Abundance of ADAM-8, -9, -10, -12, -15 and -17 and ADAMTS-1 in mouse uterus during the oestrous cycle

Extracellular Vesicles Secreted by Mouse Decidual Cells Carry Critical Information for the Establishment of Pregnancy

The mouse decidua secretes many factors that act in a paracrine/autocrine manner to critically control uterine decidualization, neovascularization, and tissue remodeling that ensure proper establishment of pregnancy. The precise mechanisms that dictate intercellular communications among the uterine cells during early pregnancy remain unknown. We recently reported that conditional deletion of the gene encoding the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 2 alpha (Hif2α) in mouse uterus led to infertility. Here, we report that HIF2α in mouse endometrial stromal cells (MESCs) acts via the cellular trafficking regulator RAB27b to control the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EVs) during decidualization. We also found that Hif2α-regulated pathways influence the biogenesis of EVs. Proteomic analysis of EVs secreted by decidualizing MESCs revealed that they harbor a wide variety of protein cargoes whose composition changed as the decidualization process progressed. The EVs enhanced the differentiation capacity of MESCs and the production of angiogenic factors by these cells. We also established that matrix metalloproteinase-2, a prominent EV cargo protein, modulates uterine remodeling during decidualization. Collectively, our results support the concept that EVs are central to the mechanisms by which the decidual cells communicate with each other and other cell types within the uterus to facilitate successful establishment of pregnancy.

Role of ADAM and ADAMTS Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia

Normal pregnancy (NP) involves intricate processes starting with egg fertilization, proceeding to embryo implantation, placentation and gestation, and culminating in parturition. These pregnancy-related processes require marked uteroplacental and vascular remodeling by proteolytic enzymes and metalloproteinases. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) and ADAM with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) are members of the zinc-dependent family of proteinases with highly conserved protein structure and sequence homology, which include a pro-domain, and a metalloproteinase, disintegrin and cysteine-rich domain. In NP, ADAMs and ADAMTS regulate sperm-egg fusion, embryo implantation, trophoblast invasion, placental angiogenesis and spiral arteries remodeling through their ectodomain proteolysis of cell surface cytokines, cadherins and growth factors as well as their adhesion with integrins and cell-cell junction proteins. Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by new-onset hypertension (HTN) in pregnancy (HTN-Preg) at or after 20 weeks of gestation, with or without proteinuria. Insufficient trophoblast invasion of the uterine wall, inadequate expansive remodeling of the spiral arteries, reduced uteroplacental perfusion pressure, and placental ischemia/hypoxia are major initiating events in the pathogenesis of PE. Placental ischemia/hypoxia increase the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which lead to aberrant expression/activity of certain ADAMs and ADAMTS. In PE, abnormal expression/activity of specific ADAMs and ADAMTS that function as proteolytic sheddases could alter proangiogenic and growth factors, and promote the release of antiangiogenic factors and inflammatory cytokines into the placenta and maternal circulation leading to generalized inflammation, endothelial cell injury and HTN-Preg, renal injury and proteinuria, and further decreases in uteroplacental blood flow, exaggeration of placental ischemia, and consequently fetal growth restriction. Identifying the role of ADAMs and ADAMTS in NP and PE has led to a better understanding of the underlying molecular and vascular pathways, and advanced the potential for novel biomarkers for prediction and early detection, and new approaches for the management of PE.

Estrogen Regulates the Expression and Localization of YAP in the Uterus of Mice

The dynamics of uterine endometrium is important for successful establishment and maintenance of embryonic implantation and development, along with extensive cell differentiation and proliferation. The tissue event is precisely and complicatedly regulated as several signaling pathways are involved including two main hormones, estrogen and progesterone signaling. We previously showed a novel signaling molecule, Serine/threonine protein kinase 3/4 (STK3/4), which is responded to hormone in the mouse uterine epithelium. However, the role and regulation of its target, YES-associated protein (YAP) remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression and regulation of YAP in mouse endometrium. We found that YAP was periodically expressed in the endometrium during the estrous cycle. Furthermore, periodic expression of YAP was shown to be related to the pathway under hormone treatment. Interestingly, estrogen was shown to positively modulate YAP via endometrial epithelial receptors. In addition, the knockdown of YAP showed that YAP regulated various target genes in endometrial cells. The knockdown of YAP down-regulated numerous targets including ADAMTS1, AMOT, AMOTL1, ANKRD1, CTNNA1, MCL1. On the other hand, the expressions of AREG and AXL were increased by its knockdown. These findings imply that YAP responds via Hippo signaling under various intrauterine signals and is considered to play a role in the expression of factors important for uterine endometrium dynamic regulation.

