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Que X, Ren L, Yang L, Wang L, Li J, Wu R, Chen Q. Long noncoding RNA BMPR1B-AS1 stability regulated by IGF2BP2 affects the decidualization in endometriosis patients through the SMAD1/5/9 pathway. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23622. [PMID: 38703029 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302195r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMs)-related infertility commonly has decreased endometrial receptivity and normal decidualization is the basis for establishing and maintaining endometrial receptivity. However, the potential molecular regulatory mechanisms of impaired endometrial decidualization in patients with EMs have not been fully clarified. We confirmed the existence of reduced endometrial receptivity in patients with EMs by scanning electron microscopy and quantitative real-time PCR. Here we identified an lncRNA, named BMPR1B-AS1, which is significantly downregulated in eutopic endometrium in EMs patients and plays an essential role in decidual formation. Furthermore, RNA pull-down, mass spectrometry, RNA immunoprecipitation, and rescue analyses revealed that BMPR1B-AS1 positively regulates decidual formation through interaction with the RNA-binding protein insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2). Downregulation of IGF2BP2 led to a decreased stability of BMPR1B-AS1 and inhibition of activation of the SMAD1/5/9 pathway, an inhibitory effect which diminished decidualization in human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs) decidualization. In conclusion, our identified a novel regulatory mechanism in which the IGF2BP2-BMPR1B-AS1-SMAD1/5/9 axis plays a key role in the regulation of decidualization, providing insights into the potential link between abnormal decidualization and infertility in patients with EMs, which will be of clinical significance for the management and treatment of infertility in patients with EMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Que
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Health of Fujian Province, Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- The Graduate School of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Lulu Ren
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Health of Fujian Province, Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lin Yang
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Health of Fujian Province, Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Lemeng Wang
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Health of Fujian Province, Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Junzui Li
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Health of Fujian Province, Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Rongfeng Wu
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Health of Fujian Province, Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Reproductive Medical Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Qionghua Chen
- The School of Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Gynecology and Reproductive Health of Fujian Province, Laboratory of Research and Diagnosis of Gynecological Diseases of Xiamen City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- The Graduate School of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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Ren P, Jiang B, Hassab A, Li G, Li W, Assi R, Tellides G. Heterogeneous Cardiac- and Neural Crest-Derived Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells have Similar Transcriptional Changes after TGFβ Signaling Disruption. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.28.591539. [PMID: 38746256 PMCID: PMC11092432 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.28.591539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of cardiac and neural crest origin contribute to the developing proximal aorta and are linked to disease propensity in adults. We analyzed single-cell transcriptomes of SMCs from mature thoracic aortas in mice to determine basal states and changes after disrupting transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling necessary for aortic homeostasis. A minority of Myh11 lineage-marked SMCs differentially expressed genes suggestive of embryological origin. Additional analyses in Nkx2-5 and Wnt1 lineage-marked SMCs derived from cardiac and neural crest progenitors, respectively, showed both lineages contributed to a major common cluster and each lineage to a minor distinct cluster. Common cluster SMCs extended from root to arch, cardiac subset cluster SMCs from root to mid-ascending, while neural crest subset cluster SMCs were restricted to the arch. The neural crest subset cluster had greater expression of a subgroup of TGFβ-dependent genes suggesting specific responsiveness or skewed extracellular matrix synthesis. Nonetheless, deletion of TGFβ receptors in SMCs resulted in similar transcriptional changes among all clusters, primarily decreased extracellular matrix molecules and modulators of TGFβ signaling. Many embryological markers of murine aortic SMCs were not confirmed in adult human aortas. We conclude: (i) there are multiple subtypes of cardiac- and neural crest-derived SMCs with shared or distinctive transcriptional profiles, (ii) neural crest subset SMCs with increased expression of certain TGFβ-inducible genes are not spatially linked to the aortic root predisposed to aneurysms from aberrant TGFβ signaling, and (iii) loss of TGFβ responses after receptor deletion is uniform among SMCs of different embryological origins.
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Zhang X, He H, Yu H, Teng X, Wang Z, Li C, Li J, Yang H, Shen J, Wu T, Zhang F, Zhang Y, Wu Q. Maternal RNA transcription in Dlk1-Dio3 domain is critical for proper development of the mouse placental vasculature. Commun Biol 2024; 7:363. [PMID: 38521877 PMCID: PMC10960817 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06038-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The placenta is a unique organ for ensuring normal embryonic growth in the uterine. Here, we found that maternal RNA transcription in Dlk1-Dio3 imprinted domain is essential for placentation. PolyA signals were inserted into Gtl2 to establish a mouse model to prevent the expression of maternal RNAs in the domain. The maternal allele knock-in (MKI) and homozygous (HOMO) placentas showed an expanded junctional zone, reduced labyrinth and poor vasculature impacting both fetal and maternal blood spaces. The MKI and HOMO models displayed dysregulated gene expression in the Dlk1-Dio3 domain. In situ hybridization detected Dlk1, Gtl2, Rtl1, miR-127 and Rian dysregulated in the labyrinth vasculature. MKI and HOMO induced Dlk1 to lose imprinting, and DNA methylation changes of IG-DMR and Gtl2-DMR, leading to abnormal gene expression, while the above changes didn't occur in paternal allele knock-in placentas. These findings demonstrate that maternal RNAs in the Dlk1-Dio3 domain are involved in placental vasculature, regulating gene expression, imprinting status and DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximeijia Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hongjuan He
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haoran Yu
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiangqi Teng
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ziwen Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Chenghao Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiahang Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haopeng Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiwei Shen
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tong Wu
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Fengwei Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- School of Life Science and Technology, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150006, Heilongjiang, China.
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Chadchan SB, Popli P, Liao Z, Andreas E, Dias M, Wang T, Gunderson SJ, Jimenez PT, Lanza DG, Lanz RB, Foulds CE, Monsivais D, DeMayo FJ, Yalamanchili HK, Jungheim ES, Heaney JD, Lydon JP, Moley KH, O'Malley BW, Kommagani R. A GREB1-steroid receptor feedforward mechanism governs differential GREB1 action in endometrial function and endometriosis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1947. [PMID: 38431630 PMCID: PMC10908778 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46180-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular responses to the steroid hormones, estrogen (E2), and progesterone (P4) are governed by their cognate receptor's transcriptional output. However, the feed-forward mechanisms that shape cell-type-specific transcriptional fulcrums for steroid receptors are unidentified. Herein, we found that a common feed-forward mechanism between GREB1 and steroid receptors regulates the differential effect of GREB1 on steroid hormones in a physiological or pathological context. In physiological (receptive) endometrium, GREB1 controls P4-responses in uterine stroma, affecting endometrial receptivity and decidualization, while not affecting E2-mediated epithelial proliferation. Of mechanism, progesterone-induced GREB1 physically interacts with the progesterone receptor, acting as a cofactor in a positive feedback mechanism to regulate P4-responsive genes. Conversely, in endometrial pathology (endometriosis), E2-induced GREB1 modulates E2-dependent gene expression to promote the growth of endometriotic lesions in mice. This differential action of GREB1 exerted by a common feed-forward mechanism with steroid receptors advances our understanding of mechanisms that underlie cell- and tissue-specific steroid hormone actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangappa B Chadchan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Pooja Popli
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Eryk Andreas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Michelle Dias
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Integrative Bioinformatics, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie J Gunderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Patricia T Jimenez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Denise G Lanza
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Rainer B Lanz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Charles E Foulds
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Hari Krishna Yalamanchili
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Emily S Jungheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fienberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 77030, USA
| | - Jason D Heaney
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kelle H Moley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Bert W O'Malley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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5
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Wei D, Su Y, Leung PCK, Li Y, Chen ZJ. Roles of bone morphogenetic proteins in endometrial remodeling during the human menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:215-237. [PMID: 38037193 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the human menstrual cycle and pregnancy, the endometrium undergoes a series of dynamic remodeling processes to adapt to physiological changes. Insufficient endometrial remodeling, characterized by inadequate endometrial proliferation, decidualization and spiral artery remodeling, is associated with infertility, endometriosis, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, and pregnancy-related complications such as preeclampsia and miscarriage. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), a subset of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, are multifunctional cytokines that regulate diverse cellular activities, such as differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix synthesis, are now understood as integral to multiple reproductive processes in women. Investigations using human biological samples have shown that BMPs are essential for regulating human endometrial remodeling processes, including endometrial proliferation and decidualization. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarizes our current knowledge on the known pathophysiological roles of BMPs and their underlying molecular mechanisms in regulating human endometrial proliferation and decidualization, with the goal of promoting the development of innovative strategies for diagnosing, treating and preventing infertility and adverse pregnancy complications associated with dysregulated human endometrial remodeling. SEARCH METHODS A literature search for original articles published up to June 2023 was conducted in the PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar databases, identifying studies on the roles of BMPs in endometrial remodeling during the human menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Articles identified were restricted to English language full-text papers. OUTCOMES BMP ligands and receptors and their transduction molecules are expressed in the endometrium and at the maternal-fetal interface. Along with emerging technologies such as tissue microarrays, 3D organoid cultures and advanced single-cell transcriptomics, and given the clinical availability of recombinant human proteins and ongoing pharmaceutical development, it is now clear that BMPs exert multiple roles in regulating human endometrial remodeling and that these biomolecules (and their receptors) can be targeted for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Moreover, dysregulation of these ligands, their receptors, or signaling determinants can impact endometrial remodeling, contributing to infertility or pregnancy-related complications (e.g. preeclampsia and miscarriage). WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although further clinical trials are needed, recent advancements in the development of recombinant BMP ligands, synthetic BMP inhibitors, receptor antagonists, BMP ligand sequestration tools, and gene therapies have underscored the BMPs as candidate diagnostic biomarkers and positioned the BMP signaling pathway as a promising therapeutic target for addressing infertility and pregnancy complications related to dysregulated human endometrial remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yaxin Su
