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Khorami-Sarvestani S, Vanaki N, Shojaeian S, Zarnani K, Stensballe A, Jeddi-Tehrani M, Zarnani AH. Placenta: an old organ with new functions. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1385762. [PMID: 38707901 PMCID: PMC11066266 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1385762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The transition from oviparity to viviparity and the establishment of feto-maternal communications introduced the placenta as the major anatomical site to provide nutrients, gases, and hormones to the developing fetus. The placenta has endocrine functions, orchestrates maternal adaptations to pregnancy at different periods of pregnancy, and acts as a selective barrier to minimize exposure of developing fetus to xenobiotics, pathogens, and parasites. Despite the fact that this ancient organ is central for establishment of a normal pregnancy in eutherians, the placenta remains one of the least studied organs. The first step of pregnancy, embryo implantation, is finely regulated by the trophoectoderm, the precursor of all trophoblast cells. There is a bidirectional communication between placenta and endometrium leading to decidualization, a critical step for maintenance of pregnancy. There are three-direction interactions between the placenta, maternal immune cells, and the endometrium for adaptation of endometrial immune system to the allogeneic fetus. While 65% of all systemically expressed human proteins have been found in the placenta tissues, it expresses numerous placenta-specific proteins, whose expression are dramatically changed in gestational diseases and could serve as biomarkers for early detection of gestational diseases. Surprisingly, placentation and carcinogenesis exhibit numerous shared features in metabolism and cell behavior, proteins and molecular signatures, signaling pathways, and tissue microenvironment, which proposes the concept of "cancer as ectopic trophoblastic cells". By extensive researches in this novel field, a handful of cancer biomarkers has been discovered. This review paper, which has been inspired in part by our extensive experiences during the past couple of years, highlights new aspects of placental functions with emphasis on its immunomodulatory role in establishment of a successful pregnancy and on a potential link between placentation and carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Khorami-Sarvestani
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negar Vanaki
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sorour Shojaeian
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Kayhan Zarnani
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Allan Stensballe
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Clinical Cancer Research Center, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mahmood Jeddi-Tehrani
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir-Hassan Zarnani
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Chen X, Song QL, Ji R, Wang JY, Cao ML, Guo DY, Zhang Y, Yang J. JPT2 Affects Trophoblast Functions and Macrophage Polarization and Metabolism, and Acts as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306359. [PMID: 38417123 PMCID: PMC11040346 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306359] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a pregnancy-related condition with complex etiology. Trophoblast dysfunction and abnormal macrophage polarization and metabolism are associated with RSA; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Jupiter microtubule-associated homolog 2 (JPT2) is essential for calcium mobilization; however, its role in RSA remains unclear. In this study, it is found that the expression levels of JPT2, a nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate-binding protein, are decreased in the villous tissues of patients with RSA and placental tissues of miscarried mice. Mechanistically, it is unexpectedly found that abnormal JPT2 expression regulates trophoblast function and thus involvement in RSA via c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling, but not via calcium mobilization. Specifically, on the one hand, JPT2 deficiency inhibits trophoblast adhesion, migration, and invasion by inhibiting the JNK/atypical chemokine receptor 3 axis. On the other hand, trophoblast JPT2 deficiency contributes to M1 macrophage polarization by promoting the accumulation of citrate and reactive oxygen species via inhibition of the JNK/interleukin-6 axis. Self-complementary adeno-associated virus 9-JPT2 treatment alleviates embryonic resorption in abortion-prone mice. In summary, this study reveals that JPT2 mediates the remodeling of the immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- Reproductive Medical CenterRenmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic DevelopmentWuhanHubei430060China
| | - Qian Lin Song
- Department of UrologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei430060China
| | - Rui Ji
- Reproductive Medical CenterRenmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic DevelopmentWuhanHubei430060China
| | - Jia Yu Wang
- Reproductive Medical CenterRenmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic DevelopmentWuhanHubei430060China
| | - Ming Liang Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei430060China
| | - Duan Ying Guo
