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Yang N, Sun Y, Han B, Deng N, Li G, Han Q, Wang Y, Cai H, Liu F, Cao B, Deng W, Bao H, Kong S, Lu J, Wang H. Trophoblastic signals facilitate endometrial interferon response and lipid metabolism, ensuring normal decidualization. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114246. [PMID: 38762885 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The decidua plays a crucial role in providing structural and trophic support to the developing conceptus before placentation. Following embryo attachment, embryonic components intimately interact with the decidual tissue. While evidence indicates the participation of embryo-derived factors in crosstalk with the uterus, the extent of their impact on post-implantation decidual development requires further investigation. Here, we utilize transgenic mouse models to selectively eliminate primary trophoblast giant cells (pTGCs), the embryonic cells that interface with maternal tissue at the forefront. pTGC ablation impairs decidualization and compromises decidual interferon response and lipid metabolism. Mechanistically, pTGCs release factors such as interferon kappa (IFNK) to strengthen the decidual interferon response and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) to enhance lipid accumulation within the decidua, thereby promoting decidualization. This study presents genetic and metabolomic evidence reinforcing the proactive role of pTGC-derived factors in mobilizing maternal resources to strengthen decidualization, facilitating the normal progression of early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningjie Yang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Bing Han
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Na Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Gaizhen Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Qian Han
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Yinan Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Han Cai
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Bin Cao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Wenbo Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Haili Bao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
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Sakurai J, Oka S, Higuchi Y, Ohsawa S, Fujimori T. Effects of blastocyst elongation and implantation chamber formation on the alignment of the embryonic axis and uterine axis in mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1421222. [PMID: 38946796 PMCID: PMC11211524 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1421222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation involves a series of events that bring the embryo and maternal tissues into contact to support post-implantation development in mammals. During implantation, alignment of the embryonic-abembryonic (E-Ab) axis of the blastocyst with the mesometrial-antimesometrial (M-AM) axis of the uterus precedes post-implantation embryonic development and placentation. In the present study, we observed the morphological changes in blastocysts and the endometrial luminal epithelium (LE) that occur during the alignment of the embryonic and the uterine axes. We found that at the time that the blastocysts attached to the LE at the mural trophectoderm, the embryonic axis was not aligned with the uterine axis. Alignment of the embryonic E-Ab axis with the uterine M-AM axis occurred after E4.0, and the embryo was significantly elongated during the process. The depth of the implantation chamber (IC) correlated with the degree of alignment, suggesting that elongated embryos are oriented along the M-AM axis during IC formation. Transplantation of the Concanavalin A (Con A)-coated beads induced IC formation, and the alignment of two Con A-coated beads present in the same IC in the M-AM direction suggested that elongated materials can align along the M-AM axis. These data suggest that an elongated shape of the embryo and IC formation coordinate the alignment of the embryonic and uterine axes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Sakurai
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Deapartment of Basic Biology, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Sanae Oka
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Yoko Higuchi
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Sonoko Ohsawa
- Model Organisms Facility, Trans-Scale Biology Center, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Fujimori
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Deapartment of Basic Biology, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
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Chen ST, Ran F, Shi WW, Liu CK, Wang PC, Luo HN, Yang ZM. Tryptophan in the mouse diet is essential for embryo implantation and decidualization. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1356914. [PMID: 38752181 PMCID: PMC11094255 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1356914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Nutritional deficiency occurs frequently during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tryptophan (Trp), an essential amino acid which is critical for protein synthesis, serves as the precursor for serotonin, melatonin, and kynurenine (Kyn). The imbalance between serotonin and kynurenine pathways in Trp metabolism is closely related to inflammation and depression. This study assessed the effects of Trp deficiency on mouse early pregnancy. Methods Embryo implantation and decidualization were analyzed after female mice had been fed diets containing 0.2% Trp (for the control group), 0.062% Trp (for the low Trp group) and 0% Trp (for the Trp-free group) for two months. The uteri of the mice were collected on days 4, 5, and 8 of pregnancy for further analysis. Results On day 8 of pregnancy, the number of implantation sites were found to be similar between the control and the low Trp groups. However, no implantation sites were detected in the Trp-free group. On day 5 of pregnancy, plane polarity- and decidualization-related molecules showed abnormal expression pattern in the Trp-free group. On day 4 of pregnancy, there was no significant difference in uterine receptivity molecules between the low-Trp group and the control group, but uterine receptivity was abnormal in the Trp-free group. At implantation sites of the Trp-free group, IDO and AHR levels were markedly elevated. This potentially increased levels of Kyn, 2-hydroxy estradiol, and 4-hydroxy estradiol to affect decidualization. Conclusions Trp-free diet may impair decidualization via the IDO-KYN-AHR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Ting Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountain Region, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Feng Ran
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountain Region, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Wen-Wen Shi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Kan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng-Chao Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Hui-Na Luo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeng-Ming Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountain Region, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
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Lu Y, Shao Y, Cui W, Jia Z, Zhang Q, Zhao Q, Chen Z, Yan J, Chu B, Yuan J. Excessive Lipid Peroxidation in Uterine Epithelium Causes Implantation Failure and Pregnancy Loss. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2302887. [PMID: 38044324 PMCID: PMC10811501 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The uterine epithelium undergoes a dramatic spatiotemporal transformation to enter a receptive state, involving a complex interaction between ovarian hormones and signals from stromal and epithelial cells. Redox homeostasis is critical for cellular physiological steady state; emerging evidence reveals that excessive lipid peroxides derail redox homeostasis, causing various diseases. However, the role of redox homeostasis in early pregnancy remains largely unknown. It is found that uterine deletion of Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), a key factor in repairing oxidative damage to lipids, confers defective implantation, leading to infertility. To further pinpoint Gpx4's role in different cell types, uterine epithelial-specific Gpx4 is deleted by a lactotransferrin (Ltf)-Cre driver; the resultant females are infertile, suggesting increased lipid peroxidation levels in uterine epithelium compromises receptivity and implantation. Lipid peroxidation inhibitor administration failed to rescue implantation due to carbonylation of major receptive-related proteins underlying high lipid reactive oxygen species. Intriguingly, superimposition of Acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), an enzyme that promotes biosynthesis of phospholipid hydroperoxides, along with uterine epithelial GPX4 deletion, preserves reproductive capacity. This study reveals the pernicious impact of unbalanced redox signaling on embryo implantation and suggests the obliteration of lipid peroxides as a possible therapeutic approach to prevent implantation defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafang Lu
- Advanced Medical Research InstituteCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250012China
| | - Yuhan Shao
- Center for Reproductive MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
| | - Weiwei Cui
- Department of Cell BiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250012China
| | - Zhaoyu Jia
- Advanced Medical Research InstituteCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250012China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
| | - Qing Zhao
- Center for Reproductive MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
| | - Zi‐Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Center for Reproductive MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of EducationShandong UniversityJinanShandong250021China
| | - Bo Chu
- Department of Cell BiologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250012China
| | - Jia Yuan
- Advanced Medical Research InstituteCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanShandong250012China
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Wang H, Liu Z, Meng L, Zhang X. Comprehensive bioinformation analysis of differentially expressed genes in recurrent pregnancy loss. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:1015-1022. [PMID: 35306956 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2045636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) occurs frequently, and its causes are complex. The aetiology of nearly 50% of RPL cases is still unknown. This study aimed to ascertain differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathways by comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. We downloaded the gene expression microarray of GSE165004 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Gene ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed on selected genes by using the R Programming Language. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed with the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING). Our analysis revealed that 1,869 genes were differentially expressed in RPL and control groups. GO analysis revealed that the interferon type 1 and the glycoprotein-related biological processes played irreplaceable roles, meanwhile KEGG enrichment analysis also revealed that the cAMP signalling pathway and the prolactin signalling pathway played important roles. In the following study, we found that there were many DEGs in the RPL group that were closely related to endometrial decidualization, such as IL17RD, IL16, SOX4, CREBBP, and POFUT1 as well as Notch1 and RBPJ in the Notch signalling pathway family were down-regulated in the RPL group. The results provided valuable information on the pathogenesis of RPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaibin Wang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Liu
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, P.R. China
| | - Lijun Meng
- Department of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Tangshan University, Tangshan, P.R. China
| | - Xiujun Zhang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, P.R. China
