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Wawrzykowski J, Jamioł M, Kankofer M. The dependence between glycodelin and selected metalloproteinases concentrations in bovine placenta during early gestation and parturition with and without retained foetal membranes. Theriogenology 2024; 218:231-238. [PMID: 38359561 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.005] [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: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Pregnancy course depends on the appropriate connection between the mother and the developing foetus. Pregnancy is completed when the placenta is timely expelled. Placental retention is one of the possible pregnancy complications. Extracellular matrix, including adhesive proteins and enzymes that can break down collagens, seems to be responsible for it. The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of one of the adhesive proteins - glycodelin (Gd) - on selected metalloproteinases degrading collagens (MMP2, MMP3, MMP7). Placental tissues from healthy pregnant cows collected during early-mid pregnancy (2nd month n = 7, 3rd month n = 8, 4th month n = 6) and in cows that properly released placenta (NR; n = 6) and cows with retained foetal membranes (R; n = 6) were experimental material. The concentrations of glycodelin and protein content of selected metalloproteinases were measured by ELISA in the maternal and foetal placental homogenates as well as in the culture of epithelial cells derived from the maternal part of the placenta. The presence of these protein molecules was confirmed by Western Blotting. In the bovine placenta, the concentrations of examined proteins exhibit significant changes during placental formation. Gd, MMP3 and MMP7 concentrations decrease with pregnancy progress (between the 2nd and 4th month), while MMP2 concentrations were on the same level in this period. During parturition, concentrations of Gd and MMP3 were significantly higher in the R group compared to the NR group. In parallel, MMP2 concentrations did not show significant differences between the groups (NR vs R), and MMP7 concentrations decreased significantly in the maternal part of the placenta in cows with retained foetal membranes (R). Obtained results show correlations between the gestational age and proteins' (Gd, MMP3, MMP7) concentration, both in the maternal and foetal part of the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Wawrzykowski
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Science in Lublin, Akademicka Street 12, 20-033, Lublin, Poland
| | - Monika Jamioł
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Science in Lublin, Akademicka Street 12, 20-033, Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Kankofer
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Science in Lublin, Akademicka Street 12, 20-033, Lublin, Poland.
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Shardina KY, Timganova VP, Bochkova MS, Khramtsov PV, Rayev MB, Zamorina SA. The Role of Recombinant Glycodelin in the Differentiation of Regulatory T-Lymphocytes. DOKLADY BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES : PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE USSR, BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES SECTIONS 2022; 506:137-140. [PMID: 36301420 DOI: 10.1134/s0012496622050131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The effect of recombinant glycodelin (GdA) on the number of T-regulatory lymphocytes (Treg) in a culture of activated CD4+ lymphocytes was investigated, while simultaneously assessing the proliferative status of the cells. Recombinant GdA from E. coli and from HEK293 cells were used in the study at concentrations of 0.2; 2 and 10 µg/mL. It was found that only a low concentration (0.2 μg/mL) of recombinant GdA of bacterial origin reduced the number of proliferating CD4+ lymphocytes as well as the number of Treg (CD4+CD25highCD127-/low) in the experimental system in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Yu Shardina
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Branch of the PFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 614081, Perm, Russia
| | - V P Timganova
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Branch of the PFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 614081, Perm, Russia
| | - M S Bochkova
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Branch of the PFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 614081, Perm, Russia
- Perm State National Research University, 614068, Perm, Russia
| | - P V Khramtsov
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Branch of the PFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 614081, Perm, Russia
- Perm State National Research University, 614068, Perm, Russia
| | - M B Rayev
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Branch of the PFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 614081, Perm, Russia
- Perm State National Research University, 614068, Perm, Russia
| | - S A Zamorina
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Branch of the PFRC, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 614081, Perm, Russia.
- Perm State National Research University, 614068, Perm, Russia.
