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Othman MA, Husni M, El-Din WAN, Salem AH, Sarwani N, Rashid A, Fadel R. Prenatal aripiprazole induces alterations of rat placenta: a histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study. J Mol Histol 2024:10.1007/s10735-024-10199-0. [PMID: 38713244 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-024-10199-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Antipsychotic drugs (APDs) are used to treat many psychiatric illnesses as schizophrenia. Typical antipsychotic drugs (TAPDs) are being used; however, they have many side effects. Atypical antipsychotic drugs (AAPDs) are newer medications with known fewer side effects. Aripiprazole (ARI) is an AAPD, recommended by healthcare providers, even during pregnancy. It can cross the placental barrier and enter fetal circulation, so it might be possible that ARI can adversely impair normal placental development and growth, if it is given prenatally. ARI was applied orally to pregnant female rats in two doses (3& 6 mg/kg body weight). On gestation day 20, the mothers were sacrificed, and the placentas were removed and processed for general histological and electron microscopic evaluations. Immunohistochemistry was done using anti-PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), anti-Bax (for apoptosis) and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor alpha (VEGFA). Morphological evaluation revealed degenerative changes in the placenta as dark nuclei, vacuolization, and cyst formation. Ultra-structurally, there was degeneration of cellular components including organelles and nuclei. These changes were found in different cells of the basal and labyrinth zones and were dose dependent. Immunohistochemistry revealed upregulation of Bax and VEGFA and downregulation of PCNA. Prenatal administration of the AAPD, ARI to pregnant female rats resulted in histological changes in the placenta. Additionally, there was a decrease in cellular proliferation and increase in apoptosis, and vascular impairment. This indicates placental atrophy and dysgenesis and might suggest possible teratogenic effects to ARI, which needs further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal A Othman
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, P.O Box: 26671, Manama, Bahrain.
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assuit, Egypt.
| | - Mariwan Husni
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Psychiatry, Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wael Amin Nasr El-Din
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, P.O Box: 26671, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Abdel-Halim Salem
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, P.O Box: 26671, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Nasir Sarwani
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, P.O Box: 26671, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Aisha Rashid
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, P.O Box: 26671, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Raouf Fadel
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, P.O Box: 26671, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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Khorami-Sarvestani S, Vanaki N, Shojaeian S, Zarnani K, Stensballe A, Jeddi-Tehrani M, Zarnani AH. Placenta: an old organ with new functions. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1385762. [PMID: 38707901 PMCID: PMC11066266 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1385762] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The transition from oviparity to viviparity and the establishment of feto-maternal communications introduced the placenta as the major anatomical site to provide nutrients, gases, and hormones to the developing fetus. The placenta has endocrine functions, orchestrates maternal adaptations to pregnancy at different periods of pregnancy, and acts as a selective barrier to minimize exposure of developing fetus to xenobiotics, pathogens, and parasites. Despite the fact that this ancient organ is central for establishment of a normal pregnancy in eutherians, the placenta remains one of the least studied organs. The first step of pregnancy, embryo implantation, is finely regulated by the trophoectoderm, the precursor of all trophoblast cells. There is a bidirectional communication between placenta and endometrium leading to decidualization, a critical step for maintenance of pregnancy. There are three-direction interactions between the placenta, maternal immune cells, and the endometrium for adaptation of endometrial immune system to the allogeneic fetus. While 65% of all systemically expressed human proteins have been found in the placenta tissues, it expresses numerous placenta-specific proteins, whose expression are dramatically changed in gestational diseases and could serve as biomarkers for early detection of gestational diseases. Surprisingly, placentation and carcinogenesis exhibit numerous shared features in metabolism and cell behavior, proteins and molecular signatures, signaling pathways, and tissue microenvironment, which proposes the concept of "cancer as ectopic trophoblastic cells". By extensive researches in this novel field, a handful of cancer biomarkers has been discovered. This review paper, which has been inspired in part by our extensive experiences during the past couple of years, highlights new aspects of placental functions with emphasis on its immunomodulatory role in establishment of a successful pregnancy and on a potential link between placentation and carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Khorami-Sarvestani
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negar Vanaki
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sorour Shojaeian
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Kayhan Zarnani
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Allan Stensballe
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Clinical Cancer Research Center, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mahmood Jeddi-Tehrani
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir-Hassan Zarnani
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ortiz-García RG, Gómez-Meda BC, Gutiérrez-Sevilla JE, Gallegos-Arreola MP, Zamora-Perez AL, Ortiz-García YM, García-Arias VE, Torres-Mendoza BM, Zúñiga-González GM. Micronuclei and nuclear buds in amniotic tissue of rats treated with cyclophosphamide. MUTATION RESEARCH. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2023; 890:503659. [PMID: 37567649 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2023.503659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Fetal development can be altered by DNA damage caused by maternal exposure to chemical, physical, or biological agents during gestation. One method of assessing genotoxicity is to detect micronuclei (MNs) and/or nuclear abnormalities. This can be performed in vivo and requires only frequently dividing tissues, such as amniotic tissue (AT), which is in contact with the fetal environment and is composed of very thin layers of cells. This study evaluated the presence of MNs, nucleoplasmic bridges, and nuclear buds (NBs) in the fetal AT following maternal exposure to cyclophosphamide (CP) during pregnancy. Pregnant Wistar rats were divided into a negative control group and an experimental group that was orally administered CP (10 mg/kg). Daily blood smears were obtained from pregnant rats on days 14-19 of gestation. The rats were dissected, and fetal ATs were obtained on the 19th day of gestation. The MN and NB frequencies in AT cells were analyzed using a fluorescence microscope (100 ×). Micronucleated erythrocytes in the peripheral blood of the control rats were also assessed. Micronucleated polychromatic erythrocyte frequencies were significantly higher than those in the controls. Polychromatic erythrocyte frequencies were lower in CP-treated rats than in controls at 48-120 h. Fetuses in the CP-treated group also showed a significant increase in MNs and NBs in AT cells. In conclusion, AT could be used for analyzing MNs and NBs in rats following maternal exposure to a genotoxic agent and as a viable alternative for analyzing the integrity of fetal DNA during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramón Guillermo Ortiz-García
- Doctorado en Genética Humana, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Laboratorio de Mutagénesis, División de Medicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Belinda Claudia Gómez-Meda
- Instituto de Genética Humana "Dr. Enrique Corona Rivera", Departamento de Biología Molecular y Genómica, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Juan Ernesto Gutiérrez-Sevilla
- Laboratorio de Inmunodeficiencias y retrovirus humanos, División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Departamento de Clínicas Medicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Martha Patricia Gallegos-Arreola
- Laboratorio de Genética Molecular, División de Genética, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Ana Lourdes Zamora-Perez
- Instituto de Investigación en Odontología, Departamento de Clínicas Odontológicas Integrales, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Yveth Marlene Ortiz-García
- Instituto de Investigación en Odontología, Departamento de Clínicas Odontológicas Integrales, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Laboratorio de Apoyo a la Vigilancia e Investigación Epidemiológica, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Víctor Eduardo García-Arias
- Laboratorio de Mutagénesis, División de Medicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Blanca Miriam Torres-Mendoza
- Laboratorio de Inmunodeficiencias y retrovirus humanos, División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Departamento de Clínicas Medicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Guillermo Moisés Zúñiga-González
- Laboratorio de Mutagénesis, División de Medicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.
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Leal-Silva T, Souza MR, Cruz LL, Moraes-Souza RQ, Paula VG, Soares TS, Dela Justina V, Giachini FR, Damasceno DC, Américo MF, Volpato GT. Toxicological effects of the Morinda citrifolia L. fruit extract on maternal reproduction and fetal development in rats. Drug Chem Toxicol 2023; 46:609-615. [PMID: 35502509 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2022.2070197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Morinda citrifolia L., also known as Noni, is widely used plant in folk medicine for various therapeutic purposes. However, reports on its effects during pregnancy are limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the M. citrifolia fruit extract on maternal performance and fetal development during pregnancy in rats. Pregnant Wistar rats (n = 12/group) were treated from gestational days (GD) 0-21 with water (control group) or the aqueous extract of M. citrifolia fruit at doses of 200, 400, or 750 mg/kg, orally. During pregnancy, clinical signs of toxicity, maternal weight, feed intake, and water consumption were noted. On GD 21, the rats were anesthetized and blood was collected to evaluate various biochemical parameters. During laparotomy, reproductive performance parameters were recorded, and fetuses were weighed and the anomalies analyzed. Reduced placental efficiency and fetal growth restriction were observed in the group treated with 400 mg/kg of M. citrifolia extract. The highest dose (750 mg/kg) augmented aspartate aminotransferase concentration and preimplantation losses, while reducing the number of live fetuses. Furthermore, both doses (400 and 750 mg/kg) of the plant extract caused fetal anomalies. In conclusion, consumption of high doses of the M. citrifolia aqueous extrac during pregnancy leads to maternal hepatotoxicity, anti-implantation effects, intrauterine growth restriction and fetal abnormalities, indicating that the plant fruit extract can be harmful to both the mother and the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Leal-Silva
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
| | - Maysa Rocha Souza
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Program on Gynecology Obstetrics and Mastology, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Larissa Lopes Cruz
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Program on Gynecology Obstetrics and Mastology, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Rafaianne Queiroz Moraes-Souza
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Program on Gynecology Obstetrics and Mastology, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Verônyca Gonçalves Paula
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Program on Gynecology Obstetrics and Mastology, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Thaigra Sousa Soares
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Dela Justina
- Federal University of Mato Grosso, Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Barra do Garças, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Regina Giachini
- Federal University of Mato Grosso, Institute of Health Sciences and Health, Barra do Garças, Brazil
| | - Débora Cristina Damasceno
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Program on Gynecology Obstetrics and Mastology, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Madileine Francely Américo
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Tadeu Volpato
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Brazil
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Emerging Roles of Endocannabinoids as Key Lipid Mediators for a Successful Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065220. [PMID: 36982295 PMCID: PMC10048990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, Cannabis use/misuse for treating pregnancy-related symptoms and other chronic conditions has increased among pregnant women, favored by decriminalization and/or legalization of its recreational uses in addition to its easy accessibility. However, there is evidence that prenatal Cannabis exposure might have adverse consequences on pregnancy progression and a deleterious impact on proper neurodevelopmental trajectories in the offspring. Maternal Cannabis use could interfere with the complex and finely controlled role performed by the endocannabinoid system in reproductive physiology, impairing multiple gestational processes from blastocyst implantation to parturition, with long-lasting intergenerational effects. In this review, we discuss current clinical and preclinical evidence regarding the role of endocannabinoids in development, function, and immunity of the maternal–fetal interface, focusing on the impact of Cannabis constituents on each of these gestational processes. We also discuss the intrinsic limitations of the available studies and the future perspectives in this challenging research field.
