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Svenvik M, Raffetseder J, Brudin L, Berg G, Hellberg S, Blomberg M, Jenmalm MC, Ernerudh J. Early prediction of spontaneous preterm birth before 34 gestational weeks based on a combination of inflammation-associated plasma proteins. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1415016. [PMID: 39076980 PMCID: PMC11284114 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1415016] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In order to identify and possibly offer prophylactic treatment to women at risk for preterm birth (PTB), novel prediction models for PTB are needed. Our objective was to utilize high-sensitive plasma protein profiling to investigate whether early prediction of spontaneous PTB (sPTB) before 34 gestational weeks (gw) was possible in a low-risk population. Methods A case-control study was conducted on 46 women with sPTB before 34 gw and 46 women with normal pregnancies and term deliveries. Prospectively collected plasma sampled at gw 11 (range 7-16) and gw 25 (range 23-30) was analyzed with a high-sensitivity Proximity Extension Assay for levels of 177 inflammation-associated proteins, and statistically processed with multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results In the first trimester, higher levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) were associated with sPTB <34 gw (OR 1.49 (1.03-2.15)). In the second trimester, higher levels of interleukin (IL)-10 (OR 2.15 (1.18-3.92)), IL-6 (OR 2.59 (1.34-4.99)), and the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK) (OR 2.18 (1.26-3.77)) were associated with sPTB <34 gw. The area under the curve for the prediction models including these proteins was 0.653 (0.534-0.759) in the first trimester and 0.854 (0.754-0.925) in the second trimester. Conclusion A combination of inflammation-associated plasma proteins from the second trimester of pregnancy showed a good predictive ability regarding sPTB before 34 gw, suggesting it could be a valuable supplement for the assessment of the clinical risk of sPTB. However, although a high number (n=177) of plasma proteins were analyzed with a high-sensitivity method, the prediction of sPTB in the first trimester remains elusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Svenvik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Region Kalmar County, Kalmar, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johanna Raffetseder
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lars Brudin
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Region Kalmar County, Kalmar, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Göran Berg
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Sandra Hellberg
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Marie Blomberg
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Maria C. Jenmalm
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Jan Ernerudh
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Foyle KL, Robertson SA. Gamma delta (γδ) T cells in the female reproductive tract: active participants or indifferent bystanders in reproductive success? DISCOVERY IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 3:kyae004. [PMID: 38863792 PMCID: PMC11165432 DOI: 10.1093/discim/kyae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract accommodates and balances the unique immunological challenges of protection from sexually transmitted pathogens and tolerance of the fetus and placenta in pregnancy. Leukocytes in the female reproductive tract actively engage in extensive maternal adaptations that are imperative for embryo implantation, placental development, and fetal growth support. γδ T cells are abundant at many mucosal sites in the body, where they provide protection against pathogens and cancer, and have roles in tissue renewal and homeostasis. In this review, we summarize studies in humans and rodents showing that γδ T cells are prevalent in the female reproductive tract and fluctuate in response to hormone changes across the reproductive cycle. Emerging evidence points to a link between changes in their abundance and molecular repertoire in the uterus and pregnancy disorders including recurrent miscarriage and preterm birth. However, defining the precise functional role of female reproductive tract γδ T cells and understanding their physiological significance in reproduction and pregnancy have remained elusive. Here, we critically analyze whether reproductive tract γδ T cells could be active participants in reproductive events-or whether their principal function is immune defense, in which case they may compromise pregnancy success unless adequately regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerrie L Foyle
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Strbo N, Rodriguez S, Padula L, Fisher E, Lyons A, Rodriguez C, Rivas K, Ibrahim M, Paidas M, Attia G. Assessment of immune cells in the uterine fluid at the time of the embryo transfer. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13842. [PMID: 38650366 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13842] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Although endometrial receptivity is a key factor in influencing implantation in both naturally conceived and assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, very little is known about the endometrium milieu around the time of implantation. Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of several cytokines in the endometrium that affect implantation. However, there is lacking data about the presence of immune cell subtypes within the endometrium and in the uterine cavity at the time of implantation. METHOD OF STUDY This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (# 225589). The study was designed as a prospective observational cohort study between May 2021 and December 2022 at a single academic-based fertility center. All patients underwent at least one In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycle and have frozen embryos. Twenty-four participants were recruited for this study which was conducted during the frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle regardless of the outcome of previous cycles. Two samples were acquired from each subject, denoted as lower and upper. A trial transfer catheter was introduced under ultrasound guidance into the lower uterine segment. Upon removal, the tip was rinsed in IMDM medium containing 10% FBS (lower uterus). A transfer catheter was then loaded with the embryo that was placed in the upper uterus under ultrasound guidance. The tip of the transfer catheter was rinsed in separate aliquot of the above media (upper uterus). After centrifugation, pelleted cells were stained for the following surface markers: CD45, CD3, CD19, CD4, CD8, gamma delta TCR, CD25, CD127, CD66b, CD14, CD16, CD56 and acquired on Sony SP6800 Spectral Analyzer. RESULTS Upon staining the pelleted cells, we were able to identify viable leukocytes from samples obtained from both, upper and lower uterus (0.125 × 106 cells ± SD 0.32), (0.123 × 106 cells ± SD 0.12), respectively. Among total viable cells, there was no significant difference in both percent and number of CD45+ cells between the upper and lower uterus (9.88% ± 6.98 SD, 13.67% ± 9.79 SD, p = .198) respectively. However, there was significantly higher expression of CD3+ (p = .006), CD19+ (p = .032) and CD14+ (p = .019) cells in samples collected from upper compared to lower uterus. Within all CD3+ cells, we found that gamma delta T cells (GDT) were the major population of T cells in both upper and lower uterus. In contrast, CD8+ T cells were significantly higher in the lower uterus when compared to the upper uterus (p = .009). There was no statistically significant difference in the expression of CD4+ T cells, T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+CD127-), NK cells (CD56+), neutrophils (CD66b+) and FcγRIII+ cells (CD16+) between upper and lower uterus. CONCLUSIONS We believe the immune milieu at the time of embryo transfer will affect implantation. Understanding the composition of immune cells will guide further research in identifying optimal immune milieus that favor implantation. Comprehensive analysis of endometrium is expected to lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Strbo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Suset Rodriguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Laura Padula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Eva Fisher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Annabel Lyons
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Carolina Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Katelyn Rivas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mohammed Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Michael Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - George Attia
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Zhang L, Li Q, Su Y, Zhang X, Qu J, Liao D, Zou Q, Zou H, Liu X, Li C, He J. Proteomic profiling analysis of human endometrium in women with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion. J Proteomics 2023; 288:104996. [PMID: 37657719 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2023.104996] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) seriously affects female reproductive health, causing a great burden to patients both physically and mentally. Endometrial decidualization plays an important role in pregnancy, and impaired decidualization is an essential cause of URSA, but the cause of the damage is still poorly understood. This study aimed to reveal the pathogenesis of URSA by analyzing the differential protein expression profiles in the decidual tissue of patients with recurrent abortion compared to those with normal pregnancy. Morphological analysis revealed abnormal decidualization of endometrial tissue in patients with URSA. Quantitative proteomics analysis showed that a total of 146 differentially expressed proteins were identified between the two groups, among which 95 proteins were downregulated and 51 proteins were upregulated. Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways revealed that the protein expression profile and signaling pathways of endometrium in patients with URSA changed significantly, and cytoskeleton remodeling and morphological transformation disorders were associated with abortion induced by incomplete decidualization. Meanwhile, transcription factors analysis showed that the 3 most affected families were zf-C2H2, MYB and HMG. Therefore, our study may provide a basis for searching for potential markers of decidualization injury. SIGNIFICANCE: At present, there are still about 50% of RSA patients with unknown causes, which brings great difficulties and blindness to clinical diagnosis and treatment.The limited proteomic studies on URSA further contribute to the lack of understanding in this field. However, in this study, the focus was on proteomic profiling analysis of the human endometrium in URSA patients compared to normal women. The findings revealed that cytoskeletal remodeling disorder is a significant contributor to the failure of decidualization in URSA patients. This insight highlights the potential role of cytoskeleton-related proteins in the pathogenesis of URSA, providing valuable information for further research and potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yan Su
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xinyuan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Jialin Qu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Dan Liao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Qin Zou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Hua Zou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Department of Family Planning, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China.
| | - Chunli Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, PR China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.
| | - Junlin He
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China.