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Sawyer L. β-Lactoglobulin and Glycodelin: Two Sides of the Same Coin? Front Physiol 2021; 12:678080. [PMID: 34093238 PMCID: PMC8173191 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.678080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The two lipocalins, β-lactoglobulin (βLg) and glycodelin (Gd), are possibly the most closely related members of the large and widely distributed lipocalin family, yet their functions appear to be substantially different. Indeed, the function of β-lactoglobulin, a major component of ruminant milk, is still unclear although neonatal nutrition is clearly important. On the other hand, glycodelin has several specific functions in reproduction conferred through distinct, tissue specific glycosylation of the polypeptide backbone. It is also associated with some cancer outcomes. The glycodelin gene, PAEP, reflecting one of its names, progestagen-associated endometrial protein, is expressed in many though not all primates, but the name has now also been adopted for the β-lactoglobulin gene (HGNC, www.genenames.org). After a general overview of the two proteins in the context of the lipocalin family, this review considers the properties of each in the light of their physiological functional significance, supplementing earlier reviews to include studies from the past decade. While the biological function of glycodelin is reasonably well defined, that of β-lactoglobulin remains elusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Sawyer
- School of Biological Sciences, IQB3, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Tissue-engineered multi-cellular models of the uterine wall. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2020; 19:1629-1639. [PMID: 31997029 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-020-01296-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The human uterus is composed of three layers: endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium. It remodels during the monthly menstrual cycle and more significantly during the complex stages of reproduction. In vivo studies of the human uterine wall are yet incomplete due to ethical and technical limitations. The objective of this study was to develop in vitro uterine wall models that mimic the in vivo structure in humans. We co-cultured multiple cellular models of endometrial epithelial cells, endometrial stromal cells and smooth muscle cells on a synthetic membrane mounted in multi-purpose custom-designed wells. Immunofluorescence staining and confocal imaging confirmed that the new model represents the in vivo anatomical architecture of the inner uterine wall. Hormonal treatment with progesterone and β-estradiol demonstrated increased expression of progestogen-associated endometrial protein, which is associated with the in vivo receptive uterus. The new tissue-engineered in vitro models of the uterine wall will enable deeper investigation of molecular and biomechanical aspects of the blastocyst-uterus interaction during the window of implantation.
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Bulgurcuoglu-Kuran S, Ozsait-Selcuk B, Gungor-Ugurlucan F, Koksal G, Günay C, Faruk B. Higher follicular fluid glycodelin levels are negatively correlated with embryonic development in assisted reproduction. JBRA Assist Reprod 2018; 22:346-351. [PMID: 30264946 PMCID: PMC6210615 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20180069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the possible effect of follicular fluid glycodelin levels on the quality of developing oocytes and subsequent in vitro embryo development. METHODS Follicular fluid glycodelin levels of 145 patients undergoing assisted reproductive treatment were analyzed and the correlation between glycodelin levels and ART outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS We found that glycodelin levels were negatively correlated with the number of high quality embryos on day 3 (r=-0.20, p=0.05). Additionally, higher glycodelin levels were correlated with higher FSH levels (r=0.18, p=0.04). However, glycodelin levels were not predictive for implantation (p=0.67) or ongoing pregnancy rates (p=0.99). CONCLUSION Glycodelin in the follicular environment might be one of the factors that influence the competence of growing oocytes and affect the quality of subsequent in vitro embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibel Bulgurcuoglu-Kuran
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bilge Ozsait-Selcuk
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Genetics, Aziz Sancar Institute for Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Funda Gungor-Ugurlucan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gözde Koksal
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Can Günay
- Department of Public Health, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University (Cerrahpasa), Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Buyru Faruk
