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Shimizu T, Oike A, Kobayashi EH, Sekiya A, Kobayashi N, Shibata S, Hamada H, Saito M, Yaegashi N, Suyama M, Arima T, Okae H. CRISPR screening in human trophoblast stem cells reveals both shared and distinct aspects of human and mouse placental development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2311372120. [PMID: 38085778 PMCID: PMC10742386 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311372120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta serves as the interface between the mother and fetus, facilitating the exchange of gases and nutrients between their separate blood circulation systems. Trophoblasts in the placenta play a central role in this process. Our current understanding of mammalian trophoblast development relies largely on mouse models. However, given the diversification of mammalian placentas, findings from the mouse placenta cannot be readily extrapolated to other mammalian species, including humans. To fill this knowledge gap, we performed CRISPR knockout screening in human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs). We targeted genes essential for mouse placental development and identified more than 100 genes as critical regulators in both human hTSCs and mouse placentas. Among them, we further characterized in detail two transcription factors, DLX3 and GCM1, and revealed their essential roles in hTSC differentiation. Moreover, a gene function-based comparison between human and mouse trophoblast subtypes suggests that their relationship may differ significantly from previous assumptions based on tissue localization or cellular function. Notably, our data reveal that hTSCs may not be analogous to mouse TSCs or the extraembryonic ectoderm (ExE) in which in vivo TSCs reside. Instead, hTSCs may be analogous to progenitor cells in the mouse ectoplacental cone and chorion. This finding is consistent with the absence of ExE-like structures during human placental development. Our data not only deepen our understanding of human trophoblast development but also facilitate cross-species comparison of mammalian placentas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Shimizu
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Akira Oike
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto860-0811, Japan
| | - Eri H. Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Asato Sekiya
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto860-0811, Japan
| | - Norio Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Shun Shibata
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Hamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Nobuo Yaegashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Mikita Suyama
- Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka812-8582, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto860-0811, Japan
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The multifaceted role of GCM1 during trophoblast differentiation in the human placenta. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203071119. [PMID: 36442132 PMCID: PMC9894182 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203071119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Remodeling of the uterine vasculature by invasive extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) is a critical aspect of human placentation. Insufficient EVT invasion can lead to severe obstetrical complications like preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and preterm birth. Glial cells missing-1 (GCM1) is a transcription factor that is crucial for proper placentation in mice, and is highly expressed in human syncytiotrophoblast (ST) and EVTs. GCM1 is classically considered a master regulator of ST formation, but little is known about its contribution to the development and function of EVTs. Therefore, in this study we test the hypothesis that GCM1 is a critical regulator of both EVT and ST development and function. We show that GCM1 is highly expressed in human trophoblast stem (TS) cells differentiated into either ST or EVTs. Knockdown of GCM1 in TS cells hindered differentiation into both ST and EVT pathways. When placed in ST media, GCM1-knockdown cells formed small, unstable clusters; when placed in EVT media, cells had altered morphology and transcript profiles resembling cells trapped in an intermediate state between CT and EVT, and invasive capacity through matrix was reduced. RNA sequencing analysis of GCM1-deficient TS cells revealed downregulation of EVT-associated genes and enrichment in transcripts related to WNT signaling, which was linked to decreased expression of the EVT master regulator ASCL2 and the WNT antagonist NOTUM. Our findings reveal an essential role of GCM1 during ST and EVT development, and suggest that GCM1 regulates differentiation of human TS cells into EVTs by inducing expression of ASCL2 and NOTUM.
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Renaud SJ, Jeyarajah MJ. How trophoblasts fuse: an in-depth look into placental syncytiotrophoblast formation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:433. [PMID: 35859055 PMCID: PMC11072895 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04475-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In humans, cell fusion is restricted to only a few cell types under normal conditions. In the placenta, cell fusion is a critical process for generating syncytiotrophoblast: the giant multinucleated trophoblast lineage containing billions of nuclei within an interconnected cytoplasm that forms the primary interface separating maternal blood from fetal tissue. The unique morphology of syncytiotrophoblast ensures that nutrients and gases can be efficiently transferred between maternal and fetal tissue while simultaneously restricting entry of potentially damaging substances and maternal immune cells through intercellular junctions. To maintain integrity of the syncytiotrophoblast layer, underlying cytotrophoblast progenitor cells terminate their capability for self-renewal, upregulate expression of genes needed for differentiation, and then fuse into the overlying syncytium. These processes are disrupted in a variety of obstetric complications, underscoring the importance of proper syncytiotrophoblast formation for pregnancy health. Herein, an overview of key mechanisms underlying human trophoblast fusion and syncytiotrophoblast development is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A5C1, Canada.
| | - Mariyan J Jeyarajah
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A5C1, Canada
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Transcription factor networks in trophoblast development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:337. [PMID: 35657505 PMCID: PMC9166831 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04363-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The placenta sustains embryonic development and is critical for a successful pregnancy outcome. It provides the site of exchange between the mother and the embryo, has immunological functions and is a vital endocrine organ. To perform these diverse roles, the placenta comprises highly specialized trophoblast cell types, including syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast. The coordinated actions of transcription factors (TFs) regulate their emergence during development, subsequent specialization, and identity. These TFs integrate diverse signaling cues, form TF networks, associate with chromatin remodeling and modifying factors, and collectively determine the cell type-specific characteristics. Here, we summarize the general properties of TFs, provide an overview of TFs involved in the development and function of the human trophoblast, and address similarities and differences to their murine orthologs. In addition, we discuss how the recent establishment of human in vitro models combined with -omics approaches propel our knowledge and transform the human trophoblast field.