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Roberti SL, Gatti CR, Capobianco E, Higa R, Jawerbaum A. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor pathways in diabetic rat decidua early after implantation: regulation by dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 46:659-672. [PMID: 36863977 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.12.015] [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: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathways and moieties involved in histotrophic nutrition altered in the decidua of diabetic rats? Can diets enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) administered early after implantation prevent these alterations? Can these dietary treatments improve morphological parameters in the fetus, decidua and placenta after placentation? DESIGN Streptozotocin-induced diabetic Albino Wistar rats were fed a standard diet or diets enriched in n3- or n6-PUFAs early after implantation. Decidual samples were collected on day 9 of pregnancy. Fetal, decidual and placental morphological parameters were evaluated on day 14 of pregnancy. RESULTS On gestational day 9, PPARδ levels showed no changes in the diabetic rat decidua compared with controls. In diabetic rat decidua, PPARα levels and the expression of its target genes Aco and Cpt1 had reduced. These alterations were prevented by the n6-PUFA-enriched diet. Levels of PPARγ, the expression of its target gene Fas, lipid droplet number and perilipin 2 and fatty acid binding protein 4 levels increased in the diabetic rat decidua compared with controls. Diets enriched with PUFA prevented PPARγ increase, but not the increased lipid-related PPARγ targets. On gestational day 14, fetal growth, decidual and placental weight reduced in the diabetic group, and alterations prevented by the maternal diets were enriched in PUFAs. CONCLUSION When diabetic rats are fed diets enriched in n3- and n6-PUFAs early after implantation, PPAR pathways, lipid-related genes and proteins, lipid droplets and glycogen content in the decidua are modulated. This influences decidual histotrophic function and later feto-placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Lorena Roberti
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cintia Romina Gatti
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Evangelina Capobianco
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina Higa
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alicia Jawerbaum
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Porphyromonas gingivalis-mediated disruption in spiral artery remodeling is associated with altered uterine NK cell populations and dysregulated IL-18 and Htra1. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14799. [PMID: 36042379 PMCID: PMC9427787 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19239-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Impaired spiral artery remodeling (IRSA) underpins the great obstetrical syndromes. We previously demonstrated that intrauterine infection with the periodontal pathogen, Porphyromonas gingivalis, induces IRSA in rats. Since our previous studies only examined the end stage of arterial remodeling, the aim of this study was to identify the impact of P. gingivalis infection on the earlier stages of remodeling. Gestation day (GD) 11 specimens, a transition point between trophoblast-independent remodeling and the start of extravillous trophoblast invasion, were compared to late stage GD18 tissues. P. gingivalis was found in decidual stroma of GD11 specimens that already had reduced spiral artery remodeling defined as smaller arterial lumen size, increased retention of vascular smooth muscle, and decreased invasion by extravillous trophoblasts. At GD11, P. gingivalis-induced IRSA coincided with altered uterine natural killer (uNK) cell populations, decreased placental bed expression of interleukin-18 (IL-18) with increased production of temperature requirement A1 (Htra1), a marker of oxidative stress. By GD18, placental bed IL-18 and Htra1 levels, and uNK cell numbers were equivalent in control and infected groups. However, infected GD18 placental bed specimens had decreased TNF + T cells. These results suggest disturbances in placental bed decidual stroma and uNK cells are involved in P. gingivalis-mediated IRSA.
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Taylor EB, George EM. Animal Models of Preeclampsia: Mechanistic Insights and Promising Therapeutics. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6623845. [PMID: 35772781 PMCID: PMC9262036 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a common pregnancy-specific disorder that is a major cause of both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Central to the pathogenesis of PE is the production of antiangiogenic and inflammatory factors by the hypoxic placenta, leading to the downstream manifestations of the disease, including hypertension and end-organ damage. Currently, effective treatments are limited for PE; however, the development of preclinical animal models has helped in the development and evaluation of new therapeutics. In this review, we will summarize some of the more commonly used models of PE and highlight their similarities to the human syndrome, as well as the therapeutics tested in each model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin B Taylor
- Correspondence: Erin B. Taylor, PhD, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216-4505, USA.
| | - Eric M George
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216-4505, USA
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Ingaramo PI, Alarcón R, Caglieris ML, Varayoud J, Muñoz-de-Toro M, Luque EH. Altered uterine angiogenesis in rats treated with a glyphosate-based herbicide. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 296:118729. [PMID: 34953950 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are the agrochemicals most used around the globe. However, they might have adverse effects on human and animal health. Previously, we showed that female rats neonatally exposed to GBHs exhibit altered expression of morphogenetic molecules and biomarkers of uterine development. We also observed a reduction in the size of implantation sites, altered expression of decidualization-related molecules, and increased post-implantation losses. Since decidualization comprises morphogenetic, biochemical and vascular changes, here we investigated the effects of neonatal GBH exposure on uterine angiogenesis in neonatal and pregnant rats. To achieve this, Wistar female rats were exposed to saline solution or GBH (2 mg glyphosate/kg-bw/day) on post-natal days (PND) 1, 3, 5 and 7. On PND8, uterine samples were collected for developmental studies. On PND90, the remaining females were mated and in the morning of gestational day (GD) 9, the implantation sites were collected. Angiogenesis-related molecules and cells involved in this process were identified and/or measured by immunohistochemistry or RT-PCR. On PND8, GBH-treated rats showed increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and decreased Notch1, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and Angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) mRNA levels. Vascular area, vessel diameter, endothelial cell proliferation, VEGF and Nestin protein expression, and VEGF, Notch1, iNOS and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) genes were downregulated in implantation sites of exposed females, while Ang2, VEGF receptor 1 and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were increased. Mast cells and macrophages were increased on PND8 and GD9 of treated rats. The increased Transforming growth factor-beta expression in the antimesometrial zone and IL-10 mRNA expression suggest that the M2 type is the predominant population of macrophages on implantation sites. In conclusion, neonatal GBH exposure alters the expression of angiogenesis-related molecules at neonatal uterine development and decidual reaction, suggesting altered vascular support. These alterations might contribute to the increased post-implantation losses observed in GBH-treated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola I Ingaramo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Ramiro Alarcón
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María L Caglieris
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mónica Muñoz-de-Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
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The effect of progesterone administration on the expression of metastasis tumor antigens (MTA1 and MTA3) in placentas of normal and dexamethasone-treated rats. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:1935-1943. [PMID: 35037193 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-07005-5] [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: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dexamethasone (DEX) induces intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in pregnant rats. IUGR can occur due to apoptosis of trophoblasts, which is believed to be inhibited by progesterone (P4). A group of genes called MTAs play a role in proliferation and apoptosis. MTA1 upregulates trophoblasts proliferation and differentiation, while MTA3 downregulates proliferation and induces apoptosis. Hence, we hypothesized that during IUGR, placental MTA1 decreases and MTA3 increases and this is reversed by P4 treatment. METHODS Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups based on daily intraperitoneal injections: control (C, saline), DEX (DEX, 0.2 mg/kg/day), DEX and P4 (DEX + P4, DEX: 0.2 mg/kg/day, P4: 5 mg/kg/day) and P4-treated (P4, 5 mg/kg/day) groups. Injections were started on 15 dg until the day of dissection (19 or 21 dg). Gene and protein expressions of MTA1 and MTA3 were studied in the labyrinth (LZ) and basal (BZ) zones using real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively. RESULTS DEX treatment induced 18% reduction in fetal body weight (p < 0.001) and 30% reduction in placental weight (p < 0.01). Maternal P4 level was also significantly lower in DEX treated groups (p < 0.05). MTA1 expression was decreased in the LZ (gene, p < 0.001) and BZ (protein p < 0.01), while MTA3 protein expression was upregulated in the LZ with DEX treatment (p < 0.001). These changes were reversed with P4 treatment. CONCLUSION The findings of the present study indicate that DEX induces IUGR through changing the expression of placental MTA1 and MTA3 antigens and P4 improved pregnancy outcome by preventing the changes in MTAs expression.
