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Shukla V, Iqbal K, Okae H, Arima T, Soares MJ. EFFECTS OF ARYL HYDROCARBON RECEPTOR LIGAND TCDD ON HUMAN TROPHOBLAST CELL DEVELOPMENT. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.27.609205. [PMID: 39253430 PMCID: PMC11383004 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.27.609205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary interface between mother and fetus, the placenta, serves two critical functions: extraction of nutrients from the maternal compartment and facilitation of nutrient delivery to the developing fetus. This delivery system also serves as a barrier to environmental exposures. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is an important component of the barrier. AHR signaling is activated by environmental pollutants and toxicants that can potentially affect cellular and molecular processes, including those controlling trophoblast cell development and function. OBJECTIVES In this study, we investigated the impact of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), an effective AHR ligand, exposure on human trophoblast cells. METHODS Human trophoblast stem (TS) cells were used as in vitro model system for investigating the downstream consequences of AHR activation. The actions TCDD were investigated in human TS cells maintained in the stem state or in differentiating TS cells. RESULTS TCDD exposure stimulated the expression of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 in human TS cells. TCDD was effective in stimulating CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 expression and altering gene expression profiles in human TS cells maintained in the stem cell state or induced to differentiate into extravillous trophoblast cells (EVT) or syncytiotrophoblast (ST). These actions were dependent upon the presence of AHR. TCDD exposure did not adversely affect maintenance of the TS cell stem state or the ability of TS cells to differentiate into EVT cells or ST. However, TCDD exposure did promote the biosynthesis of 2 methoxy estradiol (2ME), a biologically active catechol estrogen, with the potential to modify the maternal-fetal interface. DISCUSSION Human trophoblast cell responses to TCDD were dependent upon AHR signaling and possessed the potential to shape development and function of the human placentation site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Shukla
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 661602
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 661602
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811 Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Michael J Soares
- Institute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 661602
- Center for Perinatal Research, Children's Mercy Research Institute, Children's Mercy, Kansas City, MO 64108
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
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Mortillo M, Kennedy E, Hermetz K, Burt A, Marsit C. Associations between placental hydroxymethylation and birthweight. EPIGENETICS REPORTS 2024; 2:1-7. [PMID: 39091447 PMCID: PMC11290493 DOI: 10.1080/28361512.2024.2376954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), formed through the ten-eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenase mediated oxidation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) at cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) dinucleotides, is believed to mainly serve as an intermediate in the DNA demethylation pathway, though recent evidence suggests that 5hmC may also play a functionally relevant role. We have conducted an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) to assess the association between placenta 5hmC, obtained through parallel bisulfite and oxidative bisulfite modification of DNA and array-based assessment, and newborn birthweight in the Rhode Island Child Health Study (RICHS). We also assessed whether the removal of 5hmC signal impacts the observed results from traditional epigenome-wide studies that rely on BS modification-based (combined 5mC and 5hmC) assessment alone. We identified 5hmC at one CpG in the CUBN gene to be significantly associated with birthweight (FDR < 0.05) and demonstrate that expression of that gene was also associated with birthweight. Comparison of 5hmC+5mC and 5mC EWAS effect estimates reveal a strong correlation (r = 0.77, p < 0.0001). Our study suggests that traditional assessment of 5mC through bisulfite modification alone provides an accurate assessment of CpG-specific DNA methylation for EWAS studies but was unable to provide evidence of widespread associations between placental 5hmC and birthweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Mortillo
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Elizabeth Kennedy
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Karen Hermetz
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Amber Burt
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Carmen Marsit
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
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Jedynak P, Siroux V, Broséus L, Tost J, Busato F, Gabet S, Thomsen C, Sakhi AK, Sabaredzovic A, Lyon-Caen S, Bayat S, Slama R, Philippat C, Lepeule J. Epigenetic footprints: Investigating placental DNA methylation in the context of prenatal exposure to phenols and phthalates. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 189:108763. [PMID: 38824843 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) such as phthalates and phenols can affect placental functioning and fetal health, potentially via epigenetic modifications. We investigated the associations between pregnancy exposure to synthetic phenols and phthalates estimated from repeated urine sampling and genome wide placental DNA methylation. METHODS The study is based on 387 women with placental DNA methylation assessed with Infinium MethylationEPIC arrays and with 7 phenols, 13 phthalates, and two non-phthalate plasticizer metabolites measured in pools of urine samples collected twice during pregnancy. We conducted an exploratory analysis on individual CpGs (EWAS) and differentially methylated regions (DMRs) as well as a candidate analysis focusing on 20 previously identified CpGs. Sex-stratified analyses were also performed. RESULTS In the exploratory analysis, when both sexes were studied together no association was observed in the EWAS. In the sex-stratified analysis, 114 individual CpGs (68 in males, 46 in females) were differentially methylated, encompassing 74 genes (36 for males and 38 for females). We additionally identified 28 DMRs in the entire