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
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Parks SE, Geng T, Monsivais D. Endometrial TGFβ signaling fosters early pregnancy development by remodeling the fetomaternal interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13789. [PMID: 38009061 PMCID: PMC10683870 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a unique and highly regenerative tissue with crucial roles during the reproductive lifespan of a woman. As the first site of contact between mother and embryo, the endometrium, and its critical processes of decidualization and immune cell recruitment, play a leading role in the establishment of pregnancy, embryonic development, and reproductive capacity. These integral processes are achieved by the concerted actions of steroid hormones and a myriad of growth factor signaling pathways. This review focuses on the roles of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) pathway in the endometrium during the earliest stages of pregnancy through the lens of immune cell regulation and function. We discuss how key ligands in the TGFβ family signal through downstream SMAD transcription factors and ultimately remodel the endometrium into a state suitable for embryo implantation and development. We also focus on the key roles of the TGFβ signaling pathway in recruiting uterine natural killer cells and their collective remodeling of the decidua and spiral arteries. By providing key details about immune cell populations and TGFβ signaling within the endometrium, it is our goal to shed light on the intricate remodeling that is required to achieve a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney E. Parks
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ting Geng
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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7
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Yusuf LH, Saldívar Lemus Y, Thorpe P, Macías Garcia C, Ritchie MG. Genomic Signatures Associated with Transitions to Viviparity in Cyprinodontiformes. Mol Biol Evol 2023; 40:msad208. [PMID: 37789509 PMCID: PMC10568250 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msad208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The transition from oviparity to viviparity has occurred independently over 150 times across vertebrates, presenting one of the most compelling cases of phenotypic convergence. However, whether the repeated, independent evolution of viviparity is driven by redeployment of similar genetic mechanisms and whether these leave a common signature in genomic divergence remains largely unknown. Although recent investigations into the evolution of viviparity have demonstrated striking similarity among the genes and molecular pathways involved across disparate vertebrate groups, quantitative tests for genome-wide convergent have provided ambivalent answers. Here, we investigate the potential role of molecular convergence during independent transitions to viviparity across an order of ray-finned freshwater fish (Cyprinodontiformes). We assembled de novo genomes and utilized publicly available genomes of viviparous and oviparous species to test for molecular convergence across both coding and noncoding regions. We found no evidence for an excess of molecular convergence in amino acid substitutions and in rates of sequence divergence, implying independent genetic changes are associated with these transitions. However, both statistical power and biological confounds could constrain our ability to detect significant correlated evolution. We therefore identified candidate genes with potential signatures of molecular convergence in viviparous Cyprinodontiformes lineages. Motif enrichment and gene ontology analyses suggest transcriptional changes associated with early morphogenesis, brain development, and immunity occurred alongside the evolution of viviparity. Overall, however, our findings indicate that independent transitions to viviparity in these fish are not strongly associated with an excess of molecular convergence, but a few genes show convincing evidence of convergent evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leeban H Yusuf
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Yolitzi Saldívar Lemus
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Peter Thorpe
- The Data Analysis Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- School of Medicine, University of North Haugh, St Andrews KY16 9TF, UK
| | - Constantino Macías Garcia
- Instituto de Ecologia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City CdMx, Mexico
| | - Michael G Ritchie
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
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Sirohi VK, Medrano TI, Kannan A, Bagchi IC, Cooke PS. Uterine-specific Ezh2 deletion enhances stromal cell senescence and impairs placentation, resulting in pregnancy loss. iScience 2023; 26:107028. [PMID: 37360688 PMCID: PMC10285549 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal uterine remodeling facilitates embryo implantation, stromal cell decidualization and placentation, and perturbation of these processes may cause pregnancy loss. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methyltransferase that epigenetically represses gene transcription; loss of uterine EZH2 affects endometrial physiology and induces infertility. We utilized a uterine Ezh2 conditional knockout (cKO) mouse to determine EZH2's role in pregnancy progression. Despite normal fertilization and implantation, embryo resorption occurred mid-gestation in Ezh2cKO mice, accompanied by compromised decidualization and placentation. Western blot analysis revealed Ezh2-deficient stromal cells have reduced amounts of the histone methylation mark H3K27me3, causing upregulation of senescence markers p21 and p16 and indicating that enhanced stromal cell senescence likely impairs decidualization. Placentas from Ezh2cKO dams on gestation day (GD) 12 show architectural defects, including mislocalization of spongiotrophoblasts and reduced vascularization. In summary, uterine Ezh2 loss impairs decidualization, increases decidual senescence, and alters trophoblast differentiation, leading to pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K. Sirohi
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Theresa I. Medrano
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Athilakshmi Kannan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Indrani C. Bagchi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Paul S. Cooke
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Popli P, Chadchan SB, Dias M, Deng X, Gunderson SJ, Jimenez P, Yalamanchili H, Kommagani R. SF3B1-dependent alternative splicing is critical for maintaining endometrial homeostasis and the establishment of pregnancy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.20.541590. [PMID: 37292891 PMCID: PMC10245700 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.20.541590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable potential of human endometrium to undergo spontaneous remodeling is shaped by controlled spatiotemporal gene expression patterns. Although hormone-driven transcription shown to govern these patterns, the post-transcriptional processing of these mRNA transcripts, including the mRNA splicing in the endometrium is not studied yet. Here, we report that the splicing factor, SF3B1 is central in driving alternative splicing (AS) events that are vital for physiological responses of the endometrium. We show that loss of SF3B1 splicing activity impairs stromal cell decidualization as well as embryo implantation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that SF3B1 depletion decidualizing stromal cells led to differential mRNA splicing. Specifically, a significant upregulation in mutually exclusive AS events (MXEs) with SF3B1 loss resulted in the generation of aberrant transcripts. Further, we found that some of these candidate genes phenocopy SF3B1 function in decidualization. Importantly, we identify progesterone as a potential upstream regulator of SF3B1-mediated functions in endometrium possibly via maintaining its persistently high levels, in coordination with deubiquitinating enzymes. Collectively, our data suggest that SF3B1-driven alternative splicing plays a critical role in mediating the endometrial-specific transcriptional paradigms. Thus, the identification of novel mRNA variants associated with successful pregnancy establishment may help to develop new strategies to diagnose or prevent early pregnancy loss.
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10
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Kriseman ML, Tang S, Liao Z, Jiang P, Parks SE, Cope DI, Yuan F, Chen F, Masand RP, Castro PD, Ittmann MM, Creighton CJ, Tan Z, Monsivais D. SMAD2/3 signaling in the uterine epithelium controls endometrial cell homeostasis and regeneration. Commun Biol 2023; 6:261. [PMID: 36906706 PMCID: PMC10008566 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04619-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The regenerative potential of the endometrium is attributed to endometrial stem cells; however, the signaling pathways controlling its regenerative potential remain obscure. In this study, genetic mouse models and endometrial organoids are used to demonstrate that SMAD2/3 signaling controls endometrial regeneration and differentiation. Mice with conditional deletion of SMAD2/3 in the uterine epithelium using Lactoferrin-iCre develop endometrial hyperplasia at 12-weeks and metastatic uterine tumors by 9-months of age. Mechanistic studies in endometrial organoids determine that genetic or pharmacological inhibition of SMAD2/3 signaling disrupts organoid morphology, increases the glandular and secretory cell markers, FOXA2 and MUC1, and alters the genome-wide distribution of SMAD4. Transcriptomic profiling of the organoids reveals elevated pathways involved in stem cell regeneration and differentiation such as the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and retinoic acid signaling (RA) pathways. Therefore, TGFβ family signaling via SMAD2/3 controls signaling networks which are integral for endometrial cell regeneration and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya L Kriseman
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Peixin Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sydney E Parks
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dominique I Cope
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fengju Chen
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ramya P Masand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Patricia D Castro
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michael M Ittmann
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zhi Tan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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11
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Cheng J, Sha Z, Li J, Li B, Luo X, Zhang Z, Zhou Y, Chen S, Wang Y. Progress on the Role of Estrogen and Progesterone Signaling in Mouse Embryo Implantation and Decidualization. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1746-1757. [PMID: 36694081 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01169-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation and decidualization are key steps in establishing a successful pregnancy. Defects in embryo implantation and decidualization can cause a series of adverse chain reactions which can contribute to harmful pregnancy outcomes, such as embryo growth retardation, preeclampsia, miscarriage, premature birth, and so on. Approximately 75% of failed pregnancies are considered to be due to embryo implantation failure or defects. Decidualization, characterized by proliferation and differentiation of uterine stromal cells, is one of the essential conditions for blastocyst implantation, placental formation, and maintenance of pregnancy and is indispensable for the establishment of pregnancy in many species. Embryo implantation and decidualization are closely regulated by estrogen and progesterone secreted by the ovaries. Many cellular events and molecular signaling network pathways are involved in this process. This article reviews the recent advances in the molecular mechanisms of estrogen- and progesterone-regulating uterine receptivity establishment, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization, in order to better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of hormonal regulation of embryo implantation and to develop new strategies for preventing or treating embryo implantation defects and improving the pregnancy rate of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Cheng
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Zizhuo Sha
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Junyang Li
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Bixuan Li
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China
| | - Xianyang Luo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiamen, 361003, China.,Teaching Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350004, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiming Zhang
- Teaching Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350004, People's Republic of China.,Department of Breast Surgery, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China.,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiamen, 361003, China.,Teaching Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350004, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, People's Republic of China. .,Xiamen Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiamen, 361003, China.
| | - Yang Wang
- Xi'An Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi'An Medical University, Xi'An 710021, China.
