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Huang L, Wang L, Bao H, Xu Y, Meng M, Qiao M, Wang H, Kong S. Traditional Chinese medicine Dingkun Pill facilitates uterine receptivity for implantation in mice†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:695-703. [PMID: 31347662 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dingkun Pill (DK) is one of the representative traditional Chinese medicines, which has been used in the treatment of gynecological diseases for hundreds of years. Accumulative observations and evidence have shown the beneficial effects of DK, including enhancing the function of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, the effects of DK on uterine receptivity and implantation were explored by a series of studies with different mouse models. The results showed that DK can advance the time of implantation by influencing the expression of estrogen target genes to facilitate embryo implantation. DK was efficient to activate embryo implantation at the presence of suboptimal estrogen in delayed implantation mouse model. Our further study revealed that the improvement of DK on receptivity establishment is attributed to the differential regulation of DK on implantation-associated genes. This study provides previously unappreciated molecular mechanism of DK in embryo implantation and benefits the potential clinical application of DK in human reproduction improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Lemeng Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haili Bao
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingchun Xu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Meiqing Meng
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Manting Qiao
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
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Fattahi A, Latifi Z, Darabi M, Salmassi A, Farzadi L, Shaaker M, Mehdizadeh A, Ghasemnejad T, Roshangar L, Nouri M. Mating with seminal vesicle-excised male can affect the uterus phospholipid fatty-acids composition during implantation in an experimental mouse model. Int Braz J Urol 2019; 45:825-833. [PMID: 30901177 PMCID: PMC6837596 DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2018.0485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE No comprehensive information is available about uterus fatty acid (FA) change during implantation period and possible effects of the seminal vesicle secretion on it. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we evaluated FA composition of uterus phospholipids during the implantation period in intact and seminal vesicle-excised (SVX) mated female mice. Forty NMRI female mice were divided into control (mated with intact male) and seminal vesicle excised (SVX)-mated (mated with SVX-male) groups. The phospholipid fatty acids composition was monitored during the fi rst fi ve days of pregnancy using gas chromatography and also implantation rate was evaluated on fi fth day of pregnancy. RESULTS We found that levels of linoleic acid (LNA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) showed a decreasing trend from the fi rst to the third day of pregnancy and then started to increase on the fourth day and peaked on the fi fth day. In contrast, the level of saturated FA (SFA) increased on the second and third day of pregnancy compared to the fi rst (p<0.05) and then decreased on the fourth and fi fth. We also found that the seminal vesicle secretion could affect the levels of LNA, ARA, SFA, and PUFA in uterine phospholipids especially on second and third day. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between ARA level and implantation rate in control but not SVX-mated groups. CONCLUSIONS It can be concluded that several uterus FA that have important roles in early pregnancy could be affected by seminal vesicle secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Fattahi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masoud Darabi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Salmassi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maghsood Shaaker
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Centers, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tohid Ghasemnejad
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Roshangar
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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He C, Wang J, Li Y, Zhu K, Xu Z, Song Y, Song Y, Liu G. Melatonin-related genes expressed in the mouse uterus during early gestation promote embryo implantation. J Pineal Res 2015; 58:300-9. [PMID: 25689975 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin, a superior antioxidant, is an important molecule which regulates female reproduction due to its receptor-mediated and receptor-independent antioxidant actions. In this study, we investigated the effect of melatonin on early gestation in a mouse model. During early gestation, the expression of the melatonin's rate-limiting enzyme, AANAT, gradually increased - in the uterus while the MT2 melatonin receptor was only expressed at day 2 of gestation and no MT1 was detected. Based on these findings, we conducted a melatonin injection experiment which demonstrated that 15 mg/kg melatonin significantly improved the number of implantation sites and the litter size. Also, the blastocyst and uterus were collected to identify the local action of melatonin. In the melatonin-treated mice, the endometrium was thicker than in the control mice; melatonin also caused an increase in density of uterine glands, and the uterine gland index (UGI) was significantly elevated over that