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Lopez-Tello J, Kiu R, Schofield Z, Zhang CXW, van Sinderen D, Le Gall G, Hall LJ, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. Maternal gut Bifidobacterium breve modifies fetal brain metabolism in germ-free mice. Mol Metab 2024; 88:102004. [PMID: 39127167 PMCID: PMC11401360 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.102004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent advances have significantly expanded our understanding of the gut microbiome's influence on host physiology and metabolism. However, the specific role of certain microorganisms in gestational health and fetal development remains underexplored. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the impact of Bifidobacterium breve UCC2003 on fetal brain metabolism when colonized in the maternal gut during pregnancy. METHODS Germ-free pregnant mice were colonized with or without B. breve UCC2003 during pregnancy. The metabolic profiles of fetal brains were analyzed, focusing on the presence of key metabolites and the expression of critical metabolic and cellular pathways. RESULTS Maternal colonization with B. breve resulted in significant metabolic changes in the fetal brain. Specifically, ten metabolites, including citrate, 3-hydroxyisobutyrate, and carnitine, were reduced in the fetal brain. These alterations were accompanied by increased abundance of transporters involved in glucose and branched-chain amino acid uptake. Furthermore, supplementation with this bacterium was associated with elevated expression of critical metabolic pathways such as PI3K-AKT, AMPK, STAT5, and Wnt-β-catenin signaling, including its receptor Frizzled-7. Additionally, there was stabilization of HIF-2 protein and modifications in genes and proteins related to cellular growth, axogenesis, and mitochondrial function. CONCLUSIONS The presence of maternal B. breve during pregnancy plays a crucial role in modulating fetal brain metabolism and growth. These findings suggest that Bifidobacterium could modify fetal brain development, potentially offering new avenues for enhancing gestational health and fetal development through microbiota-targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine. Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Raymond Kiu
- Food, Microbiome & Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK; Institute of Microbiology & Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Department of Microbes, Infection & Microbiomes, School of Infection, Inflammation & Immunology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zoe Schofield
- Food, Microbiome & Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Cindy X W Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Gwénaëlle Le Gall
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Bob Champion Research and Education Building, James Watson Road, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK
| | - Lindsay J Hall
- Food, Microbiome & Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK; Institute of Microbiology & Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Department of Microbes, Infection & Microbiomes, School of Infection, Inflammation & Immunology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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2
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Pinto-Pinho P, Pinto MDL, Monteiro J, Fardilha M, Pinto-Leite R, Colaço B. Pregnancy Complications and Feto-Maternal Monitoring in Rabbits. Vet Sci 2023; 10:622. [PMID: 37888574 PMCID: PMC10610772 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100622] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Rabbit production holds significant relevance in modern agriculture due to its potential as a sustainable source of high-quality protein and efficient feed conversion, contributing to food security and economic diversification. Nevertheless, studies incorporating feto-maternal monitoring in this species are uncommon. This review gathers research on the monitoring and evaluation of factors affecting rabbit gestation, providing a better understanding of the causes of prenatal development abnormalities. These include studies regarding how chronic maternal hypertension, gestational diabetes, maternal stress, ectopic gestation, maternal uterine ischemia and fetal hypoxia, intrauterine growth restriction, superfetation, maternal age, maternal nutritional status, maternal physical condition, maternal and embryonic genotype, and the intrauterine location of rabbit fetuses can potentially impact rabbits' reproduction and maternal and fetal health. Among other monitoring techniques, ultrasonography, considered one of the best tools for diagnosing pregnancy and conducting follow-up, is also reviewed. Details on measurable fetal-development parameters in rabbits and precautions to be considered before and during the examination are also provided. Additional studies are required to understand why some events occur and their consequences throughout gestation, allowing the determination of new biomarkers or cut-offs that can be helpful for early diagnosis and improve reproductive efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Pinto-Pinho
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Laboratory of Genetics and Andrology, Centro Hospitalar de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, E.P.E, 5000-508 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Maria de Lurdes Pinto
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - José Monteiro
- José Azevedo Monteiro, Lda., 4625-679 Vila Boa do Bispo, Portugal;
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Rosário Pinto-Leite
- Laboratory of Genetics and Andrology, Centro Hospitalar de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, E.P.E, 5000-508 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Bruno Colaço
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
