1
|
Tan JY, Yeoh HXY, Chia WK, Tan JWD, Aizuddin AN, Farouk WI, Alfian N, Wong YP, Tan GC. Overexpression of Connexin 40 in the Vascular Endothelial Cells of Placenta with Acute Chorioamnionitis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:811. [PMID: 38667457 PMCID: PMC11048802 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14080811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connexins (Cx) 43 and 40 play a role in leukocytes recruitment in acute inflammation. They are expressed in the endothelial cells. They are also found in the placenta and involved in the placenta development. Acute chorioamnionitis is associated with an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the expressions of Cx43 and Cx40 in the placenta of mothers with acute chorioamnionitis, and to correlate their association with the severity of chorioamnionitis and adverse perinatal outcomes. METHODS This study comprised a total of 81 cases, consisting of 39 placenta samples of mothers with acute chorioamnionitis and 42 non-acute chorioamnionitis controls. Cx43 and Cx40 immunohistochemistry were performed on all cases and their expressions were evaluated on cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblasts, chorionic villi endothelial cells, stem villi endothelial cells, maternal endothelial cells and decidua of the placenta. RESULTS Primigravida has a significantly higher risk of developing acute chorioamnionitis (p < 0.001). Neonates of mothers with a higher stage of fetal inflammatory response was significantly associated with lung complications (p = 0.041) compared to neonates of mothers with a lower stage. The expression of Cx40 was significantly higher in fetal and maternal vascular endothelial cells in acute chorioamnionitis (p < 0.001 and p = 0.037, respectively) compared to controls. Notably, Cx43 was not expressed in most of the types of cells in the placenta, except for decidua. Both Cx43 and Cx40 expressions did not have correlation with the severity of acute chorioamnionitis and adverse perinatal outcomes. CONCLUSION Cx40 was overexpressed in the fetal and maternal vascular endothelial cells in the placenta of mothers with acute chorioamnionitis, and it may have a role in the development of inflammation in placenta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yee Tan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Hannah Xin Yi Yeoh
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Wai Kit Chia
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Jonathan Wei De Tan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Azimatun Noor Aizuddin
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Wirda Indah Farouk
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Nurwardah Alfian
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Yin Ping Wong
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| | - Geok Chin Tan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (J.Y.T.); (H.X.Y.Y.); (W.K.C.); (J.W.D.T.); (W.I.F.); (N.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Barnett SD, Asif H, Buxton ILO. Novel identification and modulation of the mechanosensitive Piezo1 channel in human myometrium. J Physiol 2023; 601:1675-1690. [PMID: 35941750 PMCID: PMC9905381 DOI: 10.1113/jp283299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10% of US births deliver preterm before 37 weeks of completed gestation. Premature infants are at risk for life-long debilitating morbidities and death, and spontaneous preterm labour explains 50% of preterm births. In all cases existing treatments are ineffective, and none are FDA approved. The mechanisms that initiate preterm labour are not well understood but may result from dysfunctional regulation of quiescence mechanisms. Human pregnancy is accompanied by large increases in blood flow, and the uterus must enlarge by orders of magnitude to accommodate the growing fetus. This mechanical strain suggests that stretch-activated channels may constitute a mechanism to explain gestational quiescence. Here we identify for the first time that Piezo1, a mechanosensitive cation channel, is present in the uterine smooth muscle and microvascular endothelium of pregnant myometrium. Piezo is downregulated during preterm labour, and stimulation of myometrial Piezo1 in an organ bath with the agonist Yoda1 relaxes the tissue in a dose-dependent fashion. Further, stimulation of Piezo1 while inhibiting protein kinase A, AKT, or endothelial nitric oxide synthase mutes the negative inotropic effects of Piezo1 activation, intimating that actions on the myocyte and endothelial nitric oxide signalling contribute to Piezo1-mediated contractile dynamics. Taken together, these data highlight the importance of stretch-activated channels in pregnancy maintenance and parturition, and identify Piezo1 as a tocolytic target of interest. KEY POINTS: Spontaneous preterm labour is a serious obstetric dilemma without a known cause or effective treatments. Piezo1 is a stretch-activated channel important to muscle contractile dynamics. Piezo1 is present in the myometrium and is dysregulated in women who experience preterm labour. Activation of Piezo1 by the agonist Yoda1 relaxes the myometrium in a dose-dependent fashion, indicating that Piezo1 modulation may have therapeutic benefits to treat preterm labour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Barnett