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12
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Ono M, Toyoda N, Kagami K, Hosono T, Matsumoto T, Horike SI, Yamazaki R, Nakamura M, Mizumoto Y, Fujiwara T, Ando H, Fujiwara H, Daikoku T. Uterine Deletion of Bmal1 Impairs Placental Vascularization and Induces Intrauterine Fetal Death in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147637. [PMID: 35886985 PMCID: PMC9319876 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, it was demonstrated that the expression of BMAL1 was decreased in the endometrium of women suffering from recurrent spontaneous abortion. To investigate the pathological roles of uterine clock genes during pregnancy, we produced conditional deletion of uterine Bmal1 (cKO) mice and found that cKO mice could receive embryo implantation but not sustain pregnancy. Gene ontology analysis of microarray suggested that uterine NK (uNK) cell function was suppressed in cKO mice. Histological examination revealed the poor formation of maternal vascular spaces in the placenta. In contrast to WT mice, uNK cells in the spongiotrophoblast layer, where maternal uNK cells are directly in contact with fetal trophoblast, hardly expressed an immunosuppressive NK marker, CD161, in cKO mice. By progesterone supplementation, pregnancy could be sustained until the end of pregnancy in some cKO mice. Although this treatment did not improve the structural abnormalities of the placenta, it recruited CD161-positive NK cells into the spongiotrophoblast layer in cKO mice. These findings indicate that the uterine clock system may be critical for pregnancy maintenance after embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Natsumi Toyoda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
- Division of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling of Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Kyosuke Kagami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
| | - Takashi Hosono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Function Analysis, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan;
| | - Takeo Matsumoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
| | - Shin-ichi Horike
- Division of Integrated Omics Research, Research Center for Experimental Modeling of Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan;
| | - Rena Yamazaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
| | - Mitsuhiro Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Public Central Hospital of Matto Ishikawa, Hakusan 924-8588, Japan
| | - Yasunari Mizumoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
| | - Tomoko Fujiwara
- Department of Human Life Environments, Kyoto Notre Dame University, Kyoto 606-0847, Japan;
| | - Hitoshi Ando
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Function Analysis, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan;
| | - Hiroshi Fujiwara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan; (M.O.); (N.T.); (K.K.); (T.H.); (T.M.); (R.Y.); (M.N.); (Y.M.)
- Correspondence: (H.F.); (T.D.); Tel.: +81-76-265-2425 (H.F.); +81-76-265-2460 (T.D.); Fax: +81-76-234-4266 (H.F.); +81-76-234-4245 (T.D.)
| | - Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling of Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
- Correspondence: (H.F.); (T.D.); Tel.: +81-76-265-2425 (H.F.); +81-76-265-2460 (T.D.); Fax: +81-76-234-4266 (H.F.); +81-76-234-4245 (T.D.)
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13
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Osokine I, Siewiera J, Rideaux D, Ma S, Tsukui T, Erlebacher A. Gene silencing by EZH2 suppresses TGF-β activity within the decidua to avert pregnancy-adverse wound healing at the maternal-fetal interface. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110329. [PMID: 35108527 PMCID: PMC8833843 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A little-appreciated feature of early pregnancy is that embryo implantation and placental outgrowth do not evoke wound-healing responses in the decidua, the specialized endometrial tissue that surrounds the conceptus. Here, we provide evidence that this phenomenon is partly due to an active program of gene silencing mediated by EZH2, a histone methyltransferase that generates repressive histone 3 lysine 27 trimethyl (H3K27me3) histone marks. We find that pregnancies in mice with EZH2-deficient decidual stromal cells frequently fail by mid-gestation, with the decidua showing ectopic myofibroblast formation, peri-embryonic collagen deposition, and gene expression profiles associated with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-driven fibroblast activation and fibrogenic extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Analogous responses are observed when the mutant decidua is surgically wounded, while blockade of TGF-β receptor signaling inhibits the defects and improves reproductive outcomes. Together, these results highlight a critical feature of reproductive success and have implications for the context-specific control of TGF-β-mediated wound-healing responses elsewhere in the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Osokine
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue Medical Sciences, S-1057B, San Francisco, CA 94143-0451, USA
| | - Johan Siewiera
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue Medical Sciences, S-1057B, San Francisco, CA 94143-0451, USA
| | - Damon Rideaux
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue Medical Sciences, S-1057B, San Francisco, CA 94143-0451, USA
| | - Stephany Ma
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue Medical Sciences, S-1057B, San Francisco, CA 94143-0451, USA
| | - Tatsuya Tsukui
- Lung Biology Center, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Adrian Erlebacher
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue Medical Sciences, S-1057B, San Francisco, CA 94143-0451, USA; Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Biomedical Sciences Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Bakar ImmunoX Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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14
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Lamptey J, Czika A, Aremu JO, Pervaz S, Adu-Gyamfi EA, Otoo A, Li F, Wang YX, Ding YB. The role of fascin in carcinogenesis and embryo implantation. Exp Cell Res 2021; 409:112885. [PMID: 34662557 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The cytoskeleton, with its actin bundling proteins, plays crucial roles in a host of cellular function, such as cancer metastasis, antigen presentation and trophoblast migration and invasion, as a result of cytoskeletal remodeling. A key player in cytoskeletal remodeling is fascin. Upregulation of fascin induces the transition of epithelial phenotypes to mesenchymal phenotypes through complex interaction with transcription factors. Fascin expression also regulates mitochondrial F-actin to promote oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in some cancer cells. Trophoblast cells, on the other hand, exhibit similar physiological functions, involving the upregulation of genes crucial for its migration and invasion. Owing to the similar tumor-like characteristics among cancer and trophoblats, we review recent studies on fascin in relation to cancer and trophoblast cell biology; and based on existing evidence, link fascin to the establishment of the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jones Lamptey
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, KCCR, UPO, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Armin Czika
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - John Ogooluwa Aremu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Sadaf Pervaz
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Antonia Otoo
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Liu Y, Yuan Q, Wang Z, Ding L, Kong N, Liu J, Hu Y, Zhang Y, Li C, Yan G, Jiang Y, Sun H. A high level of KLF12 causes folic acid-resistant neural tube defects by activating the Shh signalling pathway in mice. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:837-845. [PMID: 34104947 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although adequate periconceptional folic acid (FA) supplementation has reduced the occurrence of pregnancies affected by neural tube defects (NTDs), the mechanisms underlying FA-resistant NTDs are poorly understood, and thus NTDs still remain a global public health concern. A high level of Krüppel-like factor 12 (KLF12) exerts deleterious effects on heath in most cases, but evidence for its roles in development has not been published. We observed KLF12-overexpressing mice showed disturbed neural tube development. KLF12-overexpressing foetuses died in utero at approximately 10.5 days post coitus, with 100% presenting cranial NTDs. Neither FA nor formate promoted normal neural tube closure in mutant foetuses. The RNA-seq results showed that a high level of KLF12 caused NTDs in mice via overactivating the sonic hedgehog (Shh) signalling pathway, leading to the upregulation of patched 1, GLI-Krüppel family member GLI1, hedgehog-interacting protein, etc., while FA metabolism-related enzymes did not express differently. PF-5274857, an antagonist of the Shh signalling pathway, significantly promoted dorsolateral hinge point formation and partially rescued the NTDs. The regulatory hierarchy between a high level of KLF12 and FA-resistant NTDs might provide new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of unexplained NTDs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiong Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhilong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Kong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyu Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yali Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaojun Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Guijun Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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16
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Functional similarity between TGF-beta type 2 and type 1 receptors in the female reproductive tract. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9294. [PMID: 33927274 PMCID: PMC8084965 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88673-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling plays critical roles in reproductive development and function. TGFβ ligands signal through the TGFβ receptor type 2 (TGFBR2)/TGFBR1 complex. As TGFBR2 and TGFBR1 form a signaling complex upon ligand stimulation, they are expected to be equally important for propagating TGFβ signaling that elicits cellular responses. However, several genetic studies challenge this concept and indicate that disruption of TGFBR2 or TGFBR1 may lead to contrasting phenotypic outcomes. We have shown that conditional deletion of Tgfbr1 using anti-Mullerian hormone receptor type 2 (Amhr2)-Cre causes oviductal and myometrial defects. To determine the functional requirement of TGFBR2 in the female reproductive tract and the potential phenotypic divergence/similarity resulting from conditional ablation of either receptor, we generated mice harboring Tgfbr2 deletion using the same Cre driver that was previously employed to target Tgfbr1. Herein, we found that conditional deletion of Tgfbr2 led to a similar phenotype to that of Tgfbr1 deletion in the female reproductive tract. Furthermore, genetic removal of Tgfbr1 in the Tgfbr2-deleted uterus had minimal impact on the phenotype of Tgfbr2 conditional knockout mice. In summary, our results reveal the functional similarity between TGFBR2 and TGFBR1 in maintaining the structural integrity of the female reproductive tract.
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17
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Maternal Cripto is critical for proper development of the mouse placenta and the placental vasculature. Placenta 2021; 107:13-23. [PMID: 33730615 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The growth and survival of the mammalian fetus is highly dependent on the placenta. Several research groups have demonstrated the involvement of different transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) superfamily members and their related receptors in placentation. Cripto is a member of the epidermal growth factor-Cripto1/FRL1/Cryptic protein family and plays a critical role in embryonic development, stem cell maintenance and tumor progression through TGFβ-dependent and independent pathways. Several studies have suggested that Cripto may also have a role in female reproduction and pregnancy maintenance, but its specific role remains elusive. METHODS We used a conditional knockout mouse model in which Cripto is deleted from the uterus using a loxP-Cre system. Cripto cKO females were mated with wildtype males and dissections were performed at different timepoints during pregnancy for assessment of the number and size of the implantation sites, resorption sites, fetal weight and placental development. Histology, IF staining and quantitative PCR were employed to analyze the placentation process. RESULTS We found that loss of maternal Cripto results in defective placentation, decreased vascularization within the placental labyrinth and leads to intrauterine growth restriction and fetal death. We further demonstrated that components of the VEGF and Notch signaling pathways are downregulated in Cripto cKO decidua and placenta potentially contributing to defects in the development of the vasculature at maternal-fetal interface. DISCUSSION These findings demonstrate that maternal Cripto is involved in the maternal-fetal communications required for proper development of the placenta and placental vasculature.