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3
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Placental vascular alterations are associated with early neurodevelopmental and pulmonary impairment in the rabbit fetal growth restriction model. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19720. [PMID: 36385147 PMCID: PMC9668827 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22895-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction is one of the leading causes of perinatal mortality and morbidity and has consequences that extend well beyond the neonatal period. Current management relies on timely delivery rather than improving placental function. Several prenatal strategies have failed to show benefit in clinical trials after promising results in animal models. Most of these animal models have important developmental and structural differences compared to the human and/or are insufficiently characterized. We aimed to describe placental function and structure in an FGR rabbit model, and to characterize the early brain and lung developmental morbidity using a multimodal approach. FGR was induced in time-mated rabbits at gestational day 25 by partial uteroplacental vessel ligation in one horn. Umbilical artery Doppler was measured before caesarean delivery at gestational day 30, and placentas were harvested for computed microtomography and histology. Neonates underwent neurobehavioral or pulmonary functional assessment the day after delivery, followed by brain or lung harvesting, respectively. Neuropathological assessment included multiregional quantification of neuron density, apoptosis, astrogliosis, cellular proliferation, and oligodendrocyte progenitors. Brain region volumes and diffusion metrics were obtained from ex-vivo brain magnetic resonance imaging. Lung assessment included biomechanical tests and pulmonary histology. Fetal growth restriction was associated with labyrinth alterations in the placenta, driven by fetal capillary reduction, and overall reduced vessels volume. FGR caused altered neurobehavior paralleled by regional neuropathological deficits and reduced fractional anisotropy in the cortex, white matter, and hippocampus. In addition, FGR kittens presented functional alterations in the peripheral lung and structurally underdeveloped alveoli. In conclusion, in a uteroplacental insufficiency FGR rabbit model, placental vascular alterations coincide with neurodevelopmental and pulmonary disruption.
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4
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De Bie FR, Basurto D, Kumar S, Deprest J, Russo FM. Sildenafil during the 2nd and 3rd Trimester of Pregnancy: Trials and Tribulations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11207. [PMID: 36141480 PMCID: PMC9517616 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor with a vasodilatory and anti-remodeling effect, has been investigated concerning various conditions during pregnancy. Per indication, we herein review the rationale and the most relevant experimental and clinical studies, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, when available. Indications for using sildenafil during the second and third trimester of pregnancy include maternal pulmonary hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm labor, fetal growth restriction, oligohydramnios, fetal distress, and congenital diaphragmatic hernia. For most indications, the rationale for administering prenatal sildenafil is based on limited, equivocal data from in vitro studies and rodent disease models. Clinical studies report mild maternal side effects and suggest good fetal tolerance and safety depending on the underlying pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Basurto
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sailesh Kumar
- Mater Research Institute and School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4343, Australia
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UZ Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francesca Maria Russo
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UZ Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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5
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Valenzuela I, Kinoshita M, van der Merwe J, Maršál K, Deprest J. Prenatal interventions for fetal growth restriction in animal models: A systematic review. Placenta 2022; 126:90-113. [PMID: 35796064 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) in human pregnancy is associated with perinatal mortality, short- and long-term morbidities. No prenatal therapy is currently established despite decades of research. We aimed to review interventions in animal models for prenatal FGR treatment, and to seek the next steps for an effective clinical therapy. We registered our protocol and searched MEDLINE, Embase, and The Cochrane Library with no language restrictions, in accordance with the PRISMA guideline. We included all studies that reported the effects of any prenatal intervention in animal models of induced FGR. From 3257 screened studies, 202 describing 237 interventions were included for the final synthesis. Mice and rats were the most used animals (79%) followed by sheep (16%). Antioxidants (23%), followed by vasodilators (18%), nutrients (14%), and immunomodulators (12%) were the most tested therapy. Two-thirds of studies only reported delivery or immediate neonatal outcomes. Adverse effects were rarely reported (11%). Most studies (73%), independent of the intervention, showed a benefit in fetal survival or birthweight. The risk of bias was high, mostly due to the lack of randomization, allocation concealment, and blinding. Future research should aim to describe both short- and long-term outcomes across various organ systems in well-characterized models. Further efforts must be made to reduce selection, performance, and detection bias.