cohort, 40 for females and 42 for males. Associations were mostly positive (for DMRs: 93% positive associations in the entire cohort, 60% in the sex-stratified analysis), with the exception of several associations for bisphenols and DINCH metabolites that were negative. Biomarkers associated with most DMRs were parabens, DEHP, and DiNP metabolite concentrations. Some DMRs encompassed imprinted genes including APC (associated with parabens and DiNP metabolites), GNAS (bisphenols), ZIM2;PEG3;MIMT1 (parabens, monoethyl phthalate), and SGCE;PEG10 (parabens, DINCH metabolites). Terms related to adiposity, lipid and glucose metabolism, and cardiovascular function were among the enriched phenotypes associated with differentially methylated CpGs. The candidate analysis identified one CpG mapping to imprinted LGALS8 gene, negatively associated with ethylparaben. CONCLUSIONS By combining improved exposure assessment and extensive placental epigenome coverage, we identified several novel genes associated with the exposure, possibly in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Jedynak
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France; ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Valérie Siroux
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Lucile Broséus
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Jörg Tost
- Laboratory for Epigenetics and Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA - Institut de Biologie François Jacob, University Paris Saclay, Evry, France
| | - Florence Busato
- Laboratory for Epigenetics and Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA - Institut de Biologie François Jacob, University Paris Saclay, Evry, France
| | - Stephan Gabet
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France; Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, ULR 4483-IMPacts de l'Environnement Chimique sur la Santé (IMPECS), 59000 Lille, France
| | - Cathrine Thomsen
- Department of Food Safety, Norwegian Institue of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Amrit K Sakhi
- Department of Food Safety, Norwegian Institue of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Sarah Lyon-Caen
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Sam Bayat
- Department of Pulmonology and Physiology, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Rémy Slama
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Claire Philippat
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France.
| | - Johanna Lepeule
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team of Environmental Epidemiology Applied to Development and Respiratory Health, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
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Puvvula J, Braun JM, DeFranco EA, Ho SM, Leung YK, Huang S, Zhang X, Vuong AM, Kim SS, Percy Z, Calafat AM, Botelho JC, Chen A. Gestational exposure to environmental chemicals and epigenetic alterations in the placenta and cord blood mononuclear cells. EPIGENETICS COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:4. [PMID: 38962689 PMCID: PMC11217138 DOI: 10.1186/s43682-024-00027-7] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Background Exposure to environmental chemicals such as phthalates, phenols, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during pregnancy can increase the risk of adverse newborn outcomes. We explored the associations between maternal exposure to select environmental chemicals and DNA methylation in cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) and placental tissue (maternal and fetal sides) to identify potential mechanisms underlying these associations. Method This study included 75 pregnant individuals who planned to give birth at the University of Cincinnati Hospital between 2014 and 2017. Maternal urine samples during the delivery visit were collected and analyzed for 37 biomarkers of phenols (12), phthalates (13), phthalate replacements (4), and PAHs (8). Cord blood and placenta tissue (maternal and fetal sides) were also collected to measure the DNA methylation intensities using the Infinium HumanMethylation450K BeadChip. We used linear regression, adjusting for potential confounders, to assess CpG-specific methylation changes in CBMC (n = 54) and placenta [fetal (n = 67) and maternal (n = 68) sides] associated with gestational chemical exposures (29 of 37 biomarkers measured in this study). To account for multiple testing, we used a false discovery rate q-values < 0.05 and presented results by limiting results with a genomic inflation factor of 1±0.5. Additionally, gene set enrichment analysis was conducted using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomics pathways. Results Among the 29 chemical biomarkers assessed for differential methylation, maternal concentrations of PAH metabolites (1-hydroxynaphthalene, 2-hydroxyfluorene, 4-hydroxyphenanthrene, 1-hydroxypyrene), monocarboxyisononyl phthalate, mono-3-carboxypropyl phthalate, and bisphenol A were associated with altered methylation in placenta (maternal or fetal side). Among exposure biomarkers associated with epigenetic changes, 1-hydroxynaphthalene, and mono-3-carboxypropyl phthalate were consistently associated with differential CpG methylation in the placenta. Gene enrichment analysis indicated that maternal 1-hydroxynaphthalene was associated with lipid metabolism and cellular processes of the placenta. Additionally, mono-3-carboxypropyl phthalate was associated with organismal systems and genetic information processing of the placenta. Conclusion Among the 29 chemical biomarkers assessed during delivery, 1-hydroxynaphthalene and mono-3-carboxypropyl phthalate were associated with DNA methylation in the placenta. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43682-024-00027-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jagadeesh Puvvula
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Joseph M. Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI USA
| | - Emily A. DeFranco
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Yuet-Kin Leung
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR USA
| | - Shouxiong Huang
- Pathogen-Host Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Environmental & Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH USA
| | - Ann M. Vuong
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV USA
| | - Stephani S. Kim
- Health Research, Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Zana Percy
- Department of Environmental & Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH USA
| | - Antonia M. Calafat
- National Center for Environmental Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Julianne C. Botelho