of the control. Serum steroid hormone measurements revealed that at day 6 of gestation (postimplantation), melatonin significantly downregulated the E2 level, with no obvious effects on progesterone. Gene expression assay revealed that melatonin significantly upregulated expression of HB-EGF, a crucial gene involved in implantation as well as its receptor ErbB1 in the blastocyst. In addition, PRA, an important gene which influences the decidual response and luminal cell differentiation, p53, which regulates uterine through leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), were both increased after melatonin treatment. These data suggest that melatonin and its MT2 receptor influence early gestation. Exogenous melatonin treatment can improve mouse embryo implantation and litter size, which may have important applications in human reproductive health and animal husbandry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changjiu He
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Siristatidis C, Vrachnis N, Vogiatzi P, Chrelias C, Retamar AQ, Bettocchi S, Glujovsky D. Potential Pathophysiological Mechanisms of the Beneficial Role of Endometrial Injury in In Vitro Fertilization Outcome. Reprod Sci 2014; 21:955-965. [PMID: 24604231 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114525270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Successful embryo implantation is a complex process that involves multiple biological mechanisms and reciprocal interactions between the embryo and the proliferated endometrium. In this review, we provide an informative contribution on the pathways underlying the beneficial nature of endometrial injury toward improving implantation rates of embryos conceived and through in vitro fertilization. The evidence published to date are in favor of inducing local endometrial injury in the preceding cycle of ovarian stimulation to improve pregnancy outcomes in women with unexplained and recurrent implantation failure. Endometrial injury triggers a series of biological responses but the findings suggest that no particular pathway is solely adequate to explain the association between trauma and improved pregnancy rates rather than a cluster of events in response to trauma which benefits embryo implantation in ways both known and unknown to the scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Siristatidis
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Attikon Hospital, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikos Vrachnis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Vogiatzi
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Attikon Hospital, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Charalampos Chrelias
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, Attikon Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Andrea Quinteiro Retamar
- Medico Especialista en Medicina Reproductiva (SAMeR), Especialista Universitario en Ginecologıa y Obstetricia, Magister en Efectividad Clinica, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Stefano Bettocchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, First Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Demián Glujovsky
- Medico Especialista en Medicina Reproductiva (SAMeR), Especialista Universitario en Ginecologıa y Obstetricia, Magister en Efectividad Clinica, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Chen Q, Zhang Y, Elad D, Jaffa AJ, Cao Y, Ye X, Duan E. Navigating the site for embryo implantation: Biomechanical and molecular regulation of intrauterine embryo distribution. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:1024-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Beltrame JS, Sordelli MS, Cella M, Perez Martinez S, Franchi AM, Ribeiro ML. Lysophosphatidic acid increases the production of pivotal mediators of decidualization and vascularization in the rat uterus. Placenta 2013; 34:751-6. [PMID: 23790320 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The decidual reaction and the formation of new vessels in the uterus are two crucial processes during embryo implantation. Previously, we observed that lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) increases cyclooxygenase-2 derived - prostaglandin E2 production during implantation in the rat uterus and that it augments the expression of decidualization (IGFBP-1) and vascularization (IL-10) markers. Both cyclooxygenase and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) are known enzymes involved in these processes. Thus, we became interested in studying which factors contribute to LPA receptor-specific role during the decidual and the vascular reaction at implantation. METHODS We adopted a pharmacological approach in vitro incubating the uterus from rats on day 5 of gestation (day of implantation) with LPA, DGPP (a highly selective antagonist of LPA3, an LPA receptor) and cyclooxygenase and NOS selective and non-selective inhibitors. We determined NOS activity, prostaglandin E2 production and IGFBP-1 and IL-10 expression to evaluate decidualization and vascularization. RESULTS We observed that LPA augmented the activity of the inducible NOS isoform through LPA1/LPA3. Inducible NOS activity participated in the induction of cyclooxygenase-2/prostaglandin E2 increase stimulated by LPA. Also, cyclooxygenase-2 derived prostaglandins mediated LPA-stimulatory action on NOS activity. Both cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible NOS mediated LPA effect on IGFBP-1 and IL-10 expression. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest the participation of LPA/LPA3 in the production of crucial molecules involved in vascularization and decidualization, two main processes that prepare the uterine milieu for embryo invasion during implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Beltrame