- Department of Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Hazik Asif
- Department of Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Iain L O Buxton
- Department of Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Di Renzo GC, Tosto V, Tsibizova V, Fonseca E. Prevention of Preterm Birth with Progesterone. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4511. [PMID: 34640528 PMCID: PMC8509841 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Gestational age at birth is a critical factor for perinatal and adulthood outcomes, and even for transgenerational conditions' effects. Preterm birth (PTB) (prematurity) is still the main determinant for infant mortality and morbidity leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, preterm birth (PTB) is a relevant public health issue worldwide and the global PTB rate is around 11%. The premature activation of labor is underlined by complex mechanisms, with a multifactorial origin influenced by numerous known and probably unknown triggers. The possible mechanisms involved in a too early labor activation have been partially explained, and involve chemokines, receptors, and imbalanced inflammatory paths. Strategies for the early detection and prevention of this obstetric condition were proposed in clinical settings with interesting results. Progesterone has been demonstrated to have a key role in PTB prevention, showing several positive effects, such as lower prostaglandin synthesis, the inhibition of cervical stromal degradation, modulating the inflammatory response, reducing gap junction formation, and decreasing myometrial activation. The available scientific knowledge, data and recommendations address multiple current areas of debate regarding the use of progesterone in multifetal gestation, including different formulations, doses and routes of administration and its safety profile in pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gian Carlo Di Renzo
- Centre of Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of General Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First State University of Moscow, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Valentina Tosto
- Centre of Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Valentina Tsibizova
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Health Ministry of Russian Federation, 197341 Saint Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Eduardo Fonseca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Barnett SD, Asif H, Anderson M, Buxton ILO. Novel Tocolytic Strategy: Modulating Cx43 Activity by S-Nitrosation. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2021; 376:444-453. [PMID: 33384302 PMCID: PMC7919864 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.120.000427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently available tocolytics are ineffective at significantly delaying preterm birth. This is due in part to our failure to better understand the mechanisms that drive spontaneous preterm labor (sPTL). Cyclic nucleotides are not the primary contributors to myometrial quiescence, but instead nitric oxide (NO)-mediated protein S-nitrosation (SNO) is integral to the relaxation of the tissue. Connexin-43 (Cx43), a myometrial "contractile-associated protein" that functions as either a gap junction channel or an hemichannel (HC), was the focus of this study. Protein analysis determined that Cx43 is downregulated in sPTL myometrium. Furthermore, Cx43 is S-nitrosated by NO, which correlates with an increase of phosphorylated Cx43 at serine 368 (Cx43-pS368 -gap junction inhibition) as well as an increase in the HC open-state probability (quiescence). Pharmacologic inhibition of Cx43 with 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA) exhibits a negative inotropic effect on the myometrium in a dose-dependent manner, as does administration of nebivolol, an NO synthase activator that increases total protein SNOs. When 18β-GA and nebivolol were coadministered at their IC50 values, the effect on contractile dynamics was additive and all but eliminated contractions. The development of new tocolytics demands a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of sPTL. Here it has been shown that 18β-GA and nebivolol leverage dysregulated pathways in the myometrium, resulting in a novel approach for the treatment of sPTL. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Although there are many known causes of preterm labor (PTL), the mechanisms of "spontaneous" PTL (sPTL) remain obfuscated, which is why treating this condition is so challenging. Here we have identified that connexin-43 (Cx43), an important contractile-associated protein, is dysregulated in sPTL myometrium and that the pharmacologic inhibition of Cx43 and its S-nitrosation with 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid and nebivolol, respectively, significantly blunts contraction in human myometrial tissue, presenting a novel approach to tocolysis that leverages maladjusted pathways in women who experience sPTL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Barnett