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Wang Y, Sacchetti A, van Dijk MR, van der Zee M, van der Horst PH, Joosten R, Burger CW, Grootegoed JA, Blok LJ, Fodde R. Identification of quiescent, stem-like cells in the distal female reproductive tract. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40691. [PMID: 22848396 PMCID: PMC3404087 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In fertile women, the endometrium undergoes regular cycles of tissue build-up and regression. It is likely that uterine stem cells are involved in this remarkable turn over. The main goal of our current investigations was to identify slow-cycling (quiescent) endometrial stem cells by means of a pulse-chase approach to selectively earmark, prospectively isolate, and characterize label-retaining cells (LRCs). To this aim, transgenic mice expressing histone2B-GFP (H2B-GFP) in a Tet-inducible fashion were administered doxycycline (pulse) which was thereafter withdrawn from the drinking water (chase). Over time, dividing cells progressively loose GFP signal whereas infrequently dividing cells retain H2B-GFP expression. We evaluated H2B-GFP retaining cells at different chase time points and identified long-term (LT; >12 weeks) LRCs. The LT-LRCs are negative for estrogen receptor-α and express low levels of progesterone receptors. LRCs sorted by FACS are able to form spheroids capable of self-renewal and differentiation. Upon serum stimulation spheroid cells are induced to differentiate and form glandular structures which express markers of mature Műllerian epithelial cells. Overall, the results indicate that quiescent cells located in the distal oviduct have stem-like properties and can differentiate into distinct cell lineages specific of endometrium, proximal and distal oviduct. Future lineage-tracing studies will elucidate the role played by these cells in homeostasis, tissue injury and cancer of the female reproductive tract in the mouse and eventually in man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongyi Wang
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Sacchetti
- Department of Pathology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs R. van Dijk
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marten van der Zee
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. van der Horst
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rosalie Joosten
- Department of Pathology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Curt W. Burger
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J. Anton Grootegoed
- Department of Reproduction and Development, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leen J. Blok
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail: (RF); (LJB)
| | - Riccardo Fodde
- Department of Pathology, Josephine Nefkens Institute, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail: (RF); (LJB)
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Wira CR, Patel MV, Ghosh M, Mukura L, Fahey JV. Innate immunity in the human female reproductive tract: endocrine regulation of endogenous antimicrobial protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65:196-211. [PMID: 21294805 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.00970.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal surfaces of the female reproductive tract (FRT) contain a spectrum of antimicrobials that provide the first line of defense against viruses, bacteria, and fungi that enter the lower FRT. Once thought to be a sterile compartment, the upper FRT is periodically exposed to pathogens throughout the menstrual cycle. More recently, secretions from the upper FRT have been shown to contribute to downstream protection in the lower FRT. In this review, we examine the antimicrobials in FRT secretions made by immune cells and epithelial cells in the upper and lower FRT that contribute to innate protection. Because each site is hormonally regulated to maintain fertility, this review focuses on the contributions of hormone balance during the menstrual cycle to innate immune protection. As presented in this review, studies from our laboratory and others demonstrate that sex hormones regulate antimicrobials produced by innate immune cells throughout the FRT. The goal of this review is to examine the spectrum of antimicrobials in the FRT and the ways in which they are regulated to provide protection against pathogens that compromise reproductive health and threaten the lives of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Wira
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
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Amir M, Romano S, Goldman S, Shalev E. Plexin-B1, glycodelin and MMP7 expression in the human fallopian tube and in the endometrium. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:152. [PMID: 20040080 PMCID: PMC2805671 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2009] [Accepted: 12/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To study the expression of Plexin-B1, Glycodelin, and MMP7 during the menstrual cycle in the endometrium and in the fallopian tube. METHODS The research included women undergoing hysterectomy, tubal sterilization or salpingo-oophoerectomy. Total RNA from endometrial and fallopian tube tissues was extracted using a total RNA isolation kit. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR was performed to examine mRNA relative expression. RESULTS Plexin-B1 expression in the endometrium was significantly higher on days 19 - 23 compared to days 12 - 14 (1.166 +/- 0.42 versus 0.523 +/- 0.299), P < 0.005. In the fallopian tube the level of plexin-B1 did not change significantly throughout the menstrual cycle. Glycodelin expression was significantly higher on days 19 - 23 compared with days 12-14, both in the endometrium (0.819 +/- 0.564 versus 0.072 +/- 0.343, P < 0.05) and the fallopian tube (0.796 +/- 0.196 versus 0.329 +/- 0.398, P < 0.05). Although the level of MMP7 secretion was the highest in the secretory phase the difference from the proliferative phase did not reach statistical significance, neither in the endometrium nor in the fallopian tube. This could result from a lack of power. CONCLUSIONS In the endometrium, both Glycodelin and Plexin-B1 are exhibiting a cyclic pattern suggesting a possible steroid regulation and a role in endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Amir
