt/wtCD11ccre/wt (wt) females served as controls. The number of implantation and fetal loss rate did not differ between groups. However, we identified a significant increase in fetal weight in fetuses from mutant dams. While the frequencies of CD11c+ cells remained largely similar, a decreased expression of co-stimulatory molecules was observed on DCs of mutant females on gd 13.5, along with higher frequencies of CD4+ and CD8+ Treg cells. Histomorphological and gene expression analysis revealed an increased placental volume and an improved functional placental capacity in mice lacking the GR on CD11c+ DCs. In summary, we here demonstrate that the disrupted communication between GCs and DCs favors a tolerant immune microenvironment and improves placental function and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kristin Thiele
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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23
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Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Maziotis E, Kokkini G, Tsirligkani C, Bolaris S, Nikolettos K, Chronopoulou M, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Uterine Natural Killer Cells on Recurrent Miscarriage and Recurrent Implantation Failure: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101425. [PMID: 34680540 PMCID: PMC8533591 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells constitute a unique uterine leucocyte subpopulation facilitating implantation and maintaining pregnancy. Herein, we critically analyze current evidence regarding the role of uNK cells in the events entailed in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriages (RM). Data suggest an association between RIF and RM with abnormally elevated uNK cells’ numbers, as well as with a defective biological activity leading to cytotoxicity. However, other studies do not concur on these associations. Robust data suggesting a definitive causative relationship between uNK cells and RIF and RM is missing. Considering the possibility of uNK cells involvement on RIF and RM pathophysiology, possible treatments including glucocorticoids, intralipids, and intravenous immunoglobulin administration have been proposed towards addressing uNK related RIF and RM. When considering clinical routine practice, this study indicated that solid evidence is required to report on efficiency and safety of these treatments as there are recommendations that clearly advise against their employment. In conclusion, defining a causative relationship between uNK and RIF–RM pathologies certainly merits investigation. Future studies should serve as a prerequisite prior to proposing the use of uNK as a biomarker or prior to targeting uNK cells for therapeutic purposes addressing RIF and RM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Anna Rapani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Kokkini
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Chrysanthi Tsirligkani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, General-Maternity District Hospital "Elena Venizelou", Elenas Venizelou Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Nikolettos
- Assisted Reproduction Unit of Thrace “Embryokosmogenesis”, Apalos, 68132 Alexandroupoli, Greece;
| | - Margarita Chronopoulou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-21-0746-2592
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Wei Y, Ding J, Li J, Cai S, Liu S, Hong L, Yin T, Zhang Y, Diao L. Metabolic Reprogramming of Immune Cells at the Maternal-Fetal Interface and the Development of Techniques for Immunometabolism. Front Immunol 2021; 12:717014. [PMID: 34566973 PMCID: PMC8458575 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.717014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunity and metabolism are interdependent and coordinated, which are the core mechanisms for the body to maintain homeostasis. In tumor immunology research, immunometabolism has been a research hotspot and has achieved groundbreaking changes in recent years. However, in the field of maternal-fetal medicine, research on immunometabolism is still lagging. Reports directly investigating the roles of immunometabolism in the endometrial microenvironment and regulation of maternal-fetal immune tolerance are relatively few. This review highlights the leading techniques used to study immunometabolism and their development, the immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface and their metabolic features required for the implementation of their functions, explores the interaction between immunometabolism and pregnancy regulation based on little evidence and clues, and attempts to propose some new research directions and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqiu Wei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinli Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Songchen Cai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Jinxin Medical Technology Innovation Center, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Ling Hong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Jinxin Medical Technology Innovation Center, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Jinxin Medical Technology Innovation Center, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
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25
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Chen P, Zhou L, Chen J, Lu Y, Cao C, Lv S, Wei Z, Wang L, Chen J, Hu X, Wu Z, Zhou X, Su D, Deng X, Zeng C, Wang H, Pu Z, Diao R, Mou L. The Immune Atlas of Human Deciduas With Unexplained Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. Front Immunol 2021; 12:689019. [PMID: 34168655 PMCID: PMC8218877 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.689019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a common fertility problem that affects 1%-2% of couples all over the world. Despite exciting discoveries regarding the important roles of the decidual natural killer cell (dNK) and regulatory T cell in pregnancy, the immune heterogeneity in patients with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (URPL) remains elusive. Here, we profiled the transcriptomes of 13,953 CD45+ cells from three normal and three URPL deciduas. Based on our data, the cellular composition revealed three major populations of immune cells including dNK cell, T cell, and macrophage, and four minor populations including monocytes, dendritic cell (DC), mast cell, and B cell. Especially, we identified a subpopulation of CSF1+ CD59+ KIRs-expressing dNK cells in normal deciduas, while the proportion of this subpopulation was decreased in URPL deciduas. We also identified a small subpopulation of activated dDCs that were accumulated mainly in URPL deciduas. Furthermore, our data revealed that in decidua at early pregnancy, CD8+ T cells exhibited cytotoxic properties. The decidual macrophages expressed high levels of both M1 and M2 feature genes, which made them unique to the conventional M1/M2 classification. Our single-cell data revealed the immune heterogeneity in decidua and the potentially pathogenic immune variations in URPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Chen
- Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liying Zhou
- Department of Gynaecology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiying Chen
- Department of Gynaecology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chaoxia Cao
- Department of Gynaecology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuangli Lv
- Department of Gynaecology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhihong Wei
- Department of Gynaecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan People's Hospital (Group), Shenzhen, China
| | - Liping Wang
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinglin Hu
- Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zijing Wu
- Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhou
- Department of Gynaecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Danna Su
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuefeng Deng
- Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Changchun Zeng
- Department of Traumatic Orthopedics, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huiyun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zuhui Pu
- Department of Radiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ruiying Diao
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lisha Mou
- Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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26