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Whitehouse LLE, Smith CEL, Poulter JA, Brown CJ, Patel A, Lamb T, Brown LR, O’Sullivan EA, Mitchell RE, Berry IR, Charlton R, Inglehearn CF, Mighell AJ. Novel DLX3 variants in amelogenesis imperfecta with attenuated tricho-dento-osseous syndrome. Oral Dis 2019; 25:182-191. [PMID: 30095208 PMCID: PMC6334507 DOI: 10.1111/odi.12955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Variants in DLX3 cause tricho-dento-osseous syndrome (TDO, MIM #190320), a systemic condition with hair, nail and bony changes, taurodontism and amelogenesis imperfecta (AI), inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. Different variants found within this gene are associated with different phenotypic presentations. To date, six different DLX3 variants have been reported in TDO. The aim of this paper was to explore and discuss three recently uncovered new variants in DLX3. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Whole-exome sequencing identified a new DLX3 variant in one family, recruited as part of an ongoing study of genetic variants associated with AI. Targeted clinical exome sequencing of two further families revealed another new variant of DLX3 and complete heterozygous deletion of DLX3. For all three families, the phenotypes were shown to consist of AI and taurodontism, together with other attenuated features of TDO. RESULTS c.574delG p.(E192Rfs*66), c.476G>T (p.R159L) and a heterozygous deletion of the entire DLX3 coding region were identified in our families. CONCLUSION These previously unreported variants add to the growing literature surrounding AI, allowing for more accurate genetic testing and better understanding of the associated clinical consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claire E. L. Smith
- Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | | | | | - Anesha Patel
- Birmingham Dental Hospital and School of DentistryBirminghamUK
| | - Teresa Lamb
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK
| | | | | | | | - Ian R. Berry
- Leeds Genetics LaboratorySt James’s University HospitalLeedsUK
| | - Ruth Charlton
- Leeds Genetics LaboratorySt James’s University HospitalLeedsUK
| | - Chris F. Inglehearn
- Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
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Chiu YH, Yang MR, Wang LJ, Chen MH, Chang GD, Chen H. New insights into the regulation of placental growth factor gene expression by the transcription factors GCM1 and DLX3 in human placenta. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:9801-9811. [PMID: 29743241 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.001384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of placental growth factor (PGF) is closely associated with placental perfusion in early pregnancy. PGF is primarily expressed in placental trophoblasts, and its expression decreases in preeclampsia, associated with placental hypoxia. The transcription factors glial cells missing 1 (GCM1) and metal-regulatory transcription factor 1 (MTF1) have been implicated in the regulation of PGF gene expression through regulatory elements upstream and downstream of the PGF transcription start site, respectively. Here, we clarified the mechanism underlying placenta-specific PGF expression. We demonstrate that GCM1 up-regulates PGF expression through three downstream GCM1-binding sites (GBSs) but not a previously reported upstream GBS. Interestingly, we also found that these downstream GBSs also harbor metal-response elements for MTF1. Surprisingly, however, we observed that MTF1 is unlikely to regulate PGF expression in the placenta because knockdown or overexpression of GCM1, but not MTF1, dramatically decreased PGF expression or reversed the suppression of PGF expression under hypoxia, respectively. We also demonstrate that another transcription factor, Distal-less homeobox 3 (DLX3), interacts with the DNA-binding domain and the first transactivation domain of GCM1 and that this interaction inhibits GCM1-mediated PGF expression. Moreover, the GCM1-DLX3 interaction interfered with CREB-binding protein-mediated GCM1 acetylation and activation. In summary, we have identified several GBSs in the PGF promoter that are highly responsive to GCM1, have demonstrated that MTF1 does not significantly regulate PGF expression in placental cells, and provide evidence that DLX3 inhibits GCM1-mediated PGF expression. Our findings revise the mechanism for GCM1- and DLX3-mediated regulation of PGF gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueh-Ho Chiu
- From the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 115, Taiwan and
| | - Ming-Ren Yang
- Graduate Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Jie Wang
- From the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 115, Taiwan and
| | - Ming-Hon Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Geen-Dong Chang
- Graduate Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Hungwen Chen
- From the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 115, Taiwan and .,Graduate Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
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Ezashi T, Imakawa K. Transcriptional control of IFNT expression. Reproduction 2017; 154:F21-F31. [PMID: 28982936 PMCID: PMC5687277 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Once interferon-tau (IFNT) had been identified as a type I IFN in sheep and cattle and its functions were characterized, numerous studies were conducted to elucidate the transcriptional regulation of this gene family. Transfection studies performed largely with human choriocarcinoma cell lines identified regulatory regions of the IFNT gene that appeared responsible for trophoblast-specific expression. The key finding was the recognition that the transcription factor ETS2 bound to a proximal region within the 5'UTR of a bovine IFNT and acted as a strong transactivator. Soon after other transcription factors were identified as cooperative partners. The ETS2-binding site and the nearby AP1 site enable response to intracellular signaling from maternal uterine factors. The AP1 site also serves as a GATA-binding site in one of the bovine IFNT genes. The homeobox-containing transcription factor, DLX3, augments IFNT expression combinatorially with ETS2. CDX2 has also been identified as transactivator that binds to a separate site upstream of the main ETS2 enhancer site. CDX2 participates in IFNT epigenetic regulation by modifying histone acetylation status of the gene. The IFNT downregulation at the time of the conceptus attachment to the uterine endometrium appears correlated with the increased EOMES expression and the loss of other transcription coactivators. Altogether, the studies of transcriptional control of IFNT have provided mechanistic evidence of the regulatory framework of trophoblast-specific expression and critical expression pattern for maternal recognition of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Ezashi
- Bond Life Sciences Center and Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211 USA
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Veterinary Medical Sciences and Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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