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Roberti SL, Gatti CR, Fornes D, Higa R, Jawerbaum A. Diets enriched in PUFAs at an early postimplantation stage prevent embryo resorptions and impaired mTOR signaling in the decidua from diabetic rats. J Nutr Biochem 2021; 95:108765. [PMID: 33965535 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2021.108765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Maternal diabetes increases the risk of embryo resorptions and impairs embryo development. Decidualization is crucial for embryo development and regulated by mTOR signaling. However, little is known about how maternal diabetes affects the decidua at early postimplantation stages and whether dietary treatments enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can prevent decidual alterations. Here, we determined resorption rates, decidual mTOR pathways and markers of decidual function and remodeling in diabetic rats fed or not with diets enriched in PUFAs exclusively during the early postimplantation period. Pregestational streptozotocin-induced diabetic Albino Wistar rats and controls were fed or not with diets enriched in 6% sunflower oil or 6% chia oil (enriched in n-6 or n-3 PUFAs, respectively) on days 7, 8 and 9 of pregnancy and evaluated on day 9 of pregnancy. Maternal diabetes induced an 11-fold increase in embryo resorptions, which was prevented by both PUFAs-enriched diets despite no changes in maternal glycemia. The activity of mTOR pathway was decreased in the decidua from diabetic rats, an alteration prevented by the PUFAs-enriched diets. PUFAs-enriched diets prevented increased expression of Foxo1 (a negative regulator of mTOR) and reduced expression of miR-21 (a negative regulator of Foxo1). These diets also prevented reduced markers of decidual function (leukemia inhibitory factor and IGFBP1 expression and MMPs activity) in diabetic rat decidua. We identified the early post implantation as a crucial stage for pregnancy success, in which dietary PUFAs can protect diabetic pregnancies from embryo resorptions, decidual mTOR signaling impairments, and altered markers of decidual function and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Lorena Roberti
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cintia Romina Gatti
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daiana Fornes
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina Higa
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alicia Jawerbaum
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Laboratory of Reproduction and Metabolism, CEFYBO, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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12
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Lužná V, Liška K, Sládek M, Sumová A. Hormonal fine-tuning of clock in decidual region of mouse placenta by dopamine, melatonin, insulin, leptin and ghrelin. Placenta 2021; 108:55-63. [PMID: 33819862 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The maternal part of the rodent placenta harbors a circadian clock which robustly responds to glucocorticoids, however, its sensitivity to other hormones has not been elucidated. In this study, we tested five selected hormones (dopamine, melatonin, insulin, leptin and ghrelin) for their effectiveness to affect the clock in decidual region of mouse placenta in vitro. METHODS We administered the hormones or corresponding vehicles at various time points over 24 h to organotypic placental explants of mPer2Luc mice containing the decidua basalis (DB) region and monitored their effects on amplitude, period, median expression level (mesor) and phase of PER2-driven bioluminescence rhythms. RESULTS Dopamine significantly increased the amplitude, robustly dampened the mesor, and during a narrow time interval (corresponding to daytime) induced phase delays of the rhythms. In contrast, melatonin had no effect on amplitude, but induced phase advances of the rhythms at the opposite time window than dopamine (corresponding to nighttime). Leptin and ghrelin, but not insulin, slightly increased amplitudes and moderately modulated phase delays of the clock, suggesting that the DB clock, in contrast to other peripheral clocks, is rather resilient to abrupt changes in levels of feeding- and metabolism-related hormones. DISCUSSION The results demonstrate for the first time that dopamine and melatonin exhibit delicate yet specific effects on parameters of the DB clock and may thus potentially contribute to fine-tuning of its phase under in vivo conditions. It also implies that dysregulation of their levels, which accompany various pathologies, may account for malfunction of the clock in DB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vendula Lužná
- Laboratory of Biological Rhythms, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karolína Liška
- Laboratory of Biological Rhythms, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Sládek
- Laboratory of Biological Rhythms, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Sumová
- Laboratory of Biological Rhythms, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Barros M, Teixeira D, Vilanova M, Correia A, Teixeira N, Borges M. Vaccines in Congenital Toxoplasmosis: Advances and Perspectives. Front Immunol 2021; 11:621997. [PMID: 33658997 PMCID: PMC7917294 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.621997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital toxoplasmosis has a high impact on human disease worldwide, inducing serious consequences from fetus to adulthood. Despite this, there are currently no human vaccines available to prevent this infection. Most vaccination studies against Toxoplasma gondii infection used animal models in which the infection was established by exogenous inoculation. Here, we review recent research on potential T. gondii vaccines using animal models in which infection was congenitally established. Endeavors in this field have so far revealed that live or subunit vaccines previously found to confer protection against extrinsically established infections can also protect, at least partially, from vertically transmitted infection. Nevertheless, there is no consensus on the more adequate immune response to protect the host and the fetus in congenital infection. Most of the vaccination studies rely on the assessment of maternal systemic immune responses, quantification of parasitic loads in the fetuses, and survival indexes and/or brain parasitic burden in the neonates. More research must be carried out not only to explore new vaccines but also to further study the nature of the elicited immune protection at the maternal-fetal interface. Particularly, the cellular and molecular effector mechanisms at the maternal-fetal interface induced by immunization remain poorly characterized. Deeper knowledge on the immune response at this specific location will certainly help to refine the vaccine-induced immunity and, consequently, to provide the most effective and safest protection against T. gondii vertical infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Barros
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Teixeira
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel Vilanova
- Immunobiology Group, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Departamento de Imuno-Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alexandra Correia
- Immunobiology Group, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Departamento de Imuno-Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Natercia Teixeira
- Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit/Rede de Química e Tecnologia (UCIBIO/REQUIMTE), Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Margarida Borges
- Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit/Rede de Química e Tecnologia (UCIBIO/REQUIMTE), Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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14
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Camilleri C, Buskmiller C, Sammut S. Pregnancy-induced long-term uterine vascular remodeling in the rat. Reprod Biol 2020; 21:100466. [PMID: 33279772 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.100466] [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: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite the available research investigating uterine physiology during and immediately following pregnancy, including at the vascular and muscular levels, knowledge of the potential long-term timeline of such changes is limited. Thus, our study sought to investigate the potential long-term changes in uterine vasculature and horn length in the postpartum rat, following delivery and weaning. Female Long-Evans rats (n = 9-11 rats/group/timepoint) were divided into two groups: a pregnant group and an age-matched virgin control group. Rat weight, food consumption and vaginal impedance measurements were recorded throughout the experiment. Rats in the pregnant group were bred and pregnancy was confirmed using ultrasound imaging. The uterus and its vasculature were collected at various timepoints following weaning: 3 (week of weaning), 8-9 and 13 weeks postpartum, and at age-equivalent timepoints in the virgin group, and the diameters of the main uterine artery and vein, and lengths of the mesometrial segmental vessels (MSV) and uterine horns were recorded. The results indicated a significant difference between the previously-pregnant and virgin rats in both internal and external arterial diameters (but not arterial wall thickness), as well as the uterine horn length, 3 weeks postpartum, but not 8-9 and 13 weeks postpartum. Significant differences were observed in both venous diameter and MSV length at all timepoints measured. Placental scars were also observed in previously-pregnant rats at all timepoints measured. Our study highlights the long-term impact of pregnancy on the uterine vasculature and the necessity for consideration of such changes on subsequent pregnancies, as well as pregnancy-related vascular pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Camilleri
- Department of Psychology, Franciscan University of Steubenville, 1235 University Blvd, Steubenville, OH, 43952, USA
| | - Cara Buskmiller
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Saint Louis University, 6420 Clayton Rd, Ste 240, St. Louis, MO, 63117, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 6431 Fannin, Suite MSB3.262 Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Stephen Sammut
- Department of Psychology, Franciscan University of Steubenville, 1235 University Blvd, Steubenville, OH, 43952, USA.
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GPx8 Expression in Rat Oocytes, Embryos, and Female Genital Organs During Preimplantation Period of Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176313. [PMID: 32878231 PMCID: PMC7503774 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to detect the presence of glutathione peroxidase 8 (GPx8) in rat during preimplantation period of pregnancy. Females were killed on first (D1), third (D3), and fifth (D5) day of pregnancy. The presence of GPx8 in embryos was detected under the confocal microscope, the presence of GPx8 in genital organs was confirmed immunohistochemically, and the amount of GPx8 was determined using densitometry. We found that GPx8 is dispersed in the cytoplasm of oocytes, while after fertilization, it is concentrated in granules. From 4-cell stage till blastocyst, GPx8 reaction was found in the perinuclear region. In the ovary, GPx8 was seen in granulosa-lutein cells, in plasma of blood vessels, and inside Graafian follicles. In oviduct, GPx8 was detected in the plasma and in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Moreover, epithelial cells of isthmus were positive. In uterus, GPx8 was observed in the uterine glands, in the plasma, and in ECM. On D5, the enzyme disappeared from the uterine glands and appeared in fibroblasts. Densitometry revealed that the highest amount of GPx8 was on D1 and subsequently declined. To our knowledge, this is the first paper describing GPx8 presence in the oocytes, preimplantation embryos, and female genital organs in mammals. Our results improve the understanding of antioxidant enzymes presence during pregnancy in defense against oxidative stress, which is considered to be one of the main causes of infertility.