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18
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Shafiei S, Farah O, Dufort D. Maternal Cripto is required for proper uterine decidualization and peri-implantation uterine remodeling. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1045-1057. [PMID: 33590845 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab020] [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: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cripto encodes for a cell surface receptor whose role in embryonic development and stem cell maintenance has been studied. Cripto mRNA and protein have been detected in the human uterus at all stages of the menstrual cycle. To date, there is not much known about Cripto's role in female reproduction. As Cripto null Knockout (KO) is embryonic lethal, we created a conditional KO (cKO) mouse model in which Cripto is deleted only in the reproductive tissues using a Cre-loxP system. Pregnancy rate and number of pups per litter were evaluated as general fertility indices. We observed a significant decrease in pregnancy rate and litter size with loss of uterine Cripto indicating that Cripto cKO females are subfertile. We showed that although the preimplantation period is normal in Cripto cKO females, 20% of cKO females fail to establish pregnancy and an additional 20% of females undergo full litter loss after implantation between day 5.5 postcoitum (d5.5pc) and d8.5pc. We showed that subfertility caused by loss of uterine Cripto is due to defects in uterine decidualization, remodeling, and luminal closure and is accompanied by significant downregulation of Bmp2, Wnt4 and several components of Notch signaling pathway which all are known to be important factors in uterine remodeling and decidualization. Our study demonstrates that Cripto is expressed in the uterus during critical stages of early pregnancy and its deletion results in subfertility due to implantation failure, impaired peri-implantation uterine remodeling and impaired uterine decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Shafiei
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Omar Farah
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University , Montreal, Canada.,Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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19
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Fang X, Ni N, Gao Y, Lydon JP, Ivanov I, Rijnkels M, Bayless KJ, Li Q. Transforming growth factor beta signaling and decidual integrity in mice†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1186-1198. [PMID: 32902612 PMCID: PMC7711917 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling regulates multifaceted reproductive processes. It has been shown that the type 1 receptor of TGFβ (TGFBR1) is indispensable for female reproductive tract development, implantation, placental development, and fertility. However, the role of TGFβ signaling in decidual development and function remains poorly defined. Our objective is to determine the impact of uterine-specific deletion of Tgfbr1 on decidual integrity, with a focus on the cellular and molecular properties of the decidua during development. Our results show that the developmental dynamics of the decidua is altered in TGFBR1 conditionally depleted uteri from embryonic day (E) 5.5 to E8.5, substantiated by downregulation of genes associated with inflammatory responses and uterine natural killer cell abundance, reduced presence of nondecidualized fibroblasts in the antimesometrial region, and altered decidual cell development. Notably, conditional ablation of TGFBR1 results in the formation of decidua containing more abundant alpha smooth muscle actin (ACTA2)-positive cells at the peripheral region of the antimesometrial side versus controls at E6.5-E8.5. This finding is corroborated by upregulation of a subset of smooth muscle marker genes in Tgfbr1 conditionally deleted decidua at E6.5 and E8.5. Moreover, increased cell proliferation and enhanced decidual ERK1/2 signaling were found in Tgfbr1 conditional knockout mice upon decidual regression. In summary, conditional ablation of TGFBR1 in the uterus profoundly impacts the cellular and molecular properties of the decidua. Our results suggest that TGFBR1 in uterine epithelial and stromal compartments is important for the integrity of the decidua, a transient but crucial structure that supports embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Fang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ivan Ivanov
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Monique Rijnkels
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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20
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Jia Y, Xie H, Zhang J, Ying H. Induction of TGF-β receptor I expression in a DNA methylation-independent manner mediated by DNMT3A downregulation is involved in early-onset severe preeclampsia. FASEB J 2020; 34:13224-13238. [PMID: 32794622 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000253rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia, especially early-onset severe preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Although it has been well known that the pathophysiology of early-onset severe preeclampsia begins with abnormal placentation and aberrant activation of TGF-β signaling inhibits trophoblast cell invasion, the mechanisms underlying dysregulation of TGF-β signaling in early-onset severe preeclampsia remain elusive to date. Here, we revealed that induction of TGFBR1/TGF-β signaling mediated by DNMT3A downregulation plays a critical role in early-onset severe preeclampsia. Our results show that DNMT3A downregulation elevates TGFBR1 expression in trophoblast cells. Moreover, inhibition of TGFBR1 and TGF-β/Smad signaling can rescue the deficiencies of trophoblast cell migration and invasion caused by DNMT3A knockdown. Mechanistically, DNMT3A suppresses the transcription of TGFBR1 through recruiting EZH2 to its promoter but not changing DNA methylation of TGFBR1 promoter. In human samples, we detected lowly expressed DNMT3A, highly expressed TGFBR1 and hyperactivation of TGF-β/Smad signaling in decidua-embedded extravillous trophoblasts in early-onset severe preeclampsia, which provides the clinical evidence for the correlation between DNMT3A and TGFBR1. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that DNA methylation-independent induction of TGFBR1 mediated by DNMT3A downregulation is relevant to the development of early-onset severe preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhui Jia
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Xie
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiqin Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, the Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Ying
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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21
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Zhong H, Geng Y, Chen J, Gao R, Yu C, Yang Z, Chen X, Mu X, Liu X, He J. Maternal exposure to CeO 2NPs during early pregnancy impairs pregnancy by inducing placental abnormalities. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 389:121830. [PMID: 31836366 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Cerium dioxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) has been widely used in many fields, and also recommended as a promising carrier for cancer targeted drugs in human medicine for its excellent properties. However, its biological safety to human health remains controversial. In this study, we propose a mouse model exposed to CeO2NPs during early pregnancy, to clarify the effect of maternal CeO2NPs exposure and related molecular mechanism. Pregnant mice are injected intravenously with CeO2NPs by once a day on D5, D6, and D7. The effects of CeO2NPs exposure on pregnancy outcomes are observed on D8, D9, D10 and D12. The results show that CeO2NPs exposure during early pregnancy would lead to poor pregnancy outcomes. Further study find that low-quality decidualization, including the imbalance of trophoblast invasion regulators secreted by decidual cells and abnormal recruitment and differentiation of uNK cells, leads to subsequent biological negative "ripple effects", including placental dysfunction, fetal loss or growth restriction. This study broadens the understanding of the biological safety of CeO2NPs, and provide clues for the prevention of its negative biological effects. Improving the function of uNK cells can be used as one of the therapeutic targets to prevent negative effects of CeO2NPs on pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangtian Zhong
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yanqing Geng
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Jun Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Rufei Gao
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Chao Yu
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Zhangyou Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xinyi Mu
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xueqing Liu
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Junlin He
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.
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22
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Hewitt SC, Grimm SA, Wu SP, DeMayo FJ, Korach KS. Estrogen receptor α (ERα)-binding super-enhancers drive key mediators that control uterine estrogen responses in mice. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:8387-8400. [PMID: 32354741 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.013666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor α (ERα) modulates gene expression by interacting with chromatin regions that are frequently distal from the promoters of estrogen-regulated genes. Active chromatin-enriched "super-enhancer" (SE) regions, mainly observed in in vitro culture systems, often control production of key cell type-determining transcription factors. Here, we defined super-enhancers that bind to ERα in vivo within hormone-responsive uterine tissue in mice. We found that SEs are already formed prior to estrogen exposure at the onset of puberty. The genes at SEs encoded critical developmental factors, including retinoic acid receptor α (RARA) and homeobox D (HOXD). Using high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) along with DNA sequence analysis, we demonstrate that most SEs are located at a chromatin loop end and that most uterine genes in loop ends associated with these SEs are regulated by estrogen. Although the SEs were formed before puberty, SE-associated genes acquired optimal ERα-dependent expression after reproductive maturity, indicating that pubertal processes that occur after SE assembly and ERα binding are needed for gene responses. Genes associated with these SEs affected key estrogen-mediated uterine functions, including transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and LIF interleukin-6 family cytokine (LIF) signaling pathways. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first identification of SE interactions that underlie hormonal regulation of genes in uterine tissue and optimal development of estrogen responses in this tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia C Hewitt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, NIEHS, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sara A Grimm
- Integrative Bioinformatics Support Group, NIEHS, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - San-Pin Wu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, NIEHS, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, NIEHS, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kenneth S Korach
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, NIEHS, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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23
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Sekulovski N, Whorton AE, Shi M, Hayashi K, MacLean JA. Periovulatory insulin signaling is essential for ovulation, granulosa cell differentiation, and female fertility. FASEB J 2020; 34:2376-2391. [PMID: 31908002 PMCID: PMC7781071 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901791r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated an essential role for insulin signaling in folliculogenesis as conditional ablation of Igf1r in primary follicles elicits defective follicle-stimulating hormone responsiveness blocking development at the preantral stage. Thus the potential role of insulin action in the periovulatory window and in the corpus luteum is unknown. To examine this, we generated conditional Insr,Igf1r, and double receptor knockout mice driven by Pgr-Cre. These models escape the preantral follicle block and in response to superovulatory gonadotropins exhibit normal distribution of ovarian follicles and corpora lutea. However, single ablation of Igf1r leads to subfertility and mice lacking both receptors are infertile. Double knockout mice have impaired oocyte development and ovulation. While some oocytes are released and fertilized, subsequent embryo development is retarded, and the embryos potentially fail to thrive due to lack of luteal support. In support of this, we found reduced expression of key enzymes in the steroid synthesis pathway and reduced serum progesterone. In addition to metabolic and steroidogenic pathways, RNA-sequencing analysis revealed transcription factor-3 as an important transcription factor downstream of insulin signaling. Collectively, these results highlight the importance of growth factors of the insulin family during two distinct windows of follicular development, ovulation, and luteinization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Sekulovski
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Allison E Whorton
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Mingxin Shi
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Kanako Hayashi
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - James A MacLean
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Life Science III, Carbondale, IL, USA
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24
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Activation of Uterine Smad3 Pathway Is Crucial for Embryo Implantation. Curr Med Sci 2019; 39:997-1002. [DOI: 10.1007/s11596-019-2134-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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25