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Chang P, Zhang X, Zhang J, Wang J, Wang X, Li M, Wang R, Yu J, Fu F. BNP protects against diabetic cardiomyopathy by promoting Opa1-mediated mitochondrial fusion via activating the PKG-STAT3 pathway. Redox Biol 2023; 62:102702. [PMID: 37116257 PMCID: PMC10165144 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) belongs to the family of natriuretic peptides, which are responsible for a wide range of actions. Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is often associated with increased BNP levels. This present research intends to explore the role of BNP in the development of DCM and the underlying mechanisms. Diabetes was induced in mice using streptozotocin (STZ). Primary neonatal cardiomyocytes were treated with high glucose. It was found that the levels of plasma BNP started to increase at 8 weeks after diabetes, which preceded the development of DCM. Addition of exogenous BNP promoted Opa1-mediated mitochondrial fusion, inhibited mitochondrial oxidative stress, preserved mitochondrial respiratory capacity and prevented the development of DCM, while knockdown of endogenous BNP exacerbated mitochondrial dysfunction and accelerated DCM. Opa1 knockdown attenuated the aforementioned protective action of BNP both in vivo and in vitro. BNP-induced mitochondrial fusion requires the activation of STAT3, which facilitated Opa1 transcription by binding to its promoter regions. PKG, a crucial signaling biomolecule in the BNP signaling pathway, interacted with STAT3 and induced its activation. Knockdown of NPRA (the receptor of BNP) or PKG blunted the promoting effect of BNP on STAT3 phosphorylation and Opa1-mediated mitochondrial fusion. The results of this study demonstrate for the first time that there is a rise in BNP during the early stages of DCM as a compensatory protection mechanism. BNP is a novel mitochondrial fusion activator in protecting against hyperglycemia-induced mitochondrial oxidative injury and DCM through the activation of NPRA-PKG-STAT3-Opa1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Chang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China; Clinical Experimental Center, The Affiliated Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710100, China
| | - Xiaomeng Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China
| | - Jianbang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China
| | - Xihui Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China
| | - Man Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Clinical Experimental Center, The Affiliated Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710100, China.
| | - Feng Fu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China; Department of Cardiology, Tangdu Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.
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Chang R, Dai J, Wang L, Liu H, Jiang H, Liu X, Jiang L, He F, Hu L. PlGF/FLT-1 deficiency leads to reduced STAT3-C/EBPβ signaling and aberrant polarization in decidual macrophages during early spontaneous abortion. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1061949. [PMID: 37033974 PMCID: PMC10074254 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1061949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionDysregulated macrophage polarization (excessive M1-like or limited M2-like macrophages) in the early decidua contributes to allogeneic fetal rejection and thus early spontaneous abortion. However, the modulators of M1/M2 balance at the early maternal-fetal interface remain mostly unknown.MethodsFirst-trimester decidual tissues were collected from normal pregnant women undergoing elective pregnancy terminations and patients with spontaneous abortion. We measured the expression of placental growth factor (PlGF) and Fms-like-tyrosine-kinase receptor 1 (FLT-1), and characterized the profiles of macrophages in decidua. Notably, we investigated the effect of recombinant human PlGF (rhPlGF) on decidual macrophages (dMös) from normal pregnancy and revealed the underlying mechanisms both in vitro and in vivo.ResultsThe downregulated expression of PlGF/ FLT-1 may result in spontaneous abortion by inducing the M1-like deviation of macrophages in human early decidua. Moreover, the CBA/J×DBA/2 abortion-prone mice displayed a lower FLT-1 expression in uterine macrophages than did CBA/J×BALB/c control pregnant mice. In in vitro models, rhPlGF treatment was found to drive the M2-like polarization of dMös via the STAT3/CEBPB signaling pathway. These findings were further supported by a higher embryo resorption rate and uterine macrophage dysfunction in Pgf knockout mice, in addition to the reduced STAT3 transcription and C/EBPâ expression in uterine macrophages.DiscussionPlGF plays a key role in early pregnancy maintenance by skewing dMös toward an M2-like phenotype via the FLT-1-STAT3-C/EBP â signaling pathway. Excitingly, our results highlight a rationale that PlGF is a promising target to prevent early spontaneous abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqi Chang
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Joint International Research Lab for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
- Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingcong Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huanhuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linying Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fan He
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Joint International Research Lab for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
- Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Fan He, ; Lina Hu,
| | - Lina Hu
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Joint International Research Lab for Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
- Reproduction and Stem Cell Therapy Research Center of Chongqing, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Fan He, ; Lina Hu,
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Zhao QY, Li QH, Fu YY, Ren CE, Jiang AF, Meng YH. Decidual macrophages in recurrent spontaneous abortion. Front Immunol 2022; 13:994888. [PMID: 36569856 PMCID: PMC9781943 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.994888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is defined as two or more pregnancy loss, affecting the happiness index of fertility couples. The mechanisms involved in the occurrence of RSA are not clear to date. The primary problem for the maternal immune system is how to establish and maintain the immune tolerance to the semi-allogeneic fetuses. During the pregnancy, decidual macrophages mainly play an important role in the immunologic dialogue. The purpose of this study is to explore decidual macrophages, and to understand whether there is a connection between these cells and RSA by analyzing their phenotypes and functions. Pubmed, Web of Science and Embase were searched. The eligibility criterion for this review was evaluating the literature about the pregnancy and macrophages. Any disagreement between the authors was resolved upon discussion and if required by the judgment of the corresponding author. We summarized the latest views on the phenotype, function and dysfunction of decidual macrophages to illuminate its relationship with RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yu-Han Meng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
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Zhao Y, Man GCW, Zhang R, Wong CK, Chen X, Chung JPW, Wang CC, Laird S, Zhang T, Li TC. A prospective study comparing the inflammation-related cytokine and chemokine profile from the day of blastocyst transfer to 7 weeks of gestation between pregnancies that did or did not result in a miscarriage. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 154:103755. [PMID: 36272272 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The dynamics of maternal immunomodulation is essential in early pregnancy. In our previous study, successful implantation is characterized by a transient increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines followed by a switch to an anti-inflammatory state in peripheral blood around 3-6 days after embryo transfer (ET). In this study, we aimed to extend the time points to compare the cytokine and chemokine profiles between women who did or did not subsequently miscarry. We utilized precisely timed serum samples on the day of ET and 3, 6, 9, 16, 23 and 30 days after ET in women undergoing single blastocyst transfer. Our analysis revealed a significant alteration in cytokine profile after day ET+ 9 between the two groups. Regarding pro-inflammatory cytokine profile, there was a significant increase in IL-17 on days ET+ 16, + 23, and + 30 (50.60 ± 9.97 vs 37.09 ± 3.25, 53.20 ± 8.13 vs 36.51 ± 3.34, 57.06 ± 8.83 vs 33.04 ± 3.11 pg/mL), TNF-α on days ET+ 23 and + 30 (73.90 ± 12.42 vs 50.73 ± 3.55, 74.16 ± 12.46 vs 46.59 ± 3.21 pg/mL), IFN-γ on day ET+ 30 (69.52 ± 13.19 vs 42.28 ± 7.76 pg/mL) in women who miscarried compared to women who had a live birth. In contrast, the concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 on days ET+ 23 and + 30 (26.23 ± 2.11 vs 38.30 ± 4.64, 23.77 ± 2.06 vs 39.16 ± 4.99 pg/mL) and TGF-β1 on day ET+ 30 (20.30 ± 1.25 vs 23.81 ± 0.88 ng/mL) were significantly decreased in women who miscarried compared to women who had a live birth. While for the chemokine profile, there was no significant alteration observed between the two groups across all the time points. These findings suggest that a sustained anti-inflammatory milieu is concomitant with the maintenance of early pregnancy, while the remarkable pro-inflammatory shift as early as day ET+ 16 in women who subsequently miscarried was observed before the diagnosis of miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China; Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Gene Chi Wai Man
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Chun-Kwok Wong
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jacqueline Pui-Wah Chung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Chi-Chiu Wang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Reproduction and Development Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Susan Laird
- Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, UK
| | - Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
| | - Tin-Chiu Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