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16
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Miller CN, Stewart EJ, Snow SJ, Williams WC, Richards JH, Thompson LC, Schladweiler MC, Farraj AK, Kodavanti UP, Dye JA. Ozone Exposure During Implantation Increases Serum Bioactivity in HTR-8/SVneo Trophoblasts. Toxicol Sci 2020; 168:535-550. [PMID: 30649513 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz003] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Implantation is a sensitive window in reproductive development during which disruptions may increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes including intrauterine growth restriction. Ozone exposure during implantation in rats reduces fetal weight near the end of gestation, potentially though impaired trophoblast migration and invasion and altered implantation. The current study characterized changes in ventilation, pulmonary injury, and circulating factors including hormonal, inflammatory, and metabolic markers related to exposure to ozone (0.4-1.2 ppm) for 4-h on gestation days 5 and 6 (window of implantation) in Long-Evans dams. To determine the effects of this exposure on trophoblast function, placental-derived, first trimester, HTR-8/SVneo cells were exposed to serum from air- or ozone (0.8 ppm×4 h)-exposed dams and examined for impacts on metabolic capacity, wound-closure, and invasion. Peri-implantation exposure to ozone induced ventilatory dysfunction and lung vascular leakage in pregnant rats, with little effect on most of the circulating markers measured. However, ozone inhalation induced a significant reduction in several serum cytokines (interferon-γ, interleukin-6, and interleukin-13). Treatment of HTR-8/SVneo trophoblasts with serum from ozone-exposed dams for 16-h downregulated metabolic capacity, wound-closure, and invasion through a Matrigel membrane compared with both air-serum and fetal bovine serum-treated cells. Ozone-serum treated cells increased the release of a critical inhibitor of invasion and angiogenesis (soluble fms-like receptor 1; sFlt1) compared with air-serum treatment. Together, our data suggest that circulating factors in the serum of pregnant rats exposed to ozone during implantation receptivity can hinder critical processes of implantation (eg, invasion and migration) and impair trophoblast metabolic capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette N Miller
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Erica J Stewart
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Samantha J Snow
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Wanda C Williams
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Judy H Richards
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Leslie C Thompson
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Mette C Schladweiler
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Aimen K Farraj
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Urmila P Kodavanti
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Janice A Dye
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
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Ward-Flanagan R, Scavuzzo C, Mandhane PJ, Bolduc FV, Dickson CT. Prenatal fruit juice exposure enhances memory consolidation in male post-weanling Sprague-Dawley rats. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227938. [PMID: 31990931 PMCID: PMC6986755 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Nutritional intake during gestation is known to impact health outcomes for progeny. Correlational evidence in humans suggests that increased fruit consumption of pregnant mothers enhances infant cognitive development. Moreover, wild-type Drosophila supplemented with a combination of orange and tomato juice showed robust enhancements in performance on an associative olfactory memory task. The current study aimed to experimentally test the effects of prenatal fruit juice exposure in a non-human, mammalian model of learning and memory. Methods Across three separate birth cohorts, pregnant rats were given access to diluted tomato and orange juice (N = 2 per cohort), with control rats (N = 2 per cohort) receiving only water, in addition to standard rodent chow, throughout the duration of gestation, ending at parturition. Following weaning, male offspring were tested for learning and memory in a spatial version of the circular water maze and an auditory-cued fear-conditioning task. Results All pregnant rats increased fluid and food intake over the gestational period. Fruit juice-fed pregnant rats had increased fluid intake compared to control pregnant rats. When testing progeny, there were no effects of prenatal fruit juice on spatial learning, while it appeared to impair learning in fear conditioning relative to controls. However, we measured significant enhancements in both spatial memory and conditioned fear memory in the prenatal fruit-juice group compared to controls. Measures of vigilance, in response to the conditioned cue, were increased in prenatal fruit rats compared to controls, suggesting less generalized, and more adaptive, anxiety behaviours. Discussion Our results corroborate the human and Drosophila findings of prenatal fruit effects on behaviour, specifically that prenatal fruit juice exposure may be beneficial for early-life memory consolidation in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Ward-Flanagan
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Claire Scavuzzo
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Piush J. Mandhane
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Francois V. Bolduc
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Clayton T. Dickson
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- * E-mail:
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18
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Sanchez TW, Li B, Molinaro C, Casiano CA, Bellinger DL, Mata-Greenwood E. Maternal plasma proteomics in a rat model of pregnancy complications reveals immune and pro-coagulant gene pathway activation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 83:e13205. [PMID: 31677200 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The Brown Norway (BN) rat is a model of T-helper 2 immune diseases, and also a model of pregnancy disorders that include placental insufficiency, fetal loss, and pre-eclampsia-like symptoms. The aim of this study was to investigate the plasma proteomic/cytokine profile of pregnant BN rats in comparison to that of the Lewis (LEW) rat strain. METHOD OF STUDY Plasma proteomics differences were studied at day 13 of pregnancy in pooled plasma samples by differential in-gel electrophoresis, and protein identification was performed by mass spectrometry. Key protein findings and predicted cytokine differences were validated by ELISA using plasma from rats at various pregnancy stages. Proteomics data were used for ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA). RESULTS In-gel analysis revealed 74 proteins with differential expression between BN and LEW pregnant dams. ELISA studies confirmed increased maternal plasma levels of complement 4, prothrombin, and C-reactive protein in BN compared to LEW pregnancies. LEW pregnancies showed higher maternal plasma levels of transthyretin and haptoglobin than BN pregnancies. Ingenuity pathway analysis revealed that BN pregnancies are characterized by activation of pro-coagulant, reactive oxygen species, and immune-mediated chronic inflammation pathways, and suggested increased interleukin 6 and decreased transforming growth factor-β1 as potential upstream events. Plasma cytokine analysis revealed that pregnant BN dams have a switch from anti- to pro-inflammatory cytokines with the opposite switch observed in pregnant LEW dams. CONCLUSION Brown Norway rats show a maternal pro-inflammatory response to pregnancy that likely contributes to the reproductive outcomes observed in this rat strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tino W Sanchez
- School of Medicine, Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Bo Li
- School of Medicine, Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Christine Molinaro
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Pathology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Carlos A Casiano
- School of Medicine, Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Denise L Bellinger
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Pathology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | - Eugenia Mata-Greenwood
- School of Medicine, Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
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Strakovsky RS, Schantz SL. Using Experimental Models to Assess Effects of Bisphenol A (BPA) and Phthalates on the Placenta: Challenges and Perspectives. Toxicol Sci 2019; 166:250-268. [PMID: 30203063 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is critical for all aspects of fetal development. Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are endocrine disruptors with ubiquitous exposure in pregnant women-their effects on the placenta is an area of growing research interest. Therefore, our objectives were to (1) summarize research related to the effects BPA or phthalates on placental outcomes in animal and cell models, and (2) evaluate the challenges for using such models to study the impacts of these chemicals on placental endpoints. Overall, studies in cells and animal models suggest that BPA and phthalates impact placental hormones, some epigenetic endpoints, increase inflammation and oxidative stress, and decrease cell viability and nutrient transfer. However, few animal or cell studies have assessed these outcomes at concentrations relevant to humans. Furthermore, it is unclear whether effects of BPA/phthalates on the placenta in animal models mediate fetal outcomes, as most studies have dosed after the earliest stages of placental and fetal development. It is also unclear whether effects of these chemicals are sex-specific, as few studies have considered placental sex. Finally, while there is substantial evidence for effects of mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (the major metabolite of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate), on placental endpoints in cells, little is currently known about effects of other phthalates to which pregnant women are exposed. Moving forward, these limitations will need to be addressed to help us understand the precise mechanisms of action of these chemicals within the placenta, and how these reported perturbations impact fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita S Strakovsky
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48823
| | - Susan L Schantz
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology.,Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2347 Beckman Institute, Urbana, Illinois 61801
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20
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Hemberger M, Hanna CW, Dean W. Mechanisms of early placental development in mouse and humans. Nat Rev Genet 2019; 21:27-43. [PMID: 31534202 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-019-0169-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The importance of the placenta in supporting mammalian development has long been recognized, but our knowledge of the molecular, genetic and epigenetic requirements that underpin normal placentation has remained remarkably under-appreciated. Both the in vivo mouse model and in vitro-derived murine trophoblast stem cells have been invaluable research tools for gaining insights into these aspects of placental development and function, with recent studies starting to reshape our view of how a unique epigenetic environment contributes to trophoblast differentiation and placenta formation. These advances, together with recent successes in deriving human trophoblast stem cells, open up new and exciting prospects in basic and clinical settings that will help deepen our understanding of placental development and associated disorders of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Hemberger
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK. .,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Courtney W Hanna
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wendy Dean
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK. .,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
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Programming mediated by fatty acids affects uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1) in brown adipose tissue. Br J Nutr 2019; 120:619-627. [PMID: 30176958 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114518001629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Brown adipose tissue (BAT) has recently been given more attention for the part it plays in obesity. BAT can generate great amounts of heat through thermogenesis by the activation of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1), which can be regulated by many environmental factors such as diet. Moreover, the build-up of BAT relates to maternal nutritional changes during pregnancy and lactation. However, at present, there is a limited number of studies looking at maternal nutrition and BAT development, and it seems that the research trend in this field has been considerably declining since the 1980s. There is much to discover yet about the role of different fatty acids on the development of BAT and the activation of UCP-1 during the fetal and the postnatal periods of life. A better understanding of the impact of nutritional intervention on the epigenetic regulation of BAT could lead to new preventive care for metabolic diseases such as obesity. It is important to know in which circumstances lipids could programme BAT during pregnancy and lactation. The modification of maternal dietary fatty acids, amount and composition, during pregnancy and lactation might be a promising strategy for the prevention of obesity in the offspring and future generations.
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Kasture V, Dalvi S, Swamy M, Kale A, Joshi S. Omega-3 fatty acids differentially influences embryotoxicity in subtypes of preeclampsia. Clin Exp Hypertens 2019; 42:205-212. [PMID: 30964712 DOI: 10.1080/10641963.2019.1601208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background: Early (EOP) and late onset (LOP) preeclampsia are two subtypes of preeclampsia. This study examines the effect of maternal omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E supplementation in a rat model of preeclampsia.Method: Pregnant Wistar rats were assigned to control; EOP; LOP; EOP+omega-3 fatty acid supplementation+vitamin E and LOP+omega-3 fatty acid supplementation+vitamin E. L-Nitroarginine methylester was used to induce preeclampsia. Blood Pressure (BP) was recorded during pregnancy and dams were dissected at d14 and d20 of gestation.Results: Animals from EOP and LOP groups demonstrated higher systolic and diastolic BP, lower weight gain, lower conceptuses size, lower conceptuses weight and fetal weight as compared to control. EOP and LOP groups showed higher percentage of fetal resorptions and embryotoxicity (deformities and hematomas).Conclusion: Supplementation reduced the diastolic BP, percentage of resorptions and embryotoxicity only in the LOP group, suggesting a need for differential supplementation regime for the two subtypes of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishali Kasture
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India
| | - Surabhi Dalvi
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India
| | - Mayur Swamy
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India
| | - Anvita Kale
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India
| | - Sadhana Joshi
- Department of Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, India
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23
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Sirohi VK, Gupta K, Kapoor R, Dwivedi A. MicroRNA-145 targets Smad1 in endometrial stromal cells and regulates decidualization in rat. J Mol Med (Berl) 2019; 97:509-522. [PMID: 30729278 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-019-01744-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Decidualization of endometrial stromal cells is the pre-requisite for the embryo implantation and establishment of pregnancy. Although known to be regulated by several factors, the process of regulation of decidualization by miRNAs is largely unknown. Previous reports suggest that the upregulated expression of miR-145 is associated with repeated implantation failure. The current study was aimed to identify and validate the role of miR-145 in regulating stromal cell decidualization and the mechanism involved therein. Expression of miR-145 was found to be downregulated during the decidualization period of early pregnancy and also in artificially induced decidualization in rat uterus. During in vitro decidualization in rat endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), the overexpression of mimic miR-145 attenuated the progression of decidualization. Biochemical marker alkaline phosphatase and protein markers (insulin-like growth factor binding protein, cyclin D3) were also suppressed in miR-145 mimic-transfected cells as compared to normal decidualized cells. Bioinformatic analysis and luciferase reporter assay confirmed that Smad1 is the direct target of miR-145. Differentiation of ESCs was inhibited in miR-145 mimic-transfected cells which occurred via downregulating the target Smad1 along with its downstream p-Smad1/5/8 and Wnt-4. Pre-treatment of ESCs with Smad1 siRNA resulted in downregulated expression of p-Smad1/5/8, Wnt-4, Cox-2, and VEGF. In addition, miR-145 overexpression resulted in the loss of angiogenic factors Cox-2, MMP-9, and VEGF, indicating suppression of the process of angiogenesis. Migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells was also attenuated in the presence of conditioned media obtained from miR-145-transfected decidualizing cells. In conclusion, the study demonstrated the role of miR-145 in regulation of progression of decidualization which is mediated through inhibition of Smad1. KEY MESSAGES: MiR-145 expression is downregulated during decidualization in the rat uterus. Overexpression of miR-145 inhibited the decidualization progression. MiR-145 suppressed the migration and invasion of HUVECs. MiR-145 downregulated Smad1 which suppresses Smad1/5/8, Wnt-4, MMP-9, Cox-2, and VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Sirohi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute
- , Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
| | - Kanchan Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute
- , Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
| | - Radhika Kapoor
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute
- , Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
| | - Anila Dwivedi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute
- , Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India.