- Department of GynecologyLonggang District People's Hospital of ShenzhenShenzhen518172China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei430060China
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical CenterRenmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic DevelopmentWuhanHubei430060China
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3
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Arakawa A, Tao K, Kohno T, Ogawa C. Cross-individual cancer transmission to children during the gestational and perinatal periods. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:1039-1047. [PMID: 38369705 PMCID: PMC11006992 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16102] [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: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer transmission may rarely occur between individuals. Besides through allogenic transplantation, cancer transmission via the hemochorial placenta, which is permissive for cell traffic, has been described in a few reports. Three etiologies of transplacental cancer transmission include (1) maternofetal transmission of maternal cancer cells, (2) transmission of gestational choriocarcinoma to the fetus, and (3) transfer of preleukemic cells from one monozygotic twin to the other. Additionally, we recently reported two pediatric cases of lung tumors in which the lung-only distribution of tumors and genomic profiling of both the child's and mother's tumor samples suggested the airway/transbronchial transmission of maternal cervical cancer cells to the child by aspiration at birth. The immune system coordinates the hemostatic balance between effector and regulatory immunity, especially during fetal development. The immunoregulatory properties are shared in both physiological pregnancy-related and pathological cancer-related conditions. Mechanistically, the survival and colonization of transmitted cancer cells within a child are likely attributed to a combination of the child's immune tolerance and the cancer's immune escape. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of gestational/perinatal cancer transmission and discuss the possible mechanism-based immunotherapy for this rare form of pediatric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumu Arakawa
- Department of Pediatric OncologyNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Kayoko Tao
- Department of Pediatric OncologyNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Kohno
- Division of Genome BiologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
| | - Chitose Ogawa
- Department of Pediatric OncologyNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
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4
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Yang J, Li L, Wang L, Chen R, Yang X, Wu J, Feng G, Ding J, Diao L, Chen J, Yang J. Trophoblast-derived miR-410-5p induces M2 macrophage polarization and mediates immunotolerance at the fetal-maternal interface by targeting the STAT1 signaling pathway. J Transl Med 2024; 22:19. [PMID: 38178171 PMCID: PMC10768263 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04831-y] [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: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macrophages phenotypic deviation and immune imbalance play vital roles in pregnancy-associated diseases such as spontaneous miscarriage. Trophoblasts regulate phenotypic changes in macrophages, however, their underlying mechanism during pregnancy remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the potential function of trophoblast-derived miRNAs (miR-410-5p) in macrophage polarization during pregnancy. METHODS Patient decidual macrophage tissue samples in spontaneous abortion group and normal pregnancy group (those who had induced abortion for non-medical reasons) were collected at the Reproductive Medicine Center of Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from April to December 2021. Furthermore, placental villi and decidua tissue samples were collected from patients who had experienced a spontaneous miscarriage and normal pregnant women for validation and subsequent experiments at the Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), from March 2021 to September 2022. As an animal model, 36 female mice were randomly divided into six groups as follows: naive-control, lipopolysaccharide-model, agomir-negative control prevention, agomir-410-5p prevention, agomir-negative control treatment, and agomir-410-5p treatment groups. We analyzed the miR-410-5p expression in abortion tissue and plasma samples; and supplemented miR-410-5p to evaluate embryonic absorption in vivo. The main source of miR-410-5p at the maternal-fetal interface was analyzed, and the possible target gene, signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1, of miR-410-5p was predicted. The effect of miR-410-5p and STAT1 regulation on macrophage phenotype, oxidative metabolism, and mitochondrial membrane potential was analyzed in vitro. RESULTS MiR-410-5p levels were lower in the spontaneous abortion group compared with the normal pregnancy group, and plasma miR-410-5p levels could predict pregnancy and spontaneous abortion. Prophylactic supplementation of miR-410-5p in pregnant mice reduced lipopolysaccharide-mediated embryonic absorption and downregulated the decidual macrophage pro-inflammatory phenotype. MiR-410-5p were mainly distributed in villi, and trophoblasts secreted exosomes-miR-410-5p at the maternal-fetal