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Guo R, Jiang S, Zhang J, Yang Q, Gao L, Xia W, Tong L, Feng P, Xu Y, Zhang T, Cheng H, Liu C, Zhang X, Yin Z, Zhang H. PD-1 mediates decidual γδ T cells cytotoxicity during recurrent pregnancy loss. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 88:e13562. [PMID: 35567369 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is one of the big challenges of normal pregnancy. Immune dysregulation has been proposed for the key underline mechanisms of RPL. However, the essential roles of T cells, especially γδ T cells, have not been defined. METHOD OF STUDY Decidua were obtained from normal pregnancy women or recurrent pregnancy loss patients and the surface molecules of γδ T cells in decidua were evaluated via flow cytometric analysis. The expression of PD-1 in clinical samples was analyzed by immunohistochemistry assay. The intracellular cytokines of decidual PD-1+ and PD-1- γδ T cells were evaluated by flow cytometric analysis. The cytotoxicity of PD-1- γδ T cells were confirmed via an in vitro co-culture experiment. The specific inhibitors for Erk, p38 and JNK against the MAPK pathway were added to the co-culture media to evaluate the functions of the Erk, p38 and JNK. RESULTS We demonstrated that PD-1 was significantly decreased on decidual tissue γδ T cells of patients with RPL, resulting in the enhanced cytotoxicity of γδ T cells against trophoblasts. We further elucidated an Erk-dependent TNF-α production mediates the γδ T cell cytotoxicity against the trophoblast cells. Finally, the reduced expression of PD-L1 in the villi tissues of patients with RPL might be the cause of the reduction of PD-1 on the tissue γδ T cells. CONCLUSION Our study uncovers an important role of PD-1 expression on decidual γδ T cells in maintaining the normal pregnancy, and may provide a new strategy for immune therapy against RPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Silin Jiang
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jianliang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Quanli Yang
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Gao
- The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lingxia Tong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Peiran Feng
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Xu
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Center for Cancer Immunology Research, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - CuiPing Liu
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xueguang Zhang
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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10
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11
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Liu C, Han Y, Gu X, Li M, Du Y, Feng N, Li J, Zhang S, Maslov LN, Wang G, Pei J, Fu F, Ding M. Paeonol promotes Opa1-mediated mitochondrial fusion via activating the CK2α-Stat3 pathway in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Redox Biol 2021; 46:102098. [PMID: 34418601 PMCID: PMC8385203 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2021.102098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes disrupts mitochondrial function and often results in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Paeonol is a bioactive compound that has been reported to have pharmacological potential for cardiac and mitochondrial protection. This study aims to explore the effects of paeonol on mitochondrial disorderes in DCM and the underlying mechanisms. We showed that paeonol promoted Opa1-mediated mitochondrial fusion, inhibited mitochondrial oxidative stress, and preserved mitochondrial respiratory capacity and cardiac performance in DCM in vivo and in vitro. Knockdown of Opa1 blunted the above protective effects of paeonol in both diabetic hearts and high glucose-treated cardiomyocytes. Mechanistically, inhibitor screening, siRNA knockdown and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments showed that paeonol-promoted Opa1-mediated mitochondrial fusion required the activation of Stat3, which directly bound to the promoter of Opa1 to upregulate its transcriptional expression. Moreover, pharmmapper screening and molecular docking studies revealed that CK2α served as a direct target of paeonol that interacted with Jak2 and induced the phosphorylation and activation of Jak2-Stat3. Knockdown of CK2α blunted the promoting effect of paeonol on Jak2-Stat3 phosphorylation and Opa1-mediated mitochondrial fusion. Collectively, we have demonstrated for the first time that paeonol is a novel mitochondrial fusion promoter in protecting against hyperglycemia-induced mitochondrial oxidative injury and DCM at least partially via an Opa1-mediated mechanism, a process in which paeonol interacts with CK2α and restores its kinase activity that subsequently increasing Jak2-Stat3 phosphorylation and enhancing the transcriptional level of Opa1. These findings suggest that paeonol or the promotion of mitochondrial fusion might be a promising strategy for the treatment of DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyang Liu
- Department of Geriatrics Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China; School of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yuehu Han
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Xiaoming Gu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Man Li
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China; School of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yanyan Du
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China; School of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Na Feng
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Shumiao Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Leonid N Maslov
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Science, Tomsk, 634000, Russia
| | - Guoen Wang
- Department of Geriatrics Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China
| | - Jianming Pei
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
| | - Feng Fu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
| | - Mingge Ding
- Department of Geriatrics Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China.