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24
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Li ZH, Wang LL, Liu H, Muyayalo KP, Huang XB, Mor G, Liao AH. Galectin-9 Alleviates LPS-Induced Preeclampsia-Like Impairment in Rats via Switching Decidual Macrophage Polarization to M2 Subtype. Front Immunol 2019; 9:3142. [PMID: 30687334 PMCID: PMC6335255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction of decidual macrophages (DMs) is considered a critical event in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia (PE). T cell immunoglobulin mucin 3 (Tim-3) is an important negative regulatory molecule that induces immune tolerance by interacting with its ligand Galectin-9 (Gal-9) and thus modulating function of various immune cells, including macrophages. However, the regulatory effects of Tim-3/Gal-9 signaling on DMs polarization and its role in PE remain unclear. In this study, we established a PE-like rat model by administering 1.0 μg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to normal pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats via the tail vein at embryonic day 5 (E5). Apart from the pre-eclamptic manifestations, increased M1 subtype and decreased M2 subtype were observed at the maternal-fetal interface, as well as increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) and reduced anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β and IL-10). Moreover, the expression of Tim-3 in DMs and that of Gal-9 at the maternal-fetal interface were reduced. After administration of recombinant Galectin-9 (rGal-9) protein, we found that liver and renal injuries and maternofetal placental functional deficiency, including inadequate trophoblast cells invasion, impaired spiral artery remodeling and fetal capillary development, were reversed. In addition, the polarization of DMs was inclined to M2 subtype, which was similar to the polarization of DMs in the control rats but contrary to the PE-like rats. Interestingly, at E9, the expression of Tim-3 in DMs and that of Gal-9 at the maternal-fetal interface were significantly increased in the rGal-9 protein intervention group. Taken together, our findings show that administration of rGal-9 protein can alleviate the PE-like rat manifestations induced by LPS. This finding may be related to the activation of the Tim-3/Gal-9 signaling pathway, which promotes DMs polarization dominantly shifting to M2 subtype. Moreover, upregulation of Tim-3 in DMs and Gal-9 at the maternal-fetal interface at E9 suggests that Tim-3/Gal-9 pathway may play some important roles in early pregnancy and even embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Hui Li
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li-Ling Wang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kahinho P Muyayalo
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Huang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gil Mor
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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25
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Borges M, Magalhães Silva T, Brito C, Teixeira N, Roberts CW. How does toxoplasmosis affect the maternal-foetal immune interface and pregnancy? Parasite Immunol 2018; 41:e12606. [PMID: 30471137 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite which, depending on the geographical location, can infect between 10% and 90% of humans. Infection during pregnancy may result in congenital toxoplasmosis. The effects on the foetus vary depending on the stage of gestation in which primary maternal infection arises. A large body of research has focused on understanding immune response to toxoplasmosis, although few studies have addressed how it is affected by pregnancy or the pathological consequences of infection at the maternal-foetal interface. There is a lack of knowledge about how maternal immune cells, specifically macrophages, are modulated during infection and the resulting consequences for parasite control and pathology. Herein, we discuss the potential of T. gondii infection to affect the maternal-foetal interface and the potential of pregnancy to disrupt maternal immunity to T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Borges
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Tânia Magalhães Silva
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carina Brito
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Craig W Roberts
- Strathclyde Institute for Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
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26
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Howard WR, Wong B, Yeager KSB, Stump DG, Edwards T, Arden James R, Goodwin MR, Gargas ML. Submarine exposure guideline recommendations for carbon dioxide based on the prenatal developmental effects of exposure in rats. Birth Defects Res 2018; 111:26-33. [PMID: 30511437 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To protect crewmember health, the U.S. Navy sets exposure limits for more than 200 components of submarine atmospheres. The addition of females to nuclear submarines required a reevaluation of these exposure limits, originally established for all-male crews. In the case of carbon dioxide (CO2 ), the only available data suitable for deriving an exposure limit were from a 2010 study sponsored by the British Royal Navy that reported a debatable interpretation casting doubt on whether current U.S. Navy exposure limits served to protect fetal developmental health. METHODS About 120 time-mated female Sprague-Dawley rats (Crl: CD[SD]) were exposed to CO2 at levels of 1.5%, 2.0%, 2.5%, and 3.0% from gestation days 6 to 20. Dams were euthanized and fetuses were examined. RESULTS Findings with implications for exposure limits for CO2 during pregnancy were an increased mean litter proportion of early resorptions and a lower mean litter proportion of viable fetuses in the 3.0% CO2 group. CONCLUSION The results yield a No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 2.5% and a Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level (LOAEL) of 3.0%. The results reasonably allow a point of departure of 2.5% CO2 for deriving an exposure recommendation. An interspecies uncertainty factor was applied to derive a recommended 90-day continuous exposure limit (CEL) of 0.8% for CO2 . As reproductive endpoints that are developmental in nature must be assumed to result from a single exposure at a critical point during gestation, it is further recommended that the 24-hr emergency exposure limit (EEL) also be 0.8%.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Howard
- Naval Medical Research Unit Dayton, Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Brian Wong
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
| | | | | | | | - Richard Arden James
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Michelle R Goodwin
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Michael L Gargas
- Naval Medical Research Unit Dayton, Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio
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27
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Nuzzo AM, Camm EJ, Sferruzzi-Perri AN, Ashmore TJ, Yung HW, Cindrova-Davies T, Spiroski AM, Sutherland MR, Logan A, Austin-Williams S, Burton GJ, Rolfo A, Todros T, Murphy MP, Giussani DA. Placental Adaptation to Early-Onset Hypoxic Pregnancy and Mitochondria-Targeted Antioxidant Therapy in a Rodent Model. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2018; 188:2704-2716. [PMID: 30248337 PMCID: PMC6284551 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2018.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The placenta responds to adverse environmental conditions by adapting its capacity for substrate transfer to maintain fetal growth and development. Early-onset hypoxia effects on placental morphology and activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) were determined using an established rat model in which fetal growth restriction is minimized. We further established whether maternal treatment with a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant (MitoQ) confers protection during hypoxic pregnancy. Wistar dams were exposed to normoxia (21% O2) or hypoxia (13% to 14% O2) from days 6 to 20 of pregnancy with and without MitoQ treatment (500 μmol/L in drinking water). On day 20, animals were euthanized and weighed, and the placentas from male fetuses were processed for stereology to assess morphology. UPR activation in additional cohorts of frozen placentas was determined with Western blot analysis. Neither hypoxic pregnancy nor MitoQ treatment affected fetal growth. Hypoxia increased placental volume and the fetal capillary surface area and induced mitochondrial stress as well as the UPR, as evidenced by glucose-regulated protein 78 and activating transcription factor (ATF) 4 protein up-regulation. MitoQ treatment in hypoxic pregnancy increased placental maternal blood space surface area and volume and prevented the activation of mitochondrial stress and the ATF4 pathway. The data suggest that mitochondria-targeted antioxidants may be beneficial in complicated pregnancy via mechanisms protecting against placental stress and enhancing placental perfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Nuzzo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Emily J Camm
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas J Ashmore
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hong-Wa Yung
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Tereza Cindrova-Davies
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ana-Mishel Spiroski
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Megan R Sutherland
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Logan
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Shani Austin-Williams
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Graham J Burton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandro Rolfo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Tullia Todros
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Michael P Murphy
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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28
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Loch-Caruso R, Hassan I, Harris SM, Kumar A, Bjork F, Lash LH. Trichloroethylene exposure in mid-pregnancy decreased fetal weight and increased placental markers of oxidative stress in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 83:38-45. [PMID: 30468822 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Although epidemiology studies have associated maternal trichloroethylene (TCE) exposure with decreased birth weight and preterm birth, mechanistic explanations for these associations are currently lacking. We hypothesized that TCE targets the placenta with adverse consequences for pregnancy outcomes. Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed orally to vehicle or 480 mg TCE/kg body weight from gestational days (gd) 6-16, and tissues were collected on gd 16. Exposure to TCE significantly decreased average fetal weight without reducing maternal weight. In placenta, TCE significantly increased 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine, global 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, and mRNA expression of Tet3, which codes for an enzyme involved in 5-hydroxymethylcytosine formation. Furthermore, glutathione S-transferase activity and immunohistochemical staining were increased in placentas of TCE-exposed rats. The present study provides the first evidence that TCE increases markers of oxidative stress in placenta in a fetal growth restriction rat model, providing new insight into the placenta as a potentially relevant target for TCE-induced adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Loch-Caruso
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Iman Hassan
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Sean M Harris
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Anjana Kumar
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Faith Bjork
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Lawrence H Lash
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 540 East Canfield Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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29
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de Sousa WR, Lourenço BHLB, Reis MDP, Donadel G, Marques MAA, Cardozo Junior EL, Jacomassi E, Belettini ST, Lívero FADR, Gasparotto Junior A, Lourenço ELB. Evaluation of Reproductive Toxicology of Aqueous Extract of Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.), a Traditional South American Beverage. J Med Food 2018; 22:97-101. [PMID: 30335566 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2018.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.; Aquifoliaceae) is a popular tonic and stimulant beverage that is widely consumed in different South American countries. Estimates indicate the consumption of >1 L per day in southern Brazil and Uruguay. Despite its relatively high consumption, data on reproductive toxicity during critical periods of gestation remain unclear. Thus, we evaluated the effects of an aqueous extract of I. paraguariensis leaves ("chimarrão" [IPC]) at two critical periods of gestation in Wistar rats: preimplantation embryonic stage and fetal organogenesis. Pregnant Wistar rats were orally treated with IPC (3, 30, and 300 mg/kg) from days 1 to 7 or 8 to 21 of pregnancy. The respective control groups received vehicle. During treatment, clinical signs of maternal toxicity, maternal body weight, and food and water intake were monitored. The rats were killed on days 8 and 20 of pregnancy, and the following parameters were evaluated: weight of the maternal uterus, weight of the liver, weight of the kidneys, weight of the spleen, total embryo implantation, preimplantation loss, the mean of live fetuses, the percentage of dead fetuses, fetus weight, and fetal malformation. The aqueous extract of the leaves of I. paraguariensis L. did not present any deleterious effects on preimplantation embryos or the organogenesis of offspring from female Wistar rats. These safety data provide evidence that IPC may be safe for consumption during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michelle de Paula Reis