- National Center for Environmental Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
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Foley HB, Howe CG, Eckel SP, Chavez T, Gevorkian L, Reyes EG, Kapanke B, Martinez D, Xue S, Suglia SF, Bastain TM, Marsit C, Breton CV. Depression, perceived stress, and distress during pregnancy and EV-associated miRNA profiles in MADRES. J Affect Disord 2023; 323:799-808. [PMID: 36563790 PMCID: PMC9844263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNA (miRNA) circulating in plasma has been proposed as biomarkers for a variety of diseases and stress measures, including depression, stress, and trauma. However, few studies have examined the relationship between stress and miRNA during pregnancy. METHODS In this study, we examined associations between measures of stress and depression during pregnancy with miRNA in early and late pregnancy from the MADRES cohort of primarily low-income Hispanic women based in Los Angeles, California. Extracellular-vesicle- (EV-) associated miRNA were isolated from maternal plasma and quantified using the Nanostring nCounter platform. Correlations for stress-associated miRNA were also calculated for 89 matching cord blood samples. RESULTS Fifty miRNA were nominally associated with depression, perceived stress, and prenatal distress (raw p < 0.05) with 17 miRNA shared between two or more stress measures. Two miRNA (miR-150-5p and miR-148b-3p) remained marginally significant after FDR adjustment (p < 0.10). Fifteen PANTHER pathways were enriched for predicted gene targets of the 50 miRNA associated with stress. Clusters of maternal and neonate miRNA expression suggest a link between maternal and child profiles. LIMITATIONS The study evaluated 142 miRNA and was not an exhaustive analysis of all discovered miRNA. Evaluations for stress, depression and trauma were based on self-reported instruments, rather than diagnostic tools. CONCLUSIONS Depression and stress during pregnancy are associated with some circulating EV miRNA. Given that EV miRNA play important roles in maternal-fetal communication, this may have downstream consequences for maternal and child health, and underscore the importance of addressing mental health during pregnancy, especially in health disparities populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Bermudez Foley
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America.
| | - Caitlin G Howe
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, United States of America
| | - Sandrah P Eckel
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Thomas Chavez
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Lili Gevorkian
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America; Interface Team, Fulgent Genetics, Inc., Temple City, CA, United States of America
| | - Eileen Granada Reyes
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Bethany Kapanke
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Danilo Martinez
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Shanyan Xue
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Shakira F Suglia
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Theresa M Bastain
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Carmen Marsit
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Carrie V Breton
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
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Crute CE, Hall SM, Landon CD, Garner A, Everitt JI, Zhang S, Blake B, Olofsson D, Chen H, Murphy SK, Stapleton HM, Feng L. Evaluating maternal exposure to an environmental per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) mixture during pregnancy: Adverse maternal and fetoplacental effects in a New Zealand White (NZW) rabbit model. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:156499. [PMID: 35679923 PMCID: PMC9374364 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Mixtures of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are often found in drinking water, and serum PFAS are detected in up to 99% of the population. However, very little is known about how exposure to mixtures of PFAS affects maternal and fetal health. The aim of this study was to investigate maternal, fetal, and placental outcomes after preconceptional and gestational exposure to an environmentally relevant PFAS mixture in a New Zealand White (NZW) rabbit model. Dams were exposed via drinking water to control (no detectable PFAS) or a PFAS mixture for 32 days. This mixture was formulated with PFAS to resemble levels measured in tap water from Pittsboro, NC (10 PFAS compounds; total PFAS load = 758.6 ng/L). Maternal, fetal, and placental outcomes were evaluated at necropsy. Thyroid hormones were measured in maternal serum and kit blood. Placental gene expression was evaluated by RNAseq and qPCR. PFAS exposure resulted in higher body weight (p = 0.01), liver (p = 0.01) and kidney (p = 0.01) weights, blood pressure (p = 0.05), and BUN:CRE ratio (p = 0.04) in dams, along with microscopic changes in renal cortices. Fetal weight, measures, and histopathology were unchanged, but a significant interaction between dose and sex was detected in the fetal: placental weight ratio (p = 0.036). Placental macroscopic changes were present in PFAS-exposed dams. Dam serum showed lower T4 and a higher T3:T4 ratio, although not statistically significant. RNAseq revealed that 11 of the 14 differentially expressed genes (adj. p < 0.1) are involved in placentation or pregnancy complications. In summary, exposure elicited maternal weight gain and signs of hypertension, renal injury, sex-specific changes in placental response, and differential expression of genes involved in placentation and preeclampsia. Importantly, these are the first results to show adverse maternal and placental effects of an environmentally-relevant PFAS mixture in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Crute
- Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health Program, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Samantha M Hall
- Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health Program, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Chelsea D Landon
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Angela Garner
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey I Everitt
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sharon Zhang
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Bevin Blake
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Didrik Olofsson
- Omiqa Bioinformatics GmbH, Altensteinstasse 40, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Henry Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Susan K Murphy
- Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health Program, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health Program, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Liping Feng
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Lapehn S, Paquette AG. The Placental Epigenome as a Molecular Link Between Prenatal Exposures and Fetal Health Outcomes Through the DOHaD Hypothesis. Curr Environ Health Rep 2022; 9:490-501. [PMID: 35488174 PMCID: PMC9363315 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-022-00354-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) hypothesis posits that the perinatal environment can impact fetal and later life health. The placenta is uniquely situated to assess prenatal exposures in the context of DOHaD because it is an essential ephemeral fetal organ that manages the transport of oxygen, nutrients, waste, and endocrine signals between the mother and fetus. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent studies that evaluated the DOHaD hypothesis in human placentas using epigenomics, including DNA methylation and transcriptomic studies of mRNA, lncRNA, and microRNAs. RECENT FINDINGS Between 2016 and 2021, 28 articles evaluated associations between prenatal exposures and placental epigenomics across broad exposure categories including maternal smoking, psychosocial stressors, chemicals, air pollution, and metals. Sixteen of these studies connected exposures to health outcome such as birth weight, fetal growth, or infant neurobehavior through mediation analysis, identification of shared associations between exposure and outcome, or network analysis. These aspects of infant and childhood health serve as a foundation for future studies that aim to use placental epigenetics to understand relationships between the prenatal environment and perinatal complications (such as preterm birth or fetal growth restriction) or later life childhood health. Placental DNA methylation and RNA expression have been linked to numerous prenatal exposures, such as PM2.5 air pollution, metals, and maternal smoking, as well as infant and childhood health outcomes, including fetal growth and birth weight. Placental epigenomics provides a unique opportunity to expand the DOHaD premise, particularly if research applies novel methodologies such as multi-omics analysis, sequencing of non-coding RNAs, mixtures analysis, and assessment of health outcomes beyond early childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Lapehn
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 9th Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
| | - Alison G Paquette
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 9th Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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Reliability of a novel approach for reference-based cell type estimation in human placental DNA methylation studies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:115. [PMID: 35113241 PMCID: PMC8813756 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04091-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a central organ during early development, influencing trajectories of health and disease. DNA methylation (DNAm) studies of human placenta improve our understanding of how its function relates to disease risk. However, DNAm studies can be biased by cell type heterogeneity, so it is essential to control for this in order to reduce confounding and increase precision. Computational cell type deconvolution approaches have proven to be very useful for this purpose. For human placenta, however, an assessment of the performance of these estimation methods is still lacking. Here, we examine the performance of a newly available reference-based cell type estimation approach and compare it to an often-used reference-free cell type estimation approach, namely RefFreeEWAS, in placental genome-wide DNAm samples taken at birth and from chorionic villus biopsies early in pregnancy using three independent studies comprising over 1000 samples. We found both reference-free and reference-based estimated cell type proportions to have predictive value for DNAm, however, reference-based cell type estimation outperformed reference-free estimation for the majority of data sets. Reference-based cell type estimations mirror previous histological knowledge on changes in cell type proportions through gestation. Further, CpGs whose variation in DNAm was largely explained by reference-based estimated cell type proportions were in the proximity of genes that are highly tissue-specific for placenta. This was not the case for reference-free estimated cell type proportions. We provide a list of these CpGs as a resource to help researchers to interpret results of existing studies and improve future DNAm studies of human placenta.
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Prenatal Lead and Depression Exposures Jointly Influence Birth Outcomes and NR3C1 DNA Methylation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182212169. [PMID: 34831923 PMCID: PMC8620070 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Many gestational exposures influence birth outcomes, yet the joint contribution of toxicant and psychosocial factors is understudied. Moreover, associated gestational epigenetic mechanisms are unknown. Lead (Pb) and depression independently influence birth outcomes and offspring NR3C1 (glucocorticoid receptor) DNA methylation. We hypothesized that gestational Pb and depression would jointly influence birth outcomes and NR3C1 methylation. Pregnancy exposure information, DNA methylation, and birth outcome data were collected prospectively from n = 272 mother–infant pairs. Factor analysis was used to reduce the dimensionality of NR3C1. Multivariable linear regressions tested for interaction effects between gestational Pb and depression exposures with birth outcomes and NR3C1. Interaction effects indicated that higher levels of Pb and depression jointly contributed to earlier gestations, smaller infant size at birth, and asymmetric fetal growth. Pb and depression were also jointly associated with the two primary factor scores explaining the most variability in NR3C1 methylation; NR3C1 scores were associated with some infant outcomes, including gestational age and asymmetric fetal growth. Pb and depression can cumulatively influence birth outcomes and epigenetic mechanisms, which may lay the foundation for later health risk. As toxicants and social adversities commonly co-occur, research should consider the life course consequences of these interconnected exposures.