interface. After macrophages captured exosomes, the cells shifted to the tolerance phenotype. STAT1 was a potential target gene of miR-410-5p. MiR-410-5p bound to STAT1 mRNA, and inhibited the expression of STAT1 protein. STAT1 can drive macrophages to mature to a pro-inflammatory phenotype. MiR-410-5p competitive silencing of STAT1 can avoid macrophage immune disorders. CONCLUSION MiR-410-5p promotes M2 macrophage polarization by inhibiting STAT1, thus ensuring a healthy pregnancy. These findings are of great significance for diagnosing and preventing spontaneous miscarriage, providing a new perspective for further research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830000, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Longfei Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, 518045, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Linlin Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, 518045, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruizhi Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, 518045, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobing Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, 518045, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Juanhua Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, 518045, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Feng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, 518045, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinli Ding
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, 518045, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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Trotter TN, Dagotto CE, Serra D, Wang T, Yang X, Acharya CR, Wei J, Lei G, Lyerly HK, Hartman ZC. Dormant tumors circumvent tumor-specific adaptive immunity by establishing a Treg-dominated niche via DKK3. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e174458. [PMID: 37847565 PMCID: PMC10721325 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.174458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 30% of breast cancer survivors deemed free of disease will experience locoregional or metastatic recurrence even up to 30 years after initial diagnosis, yet how residual/dormant tumor cells escape immunity elicited by the primary tumor remains unclear. We demonstrate that intrinsically dormant tumor cells are indeed recognized and lysed by antigen-specific T cells in vitro and elicit robust immune responses in vivo. However, despite close proximity to CD8+ killer T cells, dormant tumor cells themselves support early accumulation of protective FoxP3+ T regulatory cells (Tregs), which can be targeted to reduce tumor burden. These intrinsically dormant tumor cells maintain a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal state that is associated with immune dysfunction, and we find that the tumor-derived, stem cell/basal cell protein Dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 3 (DKK3) is critical for Treg inhibition of CD8+ T cells. We also demonstrate that DKK3 promotes immune-mediated progression of proliferative tumors and is significantly associated with poor survival and immunosuppression in human breast cancers. Together, these findings reveal that latent tumors can use fundamental mechanisms of tolerance to alter the T cell microenvironment and subvert immune detection. Thus, targeting these pathways, such as DKK3, may help render dormant tumors susceptible to immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - H. Kim Lyerly
- Department of Surgery, and
- Department of Pathology/Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Zachary C. Hartman
- Department of Surgery, and
- Department of Pathology/Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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6
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Kirschen GW, Hessami K, AlAshqar A, Afrin S, Lulseged B, Borahay M. Uterine Transcriptome: Understanding Physiology and Disease Processes. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:634. [PMID: 37106834 PMCID: PMC10136129 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, transcriptomics has enabled us to gain a deeper understanding of fundamental reproductive physiology, including the menstrual cycle, through a more precise molecular analysis. The endometrial mRNA transcript levels fluctuate during the normal menstrual cycle, indicating changes in the relative recruitment and abundance of inflammatory cells, as well as changes in the receptivity and remodeling of the endometrium. In addition to providing a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular underpinnings of pathological gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, leiomyomas, and adenomyosis through RNA sequencing, this has allowed researchers to create transcriptome profiles during both normal menstrual cycles and pathological gynecological conditions. Such insights could potentially lead to more targeted and personalized therapies for benign gynecological conditions. Here, we provide an overview of recent advances in transcriptome analysis of normal and pathological endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory W. Kirschen
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Kamran Hessami
- Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Abdelrahman AlAshqar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | | | - Mostafa Borahay