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Bai K, Li X, Zhong J, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Lee CL, Chiu PCN. Placenta-Derived Exosomes as a Modulator in Maternal Immune Tolerance During Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:671093. [PMID: 34046039 PMCID: PMC8144714 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.671093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are a subset of extracellular vesicles with an average diameter of ~100nm. Exosomes are released by all cells through an endosome-dependent pathway and carry nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, cytokines and metabolites, mirroring the state of the originating cells. The function of exosomes has been implicated in various reproduction processes, such as embryo development, implantation, decidualization and placentation. Placenta-derived exosomes (pEXO) can be detected in the maternal blood as early as 6 weeks after conception and their levels increase with gestational age. Importantly, alternations in the molecular signatures of pEXO are observed in pregnancy-related complications. Thus, these differentially expressed molecules could be the potential biomarkers for diagnosis of the pregnancy-associated diseases. Recent studies have demonstrated that pEXO play a key role in the establishment of maternal immune tolerance, which is critical for a successful pregnancy. To gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanism, we highlighted the advanced studies of pEXO on immune cells in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunfeng Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xintong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jiangming Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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27
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Granja MG, Oliveira ACDR, de Figueiredo CS, Gomes AP, Ferreira EC, Giestal-de-Araujo E, de Castro-Faria-Neto HC. SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Pregnant Women: Neuroimmune-Endocrine Changes at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Neuroimmunomodulation 2021; 28:1-21. [PMID: 33910207 PMCID: PMC8247841 DOI: 10.1159/000515556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has devastating effects on the population worldwide. Given this scenario, the extent of the impact of the disease on more vulnerable individuals, such as pregnant women, is of great concern. Although pregnancy may be a risk factor in respiratory virus infections, there are no considerable differences regarding COVID-19 severity observed between pregnant and nonpregnant women. In these circumstances, an emergent concern is the possibility of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric harm for the offspring of infected mothers. Currently, there is no stronger evidence indicating vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2; however, the exacerbated inflammatory response observed in the disease could lead to several impairments in the offspring's brain. Furthermore, in the face of historical knowledge on possible long-term consequences for the progeny's brain after infection by viruses, we must consider that this might be another deleterious facet of COVID-19. In light of neuroimmune interactions at the maternal-fetal interface, we review here the possible harmful outcomes to the offspring brains of mothers infected by SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Gomes Granja
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, Federal University of State of Rio de Janeiro − UNIRIO, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation − Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alex Portes Gomes
- Medical Science Program, Neurology and Neuroscience, Fluminense Federal University − UFF, Niterói, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | - Erica Camila Ferreira
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation − Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth Giestal-de-Araujo
- Neuroscience Program, Fluminense Federal University − UFF, Niterói, Rajasthan, Brazil
- National Institute of Technology-Neuroimmunomodulation − INCT-NIM, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
| | - Hugo Caire de Castro-Faria-Neto
- Immunopharmacology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation − Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
- National Institute of Technology-Neuroimmunomodulation − INCT-NIM, Rio de Janeiro, Rajasthan, Brazil
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28
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Parasar P, Guru N, Nayak NR. Contribution of macrophages to fetomaternal immunological tolerance. Hum Immunol 2021; 82:325-331. [PMID: 33715911 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2021.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The semi-allogeneic fetus develops in a uniquely immune tolerant environment within the uterus. For successful pregnancy, both the innate and adaptive immune systems must favor acceptance of the fetal allograft. Macrophages are the second most abundant immune cells after natural killer (NK) cells in the decidua. In coordination with decidual NK cells and dendritic cells, macrophages aid in implantation, vascular remodeling, placental development, immune tolerance to placental cells, and maintenance of tissue homeostasis at the maternal-fetal interface. Decidual macrophages show the classical activated (M1) and alternatively activated (M2) phenotypes under the influence of the local milieu of growth factors and cytokines, and appropriate temporal regulation of the M1/M2 switch is vital for successful pregnancy. Disturbances in the mechanisms that control the M1/M2 balance and associated functions during pregnancy can trigger a spectrum of pregnancy complications ranging from preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction to preterm delivery. This review addresses various mechanisms of tolerance, focusing on the basic biology of macrophages, their plasticity and polarization, and their protective roles at the immune-privileged maternal-fetal interface, including direct and indirect roles in promoting fetomaternal immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Parasar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States; Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, United States.
| | - N Guru
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
| | - N R Nayak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States
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29
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Wang Y, Li D, Yu T, Hu M, Xing J, Bai S, Qu W, Tong X. Dynamics of TIGIT and PD-1 expression on NK cells during the course of normal pregnancy. Immunol Lett 2020; 230:42-48. [PMID: 33359535 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM Immune checkpoint molecules are receptors that can transmit inhibitory signals into cells to negatively modulate the immune response. However, their roles in NK cells during normal pregnancy remain poorly understood. METHOD OF STUDY Peripheral blood samples were collected from women during the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Peripheral blood NK (pNK) cells and T cells were analyzed for the expression of the immune checkpoint molecules TIGIT and PD-1 by flow cytometry. In addition, the ability of pNK cells to secret functional molecules was also evaluated. RESULTS The expression of TIGIT on pNK cells increased gradually throughout pregnancy, whereas that of PD-1 showed the opposite pattern. However, on T cells, the expression of both TIGIT and PD-1 peaked during early pregnancy, and then declined gradually thereafter. Moreover, the expressions of granzyme B, IFN-γ and CD107a by pNK cells also decreased over the course of pregnancy. Compared with TIGIT- NK cells, TIGIT + NK cells possessed reduced expression of functional molecules. CONCLUSIONS As pregnancy progressed, the levels of immune checkpoint molecules expressed on pNK cells and T cells changed and the two molecules showed different trends. Furthermore, the secretion of functional molecules from pNK cells was negatively correlated with the trend of TIGIT expression, indicating TIGIT may play an important role in modulating the functions of pNK cells during pregnancy. Further study of TIGIT expression on pNK cells may enhance our understanding of its role in maintaining maternal-fetal tolerance and provide a useful marker for predicting instability during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshi Wang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Daojing Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ting Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Meihong Hu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Juan Xing
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shun Bai
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wanjun Qu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.