- Department of Pharmacology, Myometrial Function Group, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV
| | - Hazik Asif
- Department of Pharmacology, Myometrial Function Group, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV
| | - Mitchell Anderson
- Department of Pharmacology, Myometrial Function Group, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV
| | - Iain L O Buxton
- Department of Pharmacology, Myometrial Function Group, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Piette PC. The pharmacodynamics and safety of progesterone. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2020; 69:13-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2020.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
6
|
Lai PF, Georgiou EX, Tribe RM, Johnson MR. The impact of progesterone and RU-486 on classic pro-labour proteins & contractility in human myometrial tissues during 24-hour exposure to tension & interleukin-1β. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 500:110633. [PMID: 31678609 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Increased expression of pro-labour genes that encode cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), oxytocin receptor (OTR) and connexin-43 (Cx43) at parturition is often attributed to P4 functional withdrawal, based on findings from animal models and human primary myometrial cells. However, the cause of reduced myometrial P4 responsiveness that promotes contractions at labour is not fully determined. Uterine stretch occurs with advancing gestation but most in vitro experimental models do not take this into consideration. We aimed to examine whether tissue-level myometrial stretch influences the ability of P4 to regulate pro-labour protein abundance by using myometrial biopsies from term gestation pregnant women to assess the impact of 24 h exposure to combinations of (i) stretch-mediated tension, (ii) P4 (100 nM) and (iii) an anti-progestin, RU-486 (1 μM). Firstly, we observed baseline COX-2 and Cx43 protein levels increased, whereas P4 content along with calponin-1 and progesterone receptor (PR) protein abundance decreased, in vehicle-treated tissues. P4 supplementation subtly reduced COX-2 levels in un-stretched tissues. Spontaneous and oxytocin-augmented contractility were unchanged by tissue culture exposure to P4 and/or RU-486. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β; 1 ng/ml) enhanced COX-2 protein and PGE2 content in un-stretched tissues. Overall, tissue stretch may, in part, regulate P4-sensitive pro-labour protein levels, but this is likely to be reliant on interaction with other in utero factors that were absent in our tissue cultures. More complex culture conditions should be evaluated in future to aid further development of a physiologically relevant model to improve our understanding of in utero myometrial P4 responsiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei F Lai
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Ektoras X Georgiou
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, SW10 9NH, UK
| | - Rachel M Tribe
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Kings College London, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Mark R Johnson
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, SW10 9NH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Falk MM, Bell CL, Kells Andrews RM, Murray SA. Molecular mechanisms regulating formation, trafficking and processing of annular gap junctions. BMC Cell Biol 2016; 17 Suppl 1:22. [PMID: 27230503 PMCID: PMC4896261 DOI: 10.1186/s12860-016-0087-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Internalization of gap junction plaques results in the formation of annular gap junction vesicles. The factors that regulate the coordinated internalization of the gap junction plaques to form annular gap junction vesicles, and the subsequent events involved in annular gap junction processing have only relatively recently been investigated in detail. However it is becoming clear that while annular gap junction vesicles have been demonstrated to be degraded by autophagosomal and endo-lysosomal pathways, they undergo a number of additional processing events. Here, we characterize the morphology of the annular gap junction vesicle and review the current knowledge of the processes involved in their formation, fission, fusion, and degradation. In addition, we address the possibility for connexin protein recycling back to the plasma membrane to contribute to gap junction formation and intercellular communication. Information on gap junction plaque removal from the plasma membrane and the subsequent processing of annular gap junction vesicles is critical to our understanding of cell-cell communication as it relates to events regulating development, cell homeostasis, unstable proliferation of cancer cells, wound healing, changes in the ischemic heart, and many other physiological and pathological cellular phenomena.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias M Falk
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18049, USA.