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Zhao W, Wang Y, Liu J, Yang Q, Zhang S, Hu X, Shi Z, Zhang Z, Tian J, Chu D, An L. Progesterone Activates the Histone Lactylation-Hif1α-glycolysis Feedback Loop to Promote Decidualization. Endocrinology 2023; 165:bqad169. [PMID: 37950883 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization is a progesterone-dependent cellular differentiation process that is essential for establishing pregnancy. Robust activation of glycolysis and lactate synthesis during decidualization is remarkable, but their developmental functions remain largely unknown. Herein, we identify that endometrial lactate production plays a critical role in establishing local histone lactylation, a newly identified histone modification, and is important for ensuring normal decidualization. Enhanced endometrial glycolysis is the hallmark metabolic change and is tightly coupled with H4K12la during decidualization. Inhibition of histone lactylation impaired decidualization, in either physiological conception or in vivo and in vitro induced decidualization models. Mechanistic study based on CUT&Tag and ATAC-seq revealed that a transcriptional factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1 α (Hif1α) is the critical regulatory target of H4K12la, and in turn forms an H4K12la-Hif1α-glycolysis feedback loop to drive decidualization. Moreover, we demonstrate that the loop is directly activated by progesterone during decidualization. Our study not only advances the current knowledge of the role of lactate in regulating uterine function, but also establishes a novel functional link among the major endocrine factors, endometrial metabolic change, and epigenetic modification during endometrial remodeling. These findings present valuable clues to develop clinical intervention strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes following both natural conception and assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Qianying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Zhicheng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Zhenni Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Jianhui Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
| | - Dapeng Chu
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, P.R. China
| | - Lei An
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 1000193, P.R. China
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Jin S, Wang TT, Huang JC, Wang YS, Guo B, Yue ZP. Melatonin modulates endometrial decidualization via NOTCH1-NRF2-FOXO1-GSH pathway†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:299-308. [PMID: 37334936 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is important for oocyte maturation, fertilization, early embryonic development, and embryo implantation, but less knowledge is available regarding its role in decidualization. The present study found that melatonin did not alter the proliferation of human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), as well as cell cycle progress, but suppressed stromal differentiation after binding to the melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B), which was visualized in decidualizing ESCs. Further analysis evidenced that application of melatonin resulted in the diminishment for NOTCH1 and RBPJ expression. Supplementation of recombinant NOTCH1 protein (rNOTCH1) counteracted the impairment of stromal differentiation conferred by melatonin, while the addition of the NOTCH signaling pathway inhibitor DAPT aggravated the differentiation progress. Meanwhile, melatonin might restrain the expression and transcriptional activity of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), whose blockage accelerated the fault of stromal differentiation under the context of melatonin, but this restraint was subsequently ameliorated by rNOTCH1. Forkhead box O 1 (FOXO1) was identified as a downstream target of melatonin in decidualization. Repression of NRF2 antagonized the retrieval of rNOTCH1 due to aberrant FOXO1 expression elicited by melatonin. Moreover, melatonin brought about the occurrence of oxidative stress accompanied by an obvious accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species and a significant reduction in glutathione (GSH) content, as well as enzymatic activities of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase, whereas supplementation of rNOTCH1 improved the above-mentioned effects. Nevertheless, this improvement was disrupted by the blockage of NRF2 and FOXO1. Furthermore, addition of GSH rescued the defect of stromal differentiation by melatonin. Collectively, melatonin might impair endometrial decidualization by restraining the differentiation of ESCs dependent on NOTCH1-NRF2-FOXO1-GSH pathway after binding to the MTNR1B receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, P. R. China
- Reproductive Medical Center, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, P. R. China
| | - Ting-Ting Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, P. R. China
| | - Ji-Cheng Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Si Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, P. R. China
| | - Bin Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, P. R. China
| | - Zhan-Peng Yue
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, P. R. China
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Acar N, Soylu H, Avci S, Ustunel I. Expressions of Notch signalling pathway members during early pregnancy in mice. J Mol Histol 2023; 54:297-312. [PMID: 37344690 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-023-10132-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Although pregnancy is initiated and maintained through highly complex mechanisms, it is essential to understand the events that occur before and during early pregnancy to understand a healthy implantation process. The Notch signal, thought to be involved in this process, is frequently the subject of research with its different aspects. To better understand the role of Notch signaling in the peri-implantation period of the mouse uterus, we investigated the state of expression and localization of Notch 3, Notch 4, Rbp-J, Hes1, Hes7, Hey2, HeyL, and Fbw7 in the uterus and implantation sites in early pregnancy. Balb/C mice were divided into groups D1, D4, D5, D6, and D8. For D5 and D6 groups, implantation sites were identified by intravenous injection of Chicago blue. IHC, WB, and QRT-PCR methods were used. Notch 3 was very strong positive on the 4th day of pregnancy. Notch 4 was highly expressed on days 4, 5, 6, and 8 of pregnancy when P4 levels were high. Hes 1 level was at the lowest on the 4th day of pregnancy. Hes 7 protein expression gradually increased from D1 to D8 in the uteri and implantation sites. Hey 2 expression was at the highest level on the 1st and 4th days. Hey L expression was on the apical of the glands. Fbxw7 that expression was high on the 1st and 4th days of pregnancy. Notch signaling may play an essential role in regulating endometrial receptivity. In addition, our Hes7 results are new to the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuray Acar
- School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
| | - Hakan Soylu
- School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Duzce University, Duzce, Turkey
| | - Sema Avci
- School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Ismail Ustunel
- School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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Xu QX, Madhavan M, Wei SW, Zhang WQ, Lu L, Wang KZ, Genna M, Song Y, Zhao Y, Shao HT, Kang JW, Fazleabas AT, Arora R, Su RW. Aberrant activation of Notch1 signaling in the mouse uterine epithelium promotes hyper-proliferation by increasing estrogen sensitivity. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22983. [PMID: 37249327 PMCID: PMC10263383 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201868rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, the endometrium undergoes dynamic changes in response to estrogen and progesterone to prepare for blastocyst implantation. Two distinct types of endometrial epithelial cells, the luminal (LE) and glandular (GE) epithelial cells play different functional roles during this physiological process. Previously, we have reported that Notch signaling plays multiple roles in embryo implantation, decidualization, and postpartum repair. Here, using the uterine epithelial-specific Ltf-iCre, we showed that Notch1 signaling over-activation in the endometrial epithelium caused dysfunction of the epithelium during the estrous cycle, resulting in hyper-proliferation. During pregnancy, it further led to dysregulation of estrogen and progesterone signaling, resulting in infertility in these animals. Using 3D organoids, we showed that over-activation of Notch1 signaling increased the proliferative potential of both LE and GE cells and reduced the difference in transcription profiles between them, suggesting disrupted differentiation of the uterine epithelium. In addition, we demonstrated that both canonical and non-canonical Notch signaling contributed to the hyper-proliferation of GE cells, but only the non-canonical pathway was involved with estrogen sensitivity in the GE cells. These findings provided insights into the effects of Notch1 signaling on the proliferation, differentiation, and function of the uterine epithelium. This study demonstrated the important roles of Notch1 signaling in regulating hormone response and differentiation of endometrial epithelial cells and provides an opportunity for future studies in estrogen-dependent diseases, such as endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Xin Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Manoj Madhavan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
| | - Shu-Wen Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wang-Qing Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke-Zhi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Moldovan Genna
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Yong Song
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Yu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan-Ting Shao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Wen Kang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, USA
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Vaccine Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
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10
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Yang SC, Park M, Hong KH, La H, Park C, Wang P, Li G, Chen Q, Choi Y, DeMayo FJ, Lydon JP, Skalnik DG, Lim HJ, Hong SH, Park SH, Kim YS, Kim HR, Song H. CFP1 governs uterine epigenetic landscapes to intervene in progesterone responses for uterine physiology and suppression of endometriosis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3220. [PMID: 37270588 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39008-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) is required for the preparation of the endometrium for a successful pregnancy. P4 resistance is a leading cause of the pathogenesis of endometrial disorders like endometriosis, often leading to infertility; however, the underlying epigenetic cause remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that CFP1, a regulator of H3K4me3, is required for maintaining epigenetic landscapes of P4-progesterone receptor (PGR) signaling networks in the mouse uterus. Cfp1f/f;Pgr-Cre (Cfp1d/d) mice showed impaired P4 responses, leading to complete failure of embryo implantation. mRNA and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing analyses showed that CFP1 regulates uterine mRNA profiles not only in H3K4me3-dependent but also in H3K4me3-independent manners. CFP1 directly regulates important P4 response genes, including Gata2, Sox17, and Ihh, which activate smoothened signaling pathway in the uterus. In a mouse model of endometriosis, Cfp1d/d ectopic lesions showed P4 resistance, which was rescued by a smoothened agonist. In human endometriosis, CFP1 was significantly downregulated, and expression levels between CFP1 and these P4 targets are positively related regardless of PGR levels. In brief, our study provides that CFP1 intervenes in the P4-epigenome-transcriptome networks for uterine receptivity for embryo implantation and the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Chel Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Kwon-Ho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Hyeonwoo La
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Chanhyeok Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Peike Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Gaizhen Li
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Qionghua Chen
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Youngsok Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Department of Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, 12233, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - David G Skalnik
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Hyunjung J Lim
- Department of Veterinary Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Seok-Ho Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 24431, Korea
- KW-Bio Co., Ltd, Wonju, 26493, Korea
| | - So Hee Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Yeon Sun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Hye-Ryun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13488, Korea.