| | - Xianhong Tong
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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30
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Functional regulation of decidual macrophages during pregnancy. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 143:103264. [PMID: 33360717 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A successful pregnancy requires that the maternal immune system recognizes and tolerates the semi-allogeneic fetus without compromising the capability of protecting both mother and fetus from various pathogens. Decidual macrophages present unique phenotypes to play a key role in the establishment of the immunological aspects of maternal-fetal interaction. Dysfunction of decidual macrophages gives rise to pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, recurrent spontaneous miscarriage, preterm labor and fetal growth restriction. Here, we reviewed the latest knowledge on the origin, differentiation, unique phenotype and function of macrophages in normal pregnancy and in pregnancy complications. We mainly focused on the significant roles of decidual macrophages in the process of extravillous trophoblast invasion, spiral arterial remodeling, decidual stromal cells cultivation and immune tolerance maintenance in normal pregnancy, and their pathological roles in pregnancy-related complications, offering more integrated information in maternal-fetal immunity.
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31
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Wei R, Lai N, Zhao L, Zhang Z, Zhu X, Guo Q, Chu C, Fu X, Li X. Dendritic cells in pregnancy and pregnancy-associated diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 133:110921. [PMID: 33378991 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) play a critical immuno-modulating role in pregnancy, which requires the maternal immune system to tolerate semiallogeneic fetus and at the same time to maintain adequate defense against pathogens. DCs interact closely with other immune components such as T cells, natural killer cells and macrophages, as well as the endocrine system to keep a pregnancy-friendly environment. Aberrant DC activities have been related to various pregnancy-associated diseases such as recurrent spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, pre-eclampsia, peripartum cardiomyopathy and infectious pregnancy complications. These findings make DCs an attractive candidate for prevention or therapy on the pregnancy-associated diseases. Here, we review recent findings that provide new insights into the roles of DCs in pregnancy and the related diseases. We also discuss the medical potentials to manipulate DCs in clinics. Whereas this is an emerging area with much work remaining, we anticipate that a better understanding of the role of DCs in maternal-fetal immunotolerance and a therapeutic manipulation of DCs will help women suffering from the pregnancy-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Wei
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Nannan Lai
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Zhu
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Chu Chu
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Fu
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xia Li
- Laboratory for Molecular Immunology, Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
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Shao Q, Liu X, Huang Y, Chen X, Wang H. Human Decidual Stromal Cells in Early Pregnancy Induce Functional Re-Programming of Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells via Crosstalk Between G-CSF and IL-1β. Front Immunol 2020; 11:574270. [PMID: 33193360 PMCID: PMC7652738 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.574270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of dendritic cells (DCs) is a special characteristic of the decidual microenvironment. Decidua-infiltrated DCs show unique phenotypes and functions that promote the establishment of fetal-maternal tolerance. However, the regulatory mechanisms yet to be fully investigated. Decidual stromal cells (DSCs) are the major cellular component of decidua tissue. The interactions between DSCs and decidua-infiltrated immunocytes dictate immune tolerance in early pregnancy. Therefore, in the present study, we explore the effect of early pregnancy DSCs on monocyte-derived DCs and the relevant mechanisms. DSC-conditioned DCs showed altered phenotypes, secretion profiles and Th2 priming potential. G-CSF concentration was significantly up-regulated in the co-culture supernatant between DSCs and DCs. Supplementation of G-CSF neutralizing antibody partly reversed the reprogramming of DCs mediated by DSCs. Furthermore, G-CSF production was promoted by IL-1β, which was mainly produced by DCs and significantly up-regulated after their cultivation with DSCs. Interestingly, the effects of DSC on IL-1β production of DCs occurred in their immature stage but not their mature stage. Lastly, no significant difference of G-CSF was found in DSCs from healthy early pregnancy women and spontaneous abortions (SA) patients. However, DSCs from SA patients secreted less G-CSF in response to exogenous rhIL-1β or DC cultivation. In conclusion, our study bolster the understanding of the decidual immunomodulatory microenvironment during early pregnancy, and brings new insight into the potential clinical value of G-CSF in pregnancy disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Shao
- Laboratory of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huayang Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Cornish EF, Filipovic I, Åsenius F, Williams DJ, McDonnell T. Innate Immune Responses to Acute Viral Infection During Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:572567. [PMID: 33101294 PMCID: PMC7556209 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.572567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunological adaptations in pregnancy allow maternal tolerance of the semi-allogeneic fetus but also increase maternal susceptibility to infection. At implantation, the endometrial stroma, glands, arteries and immune cells undergo anatomical and functional transformation to create the decidua, the specialized secretory endometrium of pregnancy. The maternal decidua and the invading fetal trophoblast constitute a dynamic junction that facilitates a complex immunological dialogue between the two. The decidual and peripheral immune systems together assume a pivotal role in regulating the critical balance between tolerance and defense against infection. Throughout pregnancy, this equilibrium is repeatedly subjected to microbial challenge. Acute viral infection in pregnancy is associated with a wide spectrum of adverse consequences for both mother and fetus. Vertical transmission from mother to fetus can cause developmental anomalies, growth restriction, preterm birth and stillbirth, while the mother is predisposed to heightened morbidity and maternal death. A rapid, effective response to invasive pathogens is therefore essential in order to avoid overwhelming maternal infection and consequent fetal compromise. This sentinel response is mediated by the innate immune system: a heritable, highly evolutionarily conserved system comprising physical barriers, antimicrobial peptides (AMP) and a variety of immune cells—principally neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells—which