| | - Cheryl L Bell
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, l5261, USA
| | | | - Sandra A Murray
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, l5261, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Presicce P, Senthamaraikannan P, Alvarez M, Rueda CM, Cappelletti M, Miller LA, Jobe AH, Chougnet CA, Kallapur SG. Neutrophil recruitment and activation in decidua with intra-amniotic IL-1beta in the preterm rhesus macaque. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:56. [PMID: 25537373 PMCID: PMC4342792 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.124420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Chorioamnionitis, an infection/inflammation of the fetomaternal membranes, is frequently associated with preterm delivery. The mechanisms of inflammation in chorioamnionitis are poorly understood. We hypothesized that neutrophils recruited to the decidua would be the major producers of proinflammatory cytokines. We injected intra-amniotic (IA) interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta) at ∼80% gestation in rhesus macaque monkeys, Macaca mulatta, delivered the fetuses surgically 24 h or 72 h after IA injections, and investigated the role of immune cells in the chorion-amnion decidua. IA IL-1beta induced a robust infiltration of neutrophils and significant increases of proinflammatory cytokines in the chorioamnion decidua at 24 h after exposure, with a subsequent decrease at 72 h. Neutrophils in the decidua were the major source of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) and IL-8. Interestingly, IA IL-1beta also induced a significant increase in anti-inflammatory indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) expression in the decidua neutrophils. The frequency of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and FOXP3 mRNA expression in the decidua did not change after IA IL-1beta injection. Collectively, our data demonstrate that in this model of sterile chorioamnionitis, the decidua neutrophils cause the inflammation in the gestational tissues but may also act as regulators to dampen the inflammation. These results help to understand the contribution of neutrophils to the pathogenesis of chorioamnionitis-induced preterm labor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Presicce
- Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Manuel Alvarez
- Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Cesar M Rueda
- Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Monica Cappelletti
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Lisa A Miller
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California Davis, Davis, California Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Alan H Jobe
- Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Claire A Chougnet
- Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Suhas G Kallapur
- Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Thota C, Laknaur A, Farmer T, Ladson G, Al-Hendy A, Ismail N. Vitamin D regulates contractile profile in human uterine myometrial cells via NF-κB pathway. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2014; 210:347.e1-347.e10. [PMID: 24262718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2013.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Infection triggers inflammation that, in turn, enhances the expression of contractile-associated factors in myometrium and increases the risk of preterm delivery. In this study, we assessed vitamin D regulation of inflammatory markers, contractile-associated factors, steroid hormone receptors, and NFκB pathway proteins in human uterine myometrial smooth muscle (UtSM) cells that were cultured in an inflammatory environment. STUDY DESIGN Inflammatory environment was simulated for UtSM cells by coculturing them with monocyte lineage (THP1) cells. We measured the expression of inflammatory markers, contractile-associated factors, steroid hormone receptors, and NFκB pathway proteins in UtSM cells that were cultured with THP1 cells in the presence and absence of vitamin D by real time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. RESULTS Monocytes secreted monocyte inflammatory protein-1α and -1β, interleukin (IL)-1β and 6, and tumor necrosis factor-α into the conditioned medium. In the UtSM cells that had been cocultured with THP1 cells, there was a significant (P < .05) increase in the expression of inflammatory markers IL-1β, -6, and -13 and tumor necrosis factor-α; the contractile-associated factors connexin-43, Cox-2, and prostaglandin F2α receptor; the estrogen receptor α, and progesterone receptors A and B. Vitamin D treatment of cocultures decreased (P < .05) the expression of inflammatory markers and contractile-associated factors in UtSM cells. Similarly, vitamin D decreased estrogen receptor α and progesterone receptors A-to-B ratio in UtSM cells that were cocultured with THP1 cells. In addition, vitamin D treatment significantly (P < .05) decreased monocyte-induced p-IκBα in cytosol and NFκB-p65 in the nucleus and increased IκBα in cytosol in UtSM cells. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that vitamin D treatment decreases inflammation-induced cytokines and contractile-associated factors in the uterine myometrial smooth muscle cells through the NFκB pathway.