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11
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Jia S, Wilbourne J, Crossen MJ, Zhao F. Morphogenesis of the female reproductive tract along antero-posterior and dorso-ventral axes is dependent on Amhr2+ mesenchyme in mice†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1477-1489. [PMID: 36130202 PMCID: PMC9752753 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphogenesis of the female reproductive tract is regulated by the mesenchyme. However, the identity of the mesenchymal lineage that directs the morphogenesis of the female reproductive tract has not been determined. Using in vivo genetic cell ablation, we identified Amhr2+ mesenchyme as an essential mesenchymal population in patterning the female reproductive tract. After partial ablation of Amhr2+ mesenchymal cells, the oviduct failed to develop its characteristic coiling due to decreased epithelial proliferation and tubule elongation during development. The uterus displayed a reduction in size and showed decreased cellular proliferation in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments. More importantly, in the uterus, partial ablation of Amhr2+ mesenchyme caused abnormal lumen shape and altered the direction of its long axis from the dorsal-ventral axis to the left-right axis (i.e., perpendicular to the dorsal-ventral axis). Despite these morphological defects, epithelia underwent normal differentiation into secretory and ciliated cells in the oviduct and glandular epithelial cells in the uterus. These results demonstrated that Amhr2+ mesenchyme can direct female reproductive tract morphogenesis by regulating epithelial proliferation and lumen shape without affecting the differentiation of epithelial cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Jia
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jillian Wilbourne
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - McKenna J Crossen
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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12
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Ma Q, Beal JR, Song X, Bhurke A, Bagchi IC, Bagchi MK. Extracellular Vesicles Secreted by Mouse Decidual Cells Carry Critical Information for the Establishment of Pregnancy. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6758297. [PMID: 36219207 PMCID: PMC9761388 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The mouse decidua secretes many factors that act in a paracrine/autocrine manner to critically control uterine decidualization, neovascularization, and tissue remodeling that ensure proper establishment of pregnancy. The precise mechanisms that dictate intercellular communications among the uterine cells during early pregnancy remain unknown. We recently reported that conditional deletion of the gene encoding the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 2 alpha (Hif2α) in mouse uterus led to infertility. Here, we report that HIF2α in mouse endometrial stromal cells (MESCs) acts via the cellular trafficking regulator RAB27b to control the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EVs) during decidualization. We also found that Hif2α-regulated pathways influence the biogenesis of EVs. Proteomic analysis of EVs secreted by decidualizing MESCs revealed that they harbor a wide variety of protein cargoes whose composition changed as the decidualization process progressed. The EVs enhanced the differentiation capacity of MESCs and the production of angiogenic factors by these cells. We also established that matrix metalloproteinase-2, a prominent EV cargo protein, modulates uterine remodeling during decidualization. Collectively, our results support the concept that EVs are central to the mechanisms by which the decidual cells communicate with each other and other cell types within the uterus to facilitate successful establishment of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyan Ma
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Jacob R Beal
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Xiangning Song
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Arpita Bhurke
- Carle Woese Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Indrani C Bagchi
- Correspondence: Indrani C. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA. ; or Milan K. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | - Milan K Bagchi
- Correspondence: Indrani C. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA. ; or Milan K. Bagchi, PhD, Departments of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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13
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Moldovan GE, Song Y, Kim TH, Su RW, Jeong JW, Gruzdev A, Spencer TE, Fazleabas AT. Notch effector recombination signal binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa J signaling is required for the initiation of endometrial stromal cell decidualization†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:977-983. [PMID: 35835555 PMCID: PMC9562121 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is required for reproductive success. This pathway activates its transcriptional effector, recombination signal binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa J (Rbpj), to induce transcription of its target genes. This signaling pathway is required for successful decidualization, implantation, and uterine repair following parturition. To identify the compartmental specific roles of the Notch signaling pathway in the establishment of pregnancy, we generated epithelial and decidual stromal cell specific knockouts of Rbpj utilizing lactoferrin iCre and Prl8A2 iCre, respectively. Both conditional knockout mouse models were fertile. The Rbpj epithelial knockout mice displayed 27% resorption sites at E15.5, but this did not significantly impact the number of live born pups compared with controls. In addition, the Rbpj epithelial knockout mice displayed increased estrogen signaling in their stromal compartment. Given that both mouse models exhibited fertility comparable to control animals, the epithelial and stromal specific nature of the iCre recombinases utilized, and previously published Rbpj total uterine knockout mouse models, we conclude that Notch effector Rbpj signaling is required at the initiation of pregnancy to support decidualization in stromal cells, but that Rbpj is not required in the epithelial compartment nor is it required for post-implantation pregnancy success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genna E Moldovan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Yong Song
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Artiom Gruzdev
- Knockout Mouse Core Facility, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Divison of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Asgerally T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
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14
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Wu J, Lin S, Huang P, Qiu L, Jiang Y, Zhang Y, Meng N, Meng M, Wang L, Deng W, Liu Z, Guo C, Lu J, Wang H, Kong S. Maternal anxiety affects embryo implantation via impairing adrenergic receptor signaling in decidual cells. Commun Biol 2022; 5:840. [PMID: 35982177 PMCID: PMC9388523 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03694-1] [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: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is defined as the failed pregnancy after good embryo transfer over 3 cycles during in vitro fertilization (IVF).The human endometrium plays a vital role in providing the site for embryo implantation, with several factors implicated in unsatisfactory endometrial receptivity in RIF. Our present results revealed that women with pregnancy loss or infertility have a higher serum epinephrine level, indicating a potential correlation between psychological stress and pregnancy failure. RNA-sequencing of the tissues collected at the endometrial receptive phase in normal and RIF women showed that stress hormones could affect the functional status of endometrial receptivity. Subsequent analysis revealed that the epinephrine signaling acts as an important regulator of endometrial receptivity through the PI3K-AKT and FOXO1 signaling pathways. We also found that patients with RIF show attenuated expression of the alpha-2C-adrenergic receptor (ADRA2C) and that its down regulation induced by high level epinephrine could inhibit the decidualization. Early pregnant mice treated with stress showed high serum epinephrine levels, defective uterine adrenergic receptor expression, and low pregnancy rates. Altogether, our findings indicate that mental stress during early pregnancy can alter the functional status of endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxiang Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China.,Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
| | - Pinxiu Huang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lingling Qiu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yufei Jiang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Nan Meng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Meiqing Meng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lemeng Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Wenbo Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chuanhui Guo
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
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15
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Deng W, Wang H. Efficient cell chatting between embryo and uterus ensures embryo implantation. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:339-348. [PMID: 35774025 PMCID: PMC9310511 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation is one of the hottest topics during female reproduction since it is the first dialogue between maternal uterus and developing embryo whose disruption will contribute to adverse pregnancy outcome. Numerous achievements have been made to decipher the underlying mechanism of embryo implantation by genetic and molecular approaches accompanied with emerging technological advances. In recent decades, raising concepts incite insightful understanding on the mechanism of reciprocal communication between implantation competent embryos and receptive uterus. Enlightened by these gratifying evolvements, we aim to summarize and revisit current progress on the critical determinants of mutual communication between maternal uterus and embryonic signaling on the perspective of embryo implantation to alleviate infertility, enhance fetal health, and improve contraceptive design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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16
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Qu Y, Zhang J, Guo S, Zhang L, Qian J, Zhu X, Duan E, Zhang Y. Three-Dimensional Visualization of Mouse Endometrial Remodeling After Superovulation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:933852. [PMID: 35846371 PMCID: PMC9284589 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.933852] [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: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine status determines pregnancy success. Although it is well known that superovulation operations can disrupt uterine function, our understanding of the morphological changes in the uterine endometrium at the three-dimensional (3D) level is limited. Here, combining the tissue clearing with 3D deep imaging, we reveal an increase in epithelial density and angiogenesis after ovarian stimulation, which is accompanied by a circulating surge in P4 levels. Using an ovariectomized mouse model, we further detected the separate regulatory effects of P4 and E2 on the uterine endometrium, with P4 promoting endothelial cell growth and E2 inducing epithelial proliferation. Additionally, we observed that the effects of E2 can be partially neutralized by P4, and vice versa. By analyzing the 3D uterine imaging, we discovered an interesting phenomenon in which the growing blood vessels closely surround the remodeling uterine epithelium, indicating a close relationship between angiogenesis and epithelial growth. These findings provide new insight into the uterine epithelial changes and angiogenesis at the 3D level, and explain a potential reason for endometrial changes due to the low implantation rate in patients undergoing clinic super-ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongcun Qu
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence in Sports, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shanshan Guo
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Qian
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xili Zhu
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Enkui Duan
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Ying Zhang,
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17
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Madhavan MK, DeMayo FJ, Lydon JP, Joshi NR, Fazleabas AT, Arora R. Aberrant uterine folding in mice disrupts implantation chamber formation and alignment of embryo-uterine axes. Development 2022; 149:275675. [PMID: 35575097 PMCID: PMC9245188 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The uterine luminal epithelium folds characteristically in mammals, including humans, horses and rodents. Improper uterine folding in horses results in pregnancy failure, but the precise function of folds remains unknown. Here, we uncover dynamic changes in the 3D uterine folding pattern during early pregnancy with the entire lumen forming pre-implantation transverse folds along the mesometrial-antimesometrial axis. Using a time course, we show that transverse folds are formed before embryo spacing, whereas implantation chambers form as the embryo begins attachment. Thus, folds and chambers are two distinct structures. Transverse folds resolve to form a flat implantation region, after which an embryo arrives at its center to attach and form the post-implantation chamber. Our data also suggest that the implantation chamber facilitates embryo rotation and its alignment along the uterine mesometrial-antimesometrial axis. Using WNT5A- and RBPJ-deficient mice that display aberrant folds, we show that embryos trapped in longitudinal folds display misalignment of the embryo-uterine axes, abnormal chamber formation and defective post-implantation morphogenesis. These mouse models with disrupted uterine folding provide an opportunity to understand uterine structure-based mechanisms that are crucial for implantation and pregnancy success.
This article has an associated ‘The people behind the papers’ interview.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj K. Madhavan
- Michigan State University 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering , , East Lansing, MI 48824 , USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering 2 , , East Lansing, MI 48824 , USA
- Michigan State University 2 , , East Lansing, MI 48824 , USA
| | - Francesco J. DeMayo
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences 3 Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory , , Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 , USA
| | - John P. Lydon
- Baylor College of Medicine 4 Department of Molecular and Cell Biology , , Houston, TX 77030 , USA
| | - Niraj R. Joshi
- Michigan State University 5 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology , , Grand Rapids, MI 49503 , USA
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Michigan State University 5 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology , , Grand Rapids, MI 49503 , USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Michigan State University 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering , , East Lansing, MI 48824 , USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering 2 , , East Lansing, MI 48824 , USA
- Michigan State University 2 , , East Lansing, MI 48824 , USA
- Michigan State University 5 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology , , Grand Rapids, MI 49503 , USA
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18
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Ma W, Cao M, Bi S, Du L, Chen J, Wang H, Jiang Y, Wu Y, Liao Y, Kong S, Liu J. MAX deficiency impairs human endometrial decidualization through down-regulating OSR2 in women with recurrent spontaneous abortion. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 388:453-469. [PMID: 35146559 PMCID: PMC9035420 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03579-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Human uterine stromal cell undergoes decidualization for pregnancy establishment and maintenance, which involved extensive proliferation and differentiation. Increasing studies have suggested that recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) may result from defective endometrial stromal decidualization. However, the critical molecular mechanisms underlying impaired decidualization during RSA are still elusive. By using our recently published single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) atlas, we found that MYC-associated factor X (MAX) was significantly downregulated in the stromal cells derived from decidual tissues of women with RSA, followed by verification with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). MAX knockdown significantly impairs human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) proliferation as determined by MTS assay and Ki67 immunostaining, and decidualization determined by F-actin, and decidualization markers. RNA-seq together with chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and cleavage under targets and release using nuclease sequencing (CUT&RUN-seq) analysis were applied to explore the molecular mechanisms of MAX in regulation of decidualization, followed by dual-luciferase reporter assay to verify that MAX targets to (odd-skipped related transcription factor 2) OSR2 directly. Reduced expression of OSR2 was also confirmed in decidual tissues in women with RSA by IHC and qRT-PCR. OSR2 knockdown also significantly impairs HESCs decidualization. OSR2-overexpression could at least partly rescue the downregulated insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) expression level in response to MAX knockdown. Collectively, MAX deficiency observed in RSA stromal cells not only attenuates HESCs proliferation but also impairs HESCs decidualization by downregulating OSR2 expression at transcriptional level directly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixu Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingzhu Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shilei Bi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lili Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingsi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yufei Jiang