express pattern-receptors that detect invariant molecular signatures unique to pathogenic micro-organisms. Recognition of these signatures during acute infection triggers signaling cascades that enhance antimicrobial properties such as phagocytosis, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activation of the complement system. As well as coordinating the initial immune response, macrophages and dendritic cells present microbial antigens to lymphocytes, initiating and influencing the development of specific, long-lasting adaptive immunity. Despite extensive progress in unraveling the immunological adaptations of pregnancy, pregnant women remain particularly susceptible to certain acute viral infections and continue to experience mortality rates equivalent to those observed in pandemics several decades ago. Here, we focus specifically on the pregnancy-induced vulnerabilities in innate immunity that contribute to the disproportionately high maternal mortality observed in the following acute viral infections: Lassa fever, Ebola virus disease (EVD), dengue fever, hepatitis E, influenza, and novel coronavirus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily F Cornish
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Iva Filipovic
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fredrika Åsenius
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David J Williams
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas McDonnell
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Eikmans M, van der Zwan A, Claas FHJ, van der Hoorn ML, Heidt S. Got your mother in a whirl: The role of maternal T cells and myeloid cells in pregnancy. HLA 2020; 96:561-579. [PMID: 32841539 DOI: 10.1111/tan.14055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Appropriate development of the placenta is required for healthy pregnancy to occur. After implantation of the fertilized blastocyst, fetal trophoblasts invade the endometrium and myometrium of the mother's uterus to establish placentation. In this process, fetal trophoblasts encounter maternal immune cells. In this review, we focus on the role of maternal T cells and myeloid cells (macrophages, dendritic cells) in pregnancy and their interaction with trophoblasts. To retain immunologic tolerization, trophoblasts evade immune recognition by T cells and produce factors that modulate their phenotype and function. On top of that, the local environment at the maternal-fetal interface favors expansion of regulatory T cells. Macrophages and dendritic cells are essential in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. They produce soluble factors and act as antigen-presenting cells, thereby interacting with T cells. Herein, M2 macrophages, immature dendritic cells, CD4+ Th2 cells, and regulatory T cells represent an axis that maintains a local immune tolerant environment. We consider outstanding issues concerning these cell types and their pathways, which need to be addressed in future investigations. Data from recent single-cell sequencing experiments of the placental bed, to study heterogeneity of maternal immune cells and to predict cell-cell interactions, are discussed. Novel ways for long-term culturing of primary trophoblasts allow for cell-cell interaction studies in a functional way. Future directions should include study of the functionality of currently known and newly identified decidual immune cell subsets in healthy and complicated pregnancies, and their interaction with and modulation by trophoblast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Eikmans
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anita van der Zwan
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frans H J Claas
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sebastiaan Heidt
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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35
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Yasuda I, Shima T, Moriya T, Ikebuchi R, Kusumoto Y, Ushijima A, Nakashima A, Tomura M, Saito S. Dynamic Changes in the Phenotype of Dendritic Cells in the Uterus and Uterine Draining Lymph Nodes After Coitus. Front Immunol 2020; 11:557720. [PMID: 33013926 PMCID: PMC7516021 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.557720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are essential for successful embryo implantation. However, the properties of uterine DCs (uDCs) during the implantation period are not well characterized. In this study, we investigated the dynamic changes in the uDC phenotypes during the period between coitus and implantation. In virgin mice, we evaluated the expressions of CD103 and XCR1, this is the first report to demonstrate uDCs expressing CD103 in XCR1+cDC1s and XCR1+cDC2s. On day 0.5 post coitus (pc), the number of uterine CD11c+CD103–MHC classIIhighCD86high–mature DCs rapidly increased and then decreased to non-pregnancy levels on days 1.5 and 2.5 pc. On day 3.5 pc just before implantation, the number of CD11c+CD103+MHC class IIdimCD86dim–immature DCs increased in the uterus. The increase in mature uDCs on day 1.5 pc was observed in both allogeneic- and syngeneic mating, suggesting that sexual intercourse, or semen, play a role in this process. Meanwhile, the increase in immature uDCs on day 3.5 pc was only observed in allogeneic mating, suggesting that allo-antigens in the semen contribute to this process. Next, to understand the turnover and migration of uDCs, we monitored DC movement in the uterus and uterine draining lymph nodes (dLNs) using photoconvertible protein Kikume Green Red (KikGR) mice. On day 0.5 pc, uDCs were composed of equal numbers of remaining DCs and migratory DCs. However, on day 3.5 pc, uDCs were primarily composed of migratory DCs, suggesting that most of the uDCs migrate from the periphery just before implantation. Finally, we studied the expression of PD-L2—which induces immunoregulation—on DCs. On day 3.5 pc, PD-L2 was expressed on CD103+-mature and CD103–-mature DCs in the uterus. However, PD-L2 expression on CD103–-immature DCs and CD103+-immature DCs was very low. Furthermore, both remaining and migratory DCs in the uterus and uterus-derived-DCs in the dLNs on day 3.5 pc highly expressed PD-L2 on their surface. Therefore, our study findings provide a better understanding of the dynamic changes occurring in uterine DCs and dLNs in preparation for implantation following allogeneic- and syngeneic mating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ippei Yasuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan.,Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomoko Shima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Taiki Moriya
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryoyo Ikebuchi
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Osaka, Japan.,Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kusumoto
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Akemi Ushijima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Akitoshi Nakashima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Michio Tomura
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Ohtani University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shigeru Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
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36