- Laboratory for Research in Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, 18101, Afula, Israel
| | - Shabtai Romano
- Laboratory for Research in Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, 18101, Afula, Israel
| | - Shlomit Goldman
- Laboratory for Research in Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, 18101, Afula, Israel
| | - Eliezer Shalev
- Laboratory for Research in Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, 18101, Afula, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Wang MR, Zhu XJ, Yang JS, Dai ZM, Mahmood K, Yang F, Yang WJ. Prawn lipocalin: characteristics and expressional pattern in subepidermal adipose tissue during reproductive molting cycle. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2007; 147:222-9. [PMID: 17383208 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2007.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2006] [Revised: 01/16/2007] [Accepted: 01/16/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In crustaceans, the fascinating processes of maturation, reproductive molting and carapace coloration are regulated by hydrophobic molecules. Interestingly, most of the molecules are ligands of lipocalin. To understand the role of lipocalin in the aforementioned processes at molecular level, we isolated a cDNA that belongs to the lipocalin family, from a central nervous system cDNA library of Macrobrachium rosenbergii. We monitored the spatial and temporal distributions of the mRNA by using Northern Blotting analysis. Our results demonstrated that this gene expresses abundantly in the subepidermal adipose tissue, while faintly in the hepatopancreas and central nervous system. However, no signal was detected in other tissues including muscle, gill and ovary. Its expression levels in subepidermal adipose tissue during various stages of maturation as well as through the whole molting cycle showed that prawn lipocalin is involved in sexual maturation, as the maximal level was observed just after molt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo-Ran Wang
- Institute of Cell Biology and Genetics, Zijingang Campus, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058 PR China
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Breustedt DA, Schönfeld DL, Skerra A. Comparative ligand-binding analysis of ten human lipocalins. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2006; 1764:161-73. [PMID: 16461020 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2005.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2005] [Revised: 11/03/2005] [Accepted: 12/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
At least ten different lipocalins occur in the human body: retinol-binding protein (RBP), alpha1-acid glycoprotein, alpha1-microglobulin, apolipoprotein D, beta-trace protein, complement component 8gamma, glycodelin, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, odorant-binding protein, and tear lipocalin. Although many of these lipocalins seem to play an important physiological role, their precise biological function is not always clear. Especially the interpretation of their diverse ligand-binding activities has been hampered by the fact that the natural lipocalins were prepared from different sources and with varying purity. Here we present a generic expression and purification strategy for the recombinant lipocalins, which is based on secretion into the periplasm of E. coli, where disulphide bonds are readily formed, followed by affinity purification via the Strep-tag II and gel filtration. The ten human lipocalins were successfully prepared and their ligand-binding activities were compared via fluorescence titration with a set of typical ligands: retinol, retinoic acid (RA), 11-(5-(dimethylamino)-1-naphthalene-sulfonylamino)undecanoic acid (DAUDA), and 8-anilino-1-naphtalene-sulfonic acid (ANS). As result, merely two lipocalins, RBP and beta-trace, revealed high affinities both for retinol and for RA, which probably reflects a specialized physiological function in retinoid complexation. Surprisingly, the strongest retinol affinity was detected for apolipoprotein D, whereas this lipocalin exhibits much weaker binding activity for retinoic acid. Binding studies with the two spectroscopic probes DAUDA and ANS revealed mixed patterns, which demonstrates that the affinity for lipophilic substances varies considerably among human lipocalins. Notably, RBP with its perfectly moulded retinol-binding site did not show any detectable binding activity for both compounds. Hence, our recombinant expression and purification system should be useful for further structural and functional studies of lipocalins from human origin and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Breustedt
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
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Kontopidis G, Holt C, Sawyer L. Invited Review: β-Lactoglobulin: Binding Properties, Structure, and Function. J Dairy Sci 2004; 87:785-96. [PMID: 15259212 DOI: 10.3168/jds.s0022-0302(04)73222-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 481] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