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6
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Lopez-Tello J, Schofield Z, Kiu R, Dalby MJ, van Sinderen D, Le Gall G, Sferruzzi-Perri AN, Hall LJ. Maternal gut microbiota Bifidobacterium promotes placental morphogenesis, nutrient transport and fetal growth in mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:386. [PMID: 35760917 PMCID: PMC9236968 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04379-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The gut microbiota plays a central role in regulating host metabolism. While substantial progress has been made in discerning how the microbiota influences host functions post birth and beyond, little is known about how key members of the maternal gut microbiota can influence feto-placental growth. Notably, in pregnant women, Bifidobacterium represents a key beneficial microbiota genus, with levels observed to increase across pregnancy. Here, using germ-free and specific-pathogen-free mice, we demonstrate that the bacterium Bifidobacterium breve UCC2003 modulates maternal body adaptations, placental structure and nutrient transporter capacity, with implications for fetal metabolism and growth. Maternal and placental metabolome were affected by maternal gut microbiota (i.e. acetate, formate and carnitine). Histological analysis of the placenta confirmed that Bifidobacterium modifies placental structure via changes in Igf2P0, Dlk1, Mapk1 and Mapk14 expression. Additionally, B. breve UCC2003, acting through Slc2a1 and Fatp1-4 transporters, was shown to restore fetal glycaemia and fetal growth in association with changes in the fetal hepatic transcriptome. Our work emphasizes the importance of the maternal gut microbiota on feto-placental development and sets a foundation for future research towards the use of probiotics during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Zoe Schofield
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Raymond Kiu
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Matthew J Dalby
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Gwénaëlle Le Gall
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Bob Champion Research and Education Building, James Watson Road, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Lindsay J Hall
- Gut Microbes and Health, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Bob Champion Research and Education Building, James Watson Road, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.
- Chair of Intestinal Microbiome, School of Life Sciences, ZIEL-Institute for Food and Health, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany.
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7
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García-García RM, Arias-Álvarez M, Rodríguez M, Sánchez-Rodríguez A, Formoso-Rafferty N, Lorenzo PL, Rebollar PG. Effects of feed restriction during pregnancy on maternal reproductive outcome, foetal hepatic IGF gene expression and offspring performance in the rabbit. Animal 2021; 15:100382. [PMID: 34653786 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Primiparous female rabbits have high nutritional requirements and, while it is recommended that they are subjected to an extensive reproductive rhythm, this could lead to overweight, affecting reproductive outcomes. We hypothesised that restricting food intake during the less energetic period of gestation could improve reproductive outcome without impairing offspring viability. This study compares two groups of primiparous rabbit does in an extensive reproductive programme, one in which feed was restricted from Day 0 to Day 21 of gestation (R021), and another in which does were fed ad libitum (control) throughout pregnancy. The mother and offspring variables compared were (1) mother reproductive outcomes at the time points pre-implantation (Day 3 postartificial insemination [AI]), preterm (Day 28 post-AI) and birth; and (2) the prenatal offspring characteristic IGF system gene expression in foetal liver, liver fibrosis and foetus sex ratio, and postnatal factor viability and growth at birth, and survival and growth until weaning. Feed restriction did not affect the conception rate, embryo survival, or the number of morulae and blastocysts recovered at Day 3 post-AI. Preterm placenta size and efficiency were similar in the two groups. However, both implantation rate (P < 0.001) and the number of foetuses (P = 0.05) were higher in the R021 mothers than controls, while there was no difference in foetal viability. Foetal size and weight, the weights of most organs, organ weight/BW ratios and sex ratio were unaffected by feed restriction; these variables were only affected by uterine position (P < 0.05). Conversely, in the R021 does, foetal liver IGBP1 and IGF2 gene expression were dysregulated despite no liver fibrosis and a normal liver structure. No effects of restricted feed intake were produced on maternal fertility, prolificacy, or offspring birth weight, but control females weaned more kits. Litter weight and mortality rate during the lactation period were also unaffected. In conclusion, pre-implantation events and foetal development were unaffected by feed restriction. While some genes of the foetal hepatic IGF system were dysregulated during pregnancy, liver morphology appeared normal, and the growth of foetuses and kits until weaning was unmodified. This strategy of feed restriction in extensive reproductive rhythms seems to have no significant adverse effects on dam reproductive outcome or offspring growth and viability until weaning.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M García-García