ADAMTS-1: a novel target gene of an estrogen-induced transcription factor, EGR1, critical for embryo implantation in the mouse uterus

BACKGROUND

Recently, we demonstrated that estrogen (E₂) induces early growth response 1 (Egr1) to mediate its actions on the uterine epithelium by controlling progesterone receptor signaling for successful embryo implantation. EGR1 is a transcription factor that regulates the spectrum of target genes in many different tissues, including the uterus. E₂-induced EGR1 regulates a set of genes involved in epithelial cell remodeling during embryo implantation in the uterus. However, only few target genes of EGR1 in the uterus have been identified.

RESULT

The expression of ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 1 (Adamts-1) was significantly downregulated in the uteri of E₂-treated ovariectomized (OVX) Egr1(-/-) mice. Immunostaining of ADAMTS-1 revealed its exclusive expression in the uterine epithelium of OVX wild-type but not Egr1(-/-) mice treated with E₂. The expression profiles of Adamts-1 and Egr1 were similar in the uteri of E₂-treated OVX mice at various time points tested. Pre-treatment with ICI 182, 780, a nuclear estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist, effectively inhibited the E₂-dependent induction of Egr1 and Adamts-1. Pharmacologic inhibition of E₂-induced ERK1/2 or p38 phosphorylation interfered with the induction of EGR1 and ADAMTS-1. Furthermore, ADAMTS-1, as well as EGR1, was induced in stroma cells surrounding the implanting blastocyst during embryo implantation. Transient transfection with EGR1 expression vectors significantly induced the expression of ADAMTS-1. Luciferase activity of the Adamts-1 promoter containing EGR1 binding sites (EBSs) was increased by EGR1 in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting functional regulation of Adamts-1 transcription by EGR1. Site-directed mutagenesis of EBS on the Adamts-1 promoter demonstrated that EGR1 directly binds to the EBS at -1151/-1134 among four putative EBSs.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, we have demonstrated that Adamts-1 is a novel target gene of E₂-ER-MAPK-EGR1, which is critical for embryo implantation in the mouse uterus during early pregnancy.

ADAMTS18 regulates vaginal opening through influencing the fusion of Mullerian duct and apoptosis of vaginal epithelial cells in mice

The ADAMTS (A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin Motifs) enzymes are secreted metalloproteinases with major roles in development, morphogenesis, and tissue repair via the assembly and degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, we investigated the role of ADAMTS18 in the development of the reproductive tract in female mice by phenotyping Adamts18 knockout (Adamts18^-/-) mice. The results showed that Adamst18 mRNAs were abundantly expressed in vaginal epithelial cells and muscularis cells of the developing vagina. At the time of vaginal opening (5 weeks of age), about 41 % of Adamts18^-/- females showed enlarged protrusions in the upper and middle parts of the vagina, reduced vaginal length, and simultaneously exhibited vaginal atresia. 6% Adamts18^-/- females exhibited vaginal septum. Histological analyses revealed that the paired Mullerian ducts in ∼33 % female Adamts18^-/- embryos failed to fuse at embryonic day 15.5 (E15.5) resulting in the formation of two vaginal cavities. Results of TUNEL assay and immunohistochemistry for caspase-3 showed that the number of apoptotic cells in the terminal portion of the vagina of 5-week-old Adamts18^-/- females with vaginal atresia was significantly decreased. Adamts18^-/- females also showed a significant decrease in serum estradiol E2 compared to age-matched Adamts18^+/+ females. Results of qRT-PCR showed that the expression level of the anti-apoptosis gene Bcl-2 was significantly increased and that of the apoptosis-related gene Epha1 was decreased in the vagina of 5-week-old Adamts18^-/- females. These results suggest that ADAMTS18 regulates vaginal opening through influencing the fusion of Mullerian ducts and apoptosis of vaginal cells in mice.

Comparative transcriptome analysis of embryo invasion in the mink uterus

INTRODUCTION

In mink, as many as 65% of embryos die during gestation. The causes and the mechanisms of embryonic mortality remain unclear. The purpose of our study was to examine global gene expression changes during embryo invasion in mink, and thereby to identify potential signaling pathways involved in implantation failure and early pregnancy loss.