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Tsonis O, Karpathiou G, Tsonis K, Paschopoulos M, Papoudou-Bai A, Kanavaros P. Immune cells in normal pregnancy and gestational trophoblastic diseases. Placenta 2020; 101:90-96. [PMID: 32942146 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A healthy pregnancy requires the development of maternal-fetal immune tolerance against the semi-allogeneic fetus. The interactions between the trophoblastic cells and the maternal immune cells (p.e., natural killer cells, T cells, macrophages, dendritic cells and B-cells) are important for the development of the maternal-fetal immune tolerance and the placental growth and function. These interactions are mediated by cell to cell contact and secreted molecules such as cytokines, chemokines, angiogenic factors and growth factors. The maternal immune cells are present in normal non-pregnant and pregnant endometrium and there are several lines of evidence based on immunohistochemical and RNA sequencing data that the decidual immune cells and immune-related pathways display alterations in GTD, which may have pathogenetic and clinical significance. The present review focuses on the usefulness of the immunohistochemical analysis which provides multiparametric in situ information regarding the numbers, the immunophenotypes and the immunotopographical distributions of the decidual immune cells in tissue sections from normal pregnancy and GTD. We also discuss the significance of the immunohistochemical information in order to gain insight in the putative mechanisms explaining the alterations of the decidual immune cells in GTD and the potential implications of these alterations in the pathogenesis and the clinical behavior of GTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orestis Tsonis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
| | | | - Klarisa Tsonis
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
| | - Minas Paschopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
| | - Alexandra Papoudou-Bai
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
| | - Panagiotis Kanavaros
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
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37
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St-Germain LE, Castellana B, Baltayeva J, Beristain AG. Maternal Obesity and the Uterine Immune Cell Landscape: The Shaping Role of Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3776. [PMID: 32471078 PMCID: PMC7312391 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is often equated to the physiological response to injury or infection. Inflammatory responses defined by cytokine storms control cellular mechanisms that can either resolve quickly (i.e., acute inflammation) or remain prolonged and unabated (i.e., chronic inflammation). Perhaps less well-appreciated is the importance of inflammatory processes central to healthy pregnancy, including implantation, early stages of placentation, and parturition. Pregnancy juxtaposed with disease can lead to the perpetuation of aberrant inflammation that likely contributes to or potentiates maternal morbidity and poor fetal outcome. Maternal obesity, a prevalent condition within women of reproductive age, associates with increased risk of developing multiple pregnancy disorders. Importantly, chronic low-grade inflammation is thought to underlie the development of obesity-related obstetric and perinatal complications. While diverse subsets of uterine immune cells play central roles in initiating and maintaining healthy pregnancy, uterine leukocyte dysfunction as a result of maternal obesity may underpin the development of pregnancy disorders. In this review we discuss the current knowledge related to the impact of maternal obesity and obesity-associated inflammation on uterine immune cell function, utero-placental establishment, and pregnancy health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. St-Germain
- The British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada; (L.E.S.-G.); (B.C.); (J.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K8, Canada
| | - Barbara Castellana
- The British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada; (L.E.S.-G.); (B.C.); (J.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K8, Canada
| | - Jennet Baltayeva
- The British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada; (L.E.S.-G.); (B.C.); (J.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K8, Canada
| | - Alexander G. Beristain
- The British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada; (L.E.S.-G.); (B.C.); (J.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K8, Canada
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38
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Al-Nasiry S, Ambrosino E, Schlaepfer M, Morré SA, Wieten L, Voncken JW, Spinelli M, Mueller M, Kramer BW. The Interplay Between Reproductive Tract Microbiota and Immunological System in Human Reproduction. Front Immunol 2020; 11:378. [PMID: 32231664 PMCID: PMC7087453 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, the microbiota, i.e., combined populations of microorganisms living inside and on the surface of the human body, has increasingly attracted attention of researchers in the medical field. Indeed, since the completion of the Human Microbiome Project, insight and interest in the role of microbiota in health and disease, also through study of its combined genomes, the microbiome, has been steadily expanding. One less explored field of microbiome research has been the female reproductive tract. Research mainly from the past decade suggests that microbial communities residing in the reproductive tract represent a large proportion of the female microbial network and appear to be involved in reproductive failure and pregnancy complications. Microbiome research is facing technological and methodological challenges, as detection techniques and analysis methods are far from being standardized. A further hurdle is understanding the complex host-microbiota interaction and the confounding effect of a multitude of constitutional and environmental factors. A key regulator of this interaction is the maternal immune system that, during the peri-conceptional stage and even more so during pregnancy, undergoes considerable modulation. This review aims to summarize the current literature on reproductive tract microbiota describing the composition of microbiota in different anatomical locations (vagina, cervix, endometrium, and placenta). We also discuss putative mechanisms of interaction between such microbial communities and various aspects of the immune system, with a focus on the characteristic immunological changes during normal pregnancy. Furthermore, we discuss how abnormal microbiota composition, “dysbiosis,” is linked to a spectrum of clinical disorders related to the female reproductive system and how the maternal immune system is involved. Finally, based on the data presented in this review, the future perspectives in diagnostic approaches, research directions and therapeutic opportunities are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwan Al-Nasiry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, GROW School of Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC), Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Elena Ambrosino
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Research School GROW (School for Oncology & Developmental Biology), Institute for Public Health Genomics, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Melissa Schlaepfer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Servaas A Morré