beta-Lactoglobulin (beta-LG) is the major whey protein of ruminant species and is also present in the milks of many, but not all, other species. Its amino-acid sequence and 3-dimensional structure show that it is a lipocalin, a widely diverse family, most of which bind small hydrophobic ligands and thus may act as specific transporters, as does serum retinol binding protein. Bovine beta-LG binds a wide range of ligands, but this may not be the reason for its presence in milk. In reviewing the structure and physicochemical properties of the protein, we present the structures of the ligands cholesterol (at a resolution of 2.0A, R = 0.221; Rfree = 0.295) and vitamin D2 (at a resolution of 2.4A, R = 0.212; Rfree = 0.297) each bound to the central binding cavity of bovine beta-LG at pH 7.3. Neither ligand is fully visible in the electron density maps, and the less well-ordered regions are the polar end groups at the mouth of the binding site. In a separate experiment, a mercury ion was bound to the free Cys121 (at a resolution of 2.2A, R = 0.218; Rfree = 0.288) in a way that transmitted a small structural change through Asp137 via Arg148 to the dimer interface. It is not clear if the known dissociation that arises from the reaction of beta-LG with HgCl2 results from this perturbation. In reviewing the structural studies that reveal the ligand binding sites for long-chain fatty acids, retinoids, and steroids, only the central location, common to all lipocalins so far examined, is occupied under the conditions used. We find that there is no crystallographic evidence of another ligand binding site in our crystals grown in approximately 1.3 M citrate, although low ionic strength studies in solution indicate the possible presence of at least one other low affinity site. The apparent ability of the binding site to accommodate a wide range of ligands may point to a possible physiological function. However, by considering the lipocalin family in general, and the species distribution of beta-LG in particular, some speculation as to the physiological function can be made. beta-Lactoglobulin has been reported as being implicated, inter alia, in hydrophobic ligand transport and uptake, enzyme regulation, and the neonatal acquisition of passive immunity. However, these functions do not appear to be consistent between species. Sequence comparisons among members of the lipocalin family reveal that glycodelin, found in the human endometrium during early pregnancy, is the most closely related to beta-LG. Although the function of glycodelin is also unknown, it appears to have effects on the immune system and/or to be involved in differentiation. It is proposed that beta-LG, over-expressed in the lactating mammary gland of many, but not all, species, is primarily an important source of amino acids for the offspring of those animals that produce it, but that this function arose by gene duplication from the physiologically essential glycodelin. The other functions that have been associated with beta-LG in the neonate are, therefore, fortuitous.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Kontopidis
- Structural Biochemistry Group, Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Swann Building, King's Buildings, Mayfield Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3JR, Scotland
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Westergaard LG, Yding Andersen C, Erb K, Laursen SB, Rasmussen PE, Rex S, Teisner B. Placental protein 14 concentrations in circulation related to hormonal parameters and reproductive outcome in women undergoing IVF/ICSI. Reprod Biomed Online 2004; 8:91-8. [PMID: 14759294 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60502-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Serum concentrations of placental protein 14 (PP14), steroids and gonadotrophins were related to the outcome of IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection in 195 normogonadotrophic women subjected to the long protocol gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa; buserelin) pituitary down-regulation protocol and gonadotrophin stimulation (HMG or rFSH). Pituitary down-regulation was initiated on cycle day 21 and the patients were randomized to either intranasal or s.c. administration of buserelin. After 14 days of down-regulation, the patients were randomized on stimulation day 1 (S1) to ovarian stimulation with 225 IU per day of either human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG) or recombinant FSH (rFSH) for a fixed period of 7 days. The daily gonadotrophin dose was adjusted on the following day according to ovarian response. Patient's blood was sampled for PP14 and hormone analysis on cycle days 21, S1, S8 and on the day of oocyte retrieval. Mean concentrations of PP14 on day 21 of the cycle were significantly lower in conception than in non-conception cycles, whereas progesterone and oestradiol were similar in conception and non-conception cycles. PP14 concentrations on the first day of stimulation and at oocyte retrieval were significantly higher in conception than in non-conception cycles, whereas concentrations after 8 days of stimulation were similar. Neither mode of GnRHa administration nor type of gonadotrophin significantly influenced PP14 concentrations throughout ovarian stimulation. Circulating PP14 is thus an important physiological signal of the fertility status of the individual in the cycle antecedent to and during ovarian stimulation. Measuring mid-luteal serum PP14 may offer a clinical test helping to decide if infertility treatment should be initiated in the subsequent cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- L G Westergaard
- Fertility Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Odense University Hospital, DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark.