METHODS

Illumina's next-generation sequencing technology (RNA-Seq) was used to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in implantation (IMs) and inter-implantation sites (inter-IMs) of uterine tissue.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 606 DEGs, including 420 up- and 186 down-regulated genes in IMs compared to inter-IMs. Gene annotation analysis indicated multiple biological pathways to be significantly enriched for DEGs, including immune response, ECM complex, cytokine activity, chemokine activity and protein binding. The KEGG pathway including cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, Jak-STAT, TNF and the chemokine signaling pathway were the most enriched. A gene network was constructed, and hub nodes such as CSF3, ICAM1, FOS, IL1B, IL8, CD14 and MYC were found through network analysis.

DISCUSSION

This report provides a valuable resource for understanding the mechanisms of embryo implantation in mink.

Soluble Delta-like ligand 1 alters human endometrial epithelial cell adhesive capacity

The endometrium undergoes substantial morphological and functional changes to become receptive to embryo implantation and to enable establishment of a successful pregnancy. Reduced Delta-like ligand 1 (DLL1, Notch ligand) in the endometrium is associated with infertility. DLL1 can be cleaved by 'a disintegrin and metalloprotease' (ADAM) proteases to produce a soluble ligand that may act to inhibit Notch signalling. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to quantify soluble DLL1 in uterine lavages from fertile and infertile women in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. We also determined the cellular location and immunostaining intensity of ADAM12 and 17 in human endometrium throughout the cycle. Functional effects of soluble DLL1 in receptivity were analysed using in vitro adhesion and proliferation assays and gene expression analysis of Notch signalling targets. Soluble DLL1 was significantly increased in uterine lavage samples of infertile women compared with fertile women in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. This coincided with significantly increased ADAM17 immunostaining detected in the endometrial luminal epithelium in the mid-secretory phase in infertile women. Soluble DLL1 significantly inhibited the adhesive capacity of endometrial epithelial cells via downregulation of helix-loop-helix and hairy/enhancer of split family member HES1 mRNA. Thus, soluble DLL1 may serve as a suitable target or potential biomarker for receptivity.

Potential roles of metalloproteinases of endometrium-derived exosomes in embryo-maternal crosstalk during implantation

During embryo implantation, crosstalk between the endometrial epithelium and the blastocyst, especially the trophoblasts, is a prerequisite for successful implantation. During this crosstalk, various molecular and functional changes occur to promote synchrony between the embryo and the endometrium as well as the uterine cavity microenvironment. In the past few years, growing evidence has shown that endometrium-derived exosomes play pivotal roles in the embryonic-maternal crosstalk during implantation, although the exact mechanism of this crosstalk has yet to be determined. The presence of metalloproteinases has been reported in endometrium-derived exosomes, implying the importance of these enzymes in exosome-based crosstalk. Thus, in this review, we describe the potential roles of the metalloproteinases of endometrium-derived exosomes in promoting embryo attachment and implantation. This study could provide a better understanding of the potential roles of exosomal metalloproteinases in embryo implantation and pave the way for developing novel exosome-based regulatory agents to support early pregnancy.

ADAMTS proteases in fertility

The reproductive organs are unique among adult organs in that they must undergo continual tissue remodelling as a key aspect of their normal function. The processes for persistent maturation and release of new gametes, as well as fertilisation, implantation, placentation, gestation and parturition involve cyclic development and regression of tissues that must continually regenerate to support fertility. The ADAMTS family of proteases has been shown to contribute to many aspects of the tissue morphogenesis required for development and function of each of the reproductive organs. Dysregulation or functional changes in ADAMTS family proteases have been associated with reproductive disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovarian failure (POF). Likewise, proteolytic substrates of ADAMTS enzymes have also been linked to reproductive function. New insight into the roles of ADAMTS proteases has yielded a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind fertility with clinical potential to generate therapeutic targets to resolve infertility, develop biomarkers that predict dysfunction of the reproductive organs and potentially offer targets for development of non-hormonal male and female contraceptives.

The Elsevier Trophoblast Research Award Lecture: Importance of metzincin proteases in trophoblast biology and placental development: a focus on ADAM12

Placental development is a highly regulated process requiring signals from both fetal and maternal uterine compartments. Within this complex system, trophoblasts, placental cells of epithelial lineage, form the maternal-fetal interface controlling nutrient, gas and waste exchange. The commitment of progenitor villous cytotrophoblasts to differentiate into diverse trophoblast subsets is a fundamental process in placental development. Differentiation of trophoblasts into invasive stromal- and vascular-remodeling subtypes is essential for uterine arterial remodeling and placental function. Inadequate placentation, characterized by defects in trophoblast differentiation, may underlie the earliest cellular events driving pregnancy disorders such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Molecularly, invasive trophoblasts acquire characteristics defined by profound alterations in cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, cytoskeletal reorganization and production of proteolytic factors. To date, most studies have investigated the importance of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their ability to efficiently remodel components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). However, it is now becoming clear that besides MMPs, other related proteases regulate trophoblast invasion via mechanisms other than ECM turnover. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge on the regulation of trophoblast invasion by members of the metzincin family of metalloproteinases. Specifically, we will discuss the emerging roles that A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases (ADAMs) play in placental development, with a particular focus on the ADAM subtype, ADAM12.