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Pre-pregnancy BMI-associated miRNA and mRNA expression signatures in the placenta highlight a sexually-dimorphic response to maternal underweight status. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15743. [PMID: 34344912 PMCID: PMC8333418 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95051-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) is associated with adverse pregnancy and neonatal health outcomes, with differences in risk observed between sexes. Given that the placenta is a sexually dimorphic organ and critical regulator of development, examining differences in placental mRNA and miRNA expression in relation to pre-pregnancy BMI may provide insight into responses to maternal BMI in utero. Here, genome-wide mRNA and miRNA expression levels were assessed in the placentas of infants born extremely preterm. Differences in expression were evaluated according to pre-pregnancy BMI status (1) overall and (2) in male and female placentas separately. Overall, 719 mRNAs were differentially expressed in relation to underweight status. Unexpectedly, no genes were differentially expressed in relation to overweight or obese status. In male placentas, 572 mRNAs were associated with underweight status, with 503 (70%) overlapping genes identified overall. Notably, 43/572 (8%) of the mRNAs associated with underweight status in male placentas were also gene targets of two miRNAs (miR-4057 and miR-128-1-5p) associated with underweight status in male placentas. Pathways regulating placental nutrient metabolism and angiogenesis were among those enriched in mRNAs associated with underweight status in males. This study is among the first to highlight a sexually dimorphic response to low pre-pregnancy BMI in the placenta.
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Warner GR, Dettogni RS, Bagchi IC, Flaws JA, Graceli JB. Placental outcomes of phthalate exposure. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 103:1-17. [PMID: 34015474 PMCID: PMC8260441 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Proper placental development and function relies on hormone receptors and signaling pathways that make the placenta susceptible to disruption by endocrine disrupting chemicals, such as phthalates. Here, we review relevant research on the associations between phthalate exposures and dysfunctions of the development and function of the placenta, including morphology, physiology, and genetic and epigenetic effects. This review covers in vitro studies, in vivo studies in mammals, and studies in humans. We also discuss important gaps in the literature. Overall, the evidence indicates that toxicity to the placental and maternal-fetal interface is associated with exposure to phthalates. Further studies are needed to better elucidate the mechanisms through which phthalates act in the placenta as well as additional human studies that assess placental disruption through pregnancy with larger sample sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genoa R Warner
- Dept of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Indrani C Bagchi
- Dept of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Dept of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | - Jones B Graceli
- Dept of Morphology, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Brazil
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12
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Rahman ML, Doyon M, Arguin M, Perron P, Bouchard L, Hivert MF. A prospective study of maternal adiposity and glycemic traits across pregnancy and mid-childhood metabolomic profiles. Int J Obes (Lond) 2021; 45:860-869. [PMID: 33504931 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-021-00750-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal exposure to maternal excess adiposity and hyperglycemia is risk factors for childhood adverse metabolic outcomes. Using data from a prospective pre-birth cohort, we aimed to further understand the prenatal determinants of fetal metabolic programming based on analyses of maternal adiposity and glycemic traits across pregnancy with childhood metabolomic profiles. METHODS This study included 330 mother-child pairs from the Gen3G cohort with information on maternal adiposity and glycemic markers at 5-16 (visit 1) and 24-30 (visit 2) weeks of pregnancy. At mid-childhood (4.8-7.2 years old), we collected fasting plasma and measured 1116 metabolites using an untargeted approach. We constructed networks of interconnected metabolites using a weighted-correlation network analysis algorithm. We estimated Spearman's partial correlation coefficients of maternal adiposity and glycemic traits across pregnancy with metabolite networks and individual metabolites, adjusting for maternal age, gravidity, race/ethnicity, history of smoking, and child's sex and age at blood collection for metabolite measurement. RESULTS We identified a network of 16 metabolites, primarily glycero-3-phosphoethanolamines (GPE) at mid-childhood that showed consistent negative correlations with maternal body mass index, waist circumference, and body-fat percentage at visits 1 and 2 (ρadjusted = -0.14 to -0.21) and post-challenge glucose levels at visit 2 (ρadjusted = -0.10 to -0.13), while positive correlations with Matsuda index (ρadjusted = 0.13). Within this identified network, 1-palmitoyl-2-decosahexaenoyl-GPE and 1-stearoyl-2-decosahexaenoyl-GPE appeared to be driving the associations. In addition, a network of 89 metabolites, primarily phosphatidylcholines, plasmalogens, sphingomyelins, and ceramides showed consistent negative correlations with insulin at visit 1 and post-challenge glucose at visit 2, while positive correlation with adiponectin at visit 2. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal exposure to maternal higher adiposity and hyperglycemic traits and lower insulin sensitivity markers were associated with a unique metabolomic pattern characterized by low serum phospho- and sphingolipids in mid-childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad L Rahman
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Myriam Doyon
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Melina Arguin
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Patrice Perron
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Department of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Luigi Bouchard
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Department of Medical Biology, CIUSSS du Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Saguenay, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-France Hivert
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA. .,Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada. .,Diabetes Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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13