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - M Arias-Álvarez
- Department of Animal Production, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Rodríguez
- Department of Agrarian Production, ETSIAAB, Polytechnic University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - A Sánchez-Rodríguez
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - N Formoso-Rafferty
- Department of Agrarian Production, ETSIAAB, Polytechnic University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - P L Lorenzo
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - P G Rebollar
- Department of Agrarian Production, ETSIAAB, Polytechnic University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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8
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Fernández-Pacheco C, Millán P, Rodríguez M, Formoso-Rafferty N, Sánchez-Rodríguez A, Lorenzo PL, Arias-Álvarez M, García-García RM, Rebollar PG. Influence of Different Regimes of Moderate Maternal Feed Restriction during Pregnancy of Primiparous Rabbit Does on Long-Term Metabolic Energy Homeostasis, Productive Performance and Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2736. [PMID: 34573702 PMCID: PMC8470312 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, a maternal feed restriction (MFR; 105 g/d) in primiparous rabbit does was applied from day 0 to 7 post artificial insemination (AI) (R07, n = 96), from day 7 to 21 post AI (R721, n = 92), from day 0 to 21 post AI (R021, n = 94) or fed ad libitum during whole pregnancy (Control, n= 92). Feed intake (FI) was measured after MFR was over. On day 28 of gestation, fetoplacental development was evaluated (n = 11/group) and the productive parameters of the remaining dams were analyzed. Plasma free tri-iodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine, glucose, insulin, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and corticosterone were analyzed during gestation and lactation (n = 5/group). After MFR, all groups significantly increased their voluntary FI. The longer MFR was, the lower the weight and length of the fetuses, but no long-term effects over litter performance were observed. R021 groups had the lowest T3 and the highest NEFA concentrations during pregnancy and showed insulin resistance at the end of gestation, but during lactation, energy homeostasis was balanced in all groups. MFR did not affect corticosterone concentrations. In conclusion, the ration setting applied slightly involved the energy homeostasis and metabolism of the animals, but their overall metabolic condition, productive performance and welfare were not compromised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlota Fernández-Pacheco
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Avenida Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.-P.); (P.M.); (A.S.-R.); (P.L.L.); (R.M.G.-G.)
| | - Pilar Millán
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Avenida Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.-P.); (P.M.); (A.S.-R.); (P.L.L.); (R.M.G.-G.)
| | - María Rodríguez
- Department of Agrarian Production, ETSIAAB, Technical University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.R.); (N.F.-R.)
| | - Nora Formoso-Rafferty
- Department of Agrarian Production, ETSIAAB, Technical University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.R.); (N.F.-R.)
| | - Ana Sánchez-Rodríguez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Avenida Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.-P.); (P.M.); (A.S.-R.); (P.L.L.); (R.M.G.-G.)
| | - Pedro L. Lorenzo
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Avenida Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.-P.); (P.M.); (A.S.-R.); (P.L.L.); (R.M.G.-G.)
| | - María Arias-Álvarez
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Avenida Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Rosa M. García-García
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Avenida Puerta de Hierro s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.F.-P.); (P.M.); (A.S.-R.); (P.L.L.); (R.M.G.-G.)
| | - Pilar G. Rebollar
- Department of Agrarian Production, ETSIAAB, Technical University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.R.); (N.F.-R.)
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9
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Pla L, Illa M, Loreiro C, Lopez MC, Vázquez-Aristizabal P, Kühne BA, Barenys M, Eixarch E, Gratacós E. Structural Brain Changes during the Neonatal Period in a Rabbit Model of Intrauterine Growth Restriction. Dev Neurosci 2021; 42:217-229. [PMID: 33677448 DOI: 10.1159/000512948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with abnormal neurodevelopment, but the associated structural brain changes are poorly documented. The aim of this study was to describe in an animal model the brain changes at the cellular level in the gray and white matter induced by IUGR during the neonatal period. METHODS The IUGR model was surgically induced in pregnant rabbits by ligating 40-50% of the uteroplacental vessels in 1 horn, whereas the uteroplacental vessels of the contralateral horn were not ligated. After 5 days, IUGR animals from the ligated horn and controls from the nonligated were delivered. On the day of delivery, perinatal data and placentas were collected. On postnatal day 1, functional changes were first evaluated, and thereafter, neuronal arborization in the frontal cortex and density of pre-oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglia in the corpus callosum were evaluated. RESULTS Higher stillbirth in IUGR fetuses together with a reduced birth weight as compared to controls was evidenced. IUGR animals showed poorer functional results, an altered neuronal arborization pattern, and a decrease in the pre-oligodendrocytes, with no differences in microglia and astrocyte densities. CONCLUSIONS Overall, in the rabbit model used, IUGR is related to functional and brain changes evidenced already at birth, including changes in the neuronal arborization and abnormal oligodendrocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pla