A new biological marker candidate in female reproductive system diseases: Matrix metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)

Playing a key role in the pathophysiology of many diseases, A Disintegrin-like and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin type-1 motif (ADAMTS) proteinases have been attracted more attention in obstetrics and gynecology. First discovered in 1997, this zinc-dependent proteinase family has 19 members today. These enzymes, which are located in the extracellular matrix (ECM), have a lot of very important functions, like matrix formation and resorption, angiogenesis, ovulation, and coagulation. In addition, in the pathogenesis of cancer, inflammation, arthritis, and connective tissue diseases, ADAMTS proteinases have crucial roles. The purpose of this review is to collect previous studies about obstetrics and gynecology that are related to ADAMTS enzymes and discuss the subject in many aspects to give an idea to the investigators who are interested in the subject.

Urinary concentrations of ADAM 12 from breast cancer patients pre- and post-surgery vs. cancer-free controls: a clinical study for biomarker validation

Background

The ADAMs (A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases) are a family of multi-domain, zinc-dependent metalloproteinase enzymes. ADAM 12 has been previously associated with the onset and progression of breast cancer, and elevated levels of ADAM 12 have been previously found in the urine of breast cancer patients. Aims of the current study are: 1) establish the viability of urinary ADAM 12 as a diagnostic marker for breast cancer, and 2) explore the effects of surgical tumor removal on the levels of urinary ADAM 12.

Methods

A total of 96 patients have been recruited for this study, including 50 patients diagnosed with cancer, and 46 age-matched controls. Commercially available ELISA kits for ADAM 12 were used to quantify the presence and concentration of this enzyme in the urine from cancer patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and invasive breast cancer (IBC) both prior to any treatment and approximately two weeks following surgery, as well as from controls.

Results

We find no statistically significant differences between the concentrations of ADAM 12 in the urine of breast cancer patients prior to treatment and that of their age-matched controls; however the concentration of ADAM 12, both alone and as a function of urine total protein, are significantly elevated following surgery (p < 0.0001). Patients who underwent a mastectomy have significantly higher urinary ADAM 12 concentrations than those who underwent a lumpectomy (significant at p = 0.0271).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that urinary ADAM 12 may not correlate directly with the status and stage of breast cancer as previously thought; rather these increases may be a result of tissue injury and inflammation from biopsy and surgical resection. Results of this study may suggest a need for biomarkers to be evaluated carefully in the context of tissue damage.

Expression of ADAMTS1 mRNA in bovine endometrium and placenta during gestation

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1 (ADAMTS1) is a secreted protease. Through the regulation of extracellular matrix remodeling or developmental processes or both, ADAMTS1 is involved in several biological functions, including ovulation and embryo receptivity. However, the expression and possible role of ADAMTS1 in bovine endometrium is unknown. In this study, we analyzed ADAMTS1 mRNA expression in bovine endometrium during the estrous cycle, peri-implantation period, and at different stages of gestation by using quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qPCR) and in situ hybridization. The qPCR results indicated that the expression of ADAMTS1 mRNA was not affected by the day of the estrous cycle and was similar to cyclic levels on day 35 of gestation; however, the expression was more abundant in cotyledonary tissues of the placenta during late gestation. The in situ hybridization study showed that ADAMTS1 mRNA was detected mainly in uterine luminal epithelia and stromal cells during the estrous cycle and peri-implantation period. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1 mRNA was also expressed in the peri-implantation conceptus as well as in trophoblast cells, which include binucleate cells, and increased during late gestation. Furthermore, treatment of stromal cell with progesterone (300 nM) stimulated the expression of ADAMTS1 mRNA. This study indicates that ADAMTS1 participates in bovine endometrial remodeling, which is required for implantation and placental development in coordination with ovarian steroids.