- 1 Laboratory of Natural Products Research, Paranaense University, Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Donadel
- 1 Laboratory of Natural Products Research, Paranaense University, Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ezilda Jacomassi
- 1 Laboratory of Natural Products Research, Paranaense University, Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil
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30
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Charest PL, Vrolyk V, Herst P, Lessard M, Sloboda DM, Dalvai M, Haruna J, Bailey JL, Benoit-Biancamano MO. Histomorphologic Analysis of the Late-term Rat Fetus and Placenta. Toxicol Pathol 2018; 46:158-168. [PMID: 29400254 DOI: 10.1177/0192623318755135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Histological examination of the rat placenta and fetus is uncommon. Toxicological studies mainly rely on gross examination of the fetus and on fetal and placental weights. These are often insufficient to assess the fetal and placental toxicity of xenobiotics. The small size of the fetus makes its dissection labor-intensive. Thus, our objective was to develop a simple and accurate technique to evaluate the rat fetus and placenta. Sprague-Dawley rat fetuses at gestational day 19.5 ( n = 18) and their placentas ( n = 32) were fixed in formalin. Placentas were cut transversally in the center. Fetuses were cut following a freehand whole-body serial sectioning diagram adapted from Wilson's method. Sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin-phloxine-saffron, and histomorphometry was used to measure the area of the fetal placental region (27.2 ± 1.7 mm2), including the labyrinth (22.2 ± 1.0 mm2) and the basal zone (4.8 ± 0.8 mm2). Our whole-fetus serial sectioning technique resulted in 12 precise cutting planes that fit on 3 histological slides, enabling the examination of most organs without labor-intensive dissection. Quantitative analysis of placental areas improves the understanding of the pathogenesis of treatment-related changes. This technique provides a standardized method for future research in pertinent fields such as developmental biology and toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phanie L Charest
- 1 Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Vanessa Vrolyk
- 2 Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pauline Herst
- 1 Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Maryse Lessard
- 1 Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Deborah M Sloboda
- 3 Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mathieu Dalvai
- 1 Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Janice L Bailey
- 1 Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Odile Benoit-Biancamano
- 2 Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
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Aydemir I, Özkut M, Fırat F, Gümürüdü A, Sal D, Erdoğan K, Göker A, Tuğlu M. Effects of stem cells applications on oxidative stress and apoptosis during implantation. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2018. [DOI: 10.4103/2305-0500.241207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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32
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Wu DM, Ma LP, Song GL, Long Y, Liu HX, Liu Y, Ping J. Steroidogenic factor-1 hypermethylation in maternal rat blood could serve as a biomarker for intrauterine growth retardation. Oncotarget 2017; 8:96139-96153. [PMID: 29221193 PMCID: PMC5707087 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) is a common obstetric complication lacking an optimal method for prenatal screening. DNA methylation profile in maternal blood holds significant promise for prenatal screening. Here, we aimed to screen out potential IUGR biomarkers in maternal blood from the perspective of DNA methylation. The IUGR rat model was established by prenatal maternal undernutrition. High-throughput bisulfite sequencing of genomic DNA methylation followed by functional clustering analysis for differentially methylated region (DMR)-associated genes demonstrated that genes regulating transcription had the most significantly changed DNA methylation status in maternal blood with IUGR. Genes about apoptosis and placental development were also changed. Besides increased placental apoptosis, IUGR rats demonstrated the same hypermethylated CpG sites of steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1, a DMR-associated transcription factor about placenta) promoter in maternal blood and placentae. Further, ff1b, the SF-1 ortholog, was knocked out in zebrafish by CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The knock-out zebrafish demonstrated developmental inhibition and increased IUGR rates, which confirmed the role of SF-1 in IUGR development. Finally, hypermethylated SF-1 was observed in human maternal blood of IUGR. This study firstly presented distinct DNA methylation profile in maternal blood of IUGR and showed hypermethylated SF-1 could be a potential IUGR biomarker in maternal rat blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Mei Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Liang-Peng Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan 430022, Hubei, China
| | - Gui-Li Song
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Conservation of Aquatic Organism, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yong Long
- Key Laboratory of Biodiversity and Conservation of Aquatic Organism, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Han-Xiao Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Jie Ping
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
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33
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Correa F, Wolfson ML, Valchi P, Aisemberg J, Franchi AM. Endocannabinoid system and pregnancy. Reproduction 2017; 152:R191-R200. [PMID: 27798285 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (eCS), is a complex system, comprising the main endogenous ligands anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 and the biosynthetic and degrading enzymes. Cumulative evidence shows that the eCS plays an important role in reproduction, from egg fertilization to parturition. Therefore, alterations in this system, either by recreation/therapeutic use of cannabis or deregulation of the endogenous cannabinoids, might lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including retardation in embryo development, poor blastocyst implantation, inhibition of decidualization, miscarriage and compromised placentation. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms by which the eCS participates in different stages of pregnancy remain poorly understood. In this review, we will examine the evidence from animal and human studies to support the role of the eCS in implantation, early-to-late pregnancy and placentation as well as the difficulties of targeting this system for treatment of female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Correa
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Manuel L Wolfson
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula Valchi
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julieta Aisemberg
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana María Franchi
- Center for Pharmacological and Botanical StudiesNational Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Ingaramo PI, Varayoud J, Milesi MM, Guerrero Schimpf M, Alarcón R, Muñoz-de-Toro M, Luque EH. Neonatal exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide alters uterine decidualization in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 73:87-95. [PMID: 28780397 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether defective modulation of uterine signaling may cause decidualization failure in rats neonatally exposed to a glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH). Female pups received vehicle or 2mg/kg of GBH from postnatal day (PND) 1 to PND7. On PND8 and PND21, Wnt5a and β-catenin expression was evaluated in uterine samples. On gestational day (GD) 9, Wnt5a, Wnt7a and β-catenin expression and Dkk1 and sFRP4 mRNA were evaluated on implantation sites. On PND8, GBH-exposed rats showed increased Wnt5a and β-catenin expression in luminal epithelium (LE), whereas on PND21, they showed increased Wnt5a and β-catenin expression in subepithelial stroma but decreased β-catenin expression in glandular epithelium. On GD9, GBH-exposed rats showed decreased Wnt5a and Wnt7a expression in the antimesometrial zone and LE respectively, without changes in β-catenin expression, while Dkk1 and sFRP4 were up- and down-regulated respectively. We concluded that neonatal GBH exposure may lead to embryo losses by disturbing uterine signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola I Ingaramo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María M Milesi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Marlise Guerrero Schimpf
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Ramiro Alarcón
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mónica Muñoz-de-Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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35
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Alan E, Liman N. Toll-like receptor expression patterns in the rat uterus during post partum involution. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 30:330-348. [PMID: 28701256 DOI: 10.1071/rd16431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) belong to a family of pathogen recognition receptors and play critical roles in detecting and responding to invading pathogens. TLR expression could be significant because, in the uterus, the reproductive tract is an important site of exposure to and infection by pathogens during the post partum involution period. To clarify the expression and localisation patterns of TLRs in the rat uterus on Days 1, 3, 5 and 10 post partum (PP1, PP3, PP5 and PP10 respectively), immunohistochemistry and western blotting were used to analyse TLR1-7, TLR9 and TLR10. The immunohistochemistry results indicated that TLR1-7, TLR9 and TLR10 were localised in both the cytoplasm and nuclei of luminal and glandular epithelium, stromal fibroblasts and myometrial cells in the rat uterus. In the luminal epithelium, TLR4-7 were also found in lateral membranes, whereas TLR10 was present in apical membranes. Western blot analysis revealed that the expression of TLR proteins increased with the number of days post partum, reaching a maximum on PP10, although levels did not differ significantly from those on PP1 (P>0.05). These findings confirm that TLR1-7, TLR9 and TLR10 are constitutively expressed in uterine cells and that localisation pattern of TLRs in the endometrium varies with structural changes in the uterus on different days of involution. These results suggest that TLRs may play a role in uterine repair and remodelling during physiological involution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Alan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Turkey
| | - Narin Liman
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Turkey
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36
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Banu SK, Stanley JA, Sivakumar KK, Taylor RJ, Arosh JA, Burghardt RC. Editor's Highlight: Exposure to CrVI during Early Pregnancy Increases Oxidative Stress and Disrupts the Expression of Antioxidant Proteins in Placental Compartments. Toxicol Sci 2017; 155:497-511. [PMID: 28077780 PMCID: PMC5291216 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies document relationships between chromium VI (CrVI) exposure and increased risk of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, preterm birth, and neonatal death in pregnant women. Environmental contamination with CrVI is a growing problem both in the United States and developing countries. CrVI is widely used in numerous industries. This study was designed to understand the mechanism of CrVI toxicity on placental oxidative stress and antioxidant (AOX) machinery. Pregnant mother rats were treated with or without CrVI (50 ppm K2Cr2O7) through drinking water from gestational day (GD) 9.5-14.5, and placentas were analyzed on GD 18.5. Results indicated that CrVI reduced the trophoblast cell population. CrVI increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased the expression of AOX proteins. CrVI disrupts the trophoblast proliferation of the placenta. This study provides insight into the critical role of AOXs in placental function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakhila K Banu