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Illa
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, .,Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain,
| | - Carla Loreiro
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mari Carmen Lopez
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paula Vázquez-Aristizabal
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Britta Anna Kühne
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Barenys
- GRET, INSA-UB and Toxicology Unit, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisenda Eixarch
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Gratacós
- BCNatal
- Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
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10
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Placental blood flow sensing and regulation in fetal growth restriction. Placenta 2021; 113:23-28. [PMID: 33509641 PMCID: PMC8448138 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The mechanical force of blood flow is a fundamental determinant of vascular homeostasis. This frictional stimulation of cells, fluid shear stress (FSS), is increasingly recognised as being essential to placental development and function. Here, we focus on the role of FSS in regulating fetoplacental circulatory flow, both in normal pregnancy and that affected by fetal growth restriction (FGR). The fetus is reliant on placental perfusion to meet its circulatory and metabolic demands. Failure of normal vascular adaptation and the mechanisms enabling responsive interaction between fetoplacental and maternal circulations can result in FGR. FSS generates vasodilatation at least partly through the release of endothelial nitric oxide, a process thought to be vital for adequate blood flow. Where FGR is caused by placental dysfunction, placental vascular anatomy is altered, alongside endothelial dysfunction and hypoxia, each impacting upon the complex balance of FSS forces. Identifying specific mechanical sensors and the mechanisms governing how FSS force is converted into biochemical signals is a fast-paced area of research. Here, we raise awareness of Piezo1 proteins, recently discovered to be FSS-sensitive in fetoplacental endothelium, and with emerging roles in NO generation, vascular tone and angiogenesis. We discuss the emerging concept that activating mechanosensors such as Piezo1 ultimately results in the orchestrated processes of placental vascular adaptation. Piecing together the mechanisms governing endothelial responses to FSS in placental insufficiency is an important step towards developing new treatments for FGR.
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11
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Effect of ovarian stimulation by different gonadotrophin treatments on in vivo and in vitro reproductive efficiency of rabbit does under high ambient temperature. Trop Anim Health Prod 2020; 53:22. [PMID: 33216269 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-020-02429-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-lactating multiparous NZW rabbit does (n = 227) were used in two experiments. In the 1st experiment (n = 87), does were i.m. injected with 0.1-ml saline/doe in day 0 (control, n = 29). Other does were injected with 25 IU equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG), followed by 0.2-ml gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH, n = 29) or 75 IU human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG, n = 29) per doe 48 h later. After 60 h of day 0, does in all groups were artificially inseminated (AI). In the 2nd experiment, does (n = 140) were mated (AI) after synchronization of estrus/ovulation with 25 IU eCG, and 75 IU hCG 48 h later. On day 5 post-AI, does were injected with saline (control), 75 IU hCG, 0.2 ml GnRH, or 25 IU eCG per doe. Injection of eCG with GnRH or hCG pre-AI significantly increased corpora lutea number, ovulation rate, total number/doe and recovery rate of embryos, viable embryos, hatched blastocysts, in vivo reproductive parameters, and concentration of progesterone and progesterone/estradiol 17-β ratio. Injection of eCG on day 5 post-AI significantly improved large and total follicle number, and in vivo reproductive efficiency. The corpora lutea number and impantation sites were significantly increased in the hCG and eCG groups. Fetal loss rate significantly increased only in the GnRH group. Under high ambient temperature, administration of eCG with hCG or GnRH injection pre-AI could be synchronized estrus/ovulation for improving in vivo and in vitro embryo production. In addition, pregnancy outcomes could be enhanced in rabbit does induced to ovulation by a single eCG or hCG dose on day 5 post-AI.