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Research School GROW (School for Oncology & Developmental Biology), Institute for Public Health Genomics, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lotte Wieten
- Tissue Typing Laboratory, Department of Transplantation Immunology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jan Willem Voncken
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Marialuigia Spinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Martin Mueller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Boris W Kramer
- Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
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39
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Esfandiari N, Nesbit C, Litzky J, Dela Cruz D, Gibson S, DeMars L, Esfandiari N. High prevalence of allergy in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:311-320. [PMID: 31965419 PMCID: PMC7056777 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01691-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the prevalence of allergy in couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the relationship between having allergy and IVF treatment outcomes. DESIGN A retrospective cohort study of female infertility patients aged 20-49 years and their male partners undergoing IVF cycles from August 2010 to December 2016 in an academic fertility program. RESULTS Prevalence data was collected for 493 couples (935 cycles). Over half of the female patients (54%) had at least one reported allergy versus the cited US prevalence of 10-30%. Antibiotic (54.7%) and non-antibiotic medication (39.2%) were the most common female allergy subtypes. Fewer male patients reported allergy (21.7%). Data on β-hCG outcomes were calculated for 841 cycles from 458 couples with no significant relationship found except for number of cycles including ICSI and number of embryos transferred per cycle (1.81 for those without allergy vs 2.07 for those with allergy, p = 0.07). Female patients with allergy were marginally statistically more likely to have a negative β-hCG (p = 0.07) and less likely to have a successful cycle (p = 0.06). When allergy subgroups were evaluated, there were no significant differences between groups except for a higher number of embryos transferred in women with environmental/other allergies (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION The prevalence of allergy among patients seeking infertility treatment is high compared with the general population. However, allergy was not found to be associated with IVF cycle outcomes. These findings are likely primarily limited by difficulty in defining specific allergy types within a retrospective study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Esfandiari
- Larner College of Medicine at The University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Carleigh Nesbit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | | | - Dennis Dela Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Sarah Gibson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | | | - Navid Esfandiari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA.
- Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH, USA.
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40
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Schumacher A, Zenclussen AC. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin-Mediated Immune Responses That Facilitate Embryo Implantation and Placentation. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2896. [PMID: 31921157 PMCID: PMC6914810 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) serves as one of the first signals provided by the embryo to the mother. Exactly at the time when the first step of the implantation process is initiated and the blastocyst adheres to the maternal endometrium, the embryonic tissue starts to actively secrete hCG. Shortly thereafter, the hormone can be detected in the maternal circulation where its concentration steadily increases throughout early pregnancy as it is continuously released by the forming placenta. Accumulating evidence underlines the critical function of hCG for embryo implantation and placentation. hCG not only regulates biological aspects of these early pregnancy events but also supports maternal immune cells in their function as helpers in the establishment of an adequate embryo-endometrial relationship. In view of its early presence in the maternal circulation, hCG has the potential to influence both local uterine immune cell populations as well as peripheral ones. The current review aims to summarize recent literature on the participation of innate and adaptive immune cells in embryo implantation and placentation with a specific focus on their regulation by hCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ana C Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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41
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Magatti M, Stefani FR, Papait A, Cargnoni A, Masserdotti A, Silini AR, Parolini O. Perinatal Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Their Possible Contribution to Fetal-Maternal Tolerance. Cells 2019; 8:E1401. [PMID: 31703272 PMCID: PMC6912620 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, a successful coexistence between the mother and the semi-allogenic fetus occurs which requires a dynamic immune system to guarantee an efficient immune protection against possible infections and tolerance toward fetal antigens. The mechanism of fetal-maternal tolerance is still an open question. There is growing in vitro and in vivo evidence that mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) which are present in perinatal tissues have a prominent role in generating a functional microenvironment critical to a successful pregnancy. This review highlights the immunomodulatory properties of perinatal MSC and their impact on the major immune cell subsets present in the uterus during pregnancy, such as natural killer cells, antigen-presenting cells (macrophages and dendritic cells), and T cells. Here, we discuss the current understanding and the possible contribution of perinatal MSC in the establishment of fetal-maternal tolerance, providing a new perspective on the physiology of gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Magatti
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.M.); (F.R.S.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (A.R.S.)
| | - Francesca Romana Stefani
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.M.); (F.R.S.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (A.R.S.)
| | - Andrea Papait
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.M.); (F.R.S.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (A.R.S.)
| | - Anna Cargnoni
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.M.); (F.R.S.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (A.R.S.)
| | - Alice Masserdotti
- Istituto di Anatomia Umana e Biologia Cellulare, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Roma, Italy;
| | - Antonietta Rosa Silini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.M.); (F.R.S.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (A.R.S.)
| | - Ornella Parolini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (M.M.); (F.R.S.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (A.R.S.)