Collapse
|
10
|
Young RC, Goloman G. Allo- and xeno-reassembly of human and rat myometrium from cells and scaffolds. Tissue Eng Part A 2013; 19:2112-9. [PMID: 23560472 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2012.0549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neo-myometrium was created by culturing isolated myocytes into decellularized rat and human myometrial scaffolds. The dual purpose of the uterus is to accommodate the growing fetus, and then expel the fetus at term by phasically contracting it. The first function requires physical robustness as well as the ability to expand and remodel. Congenital anomalies or previous surgeries can mechanically compromise the uterus and lead to major complications in pregnancy. The second function utilizes multiple interactions of complex physiological mechanisms that have yet to be fully elucidated, and this knowledge gap contributes to the continuation of serious complications of pregnancy. To address both problems, we reconstructed myometrium from isolated myocytes and scaffold. From both rat and human myometrium, myocytes were isolated using collagenase digestion, and scaffolds were isolated using ethanol/ trypsin protocols. The number of myocytes was amplified using monolayer culture, and then, the myocytes were cultured back into the scaffolds. We called this engineered tissue neo-myometrium, with allo-neo-myometrium being made from components of the same species, and xeno-neo-myometrium from across species. By artificially creating defects in rat scaffold, allo-neo-myometrium was created that demonstrated rapid scaffold remodeling. Xeno-neo myometrium (human myocytes/rat scaffold) was created and demonstrated myocytes occurring in bundles 500 μm deep in the scaffold. These experiments provide proof of principle that modest numbers of myocytes can be amplified and used to create a larger volume of engineered tissue, which may be useful for semi-autologous transplantation to repair structural defects of the human uterus. In isometric contractility experiments, coordinated contractions were observed in xeno-neo-myometrium (human myocytes, rat scaffold), but not allo-neo-myometrium (human myocytes, human scaffold).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roger C Young
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yan J, Akutsu H, Satoh Y. The morphological and functional observation of the gap junction proteins in the oviduct epithelia in young and adult hamsters. Okajimas Folia Anat Jpn 2012; 88:57-64. [PMID: 22184867 DOI: 10.2535/ofaj.88.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The histological morphology of oviduct epithelia have been described well, however, the expression pattern of the gap junction proteins in the cells, and the function related with the proteins, such as [Ca2+]i dynamics pattern of living oviduct epithelia at different ages have not been clarified. We used immunohistochemistry to compare the expression pattern of gap junction proteins in the cells of the young and adult groups. Moreover, we used real-time confocal microscopy to observe the spontaneous Ca2+ oscillation (spontaneous fluctuation) in freshly isolated epithelia (ciliated cells) in ampulla potion of oviduct from the two groups. The results show as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry the gap junction proteins (Cx26, Cx32 and Cx43) formed a well-regulated expression in the young animals, but not in the adult animals. In addition, the [Ca2+]i dynamics of ciliated cells in freshly oviduct epithelia have a spontaneous fluctuation pattern that occurs without any stimulation in the young animals, but this pattern was not observed in the adult animals. In conclusions, our findings suggest that gap junctions regulate the spontaneous fluctuation of [Ca2+]i dynamics in ciliated cells of oviduct epithelia in young animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yan
- Department of Anatomy, School of medicine, Iwate Medical University, 2-1-1, Nishi-Tokuta, Yahaba-cho, Shiwa-Gun, Iwate, 028-3694, Japan.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tattersall M, Engineer N, Khanjani S, Sooranna SR, Roberts VH, Grigsby PL, Liang Z, Myatt L, Johnson MR. Pro-labour myometrial gene expression: are preterm labour and term labour the same? Reproduction 2008; 135:569-79. [PMID: 18367515 DOI: 10.1530/rep-07-0461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Preterm labour (PTL) is the most important cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. While some causes have been identified, the mechanisms involved remain elusive. This study investigates whether term labour (TL) is an appropriate model for PTL by examining pro-labour gene expression, using quantitative rtPCR, and protein synthesis, using Western analysis, in preterm and term myometrial samples obtained from the upper and lower uterine segments before and after the onset of labour. In the lower segment, the levels of prostaglandin H synthase type-2 (PGHS-2), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA expression were significantly higher in TL compared with PTL samples. Compared with non-labour controls, the expression of IL-1beta and IL-8 mRNA was increased in both PTL and TL samples and the expression of PGHS-2 and IL-6 mRNA was increased in TL samples only. In the upper segment, there were no differences between PTL and TL samples and the mRNA expression of PGHS-2 and IL-1beta was increased in TL compared with term no labour samples. No effect of PTL or TL was seen on either oxytocin receptor or connexin-43 mRNA expression or protein levels. The multiple regression analysis and studies in primary cultures of uterine myocytes suggest that the inflammatory cytokines, IL-1beta and tumour necrosis factor-alpha, are the most important regulators of PGHS-2 and IL-8. Our data show that preterm and term labouring myometrium are significantly different and that the most marked labour-induced changes in gene expression are in the lower segment. These changes may occur in response to the release of inflammatory cytokines by the labour-associated inflammatory infiltration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Tattersall