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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7
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Polcz VE, Rincon JC, Hawkins RB, Barrios EL, Efron PA, Moldawer LL, Larson SD. TRAINED IMMUNITY: A POTENTIAL APPROACH FOR IMPROVING HOST IMMUNITY IN NEONATAL SEPSIS. Shock 2023; 59:125-134. [PMID: 36383390 PMCID: PMC9957873 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000002054] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Sepsis, a dysregulated host immune response to infection, is one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality worldwide. Improved understanding of the perinatal immune system is critical to improve therapies to both term and preterm neonates at increased risk of sepsis. Our narrative outlines the known and unknown aspects of the human immune system through both the immune tolerant in utero period and the rapidly changing antigen-rich period after birth. We will highlight the key differences in innate and adaptive immunity noted through these developmental stages and how the unique immune phenotype in early life contributes to the elevated risk of overwhelming infection and dysregulated immune responses to infection upon exposure to external antigens shortly after birth. Given an initial dependence on neonatal innate immune host responses, we will discuss the concept of innate immune memory, or "trained immunity," and describe several potential immune modulators, which show promise in altering the dysregulated immune response in newborns and improving resilience to sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie E Polcz
- Department of Surgery and Sepsis and Critical Illness Research Center, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
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8
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Liu H, Zheng J, Liao A. The regulation and potential roles of m6A modifications in early embryonic development and immune tolerance at the maternal-fetal interface. Front Immunol 2022; 13:988130. [PMID: 36225914 PMCID: PMC9549360 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.988130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface was determined by the crosstalk between the trophoblast and maternal-derived cells, which dynamically changed during the whole gestation. Trophoblasts act as innate immune cells and dialogue with maternal-derived cells to ensure early embryonic development, depending on the local immune microenvironment. Therefore, dysfunctions in trophoblasts and maternal decidual cells contribute to pregnancy complications, especially recurrent pregnancy loss in early pregnancy. Since many unknown regulatory factors still affect the complex immune status, exploring new potential aspects that could influence early pregnancy is essential. RNA methylation plays an important role in contributing to the transcriptional regulation of various cells. Sufficient studies have shown the crucial roles of N6-methyladenosine (m6A)- and m6A-associated- regulators in embryogenesis during implantation. They are also essential in regulating innate and adaptive immune cells and the immune response and shaping the local and systemic immune microenvironment. However, the function of m6A modifications at the maternal-fetal interface still lacks wide research. This review highlights the critical functions of m6A in early embryonic development, summarizes the reported research on m6A in regulating immune cells and tumor immune microenvironment, and identifies the potential value of m6A modifications in shaping trophoblasts, decidual immune cells, and the microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface. The m6A modifications are more likely to contribute to embryogenesis, placentation and shape the immune microenvironment at the maternal-fetal interface. Uncovering these crucial regulatory mechanisms could provide novel therapeutic targets for RNA methylation in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liu
- Department of Reproduction, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Affiliated in Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Reproduction, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Affiliated in Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Jie Zheng, ; Aihua Liao,
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Jie Zheng, ; Aihua Liao,
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9
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Shao X, Yu W, Yang Y, Wang F, Yu X, Wu H, Ma Y, Cao B, Wang YL. The mystery of the life tree: the placenta. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:301-316. [PMID: 35552600 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is the interface between the fetal and maternal environments during mammalian gestation, critically safeguarding the health of the developing fetus and the mother. Placental trophoblasts origin from embryonic trophectoderm that differentiates into various trophoblastic subtypes through villous and extravillous pathways. The trophoblasts actively interact with multiple decidual cells and immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface and thus construct fundamental functional units, which are responsible for blood perfusion, maternal-fetal material exchange, placental endocrine, immune tolerance, and adequate defense barrier against pathogen infection. Various pregnant complications are tightly associated with the defects in placental development and function maintenance. In this review, we summarize the current views and our recent progress on the mechanisms underlying the formation of placental functional units, the interactions among trophoblasts and various uterine cells, as well as the placental barrier against pathogen infections during pregnancy. The involvement of placental dysregulation in adverse pregnancy outcomes is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhe Yu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Feiyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yeling Ma