- Istituto di Anatomia Umana e Biologia Cellulare, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Roma, Italy;
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42
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Yang F, Zheng Q, Jin L. Dynamic Function and Composition Changes of Immune Cells During Normal and Pathological Pregnancy at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2317. [PMID: 31681264 PMCID: PMC6813251 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A successful pregnancy requires a fine-tuned and highly regulated balance between immune activation and embryonic antigen tolerance. Since the fetus is semi-allogeneic, the maternal immune system should exert tolerant to the fetus while maintaining the defense against infection. The maternal-fetal interface consists of different immune cells, such as decidual natural killer (dNK) cells, macrophages, T cells, dendritic cells, B cells, and NKT cells. The interaction between immune cells, decidual stromal cells, and trophoblasts constitute a vast network of cellular connections. A cellular immunological imbalance may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as recurrent spontaneous abortion, pre-eclampsia, pre-term birth, intrauterine growth restriction, and infection. Dynamic changes in immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface have not been clearly stated. While many studies have described changes in the proportions of immune cells in the normal maternal-fetus interface during early pregnancy, few studies have assessed the immune cell changes in mid and late pregnancy. Research on pathological pregnancy has provided clues about these dynamic changes, but a deeper understanding of these changes is necessary. This review summarizes information from previous studies, which may lay the foundation for the diagnosis of pathological pregnancy and put forward new ideas for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglian Yang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingliang Zheng
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Jin
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Ehrentraut S, Sauss K, Neumeister R, Luley L, Oettel A, Fettke F, Costa SD, Langwisch S, Zenclussen AC, Schumacher A. Human Miscarriage Is Associated With Dysregulations in Peripheral Blood-Derived Myeloid Dendritic Cell Subsets. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2440. [PMID: 31681319 PMCID: PMC6803452 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DC) are critically involved in decisions related to the acceptance or rejection of the foreign fetal antigens by the maternal immune system. However, particularly for human peripheral blood DCs (PBDC), available literature is rather inconsistent and the factors regulating these cells are ill-defined. Here, we investigated the phenotype and functionality of different human PBDC subsets during normal and pathologic pregnancies and studied an involvement of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in PBDC regulation. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from normal pregnant women in all three trimesters, from first trimester miscarriage patients and from healthy non-pregnant women. Samples were analyzed for plasma hCG levels, for regulatory T (Treg) cell numbers, for frequencies of total and mature plasmacytoid (PDC) and myeloid (MDC1 and MDC2) PBDC subsets and for their cytokine secretion. In vitro assays, culturing PDC, MDC1 or MDC2 in the presence of two trophoblast cell lines, placenta explant supernatants or two hCG preparations were performed. The Treg-inducing capability of hCG- or non-hCG-treated stimulated MDC1 was assessed. Total and mature MDC1 and MDC2 frequencies increased during the first and second trimester of normal pregnancy, respectively. Miscarriage was associated with a reduced MDC1 and an increased MDC2 activation profile. PDC were not altered neither during normal pregnancy progression nor during miscarriage. In vitro, the culture of isolated PBDC subsets in the presence of placenta-derived factors impaired the maturation of MDC1 and differentially affected PDC maturation. An inhibitory effect on MDC1 and PDC maturation was also proven for the urine-derived hCG preparation. Finally, we observed a Treg cell elevation during early normal pregnancy that was not present in miscarriages. Stimulated MDC1 induced Treg cells in vitro, however, hCG was not involved in this process. Our findings suggest that during normal pregnancy PBDC subsets are differentially regulated dependent on gestational age. Miscarriage seems to be associated with dysregulations in the myeloid PBDC subsets and with disturbances in Treg cell frequencies. Moreover, our results propose an interdependency between MDC1 and Treg cells during early pregnancy. hCG, although shown to impair MDC1 maturation, does not seem to be a key regulator of PBDC alterations during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Ehrentraut
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Karoline Sauss
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | | | - Lydia Luley
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,University Women's Clinic, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anika Oettel
- University Women's Clinic, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Fettke
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,University Women's Clinic, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Serban-Dan Costa
- University Women's Clinic, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Langwisch
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anne Schumacher
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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44
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Lu H, Hu R. The role of immunity in the pathogenesis and development of pre‐eclampsia. Scand J Immunol 2019; 90:e12756. [PMID: 30739345 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hui‐Qing Lu
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Rong Hu
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Fudan University Shanghai China
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45
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Vazquez J, Ong IM, Stanic AK. Single-cell technologies in reproductive immunology. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 82:e13157. [PMID: 31206899 PMCID: PMC6697222 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The maternal-fetal interface represents a unique immune privileged site that maintains the ability to defend against pathogens while orchestrating the necessary tissue remodeling required for placentation. The recent discovery of novel cellular families (innate lymphoid cells, tissue-resident NK cells) suggests that our understanding of the decidual immunome is incomplete. To understand this complex milieu, new technological developments allow reproductive immunologists to collect increasingly complex data at a cellular resolution. Polychromatic flow cytometry allows for greater resolution in the identification of novel cell types by surface and intracellular protein. Single-cell RNA-seq coupled with microfluidics allows for efficient cellular transcriptomics. The extreme dimensionality and size of data sets generated, however, requires the application of novel computational approaches for unbiased analysis. There are now multiple dimensionality reduction (tSNE, SPADE) and visualization tools (SPICE) that allow researchers to efficiently analyze flow cytometry data. Development of computational tools has also been extended to RNA-seq data (including scRNA-seq), which requires specific analytical tools. Here, we provide an overview and a brief primer for the reproductive immunology community on data acquisition and computational tools for the analysis of complex flow cytometry and RNA-seq data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Vazquez
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Irene M Ong
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Division of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Aleksandar K. Stanic
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