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Hamil KG, Liu Q, Sivashanmugam P, Anbalagan M, Yenugu S, Soundararajan R, Grossman G, Rao AJ, Birse CE, Ruben SM, Richardson RT, Zhang YL, O'Rand MG, Petrusz P, French FS, Hall SH. LCN6, a novel human epididymal lipocalin. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2003; 1:112. [PMID: 14617364 PMCID: PMC293424 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-1-112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2003] [Accepted: 11/14/2003] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lipocalin (LCN) family of structurally conserved hydrophobic ligand binding proteins is represented in all major taxonomic groups from prokaryotes to primates. The importance of lipocalins in reproduction and the similarity to known epididymal lipocalins prompted us to characterize the novel human epididymal LCN6. METHODS AND RESULTS LCN6 cDNA was identified by database analysis in a comprehensive human library sequencing program. Macaca mulatta (rhesus monkey) cDNA was obtained from an epididymis cDNA library and is 93% homologous to the human. The gene is located on chromosome 9q34 adjacent LCN8 and LCN5. LCN6 amino acid sequence is most closely related to LCN5, but the LCN6 beta-barrel structure is best modeled on mouse major urinary protein 1, a pheromone binding protein. Northern blot analysis of RNAs isolated from 25 human tissues revealed predominant expression of a 1.0 kb mRNA in the epididymis. No other transcript was detected except for weak expression of a larger hybridizing mRNA in urinary bladder. Northern hybridization analysis of LCN6 mRNA expression in sham-operated, castrated and testosterone replaced rhesus monkeys suggests mRNA levels are little affected 6 days after castration. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that LCN6 protein is abundant in the caput epithelium and lumen. Immunofluorescent staining of human spermatozoa shows LCN6 located on the head and tail of spermatozoa with the highest concentration of LCN6 on the post-acrosomal region of the head, where it appeared aggregated into large patches. CONCLUSIONS LCN6 is a novel lipocalin closely related to Lcn5 and Lcn8 and these three genes are likely products of gene duplication events that predate rodent-primate divergence. Predominant expression in the epididymis and location on sperm surface are consistent with a role for LCN6 in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine G Hamil
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Present address: State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - P Sivashanmugam
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Present address: Department of Urology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA
| | - M Anbalagan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Present address: Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Suresh Yenugu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Rama Soundararajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Present address: Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco 94143, USA
| | - Gail Grossman
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - AJ Rao
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | | | - Stephen M Ruben
- Human Genome Sciences, Inc, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA
- Present address: Celera Genomics, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA
| | - Richard T Richardson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Yong-Lian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Michael G O'Rand
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Peter Petrusz
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Frank S French
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Susan H Hall
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Laboratories for Reproductive Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
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Pagano A, Crooijmans R, Groenen M, Randazzo N, Zerega B, Cancedda R, Dozin B. A chondrogenesis-related lipocalin cluster includes a third new gene, CALgamma. Gene 2003; 305:185-94. [PMID: 12609739 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1119(03)00382-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We have previously reported the modulation, during chondrogenesis and/or inflammation, of two chicken genes laying in the same genomic locus and coding for two polypeptides of the lipocalin protein family, the extracellular fatty acid binding protein (ExFABP) and the chondrogenesis associated lipocalin beta (CALbeta). A third gene, located within the same cluster and coding for a new lipocalin, CALgamma, has been identified and is here characterized. Tissue distribution analyzed by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in chicken embryos shows a ubiquitous expression with predominant levels of mRNA transcripts in the liver and the brain. In the developing tibia, a high expression of CALgamma mRNA was evidenced by in situ hybridization within the pre-hypertrophic and the hypertrophic zones of the bone-forming cartilage. In agreement, dedifferentiated chondrocytes in vitro express the transcripts to the highest level when they re-differentiate reaching hypertrophy. Such peculiar developmental pattern of expression that is analogous to those already described for Ex-FABP and CALbeta suggests that all three proteins may act synergistically in the process of endochondral bone formation. Moreover, like Ex-FABP and CALbeta, CALgamma is also highly induced in dedifferentiated chondrocytes upon stimulation with lypopolysaccharides, indicating that the whole cluster quite possibly is transcriptionally activated not only in physiological morphogenic differentiation but also in pathological acute phase response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Pagano
- Dipartimento di Oncologia, Biologia e Genetica, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