- Medical College, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, China
| | - Bin Cao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yan-Ling Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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10
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Mazziotta C, Pellielo G, Tognon M, Martini F, Rotondo JC. Significantly Low Levels of IgG Antibodies Against Oncogenic Merkel Cell Polyomavirus in Sera From Females Affected by Spontaneous Abortion. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:789991. [PMID: 34970247 PMCID: PMC8712937 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.789991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a small DNA tumor virus ubiquitous in humans. MCPyV establishes a clinically asymptomatic lifelong infection in healthy immunocompetent individuals. Viral infections are considered to be risk factors for spontaneous abortion (SA), which is the most common adverse complication of pregnancy. The role of MCPyV in SA remains undetermined. Herein, the impact of MCPyV infection in females affected by SA was investigated. Specifically, an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method with two linear synthetic peptides/mimotopes mimicking MCPyV antigens was used to investigate immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against MCPyV in sera from 94 females affected by SA [mean ± standard deviation (SD) age 35 ± (6) years] and from 96 healthy females undergoing voluntary pregnancy interruption [VI, mean (±SD) age 32 ± (7) years]. MCPyV seroprevalence and serological profiles were analyzed. The overall prevalence of serum IgG antibodies against MCPyV was 35.1% (33/94) and 37.5% (36/96) in SA and VI females, respectively (p > 0.05). Notably, serological profile analyses indicated lower optical densities (ODs) in females with SA compared to those undergoing VI (p < 0.05), thus indicating a reduced IgG antibody response in SA females. Circulating IgGs were identified in sera from SA and VI females. Our immunological findings indicate that a relatively reduced fraction of pregnant females carry serum anti-MCPyV IgG antibodies, while SA females presented a more pronounced decrease in IgG antibody response to MCPyV. Although yet to be determined, this immunological decrease might prompt an increase in MCPyV multiplication events in females experiencing abortive events. The role of MCPyV in SA, if present, remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mazziotta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulia Pellielo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - John Charles Rotondo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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11
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Tao Y, Li Y, Zhang D, Xu L, Chen J, Sang Y, Piao H, Jing X, Yu M, Fu Q, Zhou S, Li D, Du M. Decidual CXCR4 + CD56 bright NK cells as a novel NK subset in maternal-foetal immune tolerance to alleviate early pregnancy failure. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e540. [PMID: 34709764 PMCID: PMC8516340 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells preferentially accumulate at maternal-foetal interface and are believed to play vital immune-modulatory roles during early pregnancy and related immunological dysfunction may result in pregnant failure such as recurrent miscarriage (RM). However, the mechanisms underlying the establishment of maternal-foetal immunotolerance are complex but clarifying the roles of decidual NK (dNK) cells offers the potential to design immunotherapeutic strategies to assist RM patients. In this report, we analysed RNA sequencing on peripheral NK (pNK) and decidual NK cells during early pregnancy; we identified an immunomodulatory dNK subset CXCR4+ CD56bright dNK and investigated its origin and phenotypic and functional characteristics. CXCR4+ CD56bright dNK displayed a less activated and cytotoxic phenotype but an enhanced immunomodulatory potential relative to the CXCR4 negative subset. CXCR4+ CD56bright dNK promote Th2 shift in an IL-4-dependent manner and can be recruited from peripheral blood and reprogramed by trophoblasts, as an active participant in the establishment of immune-tolerance during early pregnancy. Diminished CXCR4+ dNK cells and their impaired ability to induce Th2 differentiation were found in RM patients and mouse models of spontaneous abortion. Moreover, adoptive transfer of CXCR4+ dNK cells to NK-deficient (Nfil3-/-) mice showed great therapeutic potential of CXCR4+ dNK via recovering the Th2/Th1 bias and reducing embryo resorption rates. The identification of this new dNK cell subset may lay the foundation for understanding NK cell mechanisms in early pregnancy and provide potential prognostic factors for the diagnosis and therapy of RM.