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12
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Liu W, Menzin TJ, Woods CM, Haug NR, Li J, Mathew JA, Nguyen CP, Chai GP, Moeny DG, Shinde M. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor use among pregnant and reproductive-age women in the United States. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2020; 30:126-134. [PMID: 33020970 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5112] [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: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the prevalence and potential indications of PDE5 inhibitor use among pregnant and reproductive-age women in the United States. METHODS We identified women 15 to 50 years with a livebirth from January 2001 through March 2018 in Sentinel Database. We assessed the prevalence of PDE5 inhibitor use prior to and during pregnancy by trimester, identified potential on- and off-label indications using predefined diagnosis codes recorded within 90 days before the estimated last menstrual period through delivery. Separately, we used data from IQVIA's National Prescription Audit and Total Patient Tracker to estimate the dispensed prescriptions for PDE5 inhibitors and the number of patients with PDE5 inhibitor prescriptions. RESULTS We identified approximately 3.3 million pregnancies during 2001 to 2018, 96 of which had PDE5 inhibitor use during pregnancy. Prevalence of PDE5 inhibitor use was 2.61, 0.62, and 0.62 per 100, 000 live-born pregnancies during the first, second, or third trimesters, respectively. Among women exposed to a PDE5 inhibitor from 90 days before conception to the end of pregnancy, 25.0%, 31.1%, and 15.5% had a diagnosis code for fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. In IQVIA data, an estimated 223, 000 prescriptions from July 2015 through June 2018 and 58, 000 women received prescriptions for PDE5 inhibitors in 2017, of whom approximately 15, 000 (26%) were aged 15 to 50 years. CONCLUSION We found a low prevalence of PDE5 inhibitor use in pregnant and reproductive-age women. Given the very low prevalence of use and the inconsistency of neonatal mortality data across STRIDER centers, the risk to public health is low at present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Talia J Menzin
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Corinne M Woods
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Nicole R Haug
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jie Li
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Justin A Mathew
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Christine P Nguyen
- Division of Bone, Reproductive, and Urologic Products, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Grace P Chai
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - David G Moeny
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Mayura Shinde
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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The impact of prenatal environment on postnatal life and performance: Future perspectives for prevention and treatment. Theriogenology 2020; 150:15-19. [PMID: 31983467 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The present review aims to offer a non-comprehensive outline of the current state-of-the-art and future perspectives on management and therapeutic tools for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and associated prenatal programming in both human and animal species. Animals are used as models for the study of phenomena related to IUGR, but also for research on prenatal therapies with the main objective of designing and developing preventive and therapeutic strategies. The research is currently paying attention on maternal-focused pharmacological treatments and nutritional strategies but also on fetal-focused treatments. Fetal-focused treatments, administered either directly at the fetus or by using infusion of umbilical cord, amniotic sac or placenta, which avoids the administration of substances at high doses to the mother for allowing their availability at the fetoplacental level. The results obtained in this area of research using large animals (rabbits, pigs and ruminants) have a dual interest, for translational biomedicine and for veterinary medicine and animal production.
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14
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Lopez-Tello J, Arias-Alvarez M, Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Sferuzzi-Perri AN. Models of Intrauterine growth restriction and fetal programming in rabbits. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1781-1809. [PMID: 31538701 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) affects approximately 10% of human pregnancies globally and has immediate and life-long consequences for offspring health. However, the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of IUGR and its association with later health and disease outcomes are poorly understood. To address these knowledge gaps, the use of experimental animals is critically important. Since the 50's different environmental, pharmacological, and surgical manipulations have been performed in the rabbit to improve our knowledge of the control of fetal growth, fetal responses to IUGR, and mechanisms by which offspring may be programmed by an adverse gestational environment. The purpose of this review is therefore to summarize the utility of the rabbit as a model for IUGR research. It first summarizes the knowledge of prenatal and postnatal development in the rabbit and how these events relate to developmental milestones in humans. It then describes the methods used to induce IUGR in rabbits and the knowledge gained about the mechanisms determining prenatal and postnatal outcomes of the offspring. Finally, it discusses the application of state of the art approaches in the rabbit, including high-resolution ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and gene targeting, to gain a deeper integrative understanding of the physiological and molecular events governing the development of IUGR. Overall, we hope to engage and inspire investigators to employ the rabbit as a model organism when studying pregnancy physiology so that we may advance our understanding of mechanisms underlying IUGR and its consequences in humans and other mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Maria Arias-Alvarez
- Department of Animal Production. Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Amanda N Sferuzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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15
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Arias-Álvarez M, García-García RM, López-Tello J, Rebollar PG, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Lorenzo PL. α-Tocopherol modifies the expression of genes related to oxidative stress and apoptosis during in vitro maturation and enhances the developmental competence of rabbit oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:1728-1738. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The developmental competence of in vitro maturation (IVM) oocytes can be enhanced by antioxidant agents. The present study investigated, for the first time in the rabbit model, the effect of adding α-tocopherol (0, 100, 200 and 400 µM) during IVM on putative transcripts involved in antioxidant defence (superoxide dismutase 2, mitochondrial (SOD2), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), catalase (CAT)), cell cycle regulation and apoptosis cascade (apoptosis tumour protein 53 (TP53), caspase 3, apoptosis-related cysteine protease (CASP3)), cell cycle progression (cellular cycle V-Akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homologue 1 (AKT1)), cumulus expansion (gap junction protein, alpha 1, 43 kDa (GJA1) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (prostaglandin G/H synthase and cyclo-oxygenase) (PTGS2)) and metabolism (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD)). Meiotic progression, mitochondrial reallocation, cumulus cell apoptosis and the developmental competence of oocytes after IVF were also assessed. Expression of SOD2, CAT, TP53, CASP3 and GJA1 was downregulated in cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) after IVM with 100 μM α-tocopherol compared with the group without the antioxidant. The apoptotic rate and the percentage of a non-migrated mitochondrial pattern were lower in COCs cultured with 100 μM α-tocopherol, consistent with better-quality oocytes. In fact, early embryo development was improved when 100 μM α-tocopherol was included in the IVM medium, but remained low compared with in vivo-matured oocytes. In conclusion, the addition of 100 μM α-tocopherol to the maturation medium is a suitable approach to manage oxidative stress and apoptosis, as well as for increasing the in vitro developmental competence of rabbit oocytes.