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Mail stop TAMU 4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
| | - Jone A Stanley
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Mail stop TAMU 4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
| | - Kirthiram K Sivakumar
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Mail stop TAMU 4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
| | - Robert J Taylor
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Mail stop TAMU 4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
| | - Joe A Arosh
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Mail stop TAMU 4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
| | - Robert C Burghardt
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Mail stop TAMU 4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
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37
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Mourier E, Tarrade A, Duan J, Richard C, Bertholdt C, Beaumont M, Morel O, Chavatte-Palmer P. Non-invasive evaluation of placental blood flow: lessons from animal models. Reproduction 2016; 153:R85-R96. [PMID: 27845691 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In human obstetrics, placental vascularisation impairment is frequent as well as linked to severe pathological events (preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction), and there is a need for reliable methods allowing non-invasive evaluation of placental blood flow. Uteroplacental vascularisation is complex, and animal models are essential for the technical development and safety assessment of these imaging tools for human clinical use; however, these techniques can also be applied in the veterinary context. This paper reviews how ultrasound-based imaging methods such as 2D and 3D Doppler can provide valuable insight for the exploration of placental blood flow both in humans and animals and how new approaches such as the use of ultrasound contrast agents or ultrafast Doppler may allow to discriminate between maternal (non-pulsatile) and foetal (pulsatile) blood flow in the placenta. Finally, functional magnetic resonance imaging could also be used to evaluate placental blood flow, as indicated by studies in animal models, but its safety in human pregnancy still requires to be confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mourier
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France .,PremUp FoundationParis, France
| | - A Tarrade
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France.,PremUp FoundationParis, France
| | - J Duan
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - C Richard
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France.,PremUp FoundationParis, France
| | - C Bertholdt
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - M Beaumont
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - O Morel
- IADIInserm U947, University of Lorraine, CHRU of Brabois, Nancy, France.,CHRU of Nancypole de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Nancy, France
| | - P Chavatte-Palmer
- UMR BDRINRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France.,PremUp FoundationParis, France
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38
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Ingaramo PI, Varayoud J, Milesi MM, Schimpf MG, Muñoz-de-Toro M, Luque EH. Effects of neonatal exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide on female rat reproduction. Reproduction 2016; 152:403-15. [PMID: 27486271 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated whether neonatal exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH) alters the reproductive performance and the molecular mechanisms involved in the decidualization process in adult rats. Newborn female rats received vehicle or 2 mg/kg/day of a GBH on postnatal days (PND) 1, 3, 5 and 7. On PND90, the rats were mated to evaluate (i) the reproductive performance on gestational day (GD) 19 and (ii) the ovarian steroid levels, uterine morphology, endometrial cell proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle regulators, and endocrine pathways that regulate uterine decidualization (steroid receptors/COUP-TFII/Bmp2/Hoxa10) at the implantation sites (IS) on GD9. The GBH-exposed group showed a significant increase in the number of resorption sites on GD19, associated with an altered decidualization response. In fact, on GD9, the GBH-treated rats showed morphological changes at the IS, associated with a decreased expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors, a downregulation of COUP-TFII (Nr2f2) and Bmp2 mRNA and an increased expression of HOXA10 and the proliferation marker Ki67(Mki67) at the IS. We concluded that alterations in endometrial decidualization might be the mechanism of GBH-induced post-implantation embryo loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola I Ingaramo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL)Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL)Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María M Milesi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL)Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Marlise Guerrero Schimpf
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL)Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mónica Muñoz-de-Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL)Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL)Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Santa Fe, Argentina
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Chromium VI - Induced developmental toxicity of placenta is mediated through spatiotemporal dysregulation of cell survival and apoptotic proteins. Reprod Toxicol 2016; 68:171-190. [PMID: 27443218 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Environmental contamination with hexavalent chromium (CrVI) is a growing problem both in the U.S and developing countries. CrVI is a heavy-metal endocrine disruptor; women working in Cr industries exhibit an increased incidence of premature abortion and infertility. The current study was designed to understand the mechanism of CrVI toxicity on placental cell survival/death pathways. Pregnant mothers were treated with or without CrVI (50ppmK2Cr2O7) through drinking water from gestational day (GD) 9.5-14.5, and placentas were analyzed on GD 18.5. Results indicated that CrVI increased apoptosis of trophoblasts, vascular endothelium of the metrial glands and yolk sac epithelium through caspase-3 and p53-dependent pathways. CrVI increased apoptosis in labyrinth and basal zones in a caspase-3-independent manner via AIF, and through an ATM-p53-NOXA-PUMA-p27 network. CrVI downregulated cell survival proteins Bcl-2, Bcl-XL and XIAP in the placenta. CrVI disrupts placental histoarchitecture and increases cell death by spatiotemporal modulation of apoptotic signaling.
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40
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Leikin-Frenkel AI. Is there A Role for Alpha-Linolenic Acid in the Fetal Programming of Health? J Clin Med 2016; 5:jcm5040040. [PMID: 27023621 PMCID: PMC4850463 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5040040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of ω3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA) in the maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation, and its effect on the prevention of disease and programming of health in offspring, is largely unknown. Compared to ALA, ω3 docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acids have been more widely researched due to their direct implication in fetal neural development. In this literature search we found that ALA, the essential ω3 fatty acid and metabolic precursor of DHA and EPA has been, paradoxically, almost unexplored. In light of new and evolving findings, this review proposes that ALA may have an intrinsic role, beyond the role as metabolic parent of DHA and EPA, during fetal development as a regulator of gene programming for the prevention of metabolic disease and promotion of health in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia I Leikin-Frenkel
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
- Bert Strassburger Lipid Center, Sheba, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan 52621, Israel.
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41
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Wong MK, Holloway AC, Hardy DB. Nicotine Directly Induces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Response in Rat Placental Trophoblast Giant Cells. Toxicol Sci 2016; 151:23-34. [PMID: 26803847 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotine exposure during pregnancy leads to placental insufficiency impairing both fetal and neonatal development. Previous studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that in rats, nicotine augmented endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in association with placental insufficiency; however, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Therefore, we sought to investigate the possible direct effect of nicotine on ER stress in Rcho-1 rat placental trophoblast giant (TG) cells during differentiation. Protein and/or mRNA expression of markers involved in ER stress (eg, phosphorylated PERK, eIF2α, CHOP, and BiP/GRP78) and TG cell differentiation and function (eg, Pl-1, placental growth factor [Pgf], Hsd11b1, and Hsd11b2) were quantified via Western blot or real-time polymerase chain reaction. Nicotine treatment led to dose-dependent increases in the phosphorylation of PERK[Thr981] and eIF2α[Ser51], whereas pretreatment with a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonist (mecamylamine hydrochloride) blocked the induction of PERK phosphorylation, verifying the direct involvement of nicotine and nAChR binding. We next investigated select target genes known to play essential roles in placental TG cell differentiation and function (Pl-1, Pgf, Hsd11b1, and Hsd11b2), and found that nicotine significantly augmented the mRNA levels of Hsd11b1 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, using tauroursodeoxycholic acid, a safe bile acid known to improve protein chaperoning and folding, we were able to prevent nicotine-induced increases in both PERK phosphorylation and Hsd11b1 mRNA levels, revealing a potential novel therapeutic approach to reverse the deleterious effects of nicotine exposure in pregnancy. Collectively, these results implicate that nicotine, acting through its receptor, can directly augment ER stress and impair placental function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Wong
- *Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5C1
| | - Alison C Holloway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8S 4K1
| | - Daniel B Hardy
- *Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5C1 Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson, Health Research Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5C1
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42
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Jahan-Mihan A, Rodriguez J, Christie C, Sadeghi M, Zerbe T. The Role of Maternal Dietary Proteins in Development of Metabolic Syndrome in Offspring. Nutrients 2015; 7:9185-217. [PMID: 26561832 PMCID: PMC4663588 DOI: 10.3390/nu7115460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of metabolic syndrome and obesity has been increasing. Pre-natal environment has been suggested as a factor influencing the risk of metabolic syndrome in adulthood. Both observational and experimental studies showed that maternal diet is a major modifier of the development of regulatory systems in the offspring in utero and post-natally. Both protein content and source in maternal diet influence pre- and early post-natal development. High and low protein dams’ diets have detrimental effect on body weight, blood pressure191 and metabolic and intake regulatory systems in the offspring. Moreover, the role of the source of protein in a nutritionally adequate maternal diet in programming of food intake regulatory system, body weight, glucose metabolism and blood pressure in offspring is studied. However, underlying mechanisms are still elusive. The purpose of this review is to examine the current literature related to the role of proteins in maternal diets in development of characteristics of the metabolic syndrome in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Jahan-Mihan
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Brook College of Health, University of North Florida, UNF Dr. Bldg 39, Room 3057A, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
| | - Judith Rodriguez
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Brook College of Health, University of North Florida, UNF Dr. Bldg 39, Room 3057A, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
| | - Catherine Christie
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Brook College of Health, University of North Florida, UNF Dr. Bldg 39, Room 3057A, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
| | - Marjan Sadeghi
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Brook College of Health, University of North Florida, UNF Dr. Bldg 39, Room 3057A, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
| | - Tara Zerbe
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Brook College of Health, University of North Florida, UNF Dr. Bldg 39, Room 3057A, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.