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12
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Xu QH, Liu H, Wang LL, Zhu Q, Zhang YJ, Muyayalo KP, Liao AH. Roles of γδT cells in pregnancy and pregnancy-related complications. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13487. [PMID: 34331364 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A successful pregnancy is a complex and unique process comprised of discrete events, including embryo implantation, placentation, and parturition. To maintain the balance between maternal-fetal immune tolerance and resistance to infections, the maternal immune system must have a high degree of stage-dependent plasticity throughout the period of pregnancy. Innate immunity is the frontline force for the establishment of early anti-infection and tolerance mechanisms in mammals. Belonging to the innate immune system, a subset of T cells called γδT cells (based on γδT cell receptors) are the main participants in immune surveillance and immune defense. Unlike traditional αβT cells, γδT cells are regarded as a bridge between innate immunity and acquired immunity. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the functional plasticity of γδT cells during pregnancy. Furthermore, we discuss the roles of γδT cells in pathological pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Han Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li-Ling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Jing Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kahindo P Muyayalo
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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13
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Li XH, Lu MY, Li YJ, Liu ZH, Yin ZN, Liu B, Wu YZ. Circulating PD1 +Vδ1 +γδ T Cell Predicts Fertility in Endometrial Polyp Patients of Reproductive-Age. Front Immunol 2021; 12:639221. [PMID: 34211457 PMCID: PMC8239402 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.639221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinically, immune cell function is correlated with pathogenesis of endometrial polyp (EP) and infertility of women of reproductive-age. However, the underlying immune cell hallmark in EP patients remains unclear. Here, we focused on analyzing circulating immune cells, and attempted to reveal the correlation between peripheral immune cell functional phenotypes and fertility in EP patients. Through comparison of circulating CD4+/CD8+ T cells, NK cells, and γδ T cells between 64 EP patients and 68 healthy females, we found that γδ T cells, but not CD4+/CD8+ T cells and NK cells, were immunologically correlated with conception rate and conception interval time. Specifically, total γδ T cells and the Vδ1+PD1+ γδ T subpopulation decreased whereas the Vδ1/Vδ2 ratio increased in EP patients compared to healthy controls. Moreover, the patients with the higher Vδ1/Vδ2 ratio (median value equals 1.04) had a poorer fertility and longer interval time of conception (210 days versus 158 days for control). Meanwhile, higher Vδ1+PD1+ γδ T cell proportion (median equals 15.7) was positively correlative with both higher conception rate and shortened median conception interval time (130 days for Vδ1+PD1high group versus 194 days for Vδ1+PD1low group). Notably, in healthy controls, both Vδ1/Vδ2 ratio and Vδ1+PD1+ γδ T cell proportion correlated with pregnancy rate oppositely, comparing to EP patients. Together, our results suggested that imbalanced γδ T cell population occurred in EP patients, and that Vδ1/Vδ2 ratio and PD-1 expression of Vδ1+ γδ T cells could be potentially developed into valuable predictors for fertility in EP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mei-Yin Lu
- Department of Biobank, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yi-jia Li
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zong-hua Liu
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-nan Yin
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Biobank, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yang-zhe Wu
- Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
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14