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Marini M, Caro D, Thomsen M. The new fertilizer regulation: A starting point for cadmium control in European arable soils? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 745:140876. [PMID: 32726694 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Bioaccumulation of cadmium (Cd) in the agricultural soil constitutes a dangerous risk for the health of both the environment and humans. Especially in the European Union, a large amount of Cd in agricultural topsoil originates from mineral fertilizer application. In this context, the EU has recently adopted the Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 with the aim to establish stricter limits for Cd presence in fertilizer products and to promote a higher use of fertilizers from organic sources. This paper discusses the future implications of the new regulation to limit the presence of cadmium (Cd) in agricultural soils and food products. The Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 represents an important step of the EU circular economy action plan with its aim to encourage the production of low cadmium content fertilizers. This paper focuses on the limits of the Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 and on the need for complementary policy instruments to protect and conserve agricultural soil health. We highlight the recently proposed, and subsequently withdrawn, EU Soil Framework Directive (SFD) as a meaningful complementary policy tool in the context of a renewed effort to pursue protection and conservation of soil health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Marini
- Research Group on EcoIndustrial System Analysis, Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, Postboks 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dario Caro
- Research Group on EcoIndustrial System Analysis, Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, Postboks 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Marianne Thomsen
- Research Group on EcoIndustrial System Analysis, Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, Postboks 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Aarhus University Centre for Circular Bioeconomy, Denmark.
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14
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Jayalekshmi VS, Ramachandran S. Maternal cholesterol levels during gestation: boon or bane for the offspring? Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 476:401-416. [PMID: 32964393 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03916-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
An increase in cholesterol levels is perceived during pregnancy and is considered as a normal adaptive response to the development of the fetus. In some pregnancies, excessive increase in total cholesterol with high levels of Low-Density Lipoprotein leads to maladaptation by the fetus to cholesterol demands, resulting in a pathological condition termed as maternal hypercholesterolemia (MH). MH is considered clinically irrelevant and therefore cholesterol levels are not routinely checked during pregnancy, as a consequence of which there is scarce information on its global prevalence in pregnant women. Studies have reported that MH during pregnancy can cause atherogenesis in adults emphasizing the concept of in utero programming of fetus. Moreover, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome are potential risk factors which strengthen combined pathologies in placenta and fetuses of mothers with MH. However, lack of conclusive evidence on cholesterol transport and underlying programming demand substantial research to develop population-based life style strategies for women in their childbearing years. The current review focuses on the mechanisms and outcomes of MH from existing epidemiological as well as experimental data and presents a detailed insight on this novel risk factor of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- V S Jayalekshmi
- Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes Biology, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.,PhD Program in Biotechnology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Surya Ramachandran
- Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes Biology, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
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15
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Gingrich J, Ticiani E, Veiga-Lopez A. Placenta Disrupted: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Pregnancy. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:508-524. [PMID: 32249015 PMCID: PMC7395962 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are chemicals that can interfere with normal endocrine signals. Human exposure to EDCs is particularly concerning during vulnerable periods of life, such as pregnancy. However, often overlooked is the effect that EDCs may pose to the placenta. The abundance of hormone receptors makes the placenta highly sensitive to EDCs. We have reviewed the most recent advances in our understanding of EDC exposures on the development and function of the placenta such as steroidogenesis, spiral artery remodeling, drug-transporter expression, implantation and cellular invasion, fusion, and proliferation. EDCs reviewed include those ubiquitous in the environment with available human biomonitoring data. This review also identifies critical gaps in knowledge to drive future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Gingrich
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Elvis Ticiani
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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16
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Combined neurodevelopmental exposure to deltamethrin and corticosterone is associated with Nr3c1 hypermethylation in the midbrain of male mice. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2020; 80:106887. [PMID: 32348866 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2020.106887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders and manifests inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity symptoms in childhood that can last throughout life. Genetic and environmental studies implicate the dopamine system in ADHD pathogenesis. Work from our group and that of others indicates that deltamethrin insecticide and stress exposure during neurodevelopment leads to alterations in dopamine function, and we hypothesized that exposure to both of these factors together would lead to synergistic effects on DNA methylation of key genes within the midbrain, a highly dopaminergic region, that could contribute to these findings. Through targeted next-generation sequencing of a panel of cortisol and dopamine pathway genes, we observed hypermethylation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene, Nr3c1, in the midbrain of C57/BL6N males in response to dual deltamethrin and corticosterone exposures during development. This is the first description of DNA methylation studies of Nr3c1 and key dopaminergic genes within the midbrain in response to a pyrethroid insecticide, corticosterone, and these two exposures together. Our results provide possible connections between environmental exposures that impact the dopamine system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis via changes in DNA methylation and provides new information about the presence of epigenetic effects in adulthood after exposure during neurodevelopment.