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Farmacología de la Reproducción, CEFYBO CONICET - UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Shen LJ, He JL, Yang DH, Ding YB, Chen XM, Geng YQ, Liu SJ, Liu XQ, Wang YX. Mmu-microRNA-200a overexpression leads to implantation defect by targeting phosphatase and tensin homolog in mouse uterus. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:1518-28. [PMID: 23690337 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113488453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Successful mouse embryo implantation requires a receptive uterus and an activated blastocyst. A large number of genes, cytokines, and other factors are involved in the process. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the expression of many genes, and previous studies have investigated the relationship between miRNA expression and embryo implantation. In this study, we show that mmu-microRNA-200a (mmu-miR-200a) is expressed in a spatiatemporal manner during implantation in mouse uterus and found that phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), SON, and programmed cell death 4 (Pdcd4) are the target genes of mmu-miR-200a by bioinformatics analysis. In vitro gain and loss of function experiments confirm that PTEN, a critical gene for cell proliferation and apoptosis, is the target gene of mmu-miR-200a. Our experiments also show that injection of the uterine horn with mmu-miR-200a lentivirus leads to a decreased implantation rate. Collectively, our results suggest that mmu-miR-200a affects embryo implantation by regulating PTEN protein expression. Thus, clarifying the physiological functions of uterine miRNAs will help to elucidate the embryo implantation process and may even contribute to curing infertility and inventing new contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian-Ju Shen
- 1Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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Zhang S, Lin H, Kong S, Wang S, Wang H, Wang H, Armant DR. Physiological and molecular determinants of embryo implantation. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:939-80. [PMID: 23290997 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 12/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation involves the intimate interaction between an implantation-competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus, which occurs in a limited time period known as the window of implantation. Emerging evidence shows that defects originating during embryo implantation induce ripple effects with adverse consequences on later gestation events, highlighting the significance of this event for pregnancy success. Although a multitude of cellular events and molecular pathways involved in embryo-uterine crosstalk during implantation have been identified through gene expression studies and genetically engineered mouse models, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of embryo implantation is still missing. This review focuses on recent progress with particular attention to physiological and molecular determinants of blastocyst activation, uterine receptivity, blastocyst attachment and uterine decidualization. A better understanding of underlying mechanisms governing embryo implantation should generate new strategies to rectify implantation failure and improve pregnancy rates in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
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İnal HA, İnal ZHÖ, Görkemli H. The Effect of Local Injury to the Endometrium for Implantation and Pregnancy Rates in ICSI –ET Cycles with Implantation Failure: a randomised controlled study. ELECTRONIC JOURNAL OF GENERAL MEDICINE 2012. [DOI: 10.29333/ejgm/82435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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10
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Sordelli MS, Beltrame JS, Cella M, Gervasi MG, Perez Martinez S, Burdet J, Zotta E, Franchi AM, Ribeiro ML. Interaction between lysophosphatidic acid, prostaglandins and the endocannabinoid system during the window of implantation in the rat uterus. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46059. [PMID: 23029388 PMCID: PMC3460956 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 08/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioactive lipid molecules as lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), prostaglandins (PG) and endocannabinoids are important mediators of embryo implantation. Based on previous published data we became interested in studying the interaction between these three groups of lipid derivatives in the rat uterus during the window of implantation. Thus, we adopted a pharmacological approach in vitro using LPA, DGPP (a selective antagonist of LPA3, an LPA receptor), endocannabinoids’ receptor selective antagonists (AM251 and AM630) and non selective (indomethacin) and selective (NS-398) inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-1 and 2 enzymes. Cyclooxygenase isoforms participate in prostaglandins’ synthesis. The incubation of the uterus from rats pregnant on day 5 of gestation (implantation window) with LPA augmented the activity and the expression of fatty acid amide hydrolase, the main enzyme involved in the degradation of endocannabinoids in the rodent uteri, suggesting that LPA decreased endocannabinoids’ levels during embryo