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Mardanshahi Z, Karimpour Malekshah A, Talebpour Amiri F, Valadan R. Effects of Benzo(a)pyrene on the endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation in mice: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2019; 16. [PMID: 31417980 PMCID: PMC6600280 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v16i12.3680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) as an environmental pollutant is ubiquitous in the environment and it has destructive effects on human health. So far, various studies have demonstrated that BaP can cause adverse effects on the female reproductive system, but the existing information is limited about the effects of BaP on the endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of BaP on the endometrial receptivity and implantation in mice. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 40 pregnant BALB/c mice were divided into 5 groups (n = 8/each) as follows: experimental groups received the doses of 100 µg/kg, 200 µg/kg, and 500 µg/kg BaP dissolved in corn oil, the control group received normal saline and sham group received corn oil. Pregnant mice administered these solutions from Day 1 to Day 5 of gestation by gavage. On Day 6, the mice were sacrificed. Then their embryos were counted and the hormonal, histomorphological and molecular analyses were performed on the mocusa of uterine tube. Results The data revealed that BaP reduces estrogen and progesterone levels, decreases the number of implantation site, endometrium thickness, uterine lumen diameter, stromal cells and endometrial glands, and blood vessels in the endometrium. However, the expression of Activin receptor-like kinase 5 and E-cadherin
genes was not changed by BaP with different doses. Conclusion The finding of this study showed that BaP can change estrogen and progesterone levels, and endometrial morphology leads to impairing the endometrial receptivity and decreasing the number of implantation site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Mardanshahi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Abbasali Karimpour Malekshah
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Talebpour Amiri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Reza Valadan
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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26
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Rabaglino MB, Conrad KP. Evidence for shared molecular pathways of dysregulated decidualization in preeclampsia and endometrial disorders revealed by microarray data integration. FASEB J 2019; 33:11682-11695. [PMID: 31356122 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201900662r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Microarray data of chorionic villous samples (CVSs) obtained from women of ∼11.5 gestational weeks who developed preeclampsia with severe features (sPE; PE-CVS) revealed a molecular signature of impaired endometrial maturation (decidualization) before and during early pregnancy. Because endometrial disorders are also associated with aberrant decidualization, we asked whether they share molecular features with sPE. We employed microarray data integration to compare the molecular pathologies of PE-CVS and endometrial disorders, as well as decidua obtained postpartum from women with sPE. Eight public databases were reanalyzed with R software to determine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in pathologic tissues relative to normal controls. DEGs were then compared to explore overlap. Shared DEGs were examined for enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Principal component and network analyses were subsequently applied to selected DEGs. There was significant overlap of DEGs changing in the same direction for PE-CVS and endometrial disorders, suggesting common molecular pathways. Shared DEGs were enriched for cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. Genes in this pathway revealed expression patterns forming 2 distinct clusters, one for normal and the other pathologic endometrium. The most affected hub genes were related to decidualization and NK cell function. Few DEGs were shared by PE-CVS, and PE decidua obtained postpartum. sPE may be part of a biologic continuum of "endometrial spectrum disorders."-Rabaglino, M. B., Conrad, K. P. Evidence for shared molecular pathways of dysregulated decidualization in preeclampsia and endometrial disorders revealed by microarray data integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Belen Rabaglino
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina; and
| | - Kirk P Conrad
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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27
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Fang X, Ni N, Lydon JP, Ivanov I, Bayless KJ, Rijnkels M, Li Q. Enhancer of Zeste 2 Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 Subunit Is Required for Uterine Epithelial Integrity. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 189:1212-1225. [PMID: 30954472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2019.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Normal proliferation and differentiation of uterine epithelial cells are critical for uterine development and function. Enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit (EZH2), a core component of polycomb repressive complexes 2, possesses histone methyltransferase activity that catalyzes the trimethylation of lysine 27 of histone H3. EZH2 has been involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a key event in development and carcinogenesis. However, its role in uterine epithelial cell function remains unknown. To determine the role of uterine EZH2, Ezh2 was conditionally deleted using progesterone receptor Cre recombinase, which is expressed in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments of the uterus. Loss of EZH2 promoted stratification of uterine epithelium, an uncommon and detrimental event in the uterus. The abnormal epithelium expressed basal cell markers, including tumor protein 63, cytokeratin 5 (KRT5), KRT6A, and KRT14. These results suggest that EZH2 serves as a guardian of uterine epithelial integrity, partially via inhibiting the differentiation of basal-like cells and preventing epithelial stratification. The observed epithelial abnormality was accompanied by fertility defects, altered uterine growth and function, and the development of endometrial hyperplasia. Thus, the Ezh2 conditional knockout mouse model may be useful to explore mechanisms that regulate endometrial homeostasis and uterine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Fang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Ivan Ivanov
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; Center for Translational Environmental Health Research, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, Texas
| | - Monique Rijnkels
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.
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28
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Shukla V, Kaushal JB, Sankhwar P, Manohar M, Dwivedi A. Inhibition of TPPP3 attenuates β-catenin/NF-κB/COX-2 signaling in endometrial stromal cells and impairs decidualization. J Endocrinol 2019; 240:417-429. [PMID: 30667362 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation and decidualization are critical events that occur during early pregnancy. Decidualization is synchronized by the crosstalk of progesterone and the cAMP signaling pathway. Previously, we confirmed the role of TPPP3 during embryo implantation in mice, but the underlying role and mechanism of TPPP3 in decidualization has not yet been understood. The current study was aimed to investigate the role of TPPP3 in decidualization in vivo and in vitro. For in vivo experiments, decidual reaction was artificially induced in the uteri of BALB/c mice. TPPP3 was found to be highly expressed during decidualization, whereas in the uteri receiving TPPP3 siRNA, decidualization was suppressed and the expression of β-catenin and decidual marker prolactin was reduced. In human endometrium, TPPP3 protein was found to be predominantly expressed in the mid-secretory phase (LH+7). In the primary culture of human endometrial stromal cells (hESCs), TPPP3 siRNA knockdown inhibited stromal-to-decidual cell transition and decreased the expression of the decidualization markers prolactin and IGFBP-1. Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting experiments revealed that TPPP3 siRNA knockdown suppressed the expression of β-catenin, NF-κB and COX-2 in hESCs during decidualization. TPPP3 inhibition also decreased NF-kB nuclear accumulation in hESCs and suppressed NF-κB transcriptional promoter activity. COX-2 expression was significantly decreased in the presence of a selective NF-kB inhibitor (QNZ) implicating that NF-kB is involved in COX-2 expression in hESCs undergoing decidualization. TUNEL assay and FACS analysis revealed that TPPP3 knockdown induced apoptosis and caused loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in hESCs. The study suggested that TPPP3 plays a significant role in decidualization and its inhibition leads to the suppression of β-catenin/NF-κB/COX-2 signaling along with the induction of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Shukla
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
| | - Jyoti Bala Kaushal
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
| | - Pushplata Sankhwar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Murli Manohar
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Anila Dwivedi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
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29
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Kriseman M, Monsivais D, Agno J, Masand RP, Creighton CJ, Matzuk MM. Uterine double-conditional inactivation of Smad2 and Smad3 in mice causes endometrial dysregulation, infertility, and uterine cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:3873-3882. [PMID: 30651315 PMCID: PMC6397514 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1806862116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SMAD2 and SMAD3 are downstream proteins in the transforming growth factor-β (TGF β) signaling pathway that translocate signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus, bind DNA, and control the expression of target genes. While SMAD2/3 have important roles in the ovary, we do not fully understand the roles of SMAD2/3 in the uterus and their implications in the reproductive system. To avoid deleterious effects of global deletion, and given previous data showing redundant function of Smad2 and Smad3, a double-conditional knockout was generated using progesterone receptor-cre (Smad2/3 cKO) mice. Smad2/3 cKO mice were infertile due to endometrial hyperproliferation observed as early as 6 weeks of postnatal life. Endometrial hyperplasia worsened with age, and all Smad2/3 cKO mice ultimately developed bulky endometrioid-type uterine cancers with 100% mortality by 8 months of age. The phenotype was hormone-dependent and could be prevented with removal of the ovaries at 6 weeks of age but not at 12 weeks. Uterine tumor epithelium was associated with decreased expression of steroid biosynthesis genes, increased expression of inflammatory response genes, and abnormal expression of cell cycle checkpoint genes. Our results indicate the crucial role of SMAD2/3 in maintaining normal endometrial function and confirm the hormone-dependent nature of SMAD2/3 in the uterus. The hyperproliferation of the endometrium affected both implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. Our findings generate a mouse model to study the roles of SMAD2/3 in the uterus and serve to provide insight into the mechanism by which the endometrium can escape the plethora of growth regulatory proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Kriseman
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital Women's Pavilion, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Julio Agno
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Ramya P Masand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030;
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
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30
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Activin-like kinase 5 (ALK5) inactivation in the mouse uterus results in metastatic endometrial carcinoma. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:3883-3892. [PMID: 30655341 PMCID: PMC6397539 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1806838116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The rising incidence of endometrial cancer in the United States and worldwide can be partially attributed to elevated rates of obesity in the population. Although hysterectomy is an effective treatment for early endometrial cancer, medical interventions are required in advanced cases with metastatic disease or for women wishing to preserve fertility. Here, we present a mouse model with conditional inactivation of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) receptor, activin-like kinase 5 (Alk5), that develops estrogen-dependent endometrial adenocarcinoma with distant lung metastases. We anticipate that this mouse will be a useful preclinical model for testing novel therapies for endometrial cancer and for understanding the mechanisms that control endometrial regeneration in the postpartum uterus. The endometrial lining of the uterine cavity is a highly dynamic tissue that is under the continuous control of the ovarian steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Endometrial adenocarcinoma arises from the uncontrolled growth of the endometrial glands, which is typically associated with unopposed estrogen action and frequently occurs in older postmenopausal women. The incidence of endometrial cancer among younger women has been rising due to increasing rates of obesity, a major risk factor for the disease. The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) family is a highly conserved group of proteins with roles in cellular differentiation, proliferation, and cancer. Inactivating mutations in the genes encoding the TGFβ cell surface receptors (TGFBR1/ALK5 and TGFBR2) have been detected in various human cancers, indicating that a functional TGFβ signaling pathway is required for evading tumorigenesis. In this study, we present a mouse model with conditional inactivation of activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) in the mouse uterus using progesterone receptor cre (“Alk5 cKO”) that develops endometrial adenocarcinoma with metastasis to the lungs. The cancer and metastatic lung nodules are estrogen dependent and retain estrogen receptor α (ERα) reactivity, but have decreased levels of progesterone receptor (PR) protein. The endometrial tumors develop only in Alk5 cKO mice that are mated to fertile males, indicating that TGFβ-mediated postpartum endometrial repair is critical for endometrial function. Overall, these studies indicate that TGFβ signaling through TGFBR1/ALK5 in the endometrium is required for endometrial homeostasis, tumor suppression, and postpartum endometrial regeneration.