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16
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Cureton N, Korotkova I, Baker B, Greenwood S, Wareing M, Kotamraju VR, Teesalu T, Cellesi F, Tirelli N, Ruoslahti E, Aplin JD, Harris LK. Selective Targeting of a Novel Vasodilator to the Uterine Vasculature to Treat Impaired Uteroplacental Perfusion in Pregnancy. Theranostics 2017; 7:3715-3731. [PMID: 29109771 PMCID: PMC5667343 DOI: 10.7150/thno.19678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) in pregnancy is commonly caused by impaired uteroplacental blood flow. Vasodilators enhance uteroplacental perfusion and fetal growth in humans and animal models; however, detrimental maternal and fetal side effects have been reported. We hypothesised that targeted uteroplacental delivery of a vasodilator would enhance drug efficacy and reduce the risks associated with drug administration in pregnancy. Phage screening identified novel peptides that selectively accumulated in the uteroplacental vasculature of pregnant mice. Following intravenous injection, the synthetic peptide CNKGLRNK selectively bound to the endothelium of the uterine spiral arteries and placental labyrinth in vivo; CNKGLRNK-decorated liposomes also selectively bound to these regions. The nitric oxide donor 2-[[4-[(nitrooxy)methyl]benzoyl]thio]-benzoic acid methyl ester (SE175) induced significant relaxation of mouse uterine arteries and human placental arteries in vitro; thus, SE175 was encapsulated into these targeted liposomes and administered to healthy pregnant C57BL/6J mice or endothelial nitric oxide synthase knockout (eNOS-/-) mice, which exhibit impaired uteroplacental blood flow and FGR. Liposomes containing SE175 (0.44mg/kg) or PBS were administered on embryonic (E) days 11.5, 13.5, 15.5 and 17.5; fetal and placental weights were recorded at term and compared to mice injected with free PBS or SE175. Targeted uteroplacental delivery of SE175 had no effect on fetal weight in C57BL/6J mice, but significantly increased fetal weight and mean spiral artery diameter, and decreased placental weight, indicative of improved placental efficiency, in eNOS-/- mice; free SE175 had no effect on fetal weight or spiral artery diameter. Targeted, but not free SE175 also significantly reduced placental expression of 4-hydroxynonenal, cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2, indicating a reduction in placental oxidative stress. These data suggest that exploiting vascular targeting peptides to selectively deliver SE175 to the uteroplacental vasculature may represent a novel treatment for FGR resulting from impaired uteroplacental perfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Cureton
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Iana Korotkova
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Bernadette Baker
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Susan Greenwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Mark Wareing
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Venkata R Kotamraju
- Cancer Center, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA and Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-9610, USA
| | - Tambet Teesalu
- Cancer Center, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA and Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-9610, USA
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, Centre of Excellence for Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Francesco Cellesi
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Materiali ed Ingegneria Chimica "G. Natta". Politecnico di Milano, Via Mancinelli 7, 20131 Milan, Italy
- Fondazione CEN - European Centre for Nanomedicine, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Tirelli
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Erkki Ruoslahti
- Cancer Center, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA and Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-9610, USA
| | - John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Lynda K Harris
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
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Abstract
Placental dysfunction underlies major obstetric diseases such as pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR). Whilst there has been a little progress in prophylaxis, there are still no treatments for placental dysfunction in normal obstetric practice. However, a combination of increasingly well-described in vitro systems for studying the human placenta, together with the availability of more appropriate animal models of pre-eclampsia and FGR, has facilitated a recent surge in work aimed at repurposing drugs and therapies, developed for other conditions, as treatments for placental dysfunction. This review: (1) highlights potential candidate drug targets in the placenta - effectors of improved uteroplacental blood flow, anti-oxidants, heme oxygenase induction, inhibition of HIF, induction of cholesterol synthesis pathways, increasing insulin-like growth factor II availability; (2) proposes an experimental