implantation. It has been reported that high endocannabinoids are deleterious for implantation. Also, LPA increased PGE2 production and cyclooxygenase-2 expression. The incubation of LPA with indomethacin or NS-398 reversed the increment in PGE2 production, suggesting that cyclooxygenase-2 was the isoform involved in LPA effect. PGs are important mediators of decidualization and vascularization at the implantation sites. All these effects were mediated by LPA3, as the incubation with DGPP completely reversed LPA stimulatory actions. Besides, we also observed that endocannabinoids mediated the stimulatory effect of LPA on cyclooxygenase-2 derived PGE2 production, as the incubation of LPA with AM251 or AM630 completely reversed LPA effect. Also, LPA augmented via LPA3 decidualization and vascularization markers. Overall, the results presented here demonstrate the participation of LPA3 in the process of implantation through the interaction with other groups of lipid molecules, prostaglandins and endocannabinoids, which prepare the uterine milieu for embryo invasion during the window of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela S. Sordelli
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Farmacología de la Reproducción, CEFYBO (CONICET – Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jimena S. Beltrame
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Farmacología de la Reproducción, CEFYBO (CONICET – Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano Cella
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Preñez y el Parto, CEFYBO (CONICET – Facultad de Medicina, UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Gracia Gervasi
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, CEFYBO (CONICET – Facultad de Medicina, UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Perez Martinez
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, CEFYBO (CONICET – Facultad de Medicina, UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juliana Burdet
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Molecular (Cátedra de Fisiopatología, Departamento de Cs. Biológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquıímica, UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Elsa Zotta
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Molecular (Cátedra de Fisiopatología, Departamento de Cs. Biológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquıímica, UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M. Franchi
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Preñez y el Parto, CEFYBO (CONICET – Facultad de Medicina, UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Laura Ribeiro
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Farmacología de la Reproducción, CEFYBO (CONICET – Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA)), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Chen Q, Zhang Y, Peng H, Lei L, Kuang H, Zhang L, Ning L, Cao Y, Duan E. Transient {beta}2-adrenoceptor activation confers pregnancy loss by disrupting embryo spacing at implantation. J Biol Chem 2010; 286:4349-56. [PMID: 21148315 PMCID: PMC3039384 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.197202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy loss is a serious social and medical issue, with one important cause associated with aberrant embryo implantation during early pregnancy. However, whether and how the process of embryo implantation is affected by environmental factors such as stress-induced sympathetic activation remained elusive. Here we report an unexpected, transient effect of β2-adrenoreceptor (β2-AR) activation (day 4 postcoitus) in disrupting embryo spacing at implantation, leading to substantially increased midterm pregnancy loss. The abnormal embryo spacing could be prevented by pretreatment of β2-AR antagonist or genetic ablation of β-AR. Similar β2-AR activation at day 5 postcoitus, when implantation sites have been established, did not affect embryo spacing or pregnancy outcome, indicating that the adverse effect of β2-AR activation is limited to the preimplantation period before embryo attachment. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that the transient β2-AR activation abolished normal preimplantation uterine contractility without adversely affecting blastocyst quality. The contractility inhibition is mediated by activation of the cAMP-PKA pathway and accompanied by specific down-regulation of lpa3, a gene previously found to be critical for uterine contraction and embryo spacing. These results indicated that normal uterine contraction-mediated correct intrauterine embryo distribution is crucial for successful ongoing pregnancy. Abnormal β2-AR activation at early pregnancy provided a molecular clue in explaining how maternal stress at early stages could adversely affect the pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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Abstract
Starting from an historical overview of lasting Cannabis use over the centuries, we will focus on a description of the cannabinergic system, with a comprehensive analysis of chemical and pharmacological properties of endogenous and synthetic cannabimimetic analogues. The metabolic pathways and the signal transduction mechanisms, activated by cannabinoid receptors stimulation, will also be discussed. In particular, we will point out the action of cannabinoids and endocannabinoids on the different neuronal networks involved in reproductive axis, and locally, on male and female reproductive tracts, by emphasizing the pivotal role played by this system in the control of fertility.