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31
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Glandular defects in the mouse uterus with sustained activation of TGF-beta signaling is associated with altered differentiation of endometrial stromal cells and formation of stromal compartment. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0209417. [PMID: 30550590 PMCID: PMC6294433 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine gland development, also known as adenogenesis, is a key uterine morphogenic process indispensable for normal uterine function and fertility. Our earlier studies have reported that overactivation of TGFB receptor 1 (TGFBR1) in the mouse uterus using progesterone receptor (Pgr)-Cre recombinase causes female infertility, defective decidualization, and reduced uterine gland formation, a developmental milestone of postnatal uterus. To understand mechanisms that underpin the disrupted uterine gland formation in mice with sustained activation of TGFBR1, we raised the question of whether early postnatal adenogenesis was compromised in these mice. Experiments were designed using mice with constitutive activation of TGFBR1 driven by Pgr-Cre to determine the timing of adenogenic defects and potential mechanisms associated with dysregulation of adenogenic genes, luminal epithelial cell proliferation and endometrial fibrotic changes. Uterine tissues from mice with constitutive activation of TGFBR1 were collected during the critical time window of adenogenesis and analyzed together with age-matched controls. Multiple approaches including immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Trichrome staining, quantitative real-time PCR, western blot, conditional knockout and human endometrial cell culture were utilized. TGFBR1 activation in the mouse uterus suppressed adenogenesis during postnatal uterine development, concomitant with the aberrant differentiation of uterine stromal cells. Analysis of transcript expression of WNT pathway components revealed dysregulation of adenogenesis-associated genes. Notably, the adenogenic defects occurred in spite of the increased proliferation of uterine luminal epithelial cells, accompanied by increased expression of genes associated with fibrotic changes. Moreover, the adenogenic defects were alleviated in mice where TGFBR1 was activated in presumably half of the complement of uterine cells. Our results suggest that altered differentiation of endometrial stromal cells and formation of stromal compartment promote adenogenic defects.
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32
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Phillips P, Brown MB, Progulske-Fox A, Wu XJ, Reyes L. Porphyromonas gingivalis strain-dependent inhibition of uterine spiral artery remodeling in the pregnant rat. Biol Reprod 2018; 99:1045-1056. [PMID: 29788108 PMCID: PMC6297315 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) is an important periodontal pathogen that is also implicated in pregnancy complications involving defective deep placentation (DDP). We hypothesized that Pg invasion of the placental bed promotes DDP. Pregnant rats were intravenously inoculated with sterile vehicle, Pg strain W83, or A7436 at gestation day (GD) 14 (acute cohort). Nonpregnant rats received repeated oral inoculations for 3 months before breeding (chronic cohort). Tissues and/or sera were collected at GD18 for analysis. Pg infection status was determined by seroconversion (chronic cohort) and by presence of Pg antigen in utero-placental tissues processed for histology and morphometric assessment of spiral artery remodeling. Mesometrial tissues from seropositive dams were analyzed for expression of interleukin 1β, 6, and 10, TNF, TGF-β, follistatin-related protein 3, and inhibin beta A chain since these genes regulate extravillous trophoblast invasion. The in situ distribution of W83 and A7436 antigen in utero-placental tissues was similar in both cohorts. In the acute cohort, mesometrial stromal necrosis was more common with W83, but arteritis was more common with A7436 infection (P < 0.05). Increased vascular necrosis was seen in mesometrium of chronically infected groups (P < 0.05). Only A7436-infected animals had increased fetal deaths, reduced spiral artery remodeling, reduced inhibin beta A expression, and an increased proportion of FSLT3 positive extravillous trophoblasts within spiral arteries. While infection with both Pg strains produced varying pathology of the deep placental bed, only infection with strain A7436 resulted in impaired spiral artery remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Phillips
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kirksville, Missouri, USA
| | - Mary B Brown
- Department of Infectious Disease and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine and D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ann Progulske-Fox
- Center for Molecular Microbiology and Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Xiao-Jun Wu
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, Wisconson, USA
| | - Leticia Reyes
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, Wisconson, USA
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Su X, Huang L, Xiao D, Qu Y, Mu D. Research Progress on the Role and Mechanism of Action of Activin A in Brain Injury. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:697. [PMID: 30356877 PMCID: PMC6190887 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin A belongs to the transforming growth factor superfamily and has a variety of biological functions. Studies have revealed that activin A can regulate the body's immune and inflammatory responses and participate in the regulation of cell death. In addition, activin A also has neurotrophic function and plays an important role in the repair of brain damage. This article summarizes recent advances in understanding the role and mechanism of action of activin A in brain injury and provides new hints into the application of activin A in the treatment of brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Su
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingyi Huang
- Department of Stomatology, West China College of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongqiong Xiao
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Qu
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Dezhi Mu
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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34
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Adams NR, Vasquez YM, Mo Q, Gibbons W, Kovanci E, DeMayo FJ. WNK lysine deficient protein kinase 1 regulates human endometrial stromal cell decidualization, proliferation, and migration in part through mitogen-activated protein kinase 7. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:400-412. [PMID: 29025069 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of endometrial stromal cells into decidual cells, termed decidualization, is an integral step in the establishment of pregnancy. The mitogen-activated protein kinase homolog, WNK lysine deficient protein kinase 1 (WNK1), is activated downstream of epidermal growth factor receptor during decidualization. Primary human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) were subjected to small interfering RNA knockdown of WNK1 followed by in vitro decidualization. This abrogated expression of the decidual marker genes, insulin like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) and prolactin (PRL), and prevented adoption of decidual cell morphology. Analysis of the WNK1-dependent transcriptome by RNA-Seq demonstrated that WNK1 regulates the expression of 1858 genes during decidualization. Gene ontology and upstream regulator pathway analysis showed that WNK1 regulates cell migration, differentiation, and proliferation. WNK1 was required for many of the gene expression changes that drive decidualization, including the induction of the inflammatory cytokines, C-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CCL8), interleukin 1 beta (IL1B), and interleukin 15 (IL15), and the repression of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) pathway genes, including early growth response 2 (EGR2), SMAD family member 3 (SMAD3), integrin subunit alpha 2 (ITGA2), integrin subunit alpha 4 (ITGA4), and integrin subunit beta 3 (ITGB3). In addition to abrogating decidualization, WNK1 knockdown decreased the migration and proliferation of HESCs. Furthermore, mitogen-activated protein kinase 7 (MAPK7), a known downstream target of WNK1, was activated during decidualization in a WNK1-dependent manner. Small interfering RNA knockdown of MAPK7 demonstrated that MAPK7 regulates a subset of WNK1-regulated genes and controls the migration and proliferation of HESCs. These results indicate that WNK1 and MAPK7 promote migration and proliferation during decidualization and regulate the expression of inflammatory cytokines and TGF-beta pathway genes in HESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyssa R Adams
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA.,Interdepartmental Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yasmin M Vasquez
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Qianxing Mo
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - William Gibbons
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ertug Kovanci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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35
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Shukla V, Popli P, Kaushal JB, Gupta K, Dwivedi A. Uterine TPPP3 plays important role in embryo implantation via modulation of β-catenin†. Biol Reprod 2018; 99:982-999. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Shukla
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
| | - Pooja Popli
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
| | - Jyoti Bala Kaushal
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
| | - Kanchan Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
| | - Anila Dwivedi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
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36
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Woods L, Perez-Garcia V, Hemberger M. Regulation of Placental Development and Its Impact on Fetal Growth-New Insights From Mouse Models. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:570. [PMID: 30319550 PMCID: PMC6170611 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is the chief regulator of nutrient supply to the growing embryo during gestation. As such, adequate placental function is instrumental for developmental progression throughout intrauterine development. One of the most common complications during pregnancy is insufficient growth of the fetus, a problem termed intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) that is most frequently rooted in a malfunctional placenta. Together with conventional gene targeting approaches, recent advances in screening mouse mutants for placental defects, combined with the ability to rapidly induce mutations in vitro and in vivo by CRISPR-Cas9 technology, has provided new insights into the contribution of the genome to normal placental development. Most importantly, these data have demonstrated that far more genes are required for normal placentation than previously appreciated. Here, we provide a summary of common types of placental defects in established mouse mutants, which will help us gain a better understanding of the genes impacting on human placentation. Based on a recent mouse mutant screen, we then provide examples on how these data can be mined to identify novel molecular hubs that may be critical for placental development. Given the close association between placental defects and abnormal cardiovascular and brain development, these functional nodes may also shed light onto the etiology of birth defects that co-occur with placental malformations. Taken together, recent insights into the regulation of mouse placental development have opened up new avenues for research that will promote the study of human pregnancy conditions, notably those based on defects in placentation that underlie the most common pregnancy pathologies such as IUGR and pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Woods
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Vicente Perez-Garcia
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Vicente Perez-Garcia
| | - Myriam Hemberger
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Myriam Hemberger
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37
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Abstract
Decidualization is an intricate biological process where extensive morphological, functional, and genetic changes take place in endometrial stromal cells to support the development of an implanting blastocyst. Deficiencies in decidualization are associated with pregnancy complications and reproductive diseases. Decidualization is coordinately regulated by steroid hormones, growth factors, and molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily signaling regulates multifaceted reproductive processes. However, the role of TGFβ signaling in uterine decidualization is poorly understood. Recent studies using the Cre-LoxP strategy have shed new light on the critical role of TGFβ signaling machinery in uterine decidualization. Herein, we focus on reviewing exciting findings from studies using both mouse genetics and in vitro cultured human endometrial stromal cells. We also delve into emerging mechanisms that underlie decidualization, such as non-coding RNAs and epigenetic modifications. We envision that future studies aimed at defining the interrelationship among TGFβ signaling circuitries and their potential interactions with epigenetic modifications/non-coding RNAs during uterine decidualization will open new avenues to treat pregnancy complications associated with decidualization deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Ni