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yixuan Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yixin Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
| | - Jianqiao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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19
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Liu M, Deng W, Tang L, Liu M, Bao H, Guo C, Zhang C, Lu J, Wang H, Lu Z, Kong S. Menin directs regionalized decidual transformation through epigenetically setting PTX3 to balance FGF and BMP signaling. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1006. [PMID: 35194044 PMCID: PMC8864016 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28657-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During decidualization in rodents, uterine stroma undergoes extensive reprograming into distinct cells, forming the discrete regions defined as the primary decidual zone (PDZ), the secondary decidual zone (SDZ) and the layer of undifferentiated stromal cells respectively. Here we show that uterine deletion of Men1, a member of the histone H3K4 methyltransferase complex, disrupts the terminal differentiation of stroma, resulting in chaotic decidualization and pregnancy failure. Genome-wide epigenetic profile reveals that Men1 binding in chromatin recapitulates H3K4me3 distribution. Further transcriptomic investigation demonstrates that Men1 directly regulates the expression of PTX3, an extra-cellular trap for FGF2 in decidual cells. Decreased Ptx3 upon Men1 ablation leads to aberrant activation of ERK1/2 in the SDZ due to the unrestrained FGF2 signal emanated from undifferentiated stromal cells, which blunt BMP2 induction and decidualization. In brief, our study provides genetic and molecular mechanisms for epigenetic rewiring mediated decidual regionalization by Men1 and sheds new light on pregnancy maintenance. The decidualization of endometrial stroma is critical for pregnancy maintenance. Here the authors reveal that Menin ensures the expression of PTX3 through H3K4me3 modification, to balance the BMP and FGF signal in the decidua for normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Wenbo Deng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lu Tang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Meng Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Haili Bao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chuanhui Guo
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Changxian Zhang
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Lyon, F-69000, France
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Zhongxian Lu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China. .,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
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20
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Wilkinson AL, Menelaou K, Rakoczy J, Tan XS, Watson ED. Disruption of Folate Metabolism Causes Poor Alignment and Spacing of Mouse Conceptuses for Multiple Generations. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:723978. [PMID: 34957089 PMCID: PMC8703036 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.723978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal uptake or metabolism of folate increases risk of human pregnancy complications, though the mechanism is unclear. Here, we explore how defective folate metabolism influences early development by analysing mice with the hypomorphic Mtrrgt mutation. MTRR is necessary for methyl group utilisation from folate metabolism, and the Mtrrgt allele disrupts this process. We show that the spectrum of phenotypes previously observed in Mtrrgt/gt conceptuses at embryonic day (E) 10.5 is apparent from E8.5 including developmental delay, congenital malformations, and placental phenotypes. Notably, we report misalignment of some Mtrrgt conceptuses within their implantation sites from E6.5. The degree of misorientation occurs across a continuum, with the most severe form visible upon gross dissection. Additionally, some Mtrrgt/gt conceptuses display twinning. Therefore, we implicate folate metabolism in blastocyst orientation and spacing at implantation. Skewed growth likely influences embryo development since developmental delay and heart malformations (but not defects in neural tube closure or trophoblast differentiation) associate with severe misalignment of Mtrrgt/gt conceptuses. Typically, the uterus is thought to guide conceptus orientation. To investigate a uterine effect of the Mtrrgt allele, we manipulate the maternal Mtrr genotype. Misaligned conceptuses were observed in litters of Mtrr+/+, Mtrr+/gt, and Mtrrgt/gt mothers. While progesterone and/or BMP2 signalling might be disrupted, normal decidual morphology, patterning, and blood perfusion are evident at E6.5 regardless of conceptus orientation. These observations argue against a post-implantation uterine defect as a cause of conceptus misalignment. Since litters of Mtrr+/+ mothers display conceptus misalignment, a grandparental effect is explored. Multigenerational phenotype inheritance is characteristic of the Mtrrgt model, though the mechanism remains unclear. Genetic pedigree analysis reveals that severe conceptus skewing associates with the Mtrr genotype of either maternal grandparent. Moreover, the presence of conceptus skewing after embryo transfer into a control uterus indicates that misalignment is independent of the peri- and/or post-implantation uterus and instead is likely attributed to an embryonic mechanism that is epigenetically inherited. Overall, our data indicates that abnormal folate metabolism influences conceptus orientation over multiple generations with implications for subsequent development. This study casts light on the complex role of folate metabolism during development beyond a direct maternal effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Wilkinson
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Katerina Menelaou
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Rakoczy
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Xiu S Tan
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Erica D Watson
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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21
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Han K, Wang F, Yue Y, Tan X, Tian M, Miao Y, Zhao S, Dong W, Yu M. Glycomics reveal that ST6GAL1-mediated sialylation regulates uterine lumen closure during implantation. Cell Prolif 2021; 55:e13169. [PMID: 34957619 PMCID: PMC8780930 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Implantation failure is a major cause of prenatal mortality. The uterine lumen closure contributes to embryo adhesion to the uterus, but its underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Our previous study has reported that endometrial fold extension can lead to uterine lumen closure in pigs. The objective of this study was to reveal molecular mechanisms of the uterine lumen closure by characterizing the molecular basis of the endometrial fold extension during implantation in pigs. Materials and methods Uterine and endometrium tissues during implantation were collected in pigs. MALDI‐TOF MS was used to characterize the N‐glycomic profiles. Histochemistry, siRNA transfection, Western blotting, lectin immumoprecipitation, mass spectrometry and assays of wounding healing and cell aggregation were performed to investigate the molecular basis. Results We observed that uterine luminal epithelium (LE) migrated collectively during endometrial fold extension. For the first time, we identified a large number of N‐glycan compositions from endometrium during implantation using MALDI‐TOF MS. Notably, the α2,6‐linked sialic acid and ST6GAL1 were highly expressed in uterine LE when the endometrial folds extended greatly. Subsequently, the role of ST6GAL1‐mediated 2,6‐sialylation in collective epithelial migration was demonstrated. Finally, we found that ST6GAL1‐mediated α2,6‐sialylation of E‐cadherin may participate in collective migration of uterine LE. Conclusions The study reveals a mechanism of uterine lumen closure by identifying that ST6GAL1‐mediated α2,6‐sialylation of cell adhesion molecules contributes to endometrial fold extension through regulating collective migration of uterine LE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Han
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Feiyu Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yulu Yue
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xihong Tan
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Miao Tian
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiliang Miao
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.,Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuhong Zhao
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Weijie Dong
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Mei Yu
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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22
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Han D, Sun P, Hu Y, Wang J, Hua G, Chen J, Shao C, Tian F, Darwish HYA, Tai Y, Yang X, Chang J, Ma Y. The Immune Barrier of Porcine Uterine Mucosa Differs Dramatically at Proliferative and Secretory Phases and Could Be Positively Modulated by Colonizing Microbiota. Front Immunol 2021; 12:750808. [PMID: 34917075 PMCID: PMC8670328 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.750808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial immune response is highly associated with the homeostatic balance of the uterus and embryo development; however, the underlying molecular regulatory mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Herein, the porcine endometrium showed significant variation in mucosal immunity in proliferative and secretory phases by single-cell RNA sequencing. The loose arrangement and high motility of the uterine epithelium in the proliferative phase gave opportunities for epithelial cells and dendritic cells to cross talk with colonizing microbial community, guiding lymphocyte migration into the mucosal and glandular epithelium. The migrating lymphocytes were primarily NK and CD8+ T cells, which were robustly modulated by the chemokine signaling. In the secretory phase, the significantly strengthened mechanical mucosal barrier and increased immunoglobulin A alleviated the migration of lymphocytes into the epithelium when the neuro-modulation, mineral uptake, and amino acid metabolism were strongly upregulated. The noticeably increased intraepithelial lymphocytes were positively modulated by the bacteria in the uterine cavity. Our findings illustrated that significant mucosal immunity variation in the endometrium in the proliferative and secretory phases was closely related to intraepithelial lymphocyte migration, which could be modulated by the colonizing bacteria after cross talk with epithelial cells with higher expressions of chemokine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deping Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Research and Development Department for Breeding Poultry Feed, Shandong Hekangyuan Biological Breeding Co., Ltd, Jinan, China
| | - Yanxin Hu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoying Hua
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianfei Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuyun Shao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China
| | - Fan Tian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China
| | - Hesham Y A Darwish
- Department of Applied Biotechnology, Molecular Biology Researches & Studies Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Yurong Tai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianyu Chang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfei Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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23
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Moldovan GE, Miele L, Fazleabas AT. Notch signaling in reproduction. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2021; 32:1044-1057. [PMID: 34479767 PMCID: PMC8585702 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is conserved among mammalian species and controls proliferation, differentiation, and cell death in many organs throughout the body including the reproductive tract. Notch signaling plays critical roles in the development and function of both the male and female reproductive systems. Specifically, within the female reproductive tract, Notch signaling is hormone regulated and mediates key reproductive events important for ovarian and uterine function. In this review, we highlight the tissues that express Notch receptors, ligands, and downstream effectors and distinguish how these molecules regulate reproductive function in male and female mice, non-human primates, and humans. Finally, we describe some of the aberrations in Notch signaling in female reproductive pathologies and identify opportunities for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genna E Moldovan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Asgerally T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA.
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24
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Uterine Notch2 facilitates pregnancy recognition and corpus luteum maintenance via upregulating decidual Prl8a2. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009786. [PMID: 34460816 PMCID: PMC8432799 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The maternal recognition of pregnancy is a necessary prerequisite for gestation maintenance through prolonging the corpus luteum lifespan and ensuring progesterone production. In addition to pituitary prolactin and placental lactogens, decidual derived prolactin family members have been presumed to possess luteotropic effect. However, there was a lack of convincing evidence to support this hypothesis. Here, we unveiled an essential role of uterine Notch2 in pregnancy recognition and corpus luteum maintenance. Uterine-specific deletion of Notch2 did not affect female fertility. Nevertheless, the expression of decidual Prl8a2, a member of the prolactin family, was downregulated due to Notch2 ablation. Subsequently, we interrupted pituitary prolactin function to determine the luteotropic role of the decidua by employing the lipopolysaccharide-induced prolactin resistance model, or blocking the prolactin signaling by prolactin receptor-Fc fusion protein, or repressing pituitary prolactin release by dopamine receptor agonist bromocriptine, and found that Notch2-deficient females were more sensitive to these stresses and ended up in pregnancy loss resulting from abnormal corpus luteum function and insufficient serum progesterone level. Overexpression of Prl8a2 in Notch2 knockout mice rescued lipopolysaccharide-induced abortion, highlighting its luteotropic function. Further investigation adopting Rbpj knockout and DNMAML overexpression mouse models along with chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and luciferase analysis confirmed that Prl8a2 was regulated by the canonical Notch signaling. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that decidual prolactin members, under the control of uterine Notch signaling, assisted pituitary prolactin to sustain corpus luteum function and serum progesterone level during post-implantation phase, which was conducive to pregnancy recognition and maintenance. Progesterone secreted from the corpus luteum in the ovary is indispensable to pregnancy maintenance in both rodents and humans. Therefore, prolonged corpus luteum lifespan and sustainable progesterone production is a prerequisite for a successful pregnancy. In rodents, in addition to pituitary prolactin and placental lactogens, decidual derived factors have been presumed to possess luteotropic effects during the post-implantation stage. In this study, utilizing a mouse model with uterine specific deletion of Notch2, which displayed decreased level of decidual prolactin member Prl8a2, combined with multiple approaches to interrupt the pituitary prolactin signal, we demonstrated that decidual derived Prl8a2 assisted pituitary prolactin to sustain corpus luteum function and serum progesterone level during post-implantation phase, which was conducive to pregnancy recognition and maintenance. In addition, the expression of decidual Prl8a2 was under the direct control of the canonical Notch pathway. Together, we herein provide convincing evidence that decidual produced Prl8a2, modulated by uterine canonical Notch signaling, exhibits luteotropic functions and contributes to pregnancy maintenance.