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Almog B, Shalom-Paz E, Dufort D, Tulandi T. Promoting implantation by local injury to the endometrium. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:2026-9. [PMID: 20171615 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.12.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2009] [Revised: 12/27/2009] [Accepted: 12/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between endometrial injury, implantation and pregnancy rate. DESIGN We performed a literature search using the keywords endometrial injury, local endometrial injury, endometrial biopsy, endometrial receptivity, implantation, in vitro fertilization, and implantation failure and conducted the search in Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of systematic reviews. SETTING None. PATIENT(S) None. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) None. RESULT(S) Clinical and basic science data regarding the association between endometrial injury and improved implantation rate are limited. However, current evidence suggests that endometrial injury before IVF among women with previous repeated IVF failure is associated with increased rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. CONCLUSION(S) Endometrial injury may have a beneficial role in implantation and improve the pregnancy rate. However, there are still many unanswered question including patients selection, timing, technique and number of endometrial biopsies needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Almog
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Banerjee P, Fazleabas AT. Endometrial responses to embryonic signals in the primate. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2010; 54:295-302. [PMID: 19876822 PMCID: PMC5070538 DOI: 10.1387/ijdb.082829pb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The delicate interaction between an embryo and the uterus to initiate implantation and maintain pregnancy is one of the most elegant and fascinating interactions in human biology. Understanding the molecular events of embryo-maternal interaction is of interest to reproductive biologists, clinicians and couples affected by infertility. We have established the baboon as the non-human primate model for studying embryo implantation. Infusion of chorionic gonadotropin (CG), the major embryonic signal of primates, into the uterine cavity of normal cycling baboons during the window of receptivity induces a myriad of morphological, biochemical and molecular changes in the estrogen and progesterone primed endometrium. The luminal epithelium responds by forming plaques, the overall secretory function of the glandular epithelium increases and the stromal response is characterized by induction of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alphaSMA). Cross talk between ovarian and embryonic hormones is evidenced by the fact that these responses are inhibited upon treatment with a progesterone receptor antagonist. CG signals principally through the seven transmembrane LH/CG G-protein coupled receptor, and activates a mitogen activated protein kinase pathway in the endometrial epithelium that is unique and independent of all the classical signaling pathways. In the stromal compartment, CG both rescues stromal fibroblasts from their apoptotic demise and also differentiates them into the decidualized phenotype. We propose that stromal cell survival and differentiation is mediated by a critical modulator of cell fate, Notch-1. Thus, CG is an important embryonic signal which modulates communication between the embryo and the endometrium and induces changes that are critical to successful implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prajna Banerjee
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