Transcriptional regulation by the Wilms tumor protein, Wt1, suggests a role of the metalloproteinase Adamts16 in murine genitourinary development

ADAMTS16 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs) is a secreted mammalian metalloproteinase with unknown function. We report here that murine Adamts16 is co-expressed with the Wilms tumor protein, Wt1, in the developing glomeruli of embryonic kidneys. Adamts16 mRNA levels were significantly reduced upon transfection of embryonic murine kidney explants with Wt1 antisense vivo-morpholinos. Antisense knockdown of Adamts16 inhibited branching morphogenesis in kidney organ cultures. Adamts16 was detected by in situ mRNA hybridization and/or immunohistochemistry also in embryonic gonads and in spermatids and granulosa cells of adult testes and ovaries, respectively. Silencing of Wt1 by transfection with antisense vivo-morpholinos significantly increased Adamts16 mRNA in cultured embryonic XY gonads (11.5 and 12.5 days postconception), and reduced Adamts16 transcripts in XX gonads (12.5 and 13.5 days postconception). Three predicted Wt1 consensus motifs could be identified in the promoter and the 5'-untranslated region of the murine Adamts16 gene. Binding of Wt1 protein to these elements was verified by EMSA and ChIP. A firefly luciferase reporter gene under control of the Adamts16 promoter was activated ∼8-fold by transient co-transfection of human granulosa cells with a Wt1 expression construct. Gradual shortening of the 5'-flanking sequence successively reduced and eventually abrogated Adamts16 promoter activation by Wt1. These findings demonstrate that Wt1 differentially regulates the Adamts16 gene in XX and XY embryonic gonads. It is suggested that Adamts16 acts immediately downstream of Wt1 during murine urogenital development. We propose that Adamts16 is involved in branching morphogenesis of the kidneys in mice.

High-density fine-mapping of a chromosome 10q26 linkage peak suggests association between endometriosis and variants close to CYP2C19

OBJECTIVE

To refine a previously reported linkage peak for endometriosis on chromosome 10q26, and conduct follow-up analyses and a fine-mapping association study across the region to identify new candidate genes for endometriosis.

DESIGN

Case-control study.

SETTING

Academic research.

PATIENT(S)

Cases=3,223 women with surgically confirmed endometriosis; controls=1,190 women without endometriosis and 7,060 population samples.

INTERVENTION(S)

Analysis of 11,984 single nucleotide polymorphisms on chromosome 10.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Allele frequency differences between cases and controls.

RESULT(S)

Linkage analyses on families grouped by endometriosis symptoms (primarily subfertility) provided increased evidence for linkage (logarithm of odds score=3.62) near a previously reported linkage peak. Three independent association signals were found at 96.59 Mb (rs11592737), 105.63 Mb (rs1253130), and 124.25 Mb (rs2250804). Analyses including only samples from linkage families supported the association at all three regions. However, only rs11592737 in the cytochrome P450 subfamily C (CYP2C19) gene was replicated in an independent sample of 2,079 cases and 7,060 population controls.

CONCLUSION(S)

The role of the CYP2C19 gene in conferring risk for endometriosis warrants further investigation.

The effect of hormone therapy and tibolone on serum CD40L and ADAM-8 in healthy post-menopausal women

BACKGROUND/AIM

The role of neutrophils and platelets in atherothrombotic disease is well established. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of HT and tibolone on the soluble markers of neutrophil and platelet activation, "a disentigrin and metalloproteinase domain" (ADAM-8) and CD40 ligand (CD40L) respectively, in healthy post-menopausal women.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

One hundred and six healthy post-menopausal women were randomly allocated to: estradiol plus drospirenone (E₂/DSP), E₂ hemihydrate 1 mg plus norethisterone acetate (E₂/NETA) 0.5 mg, and tibolone 2.5 mg. Serum ADAM-8 and CD40L were measured at baseline and at 6 months.

RESULTS

Baseline values of ADAM-8 and CD40L were similar between groups. No significant correlation was revealed between ADAM-8 or CD40L and parameters related to cardiovascular risk factors in each group. No significant changes were observed between baseline values and values at 6 months (E₂/DSP group: ADAM-8: 267.4±71.3 pg/ml vs 270.7±42.8 pg/ml, p=0.86, CD40L: 6.43±3.13 vs 6.79±2.70 ng/ml, p=0.67), (E₂/NETA group: ADAM-8: 308.3±64.3 vs 294.7±57.7 pg/ml, p=0.40, CD40L: 9.68±2.81 vs 8.59±5.13 ng/ml, p=0.51), (tibolone group: ADAM-8: 307.5±87.5 vs 289±48.1 pg/ml, p=0.48, CD40L: 9.46±4.30 vs 9.26±4.60 ng/ml, p=0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study has not revealed an association between estrogen plus progestin treatment or tibolone on serum ADAM-8 and CD40L levels in healthy post-menopausal women. Larger prospective studies are needed to further investigate the effect of low-dose HT or tibolone on serum markers of neutrophil and platelet activation.