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Liao HQ, Han MT, Cheng W, Zhang C, Li H, Li MQ, Zhu R. Decidual-derived RANKL facilitates macrophages accumulation and residence at the maternal-fetal interface in human early pregnancy. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13406. [PMID: 33629434 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM During the first trimester, the accumulation of macrophages, which is the second largest decidual leukocyte population (~20%) at the maternal-fetal interface, is quite vital for a successful pregnancy, including embryo implantation, trophoblast invasion, and vascular remodeling. The mechanism of the enrichment and redistribution of macrophages in the uterine decidua of early pregnancy is largely unclear. METHOD OF STUDY A total of 37 women with normal early pregnancies were included. Primary decidual macrophages (dMφs) (n = 37) and primary decidual stromal cells (DSCs) (n = 37) were isolated, and the adhesion molecules were analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM). Adhesive experiment was carried out to evaluate the adhesion capacity by counting cell numbers of dMφs adhered to DSCs in a co-culture system. RESULTS We found that RANK+ dMφs was the dominating subtype at the maternal-fetal interface. The expression of adhesion molecules (eg, CD29, CD31, CD54, and CD62L) on the surface of RANK+ dMφs was higher than that of RANK- dMφs. After co-culture with DSCs, the expression of adhesion molecules on dMφs was up-regulated in a RANKL-dependent manner. Meanwhile, dMφs promoted the releasing of RANKL on DSCs after co-culture. Consistently, dMφs exhibited the lessoned capacity of adhesion to DSCs when blocking the crosstalk of RANKL-RANK between the DSCs and dMφs in vitro. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the interaction of RANKL-RANK up-regulates the expression of adhesion molecules on the surface of dMφs, contributing to the accumulation and residence of dMφs in human early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Qiong Liao
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mu-Tian Han
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ce Zhang
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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15
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Anderson G. Tumour Microenvironment: Roles of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor, O-GlcNAcylation, Acetyl-CoA and Melatonergic Pathway in Regulating Dynamic Metabolic Interactions across Cell Types-Tumour Microenvironment and Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:E141. [PMID: 33375613 PMCID: PMC7795031 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the dynamic interactions of the tumour microenvironment, highlighting the roles of acetyl-CoA and melatonergic pathway regulation in determining the interactions between oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and glycolysis across the array of cells forming the tumour microenvironment. Many of the factors associated with tumour progression and immune resistance, such as yin yang (YY)1 and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3β, regulate acetyl-CoA and the melatonergic pathway, thereby having significant impacts on the dynamic interactions of the different types of cells present in the tumour microenvironment. The association of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) with immune suppression in the tumour microenvironment may be mediated by the AhR-induced cytochrome P450 (CYP)1b1-driven 'backward' conversion of melatonin to its immediate precursor N-acetylserotonin (NAS). NAS within tumours and released from tumour microenvironment cells activates the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) receptor, TrkB, thereby increasing the survival and proliferation of cancer stem-like cells. Acetyl-CoA is a crucial co-substrate for initiation of the melatonergic pathway, as well as co-ordinating the interactions of OXPHOS and glycolysis in all cells of the tumour microenvironment. This provides a model of the tumour microenvironment that emphasises the roles of acetyl-CoA and the melatonergic pathway in shaping the dynamic intercellular metabolic interactions of the various cells within the tumour microenvironment. The potentiation of YY1 and GSK3β by O-GlcNAcylation will drive changes in metabolism in tumours and tumour microenvironment cells in association with their regulation of the melatonergic pathway. The emphasis on metabolic interactions across cell types in the tumour microenvironment provides novel future research and treatment directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anderson
- Clinical Research Communications (CRC) Scotland & London, Eccleston Square, London SW1V 6UT, UK
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16