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Qinglei Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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Monsivais D, Matzuk MM, Pangas SA. The TGF-β Family in the Reproductive Tract. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2017; 9:cshperspect.a022251. [PMID: 28193725 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a022251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family has a profound impact on the reproductive function of various organisms. In this review, we discuss how highly conserved members of the TGF-β family influence the reproductive function across several species. We briefly discuss how TGF-β-related proteins balance germ-cell proliferation and differentiation as well as dauer entry and exit in Caenorhabditis elegans. In Drosophila melanogaster, TGF-β-related proteins maintain germ stem-cell identity and eggshell patterning. We then provide an in-depth analysis of landmark studies performed using transgenic mouse models and discuss how these data have uncovered basic developmental aspects of male and female reproductive development. In particular, we discuss the roles of the various TGF-β family ligands and receptors in primordial germ-cell development, sexual differentiation, and gonadal cell development. We also discuss how mutant mouse studies showed the contribution of TGF-β family signaling to embryonic and postnatal testis and ovarian development. We conclude the review by describing data obtained from human studies, which highlight the importance of the TGF-β family in normal female reproductive function during pregnancy and in various gynecologic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Stephanie A Pangas
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030
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39
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Gurugubelli Krishna R, Vishnu Bhat B. Molecular mechanisms of intrauterine growth restriction. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017. [PMID: 28651476 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1347922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a pregnancy specific disease characterized by decreased growth rate of fetus than the normal growth potential at particular gestational age. In the current scenario it is a leading cause of fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. In the last decade exhilarating experimental studies from several laboratories have provided fascinating proof for comprehension of molecular basis of IUGR. Atypical expression of enzymes governed by TGFβ causes the placental apoptosis and altered expression of TGFβ due to hyper alimentation causes impairment of lung function. Crosstalk of cAMP with protein kinases plays a prominent role in the regulation of cortisol levels. Increasing levels of NOD1 proteins leads to development of IUGR by increasing the levels of inflammatory mediators. Increase in leptin synthesis in placental trophoblast cells is associated with IUGR. In this review, we emphasize on the regulatory mechanisms of IUGR and its associated diseases. They may help improve the in-utero fetal growth and provide a better therapeutic intervention for prevention and treatment of IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - B Vishnu Bhat
- a Department of Neonatology , JIPMER , Pondicherry , India
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40
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Liu C, Liang X, Wang J, Zheng Q, Zhao Y, Khan MN, Liu S, Yan Q. Protein O-fucosyltransferase 1 promotes trophoblast cell proliferation through activation of MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 88:95-101. [PMID: 28103512 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein O-fucosylation is an important glycosylation modification and plays an important role in embryonic development. Protein O-fucosyltransferase 1 (poFUT1) is an essential enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of protein O-fucosylation. Our previous studies showed that poFUT1 promoted trophoblast cell migration and invasion at the fetal-maternal interface, but the role of poFUT1 in trophoblast cells proliferation remains unclear. Here, immunohistochemistry data showed that poFUT1 and PCNA levels were decreased in abortion patient's trophoblasts compared with women with normal pregnancies. Our results also showed that poFUT1 promoted trophoblast cell proliferation by CCK-8 assay and cell cycle analysis. PoFUT1 increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, and PI3K/Akt, while inhibitors of ERK1/2(PD98059), p38 MAPK(SB203580), and PI3K (LY294002) prevented ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, and Akt phosphorylation. Moreover, poFUT1 stimulation of trophoblast cells proliferation correlated with increased cell cycle progression by promoting cells into S-phase. The underlying mechanism involved increased cyclin D1, cyclin E, CDK 2, CDK 4, and pRb expression and decreased levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p21 and p27, which were blocked by inhibitors of the upstream signaling molecules MAPK and PI3K/Akt. In conclusion, poFUT1 promotes trophoblast cell proliferation by activating MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Institute of Anaesthesia, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian 116044, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Liang
- Dalian Blood Center, Dalian 116001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian 116044, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian 116044, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian 116044, People's Republic of China
| | - Muhammad Noman Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian 116044, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian 116044, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qiu Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian 116044, People's Republic of China
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41
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Monsivais D, Clementi C, Peng J, Fullerton PT, Prunskaite-Hyyryläinen R, Vainio SJ, Matzuk MM. BMP7 Induces Uterine Receptivity and Blastocyst Attachment. Endocrinology 2017; 158:979-992. [PMID: 28324064 PMCID: PMC5460793 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In women, the window of implantation is limited to a brief 2- to 3-day period characterized by optimal levels of circulating ovarian hormones and a receptive endometrium. Although the window of implantation is assumed to occur 8 to 10 days after ovulation in women, molecular markers of endometrial receptivity are necessary to determine optimal timing prior to embryo transfer. Previous studies showed that members of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family are expressed in the uterus necessary for female fertility; however, the role of BMP7 during implantation and in late gestation is not known. To determine the contribution of BMP7 to female fertility, we generated Bmp7flox/flox-Pgr-cre+/- [BMP7 conditional knockout (cKO)] mice. We found that absence of BMP7 in the female reproductive tract resulted in subfertility due to uterine defects. At the time of implantation, BMP7 cKO females displayed a nonreceptive endometrium with elevated estrogen-dependent signaling. These implantation-related defects also affected decidualization and resulted in decreased expression of decidual cell markers such as Wnt4, Cox2, Ereg, and Bmp2. We also observed placental abnormalities in pregnant Bmp7 cKO mice, including excessive parietal trophoblast giant cells and absence of a mature placenta at 10.5 days post coitum. To establish possible redundant roles of BMP5 and BMP7 during pregnancy, we generated double BMP5 knockout/BMP7 cKO [BMP5/7 double knockout (DKO)] mice; however, we found that the combined deletion had no additive disruptive effect on fertility. Our studies indicate that BMP7 is an important factor during the process of implantation that contributes to healthy embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Monsivais
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology
- Reproductive Medicine, and
| | - Caterina Clementi
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, and
- Reproductive Medicine, and
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jia Peng
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology
- Molecular and Human Genetics
- Reproductive Medicine, and
| | - Paul T. Fullerton
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology
- Molecular and Human Genetics
- Reproductive Medicine, and
| | - Renata Prunskaite-Hyyryläinen
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology
- Reproductive Medicine, and
- Biocenter Oulu, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Aapistie 5A, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Seppo J. Vainio
- Biocenter Oulu, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Aapistie 5A, 90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Martin M. Matzuk
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology
- Molecular and Human Genetics
- Molecular and Cellular Biology, and
- Pharmacology, Centers for
- Drug Discovery and
- Reproductive Medicine, and
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
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Sun P, Li L, Zhao C, Pan M, Qian Z, Su X. Deficiency of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor attenuates bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in mice. Mol Med 2017; 23:34-39. [PMID: 28283678 DOI: 10.2119/molmed.2016.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR, coded by Chrna7) is indispensible in dampening proinflammatory responses. However, whether α7 nAChR would play a role in regulating bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung fibrosis is less investigated. Here, we intratracheally challenged wildtype and Chrna7-/- mice with BLM to elicit lung fibrosis. Taken advantage of this model, we measured body weight loss, lung fibrogenic genes (Acta2, Col1a1, Fsp1, and Fstl1), histology, Masson's trichrome staining, hydroxyproline levels, and expression of α-SMA at protein levels in the BLM-challenged lung for evaluating severity of lung fibrosis. We also pretreated human fibroblasts (MRC5 cell line) and isolated mouse lung fibroblasts with GTS-21 (an α7 nAChR agonist) to study its effects on TGF-β-stimulated profibrotic profiles. We found that lung Chrna7 expression and CD4+CHAT+ (Choline acetyltransferase, an enzyme for local acetylcholine synthesis) cells were 12-fold and 4.5-fold respectively elevated in the early stage of lung fibrosis. Deletion of Chrna7 prevented body weight loss and reduced lung fibrogenic genes (Acta2, Col1a1, Fsp1, and Fstl1) and Arg 1 (coding arginase 1). Deletion of Chrna7 attenuated lung arginase 1+Ly6C+ cells, Masson's trichrome staining, hydroxyproline levels, and expression of α-SMA at protein levels in BLM-challenged mice. Mechanistically, activation of α7 nAChR in human fibroblasts increased TGF-β-induced phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and transcription of fibrogenic genes (Acta2, Col1a1). In isolated mouse lung fibroblasts, activation of α7 nAChR also enhanced TGF-β induced-transcription of fibrogenic genes; however, deletion of Chrna7 diminished these effects. Taken together, deficiency of α7 nAChR could suppress the development of BLM-induced lung fibrosis. Thus, α7 nAChR might be a novel therapeutic target for treating lung fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyu Sun
- Life and Environment Science College, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Li
- Unit of Respiratory Infection and Immunity, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Caiqi Zhao
- Unit of Respiratory Infection and Immunity, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Mengyao Pan
- Unit of Respiratory Infection and Immunity, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Zhikang Qian
- Unit of Herpesvirus and Molecular Virology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Su
- Unit of Respiratory Infection and Immunity, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
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43
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Global decrease in the expression of signalling pathways’ genes in murine uterus during preimplantation pregnancy. Reprod Biol 2017; 17:89-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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44
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Decreasing maternal myostatin programs adult offspring bone strength in a mouse model of osteogenesis imperfecta. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:13522-13527. [PMID: 27821779 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1607644113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
During fetal development, the uterine environment can have effects on offspring bone architecture and integrity that persist into adulthood; however, the biochemical and molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Myostatin is a negative regulator of muscle mass. Parental myostatin deficiency (Mstntm1Sjl/+) increases muscle mass in wild-type offspring, suggesting an intrauterine programming effect. Here, we hypothesized that Mstntm1Sjl/+ dams would also confer increased bone strength. In wild-type offspring, maternal myostatin deficiency altered fetal growth and calvarial collagen content of newborn mice and conferred a lasting impact on bone geometry and biomechanical integrity of offspring at 4 mo of age, the age of peak bone mass. Second, we sought to apply maternal myostatin deficiency to a mouse model with osteogenesis imperfecta (Col1a2oim), a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by abnormalities in the structure and/or synthesis of type I collagen. Femora of male Col1a2oim/+ offspring from natural mating of Mstntm1Sjl/+ dams to Col1a2oim/+sires had a 15% increase in torsional ultimate strength, a 29% increase in tensile strength, and a 24% increase in energy to failure compared with age, sex, and genotype-matched offspring from natural mating of Col1a2oim/+ dams to Col1a2oim/+ sires. Finally, increased bone biomechanical strength of Col1a2oim/+ offspring that had been transferred into Mstntm1Sjl/+ dams as blastocysts demonstrated that the effects of maternal myostatin deficiency were conferred by the postimplantation environment. Thus, targeting the gestational environment, and specifically prenatal myostatin pathways, provides a potential therapeutic window and an approach for treating osteogenesis imperfecta.