pathway for taking a potential drug or treatment for placental dysfunction from concept through to early phase clinical trials, utilizing techniques for studying the human placenta in vitro and small animal models, particularly the mouse, for in vivo studies; (3) describes the data underpinning sildenafil citrate and adenovirus expressing vascular endothelial growth as potential treatments for placental dysfunction and summarizes recent research on other potential treatments. The importance of sharing information from such studies even when no effect is found, or there is an adverse outcome, is highlighted. Finally, the use of adenoviral vectors or nanoparticle carriers coated with homing peptides to selectively target drugs to the placenta is highlighted: such delivery systems could improve efficacy and reduce the side effects of treating the dysfunctional placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin P Sibley
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research CentreDivision of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- St Mary's HospitalCentral Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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18
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Lopez-Tello J, Arias-Alvarez M, Jimenez-Martinez MA, Garcia-Garcia RM, Rodriguez M, Lorenzo Gonzalez PL, Bermejo-Poza R, Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Garcia Rebollar P. Competition for Materno-Fetal Resource Partitioning in a Rabbit Model of Undernourished Pregnancy. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0169194. [PMID: 28046002 PMCID: PMC5207739 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0169194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The major goal of animal production is to obtain abundant and healthy meat for consumers. Maternal food restriction (MFR) is often applied in farms to reduce production costs. However, the suitability of MFR in livestock animals is questionable, as this management may compromise maternal fitness due to a severe negative energetic balance and can induce Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) and prenatal programming in the offspring. Here, we sought to determine, using pregnant rabbits, the consequences of MFR on maternal endocrine and metabolic status and conceptus development. Pregnant dams were distributed into three groups: CONTROL (ad libitum feeding throughout the entire pregnancy; mean pregnancy length being around 31 days), UNDERFED (50% MFR during the entire pregnancy) and EARLY-UNDERFED (50% MFR only during the preimplantation period, Days 0–7). Maternal leptin concentrations and glycemic and lipid profiles were determined throughout pregnancy, whilst conceptus development was assessed ex-vivo at Day 28. Placental parameters were determined by macroscopic and histological evaluations and apoptotic assessments (TUNEL and Caspase-3). The main results of the study showed that, despite MFR altered maternal plasma lipid concentration (P<0.05), there were no effects on maternal bodyweight, plasma leptin concentration or glycemic profile. Fetal crown-rump lengths were reduced in both undernourished groups (P<0.001), but a significant reduction in fetal weight was only observed in the UNDERFED group (P<0.001). Growth in both undernourished groups was asymmetrical, with reduced liver weight (P<0.001) and significantly increased brain: fetal weight-ratio (P<0.001) and brain: liver weight-ratio (P<0.001) when compared to the CONTROL group. A significant reduction in placental weight was only observed in the UNDERFED group (P<0.001), despite both undernourished groups showing higher apoptotic rates at decidua and labyrinth zone (P<0.05) than the CONTROL group. Thus, these groups evidenced signs of placental degeneration, necrosis and stromal collapse. In summary, MFR may encourage the mother to make strategic decisions to safeguard her metabolic status and fitness at the expense of growth reduction in the litter, resulting in enhanced apoptotic and pathological processes at placental level and IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Department of Animal Production, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Maria Arias-Alvarez
- Department of Animal Production, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Angeles Jimenez-Martinez
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Maria Garcia-Garcia
- Department of Physiology (Animal Physiology), Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Rodriguez
- Department of Agrarian Production, E.T.S.I.A.A.B. Polytechnic University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Luis Lorenzo Gonzalez
- Department of Physiology (Animal Physiology), Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ruben Bermejo-Poza
- Department of Animal Production, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Pilar Garcia Rebollar
- Department of Agrarian Production, E.T.S.I.A.A.B. Polytechnic University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
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