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Persson G, Ekmann JR, Hviid TVF. Reflections upon immunological mechanisms involved in fertility, pregnancy and parasite infections. J Reprod Immunol 2019; 136:102610. [PMID: 31479960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
During a pregnancy, the mother accepts her semi-allogeneic fetus with no signs of immunological rejection. Therefore, some modulation of the maternal immune system must occur. Similarly, changes in the host's immune system occurs during infections with parasites. In a study conducted in an endemic area in Bolivia, it has been reported that women infected with either the helminthic parasite roundworm or hookworm were estimated to give birth to either two more, or three fewer, children than uninfected, endemic women, respectively. Immune regulation by helminthic parasites is a rather well-researched concept, but there are few reports on the effects on human fecundity. The current review focuses on mechanisms of possible importance for especially the increased fertility rates in women infected with roundworm. The host immune response to roundworm has been hypothesized to be more favourable for a successful pregnancy because it bears resemblance to the anti-inflammatory immunological responses observed in pregnancy, steering the immunological response away from a pro-inflammatory state that seem to suppress fecundity. Further research into parasitic worm interactions, fertility, and the molecular mechanisms that they unfold may widen our understanding of the immunomodulatory pathways in both helminthic infections and in fertility and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gry Persson
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 10 Sygehusvej, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Josephine Roth Ekmann
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 10 Sygehusvej, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Thomas Vauvert F Hviid
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 10 Sygehusvej, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
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Olmos-Ortiz A, Flores-Espinosa P, Mancilla-Herrera I, Vega-Sánchez R, Díaz L, Zaga-Clavellina V. Innate Immune Cells and Toll-like Receptor-Dependent Responses at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153654. [PMID: 31357391 PMCID: PMC6695670 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the placenta, the mother and the fetus exploit several mechanisms in order to avoid fetal rejection and to maintain an immunotolerant environment throughout nine months. During this time, immune cells from the fetal and maternal compartments interact to provide an adequate defense in case of an infection and to promote a tolerogenic milieu for the fetus to develop peacefully. Trophoblasts and decidual cells, together with resident natural killer cells, dendritic cells, Hofbauer cells and other macrophages, among other cell types, contribute to the modulation of the uterine environment to sustain a successful pregnancy. In this review, the authors outlined some of the various roles that the innate immune system plays at the maternal-fetal interface. First, the cell populations that are recruited into gestational tissues and their immune mechanisms were examined. In the second part, the Toll-like receptor (TLR)-dependent immune responses at the maternal-fetal interface was summarized, in terms of their specific cytokine/chemokine/antimicrobial peptide expression profiles throughout pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Ismael Mancilla-Herrera
- Departamento de Infectología e Inmunología, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Rodrigo Vega-Sánchez
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bioprogramación, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
| | - Lorenza Díaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico
| | - Verónica Zaga-Clavellina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico.
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Abstract
The presence of unusual natural killer cells in human endometrium has been recognized for 30 years, but despite considerable research effort, the
in vivo role of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells in both normal and pathological pregnancy remains uncertain. uNK cells may differentiate from precursors present in endometrium, but migration from peripheral blood in response to chemokine stimuli with
in situ modification to a uNK cell phenotype is also possible. uNK cells produce a wide range of secretory products with diverse effects on trophoblast and spiral arteries which may play an important role in implantation and early placentation. Interactions with other decidual cell populations are also becoming clear. Recent evidence has demonstrated subpopulations of uNK cells and the presence of other innate lymphoid cell populations in decidua which may refine future approaches to investigation of the role of uNK cells in human pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith N Bulmer
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, William Leech Building, Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Gendie E Lash
- Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, 9 Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510623, China
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Schumacher A, Sharkey DJ, Robertson SA, Zenclussen AC. Immune Cells at the Fetomaternal Interface: How the Microenvironment Modulates Immune Cells To Foster Fetal Development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 201:325-334. [PMID: 29987001 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells adapt their phenotypic and functional characteristics in response to the tissue microenvironment within which they traffic and reside. The fetomaternal interface, consisting of placental trophoblasts and the maternal decidua, is a highly specialized tissue with a unique and time-limited function: to nourish and support development of the semiallogeneic fetus and protect it from inflammatory or immune-mediated injury. It is therefore important to understand how immune cells within these tissues are educated and adapt to fulfill their biological functions. This review article focuses on the local regulatory mechanisms ensuring that both innate and adaptive immune cells appropriately support the early events of implantation and placental development through direct involvement in promoting immune tolerance of fetal alloantigens, suppressing inflammation, and remodeling of maternal uterine vessels to facilitate optimal placental function and fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany; and
| | - David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Ana C Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany; and
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50
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Yao Y, Xu XH, Jin L. Macrophage Polarization in Physiological and Pathological Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2019; 10:792. [PMID: 31037072 PMCID: PMC6476302 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 400] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunology of pregnancy is complex and poorly defined. During the complex process of pregnancy, macrophages secrete many cytokines/chemokines and play pivotal roles in the maintenance of maternal-fetal tolerance. Here, we summarized the current knowledge of macrophage polarization and the mechanisms involved in physiological or pathological pregnancy processes, including miscarriage, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. Although current evidence provides a compelling argument that macrophages are important in pregnancy, our understanding of the roles and mechanisms of macrophages in pregnancy is still rudimentary. Since macrophages exhibit functional plasticity, they may be ideal targets for therapeutic manipulation during pathological pregnancy. Additional studies are needed to better define the functions and mechanisms of various macrophage subsets in both normal and pathological pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongli Yao
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Xu
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Jin
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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