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45
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Loomans HA, Andl CD. Activin receptor-like kinases: a diverse family playing an important role in cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2016; 6:2431-2447. [PMID: 27904762 PMCID: PMC5126264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The role and function of the members of the TGFβ superfamily has been a substantial area of research focus for the last several decades. During that time, it has become apparent that aberrations in TGFβ family signaling, whether through the BMP, Activin, or TGFβ arms of the pathway, can result in tumorigenesis or contribute to its progression. Downstream signaling regulates cellular growth under normal physiological conditions yet induces diverse processes during carcinogenesis, ranging from epithelial- to-mesenchymal transition to cell migration and invasion to angiogenesis. Due to these observations, the question has been raised how to utilize and target components of these signaling pathways in cancer therapy. Given that these cascades include both ligands and receptors, there are multiple levels at which to interfere. Activin receptor-like kinases (ALKs) are a group of seven type I receptors responsible for TGFβ family signal transduction and are utilized by many ligands within the superfamily. The challenge lies in specifically targeting the often-overlapping functional effects of BMP, Activin, or TGFβ signaling during cancer progression. This review focuses on the characteristic function of the individual receptors within each subfamily and their recognized roles in cancer. We next explore the clinical utility of therapeutically targeting ALKs as some have shown partial responses in Phase I clinical trials but disappointing outcomes when used in Phase II studies. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future directions of this body of work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holli A Loomans
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt UniversityNashville, TN, USA
| | - Claudia D Andl
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central FloridaOrlando, FL, USA
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Rodriguez A, Tripurani SK, Burton JC, Clementi C, Larina I, Pangas SA. SMAD Signaling Is Required for Structural Integrity of the Female Reproductive Tract and Uterine Function During Early Pregnancy in Mice. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:44. [PMID: 27335065 PMCID: PMC5029477 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.139477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a complex physiological process tightly controlled by the interplay among hormones, morphogens, transcription factors, and signaling pathways. Although recent studies using genetically engineered mouse models have revealed that ligands and receptors of transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathways are essential for multiple reproductive events during pregnancy, the functional role of SMAD transcription factors, which serve as the canonical signaling platform for the TGFbeta/BMP pathways, in the oviduct and uterus is undefined. Here, we used a mouse model containing triple conditional deletion of the BMP receptor signaling Smads (Smad1 and Smad5) and Smad4, the central mediator of both TGFbeta and BMP signaling, to investigate the role of the SMADs in reproductive tract structure and function in cells from the Amhr2 lineage. Unlike the respective single- or double-knockouts, female Smad1(flox/flox) Smad5(flox/flox) Smad4(flox/flox) Amhr2(cre/+)conditional knockout (i.e., Smad1/5/4-Amhr2-cre KO) mice are sterile. We discovered that Smad1/5/4-Amhr2-cre KO females have malformed oviducts that subsequently develop oviductal diverticuli. These oviducts showed dysregulation of multiple genes essential for oviduct and smooth muscle development. In addition, uteri from Smad1/5/4-Amhr2-cre KO females exhibit multiple defects in stroma, epithelium, and smooth muscle layers and fail to assemble a closed uterine lumen upon embryo implantation, with defective uterine decidualization that led to pregnancy loss at early to mid-gestation. Taken together, our study uncovers a new role for the SMAD transcription factors in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of oviduct and uterus, required for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Rodriguez
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas Graduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Swamy K Tripurani
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jason C Burton
- Graduate Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Caterina Clementi
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas Graduate Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Irina Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Stephanie A Pangas
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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47
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Wang X, Khatri S, Broaddus R, Wang Z, Hawkins SM. Deletion of Arid1a in Reproductive Tract Mesenchymal Cells Reduces Fertility in Female Mice. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:93. [PMID: 26962117 PMCID: PMC4861168 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Women with endometriosis can suffer from decreased fecundity or complete infertility via abnormal oocyte function or impaired placental-uterine interactions required for normal pregnancy establishment and maintenance. Although AT-rich interactive domain 1A (SWI-like) (ARID1A) is a putative tumor suppressor in human endometrial cancers and endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers, little is known about its role in normal uterine function. To study the potential function of ARID1A in the female reproductive tract, we generated mice with a conditional knockout of Arid1a using anti-Müllerian hormone receptor 2-Cre. Female Arid1a conditional knockout mice exhibited a progressive decrease in number of pups per litter, with a precipitous decline after the second litter. We observed no tumors in virgin mice, although one knockout mouse developed a uterine tumor after pregnancy. Unstimulated virgin female knockout mice showed normal oviductal, ovarian, and uterine histology. Uteri of Arid1a knockout mice showed a normal decidualization response and appropriate responses to estradiol and progesterone stimulation. In vitro studies using primary cultures of human endometrial stromal fibroblasts revealed that small interfering RNA knockdown of ARID1A did not affect decidualization in vitro. Timed pregnancy studies revealed the significant resorption of embryos at Embryonic Day 16.5 in knockout mice in the third pregnancy. In addition to evidence of implantation site hemorrhage, pregnant Arid1a knockout mice showed abnormal placental morphology. These results suggest that Arid1a supports successful pregnancy through its role in placental function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyin Wang
- Indiana University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Shikha Khatri
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Houston, Texas
| | - Russell Broaddus
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, Houston, Texas
| | - Zhong Wang
- University of Michigan, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Shannon M Hawkins
- Indiana University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indianapolis, Indiana
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Monsivais D, Clementi C, Peng J, Titus MM, Barrish JP, Creighton CJ, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Matzuk MM. Uterine ALK3 is essential during the window of implantation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E387-95. [PMID: 26721398 PMCID: PMC4725477 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1523758113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The window of implantation is defined by the inhibition of uterine epithelial proliferation, structural epithelial cell remodeling, and attenuated estrogen (E2) response. These changes occur via paracrine signaling between the uterine epithelium and stroma. Because implantation defects are a major cause of infertility in women, identifying these signaling pathways will improve infertility interventions. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are TGF-β family members that regulate the postimplantation and midgestation stages of pregnancy. In this study, we discovered that signaling via activin-like kinase 3 (ALK3/BMPR1A), a BMP type 1 receptor, is necessary for blastocyst attachment. Conditional knockout (cKO) of ALK3 in the uterus was obtained by producing Alk3(flox) (/flox)-Pgr-cre-positive females. Alk3 cKO mice are sterile and have defects in the luminal uterine epithelium, including increased microvilli density and maintenance of apical cell polarity. Moreover, Alk3 cKO mice exhibit an elevated uterine E2 response and unopposed epithelial cell proliferation during the window of implantation. We determined that dual transcriptional regulation of Kruppel-like factor 15 (Klf15), by both the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) transcription factor SMAD family member 4 (SMAD4) and progesterone receptor (PR), is necessary to inhibit uterine epithelial cell proliferation, a key step for embryo implantation. Our findings present a convergence of BMP and steroid hormone signaling pathways in the regulation of uterine receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Caterina Clementi
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Jia Peng
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Mary M Titus
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - James P Barrish
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - John P Lydon
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030; Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
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49
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Clark DA. Mouse is the new woman? Translational research in reproductive immunology. Semin Immunopathol 2016; 38:651-668. [DOI: 10.1007/s00281-015-0553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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50
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Schubert C. Superfamily Supports Pregnancy. Biol Reprod 2015. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.135756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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