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25
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Zhou W, Menkhorst E, Dimitriadis E. Jagged1 regulates endometrial receptivity in both humans and mice. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21784. [PMID: 34252231 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100590r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The human endometrium undergoes cycle-dependent changes and is only receptive to an implanting blastocyst within a narrow window of 2-4 days in the mid-secretory phase. Such functional changes require delicate interplay between a diversity of factors including cytokines and signaling pathways. The Notch signaling pathway members are expressed in human endometrium. We have previously demonstrated that Notch ligand Jagged1 (JAG1) localizes in the endometrial luminal epithelium (LE) and is abnormally reduced in infertile women during receptivity. However, the functional consequences of reduced JAG1 production on endometrial receptivity to implantation of the blastocyst are unknown. This study aimed to determine the role of JAG1 in regulating endometrial receptivity in humans and mice. Knockdown of JAG1 in both primary human endometrial epithelial cells and Ishikawa cells significantly reduced their adhesive capacity to HTR8/SVneo (trophoblast cell line) spheroids. We confirmed that in human endometrial epithelial cells, JAG1 interacted with Notch Receptor 3 (NOTCH3) and knockdown of JAG1 significantly reduced the expression of Notch signaling downstream target HEY1 and classical receptivity markers. Knockdown of Jag1 in mouse LE significantly impaired blastocyst implantation. We identified ten genes (related to tight junction, infertility, and cell adhesion) that were differentially expressed by Jag1 knockdown in LE in mice. Further analysis of the tight junction family members in both species revealed that JAG1 altered the expression of tight junction components only in mice. Together, our data demonstrated that JAG1 altered endometrial epithelial cell adhesive capacity and regulated endometrial receptivity in both humans and mice likely via different mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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26
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Endometrial receptivity and implantation require uterine BMP signaling through an ACVR2A-SMAD1/SMAD5 axis. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3386. [PMID: 34099644 PMCID: PMC8184938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23571-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During early pregnancy in the mouse, nidatory estrogen (E2) stimulates endometrial receptivity by activating a network of signaling pathways that is not yet fully characterized. Here, we report that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) control endometrial receptivity via a conserved activin receptor type 2 A (ACVR2A) and SMAD1/5 signaling pathway. Mice were generated to contain single or double conditional deletion of SMAD1/5 and ACVR2A/ACVR2B receptors using progesterone receptor (PR)-cre. Female mice with SMAD1/5 deletion display endometrial defects that result in the development of cystic endometrial glands, a hyperproliferative endometrial epithelium during the window of implantation, and impaired apicobasal transformation that prevents embryo implantation and leads to infertility. Analysis of Acvr2a-PRcre and Acvr2b-PRcre pregnant mice determined that BMP signaling occurs via ACVR2A and that ACVR2B is dispensable during embryo implantation. Therefore, BMPs signal through a conserved endometrial ACVR2A/SMAD1/5 pathway that promotes endometrial receptivity during embryo implantation. Building on the known role of BMP signalling in implantation, the authors define the role of uterine ACVR2A and ALK3 (via SMAD1/5) in vivo in regulating murine endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation.
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27
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Shafiei S, Farah O, Dufort D. Maternal Cripto is required for proper uterine decidualization and peri-implantation uterine remodeling. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1045-1057. [PMID: 33590845 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cripto encodes for a cell surface receptor whose role in embryonic development and stem cell maintenance has been studied. Cripto mRNA and protein have been detected in the human uterus at all stages of the menstrual cycle. To date, there is not much known about Cripto's role in female reproduction. As Cripto null Knockout (KO) is embryonic lethal, we created a conditional KO (cKO) mouse model in which Cripto is deleted only in the reproductive tissues using a Cre-loxP system. Pregnancy rate and number of pups per litter were evaluated as general fertility indices. We observed a significant decrease in pregnancy rate and litter size with loss of uterine Cripto indicating that Cripto cKO females are subfertile. We showed that although the preimplantation period is normal in Cripto cKO females, 20% of cKO females fail to establish pregnancy and an additional 20% of females undergo full litter loss after implantation between day 5.5 postcoitum (d5.5pc) and d8.5pc. We showed that subfertility caused by loss of uterine Cripto is due to defects in uterine decidualization, remodeling, and luminal closure and is accompanied by significant downregulation of Bmp2, Wnt4 and several components of Notch signaling pathway which all are known to be important factors in uterine remodeling and decidualization. Our study demonstrates that Cripto is expressed in the uterus during critical stages of early pregnancy and its deletion results in subfertility due to implantation failure, impaired peri-implantation uterine remodeling and impaired uterine decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Shafiei
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Omar Farah
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University , Montreal, Canada.,Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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28
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Orzechowska M, Anusewicz D, Bednarek AK. Functional Gene Expression Differentiation of the Notch Signaling Pathway in Female Reproductive Tract Tissues-A Comprehensive Review With Analysis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:592616. [PMID: 33384996 PMCID: PMC7770115 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.592616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch pathway involves evolutionarily conserved signaling regulating the development of the female tract organs such as breast, ovary, cervix, and uterine endometrium. A great number of studies revealed Notch aberrancies in association with their carcinogenesis and disease progression, the management of which is still challenging. The present study is a comprehensive review of the available literature on Notch signaling during the normal development and carcinogenesis of the female tract organs. The review has been enriched with our analyses of the TCGA data including breast, cervical, ovarian, and endometrial carcinomas concerning the effects of Notch signaling at two levels: the core components and downstream effectors, hence filling the lack of global overview of Notch-driven carcinogenesis and disease progression. Phenotype heterogeneity regarding Notch signaling was projected in two uniform manifold approximation and projection algorithm dimensions, preceded by the principal component analysis step reducing the data burden. Additionally, overall and disease-free survival analyses were performed with the optimal cutpoint determination by Evaluate Cutpoints software to establish the character of particular Notch components in tumorigenesis. In addition to the review, we demonstrated separate models of the examined cancers of the Notch pathway and its targets, although expression profiles of all normal tissues were much more similar to each other than to its cancerous compartments. Such Notch-driven cancerous differentiation resulted in a case of opposite association with DFS and OS. As a consequence, target genes also show very distinct profiles including genes associated with cell proliferation and differentiation, energy metabolism, or the EMT. In conclusion, the observed Notch associations with the female tract malignancies resulted from differential expression of target genes. This may influence a future analysis to search for new therapeutic targets based on specific Notch pathway profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dorota Anusewicz
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Andrzej K Bednarek
- Department of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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Norton KA, Niri F, Weatherill CB, Williams CE, Duong K, McDermid HE. Implantation failure and embryo loss contribute to subfertility in female mice mutant for chromatin remodeler Cecr2†. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:835-849. [PMID: 33354716 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Defects in the maternal reproductive system that result in early pregnancy loss are important causes of human female infertility. A wide variety of biological processes are involved in implantation and establishment of a successful pregnancy. Although chromatin remodelers have been shown to play an important role in many biological processes, our understanding of the role of chromatin remodelers in female reproduction remains limited. Here, we demonstrate that female mice mutant for chromatin remodeler Cecr2 are subfertile, with defects detected at the peri-implantation stage or early pregnancy. Using both a less severe hypomorphic mutation (Cecr2GT) and a more severe presumptive null mutation (Cecr2Del), we demonstrate a clear difference in the severity of the phenotype depending on the mutation. Although neither strain shows detectable defects in folliculogenesis, both Cecr2GT/GT and Cecr2GT/Del dams show defects in pregnancy. Cecr2GT/GT females have a normal number of implantation sites at embryonic day 5.5 (E5.5), but significant embryo loss by E10.5 accompanied by the presence of vaginal blood. Cecr2GT/Del females show a more severe phenotype, with significantly fewer detectable implantation sites than wild type at E5.5. Some Cecr2GT/Del females also show premature loss of decidual tissue after artificial decidualization. Together, these results suggest a role for Cecr2 in the establishment of a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kacie A Norton
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Farshad Niri
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Chelsey B Weatherill
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christine E Williams
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kevin Duong
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Heather E McDermid