Expression of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) and its related extracellular matrix degrading enzymes in the endometrium during estrous cycle and early gestation in cattle

BACKGROUND

Extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) regulates several biological functions involving the modulation of cell behaviors via cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. According to its diverse functions, we hypothesized that EMMPRIN may play an important role in endometrial remodeling and establishment of pregnancy in cow.

METHODS

In this study, endometrial tissues from the cyclic cows during before ovulation, after ovulation and middle of estrous cycle; and pregnant endometrial tissues from Day 19 to 35 of gestation have been used. Expression of mRNA was analyzed by RT-PCR, qPCR and in situ hybridization whereas protein expression by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis.

RESULTS

EMMPRIN mRNA was expressed in both cyclic and pregnant endometrium and significantly higher in the endometrium at Day 35 of gestation than the cyclic endometrium. In Western blot analysis, an approximately 65 kDa band was detected in the endometrium, and approximately 51 kDa in the cultured bovine epithelial cells and BT-1 cells, respectively. Both in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry data showed that EMMPRIN was primarily expressed in luminal and glandular epithelium with strong staining on Day 19 conceptus. At Day 19 of gestation, expression of EMMPRIN mRNA on luminal epithelium was decreased than that observed at middle of estrous cycle, however, on Day 30 of gestation, slightly increased expression was found at the site of placentation. Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-14 mRNA were mainly detected in stroma and their expression also decreased at Day 19 of gestation however it was also expressed at the site of placentation at Day 30 of gestation as observed for EMMPRIN. Expression of MMP-1 or -9 mRNA was very low and was below the detection limit in the cyclic and pregnant endometrium.

CONCLUSION

EMMPRIN from the luminal epithelium may regulate the expression of stromal MMP-2 and -14 suggesting its crucial role in adhesion and fusion of embryo to luminal epithelium by directly itself through physiological tissues remodeling and developmental process, and/or stimulating MMPs to compensate endometrial functions.

The sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway is regulated during pregnancy in sheep

Because sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a potent stimulator of angiogenesis, we hypothesized that the S1P pathway is activated to stimulate endometrial/placental angiogenesis during pregnancy. We initially localized S1P signaling pathway members in the gravid and nongravid uterine horns of unilaterally pregnant ewes. Sphingosine kinase-1 expression was greater in gravid compared to nongravid horns. In situ hybridization revealed elevated expression of sphingosine 1-phosphate phosphatase (SGPP1) in gravid interplacentomal endometrial stroma on Days 20 and 40 compared to the nongravid uterine horn, but expression increased in endometrium of the nongravid uterine horn between Days 40 and 120. SGPP1 expression increased in placentomes late in gestation. Sphingosine 1-phosphate lyase mRNA was modestly expressed at Day 20 and then decreased. In contrast, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) mRNA increased in endometrium and caruncular stroma of the gravid uterine horn. Treatment with FTY720 and VPC23019, S1P receptor antagonists, blocked human and ovine endothelial cell invasion using an in vitro model of sprouting angiogenesis. Knockdown of S1PR1 with siRNA reduced invasion responses as well. We previously reported that delta-like 4 (DLL4) and A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin-like repeats 1 (ADAMTS1) participate in endothelial cell invasion stimulated by S1P and growth factors in vitro, and thus investigated whether their expression correlated with areas undergoing angiogenesis in vivo. DLL4 expression was similar to S1PR1, while ADAMTS1 mRNA was expressed by endometria of both nongravid and gravid horns, as well as conceptus and placentomes. These results establish that S1P signaling pathway members and S1P- and growth factor-regulated genes are prominent in uterine and placental tissue and in some cases are correlated with areas undergoing angiogenesis. Thus, S1P signaling may be crucial for proper fetal-placental development.

Hormone-regulated expression and distribution of versican in mouse uterine tissues

BACKGROUND

Remodeling of the extracellular matrix is one of the most striking features observed in the uterus during the estrous cycle and after hormone replacement. Versican (VER) is a hyaluronan-binding proteoglycan that undergoes RNA alternative splicing, generating four distinct isoforms. This study analyzed the synthesis and distribution of VER in mouse uterine tissues during the estrous cycle, in ovariectomized (OVX) animals and after 17beta-estradiol (E2) and medroxyprogesterone (MPA) treatments, either alone or in combination.

METHODS

Uteri from mice in all phases of the estrous cycle, and animals subjected to ovariectomy and hormone replacement were collected for immunoperoxidase staining for versican, as well as PCR and quantitative Real Time PCR.