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17
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Song W, Puttabyatappa M, Zeng L, Vazquez D, Pennathur S, Padmanabhan V. Developmental programming: Prenatal bisphenol A treatment disrupts mediators of placental function in sheep. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 243:125301. [PMID: 31726260 PMCID: PMC7243413 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Gestational Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure is associated with low birth weight. We hypothesized that the low birth weight is the consequence of reduced placental efficiency and a function of BPA-induced inflammatory, oxidative, lipotoxic, angiogenic, steroidal and fibrotic changes involving epigenetic alterations. Placentomes were collected during early (day 65) and mid (day 90) gestation (term ∼147 days) from control and BPA (gestational day 30-90)-treated pregnant sheep. BPA treatment: reduced placental efficiency and fetal weight; increased interleukin 8, lipid peroxidation marker, antioxidants, aromatase, 17 alpha-hydroxylase, estrogen receptor 2, insulin like growth factor (IGF) 2 receptor and IGF binding proteins (IGFBP), and histone deacetylase 1 and 2; reduced tumor necrosis factor alpha and IGF1 receptor at early gestation (Day 65). Gestational BPA-induced mid-gestational changes include: reduced angiogenic factor hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha; increased IL1beta, oxidative stress markers, triglyceride, 17alpha hydroxylase, IGFBP 1, DNA methyltransferase 3 A and histone deacetylase 1. These findings indicate that gestational BPA, either acting directly or by altering steroidal input, produces early/mid-gestational-specific epigenetic changes culminating in placental disruptions at several levels, in keeping with time-specific/time-lagged pregnancy-associated changes in placental efficiency and fetal weight. The reduced early-gestational placental efficiency may be a function of increased inflammation/oxidative stress and reduced IGF bioavailability with the mid-gestational restoration of placental efficiency likely driven by improved IGF bioavailability and the time-lagged response to antioxidant increase. This compensation, the result of time-lagged response to increases in negative mediators of placental function must have failed with pregnancy advancement to explain the low birthweight outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Song
- The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, PR China; Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Lixia Zeng
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Delia Vazquez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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18
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Soares MJ, Varberg KM, Iqbal K. Hemochorial placentation: development, function, and adaptations. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:196-211. [PMID: 29481584 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Placentation is a reproductive adaptation that permits fetal growth and development within the protected confines of the female reproductive tract. Through this important role, the placenta also determines postnatal health and susceptibility to disease. The hemochorial placenta is a prominent feature in primate and rodent development. This manuscript provides an overview of the basics of hemochorial placental development and function, provides perspectives on major discoveries that have shaped placental research, and thoughts on strategies for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Soares
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA and the Center for Perinatal Research, Children΄s Research Institute, Children΄s Mercy, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Kaela M Varberg
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
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19
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Ladd-Acosta C, Feinberg JI, Brown SC, Lurmann FW, Croen LA, Hertz-Picciotto I, Newschaffer CJ, Feinberg AP, Fallin MD, Volk HE. Epigenetic marks of prenatal air pollution exposure found in multiple tissues relevant for child health. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 126:363-376. [PMID: 30826615 PMCID: PMC6446941 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal air pollution exposure has been linked to many adverse health conditions in the offspring. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying these associations. Epigenetics may be one plausible biologic link. Here, we sought to identify site-specific and global DNA methylation (DNAm) changes, in developmentally relevant tissues, associated with prenatal exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3). Additionally, we assessed whether sex-specific changes in methylation exist and whether DNAm changes are consistently observed across tissues. METHODS Genome-scale DNAm measurements were obtained using the Infinium HumanMethylation450k platform for 133 placenta and 175 cord blood specimens from Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation (EARLI) neonates. Ambient NO2 and O3 exposure levels were based on prenatal address locations of EARLI mothers and the Environmental Protection Agency's AirNOW monitoring network using inverse distance weighting. We computed sample-level aggregate methylation measures for each of 5 types of genomic regions including genome-wide, open sea, shelf, shore, and island regions. Linear regression was performed for each genomic region; per-sample aggregate methylation measures were modeled as a function of quantitative exposure level with covariate adjustment. In addition, bumphunting was performed to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) associated with prenatal O3 and NO2 exposures in each tissue and by sex, with adjustment for technical and biological sources of variation. RESULTS We identified global and locus-specific changes in DNA methylation related to prenatal exposure to NO2 and O3 in 2 developmentally relevant tissues. Neonates with increased prenatal O3 exposure had lower aggregate levels of DNAm at CpGs located in open sea and shelf regions of the genome. We identified 6 DMRs associated with prenatal NO2 exposure, including 3 sex-specific. An additional 3 sex-specific DMRs were associated with prenatal O3 exposure levels. DMRs initially detected in cord blood samples (n = 4) showed consistent exposure-related changes in DNAm in placenta. However, the DMRs initially detected in placenta (n = 5) did not show DNAm differences in cord blood and, thus, they appear to be tissue-specific. CONCLUSIONS We observed global, locus, and sex-specific methylation changes associated with prenatal NO2 and O3 exposures. Our findings support DNAm is a biologic target of prenatal air pollutant exposures and highlight epigenetic involvement in sex-specific differential susceptibility to environmental exposure effects in 2 developmentally relevant tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Ladd-Acosta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Jason I Feinberg
- Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shannon C Brown
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Lisa A Croen
- Autism Research Program, Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, MIND (Medical Investigations of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Craig J Newschaffer
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew P Feinberg
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Center for Epigenetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - M Daniele Fallin
- Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Heather E Volk
- Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Tian FY, Marsit CJ. Environmentally Induced Epigenetic Plasticity in Development: Epigenetic Toxicity and Epigenetic Adaptation. CURR EPIDEMIOL REP 2018; 5:450-460. [PMID: 30984515 PMCID: PMC6456900 DOI: 10.1007/s40471-018-0175-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Epigenetic processes represent important mechanisms underlying developmental plasticity in response to environmental exposures. The current review discusses three classes of environmentally-induced epigenetic changes reflecting two aspects of that plasticity, toxicity effects as well as adaptation in the process of development. RECENT FINDINGS Due to innate resilience, epigenetic changes caused by environmental exposures may not always lead impairments but may allow the organisms to achieve positive developmental outcomes through appropriate adaptation and a buffering response. Thus, some epigenetic adaptive responses to an immediate stimulus or exposure early in life would be expected to have a survival advantage but these same responses may also result in adverse developmental outcomes as they persists into later life stage. Although accumulating literature has identified environmentally induced epigenetic changes and linked them to health outcomes, we currently face challenges in the interpretation of the functional impact of their epigenetic plasticity. SUMMARY Current environmental epigenetic research suggest that epigenetic processes may serve as a mechanism for resilience, and that they can be considered in terms of their impact on toxicity as a negative outcome, but also on adaptation for improved survival or health. This review encourages epigenetic environmental studies to move deeper inside into the functional meaning of epigenetic plasticity in the development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Ying Tian
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Carmen J. Marsit
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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21
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Rahman ML, Liang L, Valeri L, Su L, Zhu Z, Gao S, Mostofa G, Qamruzzaman Q, Hauser R, Baccarelli A, Christiani DC. Regulation of birthweight by placenta-derived miRNAs: evidence from an arsenic-exposed birth cohort in Bangladesh. Epigenetics 2018; 13:573-590. [PMID: 30099960 PMCID: PMC6140906 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2018.1481704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Altered expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is implicated in fetal growth. However, the mechanisms by which placenta-derived miRNAs regulate birthweight are not well understood. In Phase 1, we compared the expression of 754 miRNAs in the placenta of mothers from two extreme birthweight groups (0.8-2.2 kg vs. 3.3-3.9 kg, n = 77 each) selected from an arsenic-exposed Bangladeshi birth cohort (n = 1,141). We identified 49 miRNAs associated with the extreme birthweight groups and/or gestational age in Phase 1, which were further analyzed in Phase 2 among 364 randomly selected mother-infant pairs. Gestational age was determined by ultrasound. Causal mediation analysis was used to estimate the effect of miRNAs on birthweight considering gestational age a mediator, adjusting for core blood arsenic and other risk factors. miR-1290, miR-195, and let-7g showed significant inverse associations with gestational age, while miR-328 showed significant positive association [false discovery rate (FDR) <0.05]. Via changing gestational age, miR-1290, miR-195, and miR-27a showed significant inverse associations with birthweight, while miR-328 and miR-324-5p showed significant positive associations (FDR <0.05). The effect of miRNAs on birthweight varied by gestational age (for miR-1290, miR-195, miR-328) and in utero arsenic exposure (for miR-1290): stronger effect was observed among infants delivered early in gestation or exposed to higher concentrations of arsenic in cord blood. Gene enrichment analysis with in silico predicted targets identified cell proliferation, inflammation, apoptosis, insulin, and IGF family signaling cascades associated with these miRNAs. Future studies are warranted to replicate these findings and assess these miRNAs as early biomarkers of fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad L. Rahman
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Liming Liang
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Linda Valeri
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Laboratory of Psychiatric Biostatistics, Belmont and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Li Su
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhaozhong Zhu
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shangzhi Gao
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Golam Mostofa
- Department of Medicine, Dhaka Community Hospital Trust, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Qazi Qamruzzaman
- Department of Medicine, Dhaka Community Hospital Trust, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - David C. Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Konkel L. Lasting Impact of an Ephemeral Organ: The Role of the Placenta in Fetal Programming. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2016; 124:A124-9. [PMID: 27479992 PMCID: PMC4937843 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.124-a124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
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