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Banerjee P, Sapru K, Strakova Z, Fazleabas AT. Chorionic gonadotropin regulates prostaglandin E synthase via a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-extracellular regulatory kinase pathway in a human endometrial epithelial cell line: implications for endometrial responses for embryo implantation. Endocrinology 2009; 150:4326-37. [PMID: 19556419 PMCID: PMC2736085 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2009] [Accepted: 06/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Successful implantation necessitates modulation of the uterine environment by the embryo for a specific period of time during the menstrual cycle. Infusion of chorionic gonadotropin (CG) into the oviducts of baboons to mimic embryo transit induces a myriad of morphological, biochemical, and molecular changes in the endometrium. Endometrial epithelial cells from both baboons and humans when stimulated by CG in vitro, activates a cAMP-independent MAPK pathway leading to prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) synthesis. This study shows that in the human endometrial cell line, HES, CG, acting via its G-protein coupled receptor, phosphorylates protein kinase B, c-Raf, and ERK1/2 in a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent manner. Furthermore, ERK1/2 phosphorylation is independent of the signaling paradigms of Galpha(s), Galpha(I), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) transactivation, typical of gonadal cells, indicating an alternative signaling pattern in the endometrium. After phosphorylation by CG, ERK1/2 translocates to the nucleus in a time-dependent manner. Downstream of ERK1/2, CG activates the nuclear transcription factor, Elk1, also in a PI3K-MAPK-dependent manner. Lastly, we show that in HES cells, this pathway regulates the expression of the microsomal enzyme PGE(2) synthase (mPTGES), a terminal prostanoid synthase responsible for PGE(2) synthesis. CG regulates the mPTGES promoter and also induces mPTGES synthesis in HES cells via the PI3K-ERK1/2 pathway. We suggest that this alternative PI3K-ERK-Elk pathway activated by CG regulates prostaglandin production by the endometrial epithelium and serves as an early trigger to prepare the endometrium for implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prajna Banerjee
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA
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18
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Bazer FW, Spencer TE, Johnson GA, Burghardt RC, Wu G. Comparative aspects of implantation. Reproduction 2009; 138:195-209. [PMID: 19502456 DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Uterine receptivity to implantation of blastocysts in mammals includes hatching from zona pellucida, precontact with uterine luminal (LE) and superficial glandular (sGE) epithelia and orientation of blastocyst, apposition between trophectoderm and uterine LE and sGE, adhesion of trophectoderm to uterine LE/sGE, and, in some species, limited or extensive invasion into the endometrial stroma and induction of decidualization of stromal cells. These peri-implantation events are prerequisites for pregnancy recognition signaling, implantation, and placentation required for fetal-placental growth and development through the remainder of pregnancy. Although there is a range of strategies for implantation in mammals, a common feature is the requirement for progesterone (P(4)) to downregulate expression of its receptors in uterine epithelia and P(4) prior to implantation events. P(4) then mediates its effects via growth factors expressed by stromal cells in most species; however, uterine luminal epithelium may express a growth factor in response to P(4) and/or estrogens in species with a true epitheliochorial placenta. There is also compelling evidence that uterine receptivity to implantation involves temporal and cell-specific expression of interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes that may be induced directly by an IFN or induced by P(4) and stimulated by an IFN. These genes have many roles including nutrient transport, cellular remodeling, angiogenesis and relaxation of vascular tissues, cell proliferation and migration, establishment of an antiviral state, and protection of conceptus tissues from challenges by the maternal immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, 2471 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-2471, USA.