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43
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James J, Tun W, Clark A. Quantifying trophoblast migration: In vitro approaches to address in vivo situations. Cell Adh Migr 2015; 10:77-87. [PMID: 26479000 DOI: 10.1080/19336918.2015.1083667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
When trophoblasts migrate and invade in vivo, they do so by interacting with a range of other cell types, extracellular matrix proteins, chemotactic factors and physical forces such as fluid shear stress. These factors combine to influence overall trophoblast migration and invasion into the decidua, which in turn determines the success of spiral artery remodelling, and pregnancy itself. Our understanding of these important but complex processes is limited by the simplified conditions in which we often study cell migration in vitro, and many discrepancies are observed between different in vitro models in the literature. On top of these experimental considerations, the migration of individual trophoblasts can vary widely. While time-lapse microscopy provides a wealth of information on trophoblast migration, manual tracking of individual cell migration is a time consuming task that ultimately restricts the numbers of cells quantified, and thus the ability to extract meaningful information from the data. However, the development of automated imaging algorithms is likely to aid our ability to accurately interpret trophoblast migration in vitro, and better allow us to relate these observations to in vivo scenarios. This commentary discusses the advantages and disadvantages of techniques commonly used to quantify trophoblast migration and invasion, both from a cell biology and a mathematical perspective, and examines how such techniques could be improved to help us relate trophoblast migration more accurately to in vivo function in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna James
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Win Tun
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand.,b Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Alys Clark
- b Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
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Almada M, Piscitelli F, Fonseca BM, Di Marzo V, Correia-da-Silva G, Teixeira N. Anandamide and decidual remodelling: COX-2 oxidative metabolism as a key regulator. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2015; 1851:1473-81. [PMID: 26335727 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2015.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Recently, endocannabinoids have emerged as signalling mediators in reproduction. It is widely accepted that anandamide (AEA) levels must be tightly regulated, and that a disturbance in AEA levels may impact decidual stability and regression. We have previously characterized the endocannabinoid machinery in rat decidual tissue and reported the pro-apoptotic action of AEA on rat decidual cells. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is an inducible enzyme that plays a crucial role in early pregnancy, and is also a key modulator in the crosstalk between endocannabinoids and prostaglandins. On the other hand, AEA-oxidative metabolism by COX-2 is not merely a mean to inactivate its action, but it yields the formation of a new class of mediators, named prostaglandin-ethanolamides, or prostamides. In this study we found that AEA-induced apoptosis in decidual cells involves COX-2 metabolic pathway. AEA induced COX-2 expression through p38 MAPK, resulting in the formation of prostamide E2 (PME2). Our findings also suggest that AEA-induced effect is associated with NF-kB activation. Finally, we describe the involvement of PME2 in the induction of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in rat decidual cells. Altogether, our findings highlight the role of COX-2 as a gatekeeper in the uterine environment and clarify the impact of the deregulation of AEA levels on the decidual remodelling process.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Almada
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - F Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - B M Fonseca
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - V Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy
| | - G Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - N Teixeira
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
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Fonseca BM, Correia-da-Silva G, Teixeira NA. Anandamide restricts uterine stromal differentiation and is critical for complete decidualization. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 411:167-76. [PMID: 25960165 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The major endocannabinoid, anandamide (AEA), is widely distributed in the body, especially in the reproductive tissues, where it is implicated in early pregnancy events, particularly during implantation period. Although AEA is synthesized in decidual cells and showed to induce apoptosis through CB1 receptor, its roles in decidualization remain to be elucidated. This study examined the effect of AEA in the progression of decidualization both in vitro and in vivo and explored the involvement of COX-2 in its action. To determine the function of AEA during this differentiation process, we employed a primary culture system in which undifferentiated stromal cells isolated from pregnant rat uterus undergo decidualization. AEA treatment markedly interfered with the differentiation program, as revealed by α2-macroglobulin (α2-MG) expression and alkaline phosphatase activity. Additionally, it was evaluated the effects of AEA in decidual establishment in the pseudopregnant rat model. The abundance of AEA in the uterine lumen disrupted the decidualization process accompanied by a decreased expression of COX-2 and VEGF. It was also observed that uterine lumen, which failed the progression of decidualization in response to AEA, also presented lower expression of NAPE-PLD and FAAH. Thus, the mechanisms by which AEA inhibits decidualization can be either via direct actions on stromal cell differentiation within the reproductive tract system or by the inhibition of COX-2 derived products and, consequently, the vascular remodeling required to proper decidualization. In addition, the previous observations showing that higher AEA levels in pre-implantation sites are hostile to blastocyst survival may result from problems in decidual cell reaction more than with implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Fonseca
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - G Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - N A Teixeira
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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Marraccini ME, Gorman KS. Exploring Placentophagy in Humans: Problems and Recommendations. J Midwifery Womens Health 2015; 60:371-9. [DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.12309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Yamaleyeva LM, Pulgar VM, Lindsey SH, Yamane L, Varagic J, McGee C, daSilva M, Lopes Bonfa P, Gurley SB, Brosnihan KB. Uterine artery dysfunction in pregnant ACE2 knockout mice is associated with placental hypoxia and reduced umbilical blood flow velocity. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2015; 309:E84-94. [PMID: 25968580 PMCID: PMC4490333 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00596.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) knockout is associated with reduced fetal weight at late gestation; however, whether uteroplacental vascular and/or hemodynamic disturbances underlie this growth-restricted phenotype is unknown. Uterine artery reactivity and flow velocities, umbilical flow velocities, trophoblast invasion, and placental hypoxia were determined in ACE2 knockout (KO) and C57Bl/6 wild-type (WT) mice at day 14 of gestation. Although systolic blood pressure was higher in pregnant ACE2 KO vs. WT mice (102.3 ± 5.1 vs. 85.1 ± 1.9 mmHg, n = 5-6), the magnitude of difference was similar to that observed in nonpregnant ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. Maternal urinary protein excretion, serum creatinine, and kidney or heart weights were not different in ACE2 KO vs. WT. Fetal weight and pup-to-placental weight ratio were lower in ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. A higher sensitivity to Ang II [pD2 8.64 ± 0.04 vs. 8.5 ± 0.03 (-log EC50)] and greater maximal contraction to phenylephrine (169.0 ± 9.0 vs. 139.0 ± 7.0% KMAX), were associated with lower immunostaining for Ang II receptor 2 and fibrinoid content of the uterine artery in ACE2 KO mice. Uterine artery flow velocities and trophoblast invasion were similar between study groups. In contrast, umbilical artery peak systolic velocities (60.2 ± 4.5 vs. 75.1 ± 4.5 mm/s) and the resistance index measured using VEVO 2100 ultrasound were lower in the ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. Immunostaining for pimonidazole, a marker of hypoxia, and hypoxia-inducible factor-2α were higher in the trophospongium and placental labyrinth of the ACE2 KO vs. WT. In summary, placental hypoxia and uterine artery dysfunction develop before major growth of the fetus occurs and may explain the fetal growth restricted phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliya M Yamaleyeva
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina;
| | - Victor M Pulgar
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sarah H Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana; and
| | - Larissa Yamane
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Jasmina Varagic
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Carolynne McGee
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Mauro daSilva
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Paula Lopes Bonfa
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Susan B Gurley
- Department of Medicine, Duke University and Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, Durham, North Carolina
| | - K Bridget Brosnihan
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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Sacerdoti F, Amaral M, Aisemberg J, Cymeryng C, Franchi A, Ibarra C. Involvement of hypoxia and inflammation in early pregnancy loss mediated by Shiga toxin type 2. Placenta 2015; 36:674-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Xue P, Zheng M, Gong P, Lin C, Zhou J, Li Y, Shen L, Diao Z, Yan G, Sun H, Hu Y. Single administration of ultra-low-dose lipopolysaccharide in rat early pregnancy induces TLR4 activation in the placenta contributing to preeclampsia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0124001. [PMID: 25853857 PMCID: PMC4390151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Balanced immune responses are essential for the maintenance of successful pregnancy. Aberrant responses of immune system during pregnancy increase the risk of preeclampsia. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays a crucial role in the activation of immune system at the maternal-fetal interface. This study aimed to generate a rat model of preeclampsia by lipopolysaccharide (LPS, a TLR4 agonist) administration on gestational day (GD) 5 as rats are subjected to placentation immediately after implantation between GDs 4 and 5, and to assess the contribution of TLR4 signaling to the development of preeclampsia. Single administration of 0.5 μg/kg LPS significantly increased blood pressure of pregnant rats since GD 6 (systolic blood pressure, 124.89 ± 1.79 mmHg versus 119.02 ± 1.80 mmHg, P < 0.05) and urinary protein level since GD 9 (2.02 ± 0.29 mg versus 1.11 ± 0.18 mg, P < 0.01), but barely affected blood pressure or proteinuria of virgin rats compared with those of saline-treated pregnant rats. This was accompanied with adverse pregnancy outcomes including fetal growth restriction. The expression of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 were both increased in the placenta but not the kidney from LPS-treated pregnant rats, with deficient trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodeling. Furthermore, the levels of inflammatory cytokines were elevated systemically and locally in the placenta from pregnant rats treated with LPS. TLR4 signaling in the placenta was activated, to which that in the placenta of humans with preeclampsia changed similarly. In conclusion, LPS administration to pregnant rats in early pregnancy could elicit TLR4-mediated immune response at the maternal-fetal interface contributing to poor early placentation that may culminate in the preeclampsia-like syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Xue
- Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingming Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Gong
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Caimei Lin
- Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianjun Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Yujing Li
- Southeast University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Shen
- Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenyu Diao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Guijun Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (HS); (YH)
| | - Yali Hu
- Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (HS); (YH)
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Groen B, Uuldriks GA, de Vos P, Visser JT, Links TP, Faas MM. Impaired trophoblast invasion and increased numbers of immune cells at day 18 of pregnancy in the mesometrial triangle of type 1 diabetic rats. Placenta 2014; 36:142-9. [PMID: 25555500 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Revised: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome, usually attributed to hyperglycemia. Recently, we showed that pregnancy outcome in normoglycemic T1D rats was characterized by decreased fetal and placental weight, suggesting impaired placental development. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that trophoblast invasion and spiral artery (SA) remodeling is impaired in T1D rats ant that this is associated with aberrant local presence of NK cells and macrophages in the mesometrial triangle (MT). METHODS Placentae with MT from pregnant biobreeding diabetes-prone (BBDP; T1D model) rats, control biobreeding diabetes-resistant (BBDR) and Wistar-rats were dissected at day 18 of gestation and stained for trophoblast invasion, SA remodeling, uNK cells and macrophages. RESULTS Interstitial trophoblast invasion and SA remodeling was impaired in BBDP-rats vs. control rats, coinciding with increased presence of NK cells and an increased iNOS+/CD206+ ratio of macrophages. DISCUSSION Decreased fetal and placental weight in BBDP-rats was associated with diminished interstitial trophoblast invasion and less optimal SA remodeling, increased numbers of NK cells and increased iNOS+/CD206+ macrophage ratio in the MT of BBDP-rats. CONCLUSIONS The impaired trophoblast invasion and SA remodeling may be due to an aberrant local immune-response and may result in damage to the fetal placenta and insufficient supply of nutrients towards the fetus with eventually decreased fetal weight as a consequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Groen
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - G A Uuldriks
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Div. of Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - P de Vos
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Div. of Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J T Visser
- Department of Cell Biology, Div. of Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - T P Links
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M M Faas
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Div. of Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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