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Li Z, Bian X, Ma Y, Yang Q, Jia W, Liu J, Wang F, Liu M, Li YX, Shao X, Wang YL. Uterine Scarring Leads to Adverse Pregnant Consequences by Impairing the Endometrium Response to Steroids. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5911727. [PMID: 32976565 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Uterine surgical scarring is an increasing risk factor for adverse pregnant consequences that threaten fetal-maternal health. The detailed molecular features of scar implantation remain largely unknown. We aim to study the pathologic features of uterine surgical scarring and the mechanisms of compromised pregnancy outcomes of scar implantation. We generated a mouse model of uterine surgical scarring with a uterine incision penetrating the myometrium to endometrium to examine the pathologic changes and transcriptome profiles of uterine scarring at various postsurgery (PS) time points, as well as features of the feto-maternal interface during scar implantation. We found that uterine surgical scar recovery was consistently poor at PS3 until PS90, as shown by a reduced number of endometrial glands, inhibition of myometrial smooth muscle cell growth but excessive collagen fiber deposition, and massive leukocyte infiltration. Transcriptome annotation indicated significant chronic inflammation at the scarring site. At the peri-implantation and postimplantation stages, abnormal expression of various steroid-responsive genes at the scarring site was in parallel with lumen epithelial cell hyperplasia, inappropriate luminal closure, and disorientation of the implanted embryo, restricted stromal cell proliferation, and defective decidualization. High embryonic lethality (around 70%) before E10.5 was observed, and the small amount of survival embryos at E10.5 exhibited restricted growth and aberrant placenta defects including overinvasion of trophoblast cells into the decidua and insufficient fetal blood vessel branching in the labyrinth. The findings indicate that chronic inflammation and compromised responses to steroids in uterine scar tissues are the pivotal molecular basis for adverse pregnancy consequences of scar implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotao Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yeling Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wentong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Feiyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Xia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Ling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Li H, You L, Tian Y, Guo J, Fang X, Zhou C, Shi L, Su Y. DPAGT1-Mediated Protein N-Glycosylation Is Indispensable for Oocyte and Follicle Development in Mice. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2020; 7:2000531. [PMID: 32714760 PMCID: PMC7375233 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202000531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Post-translational modification of proteins by N-linked glycosylation is crucial for many life processes. However, the exact contribution of N-glycosylation to mammalian female reproduction remains largely undefined. Here, DPAGT1, the enzyme that catalyzes the first step of protein N-glycosylation, is identified to be indispensable for oocyte development in mice. Dpagt1 missense mutation (c. 497A>G; p. Asp166Gly) causes female subfertility without grossly affecting other functions. Mutant females ovulate fewer eggs owing to defective development of growing follicles. Mutant oocytes have a thin and fragile zona pellucida (ZP) due to the reduction in glycosylation of ZP proteins, and display poor developmental competence after fertilization in vitro. Moreover, completion of the first meiosis is accelerated in mutant oocytes, which is coincident with the elevation of aneuploidy. Mechanistically, transcriptomic analysis reveals the downregulation of a number of transcripts essential for oocyte meiotic progression and preimplantation development (e.g., Pttgt1, Esco2, Orc6, and Npm2) in mutant oocytes, which could account for the defects observed. Furthermore, conditional knockout of Dpagt1 in oocytes recapitulates the phenotypes observed in Dpagt1 mutant females, and causes complete infertility. Taken together, these data indicate that protein N-glycosylation in oocytes is essential for female fertility in mammals by specific control of oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Liji You
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Yufeng Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Jing Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Xianbao Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Chenmin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - Lanying Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
| | - You‐Qiang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
- Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Maternity and Child Health HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and DevelopmentFudan UniversityShanghai200433P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Model Animal ResearchNanjing Medical UniversityNanjing211166P. R. China
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Lustgarten Guahmich N, Farber G, Shafiei S, McNally D, Redmond D, Kallinos E, Stuhlmann H, Dufort D, James D, Blobel CP. Endothelial deletion of ADAM10, a key regulator of Notch signaling, causes impaired decidualization and reduced fertility in female mice. Angiogenesis 2020; 23:443-458. [PMID: 32385775 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-020-09723-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
During the initiation of pregnancy, the vasculature of the implantation site expands rapidly, yet little is known about this process or its role in fertility. Here, we report that endothelial-specific deletion of a disintegrin and metalloprotease 10 (ADAM10), an essential regulator of Notch signaling, results in severe subfertility in mice. We found that implantation sites develop until 5.5 days post conception (dpc) but are resorbed by 6.5 dpc in A10ΔEC mice. Analysis of the mutant implantation sites showed impaired decidualization and abnormal vascular patterning compared to controls. Moreover, RNA-seq analysis revealed changes in endothelial cell marker expression consistent with defective ADAM10/Notch signaling in samples from A10ΔEC mice, suggesting that this signaling pathways is essential for the physiological function of endometrial endothelial cells during early pregnancy. Our findings raise the possibility that impaired endothelial cell function could be a cause for repeated pregnancy loss (RPL) and infertility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Lustgarten Guahmich
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gregory Farber
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shiva Shafiei
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Dylan McNally
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Redmond
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eleni Kallinos
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Heidi Stuhlmann
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Daylon James
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carl P Blobel
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics and Systems Biology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA. .,Arthritis and Tissue Degeneration Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA. .,Hospital for Special Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine, 535 East 70th, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
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33
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Zhang H, Zhao H, Wang X, Cui X, Jin L. Keratin 86 is up-regulated in the uterus during implantation, induced by oestradiol. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2020; 20:3. [PMID: 32028879 PMCID: PMC7006210 DOI: 10.1186/s12861-020-0208-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Uterine receptivity is one of the determinants of embryo implantation, which is responsible for pregnancy success. Aberrant embryo implantation due to disrupted uterine receptivity is usually found in ovarian hyperstimulation induced hyperoestrogen patients. Results This study identified keratin 86 (KRT86), a fibrous structural protein, which was upregulated in uterine endometrium during peri-implantation. Using a hyperoestrogen mouse model established in a previous study, we found abnormal oestradiol (E2) levels during pre-implantation could trigger high expression of Krt86 in the uterine epithelium. In an ovariectomised mouse model, combining oestrogen receptors ERα and ERβ knockout mice models, uterine Krt86 was found to be up-regulated after E2 treatment, mediated by nuclear ERα. Furthermore, we found progesterone (P4) could ameliorate Krt86 expression, induced by abnormal E2. Conclusions These results revealed the dynamic expression and regulation of Krt86, especially in hyperoestrogen treated mice, indicating it might act as a marker for non-receptive uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Zhang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China.
| | - Huashan Zhao
- Center for Reproduction and Health Development, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xi Wang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaolin Cui
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
| | - Lingling Jin
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning, China
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34
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Ye X. Uterine Luminal Epithelium as the Transient Gateway for Embryo Implantation. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:165-180. [PMID: 31866217 PMCID: PMC6983336 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2019.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The uterine luminal epithelium (LE) is the first maternal contact for an implanting embryo. Intrauterine fluid resorption, cessation of LE proliferation and apoptosis, and LE structural changes are prerequisites for establishing transient uterine receptivity for embryo implantation. Vesicle trafficking in the LE and receptor-mediated paracrine and autocrine mechanisms are crucial both for LE preparation and LE communications with the embryo and stroma during the initiation of embryo implantation. This review mainly covers recent in vivo studies in LE of mouse models from 0.5 days post-coitus (D0.5) to ∼D4 20 h when the trophoblasts pass through the LE layer for embryo implantation. The review is organized into three interconnected sections: preimplantation LE preparation for embryo attachment, embryo-LE communications, and LE-stroma communications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Ye
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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35
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Massimiani M, Lacconi V, La Civita F, Ticconi C, Rago R, Campagnolo L. Molecular Signaling Regulating Endometrium-Blastocyst Crosstalk. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:E23. [PMID: 31861484 PMCID: PMC6981505 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation of the embryo into the uterine endometrium is one of the most finely-regulated processes that leads to the establishment of a successful pregnancy. A plethora of factors are released in a time-specific fashion to synchronize the differentiation program of both the embryo and the endometrium. Indeed, blastocyst implantation in the uterus occurs in a limited time frame called the "window of implantation" (WOI), during which the maternal endometrium undergoes dramatic changes, collectively called "decidualization". Decidualization is guided not just by maternal factors (e.g., estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormone), but also by molecules secreted by the embryo, such as chorionic gonadotropin (CG) and interleukin-1β (IL-1 β), just to cite few. Once reached the uterine cavity, the embryo orients correctly toward the uterine epithelium, interacts with specialized structures, called pinopodes, and begins the process of adhesion and invasion. All these events are guided by factors secreted by both the endometrium and the embryo, such as leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), integrins and their ligands, adhesion molecules, Notch family members, and metalloproteinases and their inhibitors. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the factors and mechanisms regulating implantation, with a focus on those involved in the complex crosstalk between the blastocyst and the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micol Massimiani
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (V.L.); (F.L.C.)
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant’Alessandro, 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Lacconi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (V.L.); (F.L.C.)
| | - Fabio La Civita
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (V.L.); (F.L.C.)
| | - Carlo Ticconi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier, 1, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rocco Rago
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Via dei Monti Tiburtini 385/389, 00157 Rome, Italy;
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (V.L.); (F.L.C.)