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Taheri SA, Yeh J, Batt RE, Fang Y, Ashraf H, Heffner R, Nemes B, Naughton J. Uterine myometrium as a cell patch as an alternative graft for transplantation to infarcted cardiac myocardium: a preliminary study. Int J Artif Organs 2008; 31:62-7. [PMID: 18286456 DOI: 10.1177/039139880803100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently, only a small fraction of patients are able to receive reperfusion therapy for myocardial infarctions. We hypothesize that myometrial cell patch transplantation could be an alternative approach for the treatment of myocardial infarction. DESIGN We performed a preliminary study to determine the feasibility of this novel therapeutic approach in a rabbit model. PROCEDURES Six adult female New Zealand rabbits were used. Myocardial infarction was induced by left anterior descending artery ligation. A segment of uterus was removed via a laparotomy incision, and this uterine segment was transplanted as an autologous graft over the infarcted myocardium, which was then reinforced by greater omentum. Statistical methods and outcome measures: Hemodynamic measurements and histological studies. MAIN FINDINGS All uterine myometrial patches survived in the test animals. Fluoroscopic hemodynamic measurements were made for ejection fractions at 8 weeks after the application of the uterine patch. Histological study demonstrated well-healed myometrial-myocardium junctions with minimum scar tissue. Angiogenesis occurred in the transplanted myometrium. Connexin 43 expression was demonstrated in the transplanted patches. CONCLUSION Our noncontrolled preliminary rabbit experiments indicate that patches of uterine myometrium reinforced by greater omentum can be used as autologous transplant therapy for infracted myocardium. This is an innovative technique that could lead to future treatment for individuals who may suffer from an infarcted myocardium and may not be eligible for traditional reperfusion therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A Taheri
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University at Buffalo and Kaleida Health, Buffalo, New York - USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cluff AH, Byström B, Klimaviciute A, Dahlqvist C, Cebers G, Malmström A, Ekman-Ordeberg G. Prolonged labour associated with lower expression of syndecan 3 and connexin 43 in human uterine tissue. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2006; 4:24. [PMID: 16674815 PMCID: PMC1475867 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-4-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2006] [Accepted: 05/04/2006] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prolonged labour is associated with greater morbidity and mortality for mother and child. Connexin 43 is a major myometrial gap junction protein found in human myometrium. Syndecan 3 seems to prevail in the human uterus among heparan sulphate proteoglycans, showing the most significant increase during labour. The aims of the present study were to investigate syndecan 3 and connexin 43 mRNA expressions and protein distributions in human uterine tissue during normal and prolonged labour. METHODS Uterine isthmic biopsies were collected from non-pregnant (n = 7), term pregnant women not in labour (n = 14), in normal labour (n = 7) and in prolonged labour (n = 7). mRNA levels of syndecan 3 and connexin 43 were determined by real time RT-PCR. The localization and expression were demonstrated by immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. RESULTS In women with prolonged labour, the mRNA expressions of syndecan 3 and Connexin 43 were considerably lower than the expression level at normal labour (p < 0.05). In term-pregnant tissue, the expression of syndecan 3 and connexin 43 did not differ significantly compared to non-pregnant and normal labour. The immunoreactivity of syndecan 3 was strong at normal labour, in contrast to prolonged labour, where both a weaker expression and an irregular distribution were detected. The immunoreactivity of connexin 43 increased until term and further stronger staining occurred at normal labour. At prolonged labour, the immunoreactivity was weaker and more unevenly distributed. At labour, a co-localization of syndecan 3 and connexin 43 could be demonstrated in the smooth muscle by confocal microscopy. CONCLUSION The high expression of syndecan 3 and connexin 43 and their co-localization to the smooth muscle bundles during normal labour, together with the significant reduction in prolonged labour, may indicate a role for these proteins in the co-ordination of myometrial contractility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Hjelm Cluff
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Division for Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Byström
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Division for Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Aurelija Klimaviciute
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Division for Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Camilla Dahlqvist
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, C13 BMC, Lund University, S-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Gvido Cebers
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Drug Dependent Research, Karolinska Institute, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Malmström
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, C13 BMC, Lund University, S-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Gunvor Ekman-Ordeberg
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Division for Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|