RESULTS

In diestrus and proestrus, VER was exclusively expressed in the endometrial stroma. In estrus and metaestrus, VER was present in both endometrial stroma and myometrium. In OVX mice, VER immunoreaction was abolished in all uterine tissues. VER expression was restored by E2, MPA and E2+MPA treatments. Real Time PCR analysis showed that VER expression increases considerably in the MPA-treated group. Analysis of mRNA identified isoforms V0, V1 and V3 in the mouse uterus.

CONCLUSION

These results show that the expression of versican in uterine tissues is modulated by ovarian steroid hormones, in a tissue-specific manner. VER is induced in the myometrium exclusively by E2, whereas MPA induces VER deposition only in the endometrial stroma.

Regulated expression of ADAM8 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain 8) in the mouse ovary: evidence for a regulatory role of luteinizing hormone, progesterone receptor, and epidermal growth factor-like growth factors

ADAM8 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain 8) is expressed in immune, neuronal, and bone progenitor cells and is thought to be involved in the tissue-remodeling process. Microarray analyses indicate that Adam8 is a potential target of the progesterone receptor (Pgr) in murine ovary. Further studies document that Adam8 mRNA and protein are expressed in granulosa cells and cumulus cells of periovulatory follicles whereas expression is significantly reduced in Pgr null mice that fail to ovulate. There is a reduced expression in granulosa cells from cultured, in vitro ovulated follicles exposed to inhibitors of progesterone or epidermal growth factor signaling while epiregulin induced its expression in the absence of hCG. In vitro studies with primary mouse granulosa cells document that Adam8 is induced in response to forskolin (Fo) and phorbol ester (PMA) or Fo and Amphiregulin treatment. To understand the transcriptional regulation of the Adam8, we amplified 1 kb of the mouse Adam8 promoter by PCR and subcloned it into a pGL3-luciferase reporter construct. The Adam8 promoter-luciferase constructs are induced by Fo and PMA treatment after transfection into rat granulosa cells, and cotransfection with a PGR-A expression vector further augment basal and Fo/PMA inducibility. Site-specific mutations within the -615/+50 promoter document that a GC-rich region, NF-1 (nuclear factor-1) site, and putative TATA box are critical for Adam8 promoter activation by Fo/PMA. Thus, ADAM8 is expressed in a stage-specific manner and is hormonally regulated in ovulating follicles by the coordinate actions of LH and PGR. To our knowledge, ADAM8 is the first member of the ADAM family shown to be hormonally regulated.

Expression and significance of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)-1 in an animal model of renal interstitial fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction

To evaluate the pathological roles of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)-1 in rat renal interstitial fibrosis, we examined the expression, localization and effect on growth of ADAMTS-1 in a normal rat kidney cell line (NRK-49F). Increased ADAMTS-1 mRNA expression was observed in the kidney by in situ hybridization after induction of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) in male Wistar rats, the mRNA was localized in the renal tubular epithelial cells in the outer stripe of the outer medulla in the UUO kidney. On the other hand, no positive signals were observed in the sham-operated-kidney. Western-blot analysis of stable human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) transformant cells expressing rat ADAMTS-1 containing the V5 tag using anti-V5 tag monoclonal antibody revealed the presence of two post-translationally processed bands in the cells: an 87-kDa band with a metalloproteinase motif and 65-kDa band with a thrombospondin motifs. On the other hand, secretion of the 65-kDa protein into the culture supernatants from the transformant cells was confirmed. Treatment with the culture supernatant of the transformant cells potently reduced the uptake of 3H-thymidine in the NRK-49F cells, no such inhibitory effect was observed with the culture medium of the HEK293 cells. These results suggest that the UUO-induced expression of ADAMTS-1 in the rat renal tubular epithelial cells may actively contribute to the inhibition of DNA synthesis in the renal interstitial fibroblasts via the 65-kDa moiety with thrombospondin motifs.

Regulation of A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin repeats-1 expression in human endometrial stromal cells by gonadal steroids involves progestins, androgens, and estrogens

CONTEXT

Gonadal steroids are key regulators of the extracellular matrix remodeling events that occur in the human endometrium during each menstrual cycle. The spatiotemporal expression of A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin repeats (ADAMTS)-1 in human endometrial stroma in vivo suggests that this novel metalloproteinase may contribute to this tightly regulated developmental process.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to determine whether progesterone (P4), 17beta-estradiol (E2), or the nonaromatizable androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT), alone or in combination, is capable of regulating ADAMTS-1 mRNA and protein levels in human endometrial stromal cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner.

DESIGN

A real-time quantitative PCR strategy and Western blotting were used to examine ADAMTS-1 mRNA and protein expression levels in primary cultures of human endometrial stromal cells.