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36
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Qian J, Zhang Y, Qu Y, Zhang L, Shi J, Zhang X, Liu S, Kim BH, Hwang SJ, Zhou T, Chen Q, Ward SM, Duan E, Zhang Y. Caffeine consumption during early pregnancy impairs oviductal embryo transport, embryonic development and uterine receptivity in mice. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:1266-1275. [PMID: 29982366 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Caffeine consumption has been widely used as a central nervous system stimulant. Epidemiological studies, however, have suggested that maternal caffeine exposure during pregnancy is associated with increased abnormalities, including decreased fertility, delayed conception, early spontaneous abortions, and low birth weight. The mechanisms underlying the negative outcomes of caffeine consumption, particularly during early pregnancy, remain unclear. In present study, we found that pregnant mice treated with moderate (5 mg/kg) or high (30 mg/kg) dosage of caffeine (intraperitoneally or orally) during preimplantation resulted in retention of early embryos in the oviduct, defective embryonic development, and impaired embryo implantation. Transferring normal blastocysts into the uteri of caffeine-treated pseudopregnant females also showed abnormal embryo implantation, thus indicating impaired uterine receptivity by caffeine administration. The remaining embryos that managed to implant after caffeine treatment also showed increased embryo resorption rate and abnormal development at mid-term stage, and decreased weight at birth. In addition to a dose-dependent effect, significant variations between individual mice under the same caffeine dosage were also observed, suggesting different sensitivities to caffeine, similar to that observed in human populations. Collectively, our data revealed that caffeine exposure during early pregnancy impaired oviductal embryo transport, embryonic development, and uterine receptivity, which are responsible for abnormal implantation and pregnancy loss. The study raises the concern of caffeine consumption during early stages of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongcun Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junchao Shi
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Shichao Liu
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Bo Hyun Kim
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Sung Jin Hwang
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Tong Zhou
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Sean M Ward
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Enkui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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37
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Vianello S, Lutolf MP. Understanding the Mechanobiology of Early Mammalian Development through Bioengineered Models. Dev Cell 2019; 48:751-763. [PMID: 30913407 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2019.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Research in developmental biology has been recently enriched by a multitude of in vitro models recapitulating key milestones of mammalian embryogenesis. These models obviate the challenge posed by the inaccessibility of implanted embryos, multiply experimental opportunities, and favor approaches traditionally associated with organoids and tissue engineering. Here, we provide a perspective on how these models can be applied to study the mechano-geometrical contributions to early mammalian development, which still escape direct verification in species that develop in utero. We thus outline new avenues for robust and scalable perturbation of geometry and mechanics in ways traditionally limited to non-implanting developmental models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Vianello
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences (SV) and School of Engineering (STI), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias P Lutolf
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences (SV) and School of Engineering (STI), Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, School of Basic Science (SB), EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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38
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Wu J, Kong S, Guo C, Wang J, Lu J, Jiang R, Wang H. An exaggerated epinephrine-adrenergic receptor signaling impairs uterine decidualization in mice. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 90:109-117. [PMID: 31520687 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of the relationship between stress-derived epinephrine and early pregnancy failure remains incomplete. Here, we explored the effect of epinephrine exposure on early pregnancy and pseudopregnancy in mice. Increased expression of adrenergic receptors Adra1b, Adra2b and Adrb2 was observed during decidualization and post-implantation embryogenesis was delayed or survival impaired. Epinephrine treatment also impaired decidualization in both the gravid and pseudopregnant uterus, suggesting the effect on decidualization was independent of the conceptus. This included a suppression of endometrial stroma cell proliferation and of key decidualization regulators, including COX2, BMP2 and WNT4. Collectively, these data demonstrate that maternal epinephrine exposure during early pregnancy impairs uterine decidualization and embryo development, underlying early pregnancy failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxiang Wu
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 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
| | - Chuanhui Guo
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianqi Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinhua Lu
- 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
| | - Ruiwei Jiang
- 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
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China; 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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39
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Chen W, Zhang Q, Wang H, Tan D, Tan Y. Unique and independent role of the GABA B1 subunit in embryo implantation and uterine decidualization in mice. Genes Dis 2019; 8:79-86. [PMID: 33569516 PMCID: PMC7859463 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2019.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation and decidualization are crucial for successful pregnancy, which include multiple genes and signaling pathways, while the precise mechanism regarding embryo implantation and decidualization has yet to be explored. The GABA which activates GABAA or GABAB receptors has been found playing an important role in early pregnancy. Here we seek to investigate whether GABAB receptors participate in embryo implantation in mice. This study first characterized the spatiotemporal expression pattern of GABAB receptors in the uterus during the peri-implantation period and found that GABAB1 expression was drastically upregulated in stromal cells on days 4–6, a period of embryo implantation and early stages of decidualization. Embryo delayed implantation and oil-induced decidualization models were further used to confirm that the GABAB1 was associated with embryo implantation and decidualization. We also found estrogen or progesterone had no directly effect on expression of GABAB1 in ovariectomized model. Because we were unable to detect significant GABAB2 which couples with GABAB1 to form whole GABAB receptors, and the agonist and antagonist of whole GABAB receptors had weak effect on the proliferation and differentiation of stromal cells as well, we excluded the possibility whole GABAB receptors function, and concluded it should be non-classical signals of GABAB1 involving in embryo implantation and decidualization. Future studies should focus on investigating the roles and mechanisms of GABAB1 during embryo implantation and decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Chen
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, Fujian, PR China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, PR China
| | - Dongmei Tan
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China
| | - Yi Tan
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China
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40
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Spatiotemporal coordination of trophoblast and allantoic Rbpj signaling directs normal placental morphogenesis. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:438. [PMID: 31165749 PMCID: PMC6549187 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1683-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The placenta, responsible for the nutrient and gas exchange between the mother and fetus, is pivotal for successful pregnancy. It has been shown that Rbpj, the core transcriptional mediator of Notch signaling pathway, is required for normal placentation in mice. However, it remains largely unclear how Rbpj signaling in different placental compartments coordinates with other important regulators to ensure normal placental morphogenesis. In this study, we found that systemic deletion of Rbpj led to abnormal chorioallantoic morphogenesis and defective trophoblast differentiation in the ectoplacental cone (EPC). Employing mouse models with selective deletion of Rbpj in the allantois versus trophoblast, combining tetraploid aggregation assay, we demonstrated that allantois-expressed Rbpj is essential for chorioallantoic attachment and subsequent invagination of allantoic blood vessels into the chorionic ectoderm. Further studies uncovered that allantoic Rbpj regulates chorioallantoic fusion and morphogenesis via targeting Vcam1 in a Notch-dependent manner. Meanwhile, we also revealed that trophoblast-expressed Rbpj in EPC facilitates Mash2’s transcriptional activity, promoting the specification of Tpbpα-positive trophoblasts, which differentiate into trophoblast subtypes responsible for interstitial and endovascular invasion at the later stage of placental development. Collectively, our study further shed light on the molecular network governing placental development and functions, highlighting the necessity of a spatiotemporal coordination of Rbpj signaling for normal placental morphogenesis.
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41
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Zhang S, Chen T, Chen N, Gao D, Shi B, Kong S, West RC, Yuan Y, Zhi M, Wei Q, Xiang J, Mu H, Yue L, Lei X, Wang X, Zhong L, Liang H, Cao S, Belmonte JCI, Wang H, Han J. Implantation initiation of self-assembled embryo-like structures generated using three types of mouse blastocyst-derived stem cells. Nat Commun 2019; 10:496. [PMID: 30700702 PMCID: PMC6353907 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08378-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Spatially ordered embryo-like structures self-assembled from blastocyst-derived stem cells can be generated to mimic embryogenesis in vitro. However, the assembly system and developmental potential of such structures needs to be further studied. Here, we devise a nonadherent-suspension-shaking system to generate self-assembled embryo-like structures (ETX-embryoids) using mouse embryonic, trophoblast and extra-embryonic endoderm stem cells. When cultured together, the three cell types aggregate and sort into lineage-specific compartments. Signaling among these compartments results in molecular and morphogenic events that closely mimic those observed in wild-type embryos. These ETX-embryoids exhibit lumenogenesis, asymmetric patterns of gene expression for markers of mesoderm and primordial germ cell precursors, and formation of anterior visceral endoderm-like tissues. After transplantation into the pseudopregnant mouse uterus, ETX-embryoids efficiently initiate implantation and trigger the formation of decidual tissues. The ability of the three cell types to self-assemble into an embryo-like structure in vitro provides a powerful model system for studying embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaopeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Tianzhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Naixin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Dengfeng Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Bingbo Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | | | - Ye Yuan
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, 80124, USA
| | - Minglei Zhi
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Qingqing Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Jinzhu Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Haiyuan Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Liang Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Xiaohua Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xuepeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Liang Zhong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hui Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China
| | - Suying Cao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, 102206, China
| | | | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Jianyong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 10094, China. .,Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China.
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42
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Namiki T, Ito J, Kashiwazaki N. Molecular mechanisms of embryonic implantation in mammals: Lessons from the gene manipulation of mice. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:331-342. [PMID: 30377389 PMCID: PMC6194304 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human infertility has become a serious and social issue all over the world, especially in developed countries. Numerous types of assisted reproductive technology have been developed and are widely used to treat infertility. However, pregnancy outcomes require further improvement. It is essential to understand the cross-talk between the uterus (mother) and the embryo (fetus) in pregnancy, which is a very complicated event. METHODS The mammalian uterus requires many physiological and morphological changes for pregnancy-associated events, including implantation, decidualization, placentation, and parturition, to occur. Here is discussed recent advances in the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying these reproductive events - in particular, embryonic implantation and decidualization - based on original and review articles. MAIN FINDINGS RESULTS In mice, embryonic implantation and decidualization are regulated by two steroid hormones: estrogen and progesterone. Along with these hormones, cytokines, cell-cycle regulators, growth factors, and transcription factors have essential roles in implantation and decidualization in mice. CONCLUSION Recent studies using the gene manipulation of mice have given considerable insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying embryonic implantation and decidualization. However, as most of the findings are based on mice, comparative research using different mammalian species will be useful for a better understanding of the species-dependent differences that are associated with reproductive events, including embryonic implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Namiki
- Laboratory of Animal ReproductionGraduate School of Veterinary ScienceAzabu UniversitySagamiharaJapan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Animal ReproductionGraduate School of Veterinary ScienceAzabu UniversitySagamiharaJapan
- School of Veterinary MedicineAzabu UniversitySagamiharaJapan
| | - Naomi Kashiwazaki
- Laboratory of Animal ReproductionGraduate School of Veterinary ScienceAzabu UniversitySagamiharaJapan
- School of Veterinary MedicineAzabu UniversitySagamiharaJapan
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43
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Strug MR, Su RW, Kim TH, Jeong JW, Fazleabas A. The Notch Family Transcription Factor, RBPJκ, Modulates Glucose Transporter and Ovarian Steroid Hormone Receptor Expression During Decidualization. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:774-784. [PMID: 30213224 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118799209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