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Kontopidis G, Holt C, Sawyer L. The ligand-binding site of bovine beta-lactoglobulin: evidence for a function? J Mol Biol 2002; 318:1043-55. [PMID: 12054801 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-2836(02)00017-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ever since the fortuitous observation that beta-lactoglobulin (beta-Lg), the major whey protein in the milk of ruminants, bound retinol, the details of the binding have been controversial. beta-Lg is a lipocalin, like plasma retinol-binding protein, so that ligand association was expected to make use of the central cavity in the protein. However, an early crystallographic analysis and some of the more recent solution studies indicated binding elsewhere. We have now determined the crystal structures of the complexes of the trigonal form of beta-Lg at pH 7.5 with bound retinol (R=21.4% for 7329 reflections between 20 and 2.4 A resolution, R(free)=30.6%) and with bound retinoic acid (R=22.7% for 7813 reflections between 20 and 2.34 A resolution, R(free)=29.8%). Both ligands are found to occupy the central calyx in a manner similar to retinol binding in retinol-binding protein. We find no evidence of binding at the putative external binding site in either of these structural analyses. Further, competition between palmitic acid and retinol reveals only palmitate bound to the protein. An explanation is provided for the lack of ligand binding to the orthorhombic crystal form also obtained at pH 7.5. Finally, the possible function of beta-Lg is discussed in the light of its species distribution and similarity to other lipocalins.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Kontopidis
- Structural Biochemistry Group, Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Swann Building, King's Buildings, Mayfield Road, EH9 3JR, UK
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Pagano A, Giannoni P, Zambotti A, Randazzo N, Zerega B, Cancedda R, Dozin B. CALbeta, a novel lipocalin associated with chondrogenesis and inflammation. Eur J Cell Biol 2002; 81:264-72. [PMID: 12067062 DOI: 10.1078/0171-9335-00243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated the association of the chicken lipocalin Ex-FABP with cartilage formation and inflammatory responses as a marker of these processes (Descalzi Cancedda et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1482, 127-135, 2000). Here we report the isolation and characterisation of a new lipocalin gene laying upstream the Ex-FABP, thus representing the second member of a possible genomic cluster. This gene contains an open reading frame coding for a polypeptide of about 19 kDa. The amino-acid sequence revealed a conserved lipocalin secondary structure. Tissue distribution of the protein in developing embryos showed a preferential expression in the heart although mRNA transcripts could be detected also in muscle, lung and liver. The lowest expression was observed in the stomach, brain and skin. During endochondral formation of long bones, the protein is differentially distributed, as the transcripts, evidenced in the tibia by in situ hybridisation, are present in the hypertrophic cone of the cartilage and mostly absent in the area of the proliferating chondrocytes. Such developmental regulation was observed also in vitro in cultured chondrocytes where the transcripts were barely detectable in dedifferentiated cells but highly expressed in hypertrophic chondrocytes. The protein was also significantly induced by lipopolysaccharide stimulation of chondrocytes, indicating a possible involvement in acute phase response. Raising specific antibodies in a rabbit allowed validating, at the protein level, all the transcriptional data. Moreover, we gained evidence that the protein is actively secreted in the extracellular matrix surrounding the chondrocytes. Because of its peculiar expression in cartilage, this new protein was named chondrogenesis-associated lipocalin beta (thereafter referred to as CAL beta). The close similarity between Ex-FABP and CAL beta expression patterns supports the hypothesis of a genomic organisation in a cluster where both genes could be co-ordinately regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Pagano
- Dipartimento di Oncologia, Biologia e Genetica, Università di Genova, Italy
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Lögdberg L, Wester L. Immunocalins: a lipocalin subfamily that modulates immune and inflammatory responses. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2000; 1482:284-97. [PMID: 11058769 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4838(00)00164-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A subset of the lipocalins, notably alpha(1)-acid glycoprotein, alpha(1)-microglobulin, and glycodelin, exert significant immunomodulatory effects in vitro. Interestingly, all three are encoded from the q32-34 region of human chromosome 9, together with at least four other lipocalins (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, complement factor gamma-subunit, tear prealbumin, and prostaglandin D synthase) that also may have anti-inflammatory and/or antimicrobial activity. This review addresses important features of this genetically linked subfamily of lipocalins (involvement with the acute phase response, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, the tissue localization, complex formation with other proteins and receptors, etc.). It is likely that these proteins have evolved to be an integrated part of the body's defense system as part of the extended cytokine network. Its members exert a regulatory, dampening influence on the inflammatory cascade, thereby protecting against tissue damage from excessive inflammation. That most major mammalian allergens are lipocalins may reflect this connection of lipocalins with the immune system. We propose that this immunologically active lipocalin subset be named the 'immunocalins', signifying not only the structural homology and close genetic linkage of its members, but also their protective involvement with immunological and inflammatory processes. As immune mediators, immunocalins appear to use at least three interactive sites: the lipocalin 'pocket', binding sites for other plasma proteins, and binding sites for cell surface receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lögdberg
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, New York Blood Center, NY 10021, USA.
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