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MESH Headings
- Abortion, Habitual/blood
- Abortion, Habitual/immunology
- Abortion, Habitual/prevention & control
- Animals
- Decidua/immunology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Female
- Humans
- Immune Tolerance/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/blood
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/genetics
- Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules/immunology
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Trimester, First
- Receptors, CXCR4/blood
- Receptors, CXCR4/genetics
- Receptors, CXCR4/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tao
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
- Department of Assisted ReproductionShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yan‐Hong Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Di Zhang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Ling Xu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Jia‐Jia Chen
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Yi‐Fei Sang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Hai‐Lan Piao
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Xue‐Ling Jing
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Min Yu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Qiang Fu
- Department of ImmunologyBinzhou Medical CollegeYantaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Sheng‐Tao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduPeople's Republic of China
| | - Da‐Jin Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Mei‐Rong Du
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and GynecologyFudan University Shanghai Medical CollegeShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related DiseasesShanghaiChina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of MedicineSouth China University of TechnologyGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of PharmacyMacau University of Science and TechnologyMacauChina
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12
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Johnson LJ, Azari S, Webb A, Zhang X, Gavrilin MA, Marshall JM, Rood K, Seveau S. Human Placental Trophoblasts Infected by Listeria monocytogenes Undergo a Pro-Inflammatory Switch Associated With Poor Pregnancy Outcomes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:709466. [PMID: 34367171 PMCID: PMC8346206 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.709466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta controls the growth of the fetus and ensures its immune protection. Key to these functions, the syncytiotrophoblast (SYN) is a syncytium formed by fusion of underlying mononuclear trophoblasts. The SYN covers the placental surface and is bathed in maternal blood to mediate nutritional and waste exchanges between the mother and fetus. The bacterial pathogen Listeria monocytogenes breaches the trophoblast barrier and infects the placental/fetal unit resulting in poor pregnancy outcomes. In this work, we analyzed the L. monocytogenes intracellular lifecycle in primary human trophoblasts. In accordance with previous studies, we found that the SYN is 20-fold more resistant to infection compared to mononuclear trophoblasts, forming a protective barrier to infection at the maternal interface. We show for the first time that this is due to a significant reduction in L. monocytogenes uptake by the SYN rather than inhibition of the bacterial intracellular division or motility. We here report the first transcriptomic analysis of L. monocytogenes-infected trophoblasts (RNA sequencing). Pathway analysis showed that infection upregulated TLR2, NOD-like, and cytosolic DNA sensing pathways, as well as downstream pro-inflammatory circuitry (NF-κB, AP-1, IRF4, IRF7) leading to the production of mediators known to elicit the recruitment and activation of maternal leukocytes (IL8, IL6, TNFα, MIP-1). Signature genes associated with poor pregnancy outcomes were also upregulated upon infection. Measuring the release of 54 inflammatory mediators confirmed the transcriptomic data and revealed sustained production of tolerogenic factors (IL-27, IL-10, IL-1RA, TSLP) despite infection. Both the SYN and mononuclear trophoblasts produced cytokines, but surprisingly, some cytokines were predominantly produced by the SYN (IL-8, IL-6) or by non-fused trophoblasts (TNFα). Collectively, our data support that trophoblasts act as placental gatekeepers that limit and detect L. monocytogenes infection resulting in a pro-inflammatory response, which may contribute to the poor pregnancy outcomes if the pathogen persists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Johnson
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Siavash Azari
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Amy Webb
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Mikhail A Gavrilin
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Division, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Joanna M Marshall
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Kara Rood
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Stephanie Seveau
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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