During decidualization, endometrial stromal cells differentiate into a secretory phenotype to modulate the uterine microenvironment and promote embryo implantation. This highly metabolic process relies on ovarian steroid receptors and glucose transporters. Canonical Notch signaling is mediated by the transcription factor Recombination Signal Binding Protein for Immunoglobulin Kappa J Region (RBPJ). Loss of RBPJ in the mouse uterus (Pgrcre/+Rbpjflox/flox; Rbpj c-KO) results in subfertility in part due to an abnormal uterine-embryonic axis during implantation and, as described herein, decidualization failure. Induced in vivo decidualization in Rbpj c-KO mice was impaired with the downregulation of decidual markers and decreased progesterone receptor (Pgr) signaling. Consistent with in vivo mouse data, RBPJ knockdown during in vitro Human uterine fibroblast (HuF) cell decidualization results in the reduced expression of decidual marker genes along with PGR. Expression of the glucose transporter, SLC2A1, was decreased in the RBPJ-silenced HuF cells, which corresponded to decreased Slc2a1 in the secondary decidual zone of Rbpj c-KO mouse uteri. Exogenous administration of pyruvate, which bypasses the need for glucose, rescues PRL expression in RBPJ-deficient HuF cells. In summary, Notch signaling through RBPJ controls both ovarian steroid receptor PGR and glucose transporter SLC2A1 expression during decidualization, and this dysregulation likely contributes to embryo implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Strug
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, GRRC, Room 3020, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, GRRC, Room 3020, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, GRRC, Room 3020, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, GRRC, Room 3020, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA
| | - Asgerally Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, GRRC, Room 3020, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
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44
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Farah O, Biechele S, Rossant J, Dufort D. Porcupine-dependent Wnt activity within the uterine epithelium is essential for fertility. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:688-697. [PMID: 29036275 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The secretion of mammalian Wnt ligands within the cell is dependent on the activity of Porcupine, a gene located on the X-chromosome that encodes for a membrane-bound O-acyl transferase. Here, we report that postnatal ablation of Porcupine in the uterine luminal epithelium alone results in the decrease in endometrial gland number. Despite having uterine glands, mutant females are completely infertile. Epithelial ablation of Porcupine causes defects in timely apposition of the lumen, along with failure to respond to artificial decidual induction. Interestingly, progesterone supplementation was able to rescue the initiation of decidualization, but the decidua was not maintained and subsequently resorbed. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that deletion of Porcupine in the epithelium resulted in the stromal dysregulation of members of the Wnt signaling pathway (Lef1, Wnt4, and Wnt16), dysregulation of receptors and ligands in the Notch signaling pathway (Notch1, Notch4, and Dll4) as well as Hoxa10. Our results demonstrate the crucial requirement of Wnt signaling in the epithelium for fertility and demonstrate that epithelial Wnts regulate stromal Wnt gene expression as well as regulating the expression of essential signaling factors and effectors required for successful embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Farah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Steffen Biechele
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Janet Rossant
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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45
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Li Q, Jiao J, Li H, Wan H, Zheng C, Cai J, Bao S. Histone arginine methylation by Prmt5 is required for lung branching morphogenesis through repression of BMP signaling. J Cell Sci 2018; 131:jcs.217406. [PMID: 29950483 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.217406] [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: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Branching morphogenesis is essential for the successful development of a functional lung to accomplish its gas exchange function. Although many studies have highlighted requirements for the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathway during branching morphogenesis, little is known about how BMP signaling is regulated. Here, we report that the protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (Prmt5) and symmetric dimethylation at histone H4 arginine 3 (H4R3sme2) directly associate with chromatin of Bmp4 to suppress its transcription. Inactivation of Prmt5 in the lung epithelium results in halted branching morphogenesis, altered epithelial cell differentiation and neonatal lethality. These defects are accompanied by increased apoptosis and reduced proliferation of lung epithelium, as a consequence of elevated canonical BMP-Smad1/5/9 signaling. Inhibition of BMP signaling by Noggin rescues the lung branching defects of Prmt5 mutant in vitro Taken together, our results identify a novel mechanism through which Prmt5-mediated histone arginine methylation represses canonical BMP signaling to regulate lung branching morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China.,School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Huijun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China.,School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Huajing Wan
- Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of the Ministry of Education, West China Institute of Women and Children's Health, and Department of Pediatrics, Huaxi Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Caihong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Cai
- Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Shilai Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China .,School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
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46
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Yoshinaga K. A historical review of blastocyst implantation research. Biol Reprod 2018; 99:175-195. [PMID: 30010858 PMCID: PMC6279068 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Research development on blastocyst implantation was reviewed in three sections: primate implantation, ungulate farm animal implantation, and the general process of blastocyst implantation in small rodents. Future research directions of this area are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Yoshinaga
- Fertility and Infertility Branch, Division of Extramural Research, NICHD, NIH,
Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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47
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Jia Y, Wang F, Zhang R, Liang T, Zhang W, Ji X, Du Q, Chang Z. Identification of suh gene and evidence for involvement of notch signaling pathway on gonadal differentiation of Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2018; 44:375-386. [PMID: 29164452 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-017-0441-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The suh gene is crucial in Notch pathway and regulates mammalian gonad development. In this study, the sequences of suh1 and suh2 genes in Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio) were verified. The partial 5'-flanking regions of suh1 and suh2 were analyzed and several potential transcription factor-binding sites were identified. Phylogenetic, gene structure, and chromosome synteny analyses revealed that carp suh1 and suh2 were orthologs and homologous to vertebrate suh. Investigation of the expression profiles of suh1 and suh2 with qPCR showed that these genes were abundant in the brain and gonad of carp, with suh1 exhibiting sexual dimorphism expression pattern in gonad. To study the relationship between gonad differentiation and Notch signaling, primordial gonads were exposed to DAPT, an inhibitor of Notch signaling, in vitro and in vivo. The results revealed a significant downregulation of suh1 and other Notch genes in vitro. In addition, expression of male-biased genes, such as amh, dmrt1, etc., was downregulated, whereas that of female-biased genes, such as foxl2, gdf9, etc., was upregulated. When the primordial gonads were subjected to long-term DAPT exposure, an increased proportion of ovary and delay in testis development were observed. These results suggest that suh gene may have a conservative function between teleosts and mammals. Furthermore, Notch signaling was found to be involved in gonad differentiation in Yellow River carp, and DAPT was noted to inhibit and enhance the expression of male- and female-biased genes, respectively, and induce the increase in number of females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfang Jia
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Wang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruihua Zhang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Liang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - WanWan Zhang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolin Ji
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiyan Du
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongjie Chang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, 46# East of Construction Road, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, People's Republic of China.
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48
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Strug MR, Su RW, Kim TH, Mauriello A, Ticconi C, Lessey BA, Young SL, Lim JM, Jeong JW, Fazleabas AT. RBPJ mediates uterine repair in the mouse and is reduced in women with recurrent pregnancy loss. FASEB J 2018; 32:2452-2466. [PMID: 29242273 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201701032r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (uRPL) is associated with repeated embryo loss and endometrial repair with elevated endometrial expression of inflammatory cytokines, including IFN-γ. Notch signaling through its transcription factor recombination signal binding protein Jκ (RBPJ) regulates mechanisms including the immune response and repair after tissue injury. Initially, null mutation of RBPJ in the mouse uterus ( Pgrcre/+Rbpjf/f; Rbpj c-KO) results in subfertility, but we have found that these mice become infertile after pregnancy as a result of dysfunctional postpartum uterine repair, including delayed endometrial epithelial and myometrial regeneration. RNA sequencing of postpartum uterine repair sites revealed global up-regulation of inflammatory pathways, including IFN signaling. Consistent with elevated IFN-γ, macrophages were recruited and polarized toward an M1-cytotoxic phenotype, which is associated with preventing repair and promoting further tissue injury. Through embryo transfer experiments, we show that dysfunctional postpartum repair directly impairs future embryo implantation in Rbpj c-KO mice. Last, we clinically correlated our findings from the Rbpj c-KO mouse in women diagnosed with uRPL. Reduced RBPJ in women with uRPL was associated with increased levels of IFN-γ. The data, taken together, indicate that RBPJ regulates inflammation during endometrial repair, which is essential for future pregnancy potential, and its dysregulation may serve as an unidentified contributor to uRPL in women.-Strug, M. R., Su, R.-W., Kim, T. H., Mauriello, A., Ticconi, C., Lessey, B. A., Young, S. L., Lim, J. M., Jeong, J.-W., Fazleabas, A. T. RBPJ mediates uterine repair in the mouse and is reduced in women with recurrent pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Strug
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA.,College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Alessandro Mauriello
- Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Ticconi
- Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Greenville Health System, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeong Mook Lim
- World Class University (WCU) Biomodulation, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Asgerally T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
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49
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Neupane M, Geary TW, Kiser JN, Burns GW, Hansen PJ, Spencer TE, Neibergs HL. Loci and pathways associated with uterine capacity for pregnancy and fertility in beef cattle. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188997. [PMID: 29228019 PMCID: PMC5724891 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility and subfertility negatively impact the economics and reproductive performance of cattle. Of note, significant pregnancy loss occurs in cattle during the first month of pregnancy, yet little is known about the genetic loci influencing pregnancy success and loss in cattle. To identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) with large effects associated with early pregnancy loss, Angus crossbred heifers were classified based on day 28 pregnancy outcomes to serial embryo transfer. A genome wide association analysis (GWAA) was conducted comparing 30 high fertility heifers with 100% success in establishing pregnancy to 55 subfertile heifers with 25% or less success. A gene set enrichment analysis SNP (GSEA-SNP) was performed to identify gene sets and leading edge genes influencing pregnancy loss. The GWAA identified 22 QTL (p < 1 x 10-5), and GSEA-SNP identified 9 gene sets (normalized enrichment score > 3.0) with 253 leading edge genes. Network analysis identified TNF (tumor necrosis factor), estrogen, and TP53 (tumor protein 53) as the top of 671 upstream regulators (p < 0.001), whereas the SOX2 (SRY [sex determining region Y]-box 2) and OCT4 (octamer-binding transcription factor 4) complex was the top master regulator out of 773 master regulators associated with fertility (p < 0.001). Identification of QTL and genes in pathways that improve early pregnancy success provides critical information for genomic selection to increase fertility in cattle. The identified genes and regulators also provide insight into the complex biological mechanisms underlying pregnancy establishment in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Neupane
- Department Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Thomas W. Geary
- USDA-ARS, Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory, Miles City, Montana, United States of America
| | - Jennifer N. Kiser
- Department Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Gregory W. Burns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Peter J. Hansen
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Thomas E. Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Holly L. Neibergs
- Department Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Xin Q, Kong S, Yan J, Qiu J, He B, Zhou C, Ni Z, Bao H, Huang L, Lu J, Xia G, Liu X, Chen ZJ, Wang C, Wang H. Polycomb subunit BMI1 determines uterine progesterone responsiveness essential for normal embryo implantation. J Clin Invest 2017; 128:175-189. [PMID: 29202468 DOI: 10.1172/jci92862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural and synthetic progestogens have been commonly used to prevent recurrent pregnancy loss in women with inadequate progesterone secretion or reduced progesterone sensitivity. However, the clinical efficacy of progesterone and its analogs for maintaining pregnancy is variable. Additionally, the underlying cause of impaired endometrial progesterone responsiveness during early pregnancy remains unknown. Here, we demonstrated that uterine-selective depletion of BMI1, a key component of the polycomb repressive complex-1 (PRC1), hampers uterine progesterone responsiveness and derails normal uterine receptivity, resulting in implantation failure in mice. We further uncovered genetic and biochemical evidence that BMI1 interacts with the progesterone receptor (PR) and the E3 ligase E6AP in a polycomb complex-independent manner and regulates the PR ubiquitination that is essential for normal progesterone responsiveness. A close association of aberrantly low endometrial BMI1 expression with restrained PR responsiveness in women who had previously had a miscarriage indicated that the role of BMI1 in endometrial PR function is conserved in mice and in humans. In addition to uncovering a potential regulatory mechanism of BMI1 that ensures normal endometrial progesterone responsiveness during early pregnancy, our findings have the potential to help clarify the underlying causes of spontaneous pregnancy loss in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiliang Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingtao Qiu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Bo He
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chan Zhou
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhangli Ni
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Haili Bao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xicheng Liu
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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