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Zhao Y, Zhang T, Guo X, Wong CK, Chen X, Chan YL, Wang CC, Laird S, Li TC. Successful implantation is associated with a transient increase in serum pro-inflammatory cytokine profile followed by a switch to anti-inflammatory cytokine profile prior to confirmation of pregnancy. Fertil Steril 2020; 115:1044-1053. [PMID: 33272613 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the changing peripheral levels of inflammation-related cytokine profile during a 9-day period after blastocyst transfer between women who did and did not conceive. DESIGN Prospective, observational, and longitudinal study. SETTING University-affiliated hospital. PATIENT(S) Forty-seven women with infertility who were undergoing single day-5 blastocyst transfer were recruited. INTERVENTION(S) This prospective observational and longitudinal study on 47 women with infertility was performed in an in vitro fertilization unit from December 2018 to August 2019. The amounts of a range of cytokines was measured on serial blood samples obtained during a 9-day period after blastocyst transfer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Serial blood samples were obtained on the day of embryo transfer, and 3, 6, and 9 days afterward for measurement of serum interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-17, IL-18, and IL-22 using cytometric bead arrays; transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) was measured using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. RESULT(S) The cytokine profile was similar between the women who conceived and those who did not on the day of blastocyst transfer. In women who conceived, IFN-γ and IL-17 (pro-inflammatory cytokines) exhibited a transient and significant increase on day 3 after blastocyst transfer, which decreased to the baseline levels by day 6. Meanwhile, IL-10 (anti-inflammatory cytokine) was increased significantly on days 6 and 9, and TGF-β1 (anti-inflammatory cytokine) was increased significantly on day 9 after blastocyst transfer. In women who did not conceive, there was a more pronounced increase in IFN-γ and IL-17 (pro-inflammatory cytokines) on day 3, which was sustained on days 6 and 9 without a switch to an anti-inflammatory cytokine profile. CONCLUSION(S) Among women who conceived after blastocyst embryo transfer, there was a transient and modest increase in serum pro-inflammatory cytokine profile (IFN-γ and IL-17) 3 days after blastocyst transfer, which was followed by a switch to anti-inflammatory cytokine profile (increase IL-10 and TGF-β1) by 6 days after blastocyst transfer and the latter increase was sustained 9 days after blastocyst transfer, when pregnancy was confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Zhao
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xi Guo
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun Kwok Wong
- Department of Chemical Pathology, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiu Leung Chan
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; Reproduction and Development Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Susan Laird
- Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
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BuShen HuoXue Decoction Promotes Decidual Stromal Cell Proliferation via the PI3K/AKT Pathway in Unexplained Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:6868470. [PMID: 33082827 PMCID: PMC7556073 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6868470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BuShen HuoXue decoction (BSHXD) has been used to treat patients with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA). However, the chemical compounds and mechanism by which BSHXD exerts its therapeutic and systemic effects to promote the proliferation of decidual stromal cells (DSCs) has not been elucidated. This work sought to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanism of BSHXD in terms of inflammatory factors IL-17A in DSCs in vitro because of the critical roles of inflammation, apoptosis, and immunity in the development and progression of pregnancy loss. Twelve migratory chemical compounds from BSHXD extract were qualitatively analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). DSCs were collected from normal early pregnancy (NEP) and URSA to determine whether BSHXD affects IL-17A/IL17RA via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Abnormal apoptosis and activated p-AKT were observed in URSA DSCs. RhIL-17 A, LY294002 (a PI3K pathway inhibitor), and BSHXD were individually or simultaneously administered in NEP DSCs, suggesting that BSHXD restored cell proliferation without excessive stimulation and IL-17A promotes proliferation via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Using the same intervention in URSA DSCs, qRT-PCR measured the upregulated mRNA levels of IL-17 A/IL-17RA, PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, PTEN, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL and downregulated mRNA levels of BAD and ACT1 after treatment with BSHXD. We demonstrated that BSHXD affected IL-17A/IL-17R via PI3K/AKT pathway to promote the proliferative activity of DSCs in URSA. These results provide a new insight to further clarify the relationship between inflammation and apoptosis and the mechanism of imbalance in the dynamic equilibrium between Th17/Treg immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface.
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