RESULTS

P4 and DHT but not E2 increased the levels of the ADAMTS-1 mRNA transcript and protein species (110 kDa) present in endometrial stromal cells in vitro in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. A combination of P4 and DHT resulted in an additional increase in stromal ADAMTS-1 expression, whereas E2 attenuated the regulatory effects of P4 and DHT in a concentration-dependent manner. The antisteroidal compounds, mifepristone (RU486) and hydroxyflutamide, were also found to inhibit specifically the P4- and DHT-mediated increase in ADAMTS-1 mRNA and protein expression levels in these primary cell cultures in a concentration-dependent manner, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies demonstrate that progestins, androgens, and estrogens, alone and in combination, have distinct regulatory effects on ADAMTS-1 mRNA and protein expression levels in human endometrial stromal cells in vitro.

Expression of ADAMTS-5/implantin in human decidual stromal cells: regulatory effects of cytokines

BACKGROUND

The restricted expression of ADAMTS-5 (A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin repeats-5) to the maternal-fetal interface in mice has led to this novel metalloproteinase being assigned the trivial name 'implantin'.

METHODS

As a first step in determining whether ADAMTS-5 also contributes to the implantation process in humans, we have examined the spatiotemporal expression of this ADAMTS subtype in the endometrium during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy by immunohistochemical analysis. A quantitative competitive PCR (QC-PCR) strategy and western blotting were subsequently used to determine whether interleukin (IL)-1beta and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, two cytokines involved in the formation of the maternal-fetal interface, were capable of regulating ADAMTS-5 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels in primary cultures of stromal cells isolated from first trimester decidual tissues.

RESULTS

ADAMTS-5 expression in the stroma of the human endometrium correlates with decidualization of this cellular compartment in vivo. IL-1beta was found to increase (P < 0.05) whereas TGF-beta1 decreased (P < 0.05) ADAMTS-5 mRNA and protein levels in decidual stromal cell cultures in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. These regulatory effects were attenuated by function-perturbing antibodies directed against either cytokine.

CONCLUSIONS

ADAMTS-5 expression is restricted to decidualized stromal cells of the human endometrium in vivo and is subject to regulation by cytokines in vitro.

Implication of ADAM-8, -9, -10, -12, -15, -17, and ADAMTS-1 in implantational remodeling of a mouse uterus

In the present study, whether the ADAM-8, -9, -10, -12, -15, -17, and ADAMTS-1 proteins might play a role in mouse uterus during periimplantation period was investigated. Immunoblotting analyses demonstrated that all ADAM proteins consistently appeared throughout days 1 to 8 of pregnancy but with a variation depending on the species of ADAM gene, the progression of pregnancy, and the site of the uterus. Immunohistochemical analyses indicated that ADAM proteins were localized in the luminal or glandular epithelial layers with a varying intensity depending on the species of ADAM and the progression of pregnancy. Particularly ADAM-8, -12, and -15, were predominantly located in the implantation site of the uterine tissues, whereas little or no protein was localized in the interimplantation site. Based upon these observations, it is suggested that the ADAMs might play an important role in the remodeling of the mouse uterus during the periimplantation period.

Differential effects of interleukin-1beta and transforming growth factor-beta1 on the expression of the inflammation-associated protein, ADAMTS-1, in human decidual stromal cells in vitro

BACKGROUND

The pro-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta) promotes the proteolytic degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of maternal decidua, a critical step in pregnancy that is counterbalanced by the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta1). Recently, the inflammation-associated protein, ADAMTS-1, a member of the ADAMTS (A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin repeats) gene family of metalloproteinases has been assigned a central role in the formation and organization of tissues. In view of these observations, we have hypothesized that ADAMTS-1 contributes to the cytokine-mediated remodelling of decidual ECM.

METHODS

The spatiotemporal expression of ADAMTS-1 in human endometrium was examined by immunohistochemistry. A quantitative-competitive (QC)-PCR strategy and western blot analysis was then employed to determine whether IL-1beta and TGF-beta1 regulate ADAMTS-1 mRNA and protein expression levels in primary cultures of stromal cells isolated from first trimester decidua.

RESULTS

ADAMTS-1 expression is associated with decidualization of the endometrial stroma in vivo. IL-1beta increased whereas TGF-beta1 decreased ADAMTS-1 mRNA and protein levels in decidual stromal cell cultures in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. These regulatory effects were attenuated by function-perturbing antibodies specific for either cytokine.

CONCLUSION

IL-1beta and TGF-beta1 differentially regulate ADAMTS-1 expression in human decidual stromal cells.