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19
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Burnum KE, Cornett DS, Puolitaival SM, Milne SB, Myers DS, Tranguch S, Brown HA, Dey SK, Caprioli RM. Spatial and temporal alterations of phospholipids determined by mass spectrometry during mouse embryo implantation. J Lipid Res 2009; 50:2290-8. [PMID: 19429885 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m900100-jlr200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular events involved in successful embryo implantation are not well understood. In this study, we used MALDI imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) technologies to characterize the spatial and temporal distribution of phospholipid species associated with mouse embryo implantation. Molecular images showing phospholipid distribution within implantation sites changed markedly between distinct cellular areas during days 4-8 of pregnancy. For example, by day 8, linoleate- and docosahexaenoate-containing phospholipids localized to regions destined to undergo cell death, whereas oleate-containing phospholipids localized to angiogenic regions. Arachidonate-containing phospholipids showed different segregation patterns depending on the lipid class, revealing a strong correlation of phosphatidylethanolamines and phosphatidylinositols with cytosolic phospholipase A(2alpha) and cyclooxygenase-2 during embryo implantation. LC-ESI-MS/MS was used to validate MALDI IMS phospholipid distribution patterns. Overall, molecular images revealed the dynamic complexity of lipid distributions in early pregnancy, signifying the importance of complex interplay of lipid molecules in uterine biology and implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin E Burnum
- Departments of Biochemistry, Mass Spectrometry Research Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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20
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Wang H, Xie H, Dey SK. Loss of cannabinoid receptor CB1 induces preterm birth. PLoS One 2008; 3:e3320. [PMID: 18833324 PMCID: PMC2553193 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2008] [Accepted: 09/08/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preterm birth accounting approximate 10% of pregnancies in women is a tremendous social, clinical and economic burden. However, its underlying causes remain largely unknown. Emerging evidence suggests that endocannabinoid signaling via cannabinoid receptor CB1 play critical roles in multiple early pregnancy events in both animals and humans. Since our previous studies demonstrated that loss of CB1 defers the normal implantation window in mice, we surmised that CB1 deficiency would influence parturition events. Methods and Findings Exploiting mouse models with targeted deletion of Cnr1, Cnr2 and Ptgs1 encoding CB1, CB2 and cyclooxygenase-1, respectively, we examined consequences of CB1 or CB2 silencing on the onset of parturition. We observed that genetic or pharmacological inactivation of CB1, but not CB2, induced preterm labor in mice. Radioimmunoassay analysis of circulating levels of ovarian steroid hormones revealed that premature birth resulting from CB1 inactivation is correlated with altered progesterone/estrogen ratios prior to parturition. More strikingly, the phenotypic defects of prolonged pregnancy length and parturition failure in mice missing Ptgs1 were corrected by introducing CB1 deficiency into Ptgs1 null mice. In addition, loss of CB1 resulted in aberrant secretions of corticotrophin-releasing hormone and corticosterone during late gestation. The pathophysiological significance of this altered corticotrophin-releasing hormone-driven endocrine activity in the absence of CB1 was evident from our subsequent findings that a selective corticotrophin-releasing hormone antagonist was able to restore the normal parturition timing in Cnr1 deficient mice. In contrast, wild-type females receiving excessive levels of corticosterone induced preterm birth. Conclusions CB1 deficiency altering normal progesterone and estrogen levels induces preterm birth in mice. This defect is independent of prostaglandins produced by cyclooxygenase-1. Moreover, CB1 inactivation resulted in aberrant corticotrophin-releasing hormone and corticosterone activities prior to parturition, suggesting that CB1 regulates labor by interacting with the corticotrophin-releasing hormone-driven endocrine axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibin Wang
- Departments of Pediatrics, Cell & Developmental Biology, and Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Huirong Xie
- Departments of Pediatrics, Cell & Developmental Biology, and Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Sudhansu K. Dey
- Departments of Pediatrics, Cell & Developmental Biology, and Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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21
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Kalma Y, Granot I, Gnainsky Y, Or Y, Czernobilsky B, Dekel N, Barash A. Endometrial biopsy-induced gene modulation: first evidence for the expression of bladder-transmembranal uroplakin Ib in human endometrium. Fertil Steril 2008; 91:1042-9, 1049.e1-9. [PMID: 18355812 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2007] [Revised: 01/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the possibility that endometrial injury modulates the expression of specific genes that may increase uterine receptivity. DESIGN Controlled clinical study. SETTING Clinical IVF unit and academic research center. PATIENT(S) IVF patients with 28- to 30-day menstrual cycles. INTERVENTION(S) Endometrial biopsies from two groups of patients were collected on days 20-21 of their spontaneous menstrual cycle. The experimental, but not the control, group underwent biopsies on days 11-13 and 21-24 of their preceding cycle. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Global endometrial gene expression and specific analysis of uroplakin Ib (UPIb) mRNA level throughout the menstrual cycle. RESULT(S) Local injury modulated the expression of a wide variety of genes. One of the prominently up-regulated genes was the bladder transmembranal protein, UPIb, whose expression by the endometrium is shown here for the first time. Endometrial UPIb mRNA increases after biopsy in the same cycle wct 2with an additional elevation in the following cycle. Immunohistochemical analysis localized the UPIb protein to the glandular-epithelial cells. Genes encoding other membrane proteins such as adipose differentiation-related protein and mucin 1, transmembrane, were also up-regulated. CONCLUSION(S) The biopsy-induced increase in the expression of UPIb and other genes encoding membrane proteins supports the possible importance of the membrane structure and stability during implantation. The specific role of UPIb in uterine receptivity should be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Kalma
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Maccarrone M. CB2 receptors in reproduction. Br J Pharmacol 2008; 153:189-98. [PMID: 17828289 PMCID: PMC2219526 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2007] [Revised: 07/10/2007] [Accepted: 08/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids have been always identified as harmful drugs because of their negative effects on male and female reproduction. The discovery of the 'endocannabinoid system (ECS)', composed of bioactive lipids (endocannabinoids), their receptors and their metabolic enzymes, and the generation of mouse models missing cannabinoid receptors or other elements of the ECS, has enabled a wealth of information on the significance of endocannabinoid signalling in multiple reproductive events: Sertoli cell survival, spermatogenesis, placentation, fertilization, preimplantation embryo development, implantation and postimplantation embryonic growth. These studies have also opened new perspectives in clinical applications, pointing to the ECS as a new target for correcting infertility and for improving reproductive health in humans. This review will focus on the involvement of type-2 cannabinoid (CB2) receptors in reproductive biology, covering both the male and female sides. It will also discuss the potential relevance of the immunological activity of CB2 at the maternal/foetal interface, as well as the distinctiveness of CB2 versus type-1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptors that might be exploited for a receptor subtype-specific regulation of fertility. In this context, the different signalling pathways triggered by CB1 and CB2 (especially those controlling the intracellular tone of nitric oxide), the different activation of CB1 and CB2 by endogenous agonists (like anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol) and the different localization of CB1 and CB2 within membrane subdomains, termed 'lipid rafts', will be discussed. It is hoped that CB2-dependent endocannabinoid signalling might become a useful target for correcting infertility, in both men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Maccarrone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
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Abstract
Mammalian reproduction is a complicated process designed to diversify and strengthen the genetic complement of the offspring and to safeguard regulatory systems at various steps for propagating procreation. An emerging concept in mammalian reproduction is the role of endocannabinoids, a group of endogenously produced lipid mediators, that bind to and activate cannabinoid receptors. Although adverse effects of cannabinoids on fertility have been implicated for years, the mechanisms by which they exert these effects were not clearly understood. With the identification of cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoid ligands, their key synthetic and hydrolytic pathways, and the generation of mouse models missing cannabinoid receptors, a wealth of information on the significance of cannabinoid/endocannabinoid signaling in spermatogenesis, fertilization, preimplantation embryo development, implantation, and postimplantation embryonic growth has been generated. This review focuses on various aspects of the endocannabinoid system in male and female fertility. It is hoped that a deeper insight would lead to potential clinical applications of the endocannabinoid signaling as a target for correcting infertility and improving reproductive health in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibin Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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Staun-Ram E, Shalev E. Human trophoblast function during the implantation process. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2005; 3:56. [PMID: 16236179 PMCID: PMC1289292 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-3-56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2005] [Accepted: 10/20/2005] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The implantation process involves complex and synchronized molecular and cellular events between the uterus and the implanting embryo. These events are regulated by paracrine and autocrine factors. Trophoblast invasion and migration through the uterine wall is mediated by molecular and cellular interactions, controlled by the trophoblast and the maternal microenvironment. This review is focused on the molecular constituents of the human trophoblast, their actions and interactions, including interrelations with the uterine endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsebeth Staun-Ram
- Laboratory for Research in Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, 18101, Afula, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eliezer Shalev
- Laboratory for Research in Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, 18101, Afula, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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