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Chen EX, Hu SC, Xu JQ, Liu KY, Tang J, Shen XP, Liang X, Xie YL, Ge LX, Luo X, Wang YX, Xiang YL, Ding YB. Suppression of GATA3 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and simultaneous cellular senescence in human extravillous trophoblasts. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119768. [PMID: 38838858 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2024.119768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The regulatory mechanism of the transcription factor GATA3 in the differentiation and maturation process of extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) in early pregnancy placenta, as well as its relevance to the occurrence of pregnancy disorders, remains poorly understood. This study leveraged single-cell RNA sequencing data from placental organoid models and placental tissue to explore the dynamic changes in GATA3 expression during EVT maturation. The expression pattern exhibited an initial upregulation followed by subsequent downregulation, with aberrant GATA3 localization observed in cases of recurrent miscarriage (RM). By identifying global targets regulated by GATA3 in primary placental EVT cells, JEG3, and HTR8/SVneo cell lines, this study offered insights into its regulatory mechanisms across different EVT cell models. Shared regulatory targets among these cell types and activation of trophoblast cell marker genes emphasized the importance of GATA3 in EVT differentiation and maturation. Knockdown of GATA3 in JEG3 cells led to repression of GATA3-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as evidenced by changes in marker gene expression levels and enhanced migration ability. Additionally, interference with GATA3 accelerated cellular senescence, as indicated by reduced proliferation rates and increased activity levels for senescence-associated β-galactosidase enzyme, along with elevated expression levels for senescence-associated genes. This study provides comprehensive insights into the dual role of GATA3 in regulating EMT and cellular senescence during EVT differentiation, shedding light on the dynamic changes in GATA3 expression in normal and pathological placental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- En-Xiang Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Hunan Provincial University Key Laboratory of the Fundamental and Clinical Research on Functional Nucleic Acid, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changsha Medical University, Hunan 410219, China
| | - Si-Chen Hu
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jia-Qi Xu
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Kun-Yan Liu
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jing Tang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xi-Peng Shen
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - You-Long Xie
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Lu-Xin Ge
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Agricultural Biogenomics, Changsha Medical University. Hunan 410219, China
| | - Xin Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yun-Long Xiang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, China; Department of Toxicology, Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
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Biase FH, Moorey SE, Schnuelle JG, Rodning S, Ortega MS, Spencer TE. Altered microRNA composition in the uterine lumen fluid in cattle (Bos taurus) pregnancies initiated by artificial insemination or transfer of an in vitro produced embryo. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:130. [PMID: 39267128 PMCID: PMC11397056 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-024-01083-8] [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: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are presented in the uterine lumen of many mammals, and in vitro experiments have determined that several miRNAs are important for the regulation of endometrial and trophoblast functions. Our aim was to identify and contrast the miRNAs present in extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the uterine lumen fluid (ULF) at the onset of attachment in cattle pregnancies (gestation d 18) initiated by artificial insemination (AI) or by the transfer of an in vitro-produced blastocyst (IVP-ET). A third group had no conceptus after the transfer of an IVP embryo. RESULTS The abundance of 263 annotated miRNAs was quantified in the EVs collected from ULF. There was an increase in the transcript abundance of 20 miRNAs in the ULF EVs from the AI pregnant group, while 4 miRNAs had a lower abundance relative to the group not containing a conceptus. Additionally, 4 miRNAs were more abundant in ULF EVs in the AI pregnant group relative to IVP-ET group (bta-mir-17, bta-mir-7-3, MIR7-1, MIR18A). Specific miRNAs in the ULF EVs were co-expressed with messenger RNAs expressed in extra-embryonic tissues and endometrium, including genes that are known to be their targets. CONCLUSIONS The results provide biological insights into the participation of miRNAs in the regulation of trophoblast proliferation and differentiation, as well as in endometrium receptivity. The knowledge that in vitro cultured embryos can contribute to the altered abundance of specific miRNAs in the uterine lumen can lead to the development of corrective approaches to reduce conceptus losses during the first month of pregnancy in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando H Biase
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 175 W Campus Dr, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
| | - Sarah E Moorey
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Julie G Schnuelle
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Soren Rodning
- Department of Animal Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Martha Sofia Ortega
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
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Cinkornpumin JK, Kwon SY, Prandstetter AM, Maxian T, Sirois J, Goldberg J, Zhang J, Saini D, Dasgupta P, Jeyarajah MJ, Renaud SJ, Paul S, Haider S, Pastor WA. Hypoxia and loss of GCM1 expression prevents differentiation and contact inhibition in human trophoblast stem cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.10.612343. [PMID: 39314437 PMCID: PMC11419009 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.10.612343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
The placenta develops alongside the embryo and nurtures fetal development to term. During the first stages of embryonic development, due to low blood circulation, the blood and ambient oxygen supply is very low (∼1-2% O 2 ) and gradually increases upon placental invasion. While a hypoxic environment is associated with stem cell self-renewal and proliferation, persistent hypoxia may have severe effects on differentiating cells and could be the underlying cause of placental disorders. We find that human trophoblast stem cells (hTSC) thrive in low oxygen, whereas differentiation of hTSC to trophoblast to syncytiotrophoblast (STB) and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) is negatively affected by hypoxic conditions. The pro-differentiation factor GCM1 (human Glial Cell Missing-1) is downregulated in low oxygen, and concordantly there is substantial reduction of GCM1-regulated genes in hypoxic conditions. Knockout of GCM1 in hTSC caused impaired EVT and STB formation and function, reduced expression of differentiation-responsive genes, and resulted in maintenance of self-renewal genes. Treatment with a PI3K inhibitor reported to reduce GCM1 protein levels likewise counteracts spontaneous or directed differentiation. Additionally, chromatin immunoprecipitation of GCM1 showed enrichment of GCM1-specific binding near key transcription factors upregulated upon differentiation including the contact inhibition factor CDKN1C. Loss of GCM1 resulted in downregulation of CDKN1C and corresponding loss of contact inhibition, implicating GCM1 in regulation of this critical process.
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Zheng Y, Zha X, Zhang B, Elsabagh M, Wang H, Wang M, Zhang H. The interaction of ER stress and autophagy in trophoblasts: navigating pregnancy outcome†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:292-311. [PMID: 38678504 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae066] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum is a complex and dynamic organelle that initiates unfolded protein response and endoplasmic reticulum stress in response to the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins within its lumen. Autophagy is a paramount intracellular degradation system that facilitates the transportation of proteins, cytoplasmic components, and organelles to lysosomes for degradation and recycling. Preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation are two common complications of pregnancy associated with abnormal trophoblast differentiation and placental dysfunctions and have a major impact on fetal development and maternal health. The intricate interplay between endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy and their impact on pregnancy outcomes, through mediating trophoblast differentiation and placental development, has been highlighted in various reports. Autophagy controls trophoblast regulation through a variety of gene expressions and signaling pathways while excessive endoplasmic reticulum stress triggers downstream apoptotic signaling, culminating in trophoblast apoptosis. This comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of placental development and explores the underlying mechanisms of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation. In addition, this review will elucidate the molecular mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy, both individually and in their interplay, in mediating placental development and trophoblast differentiation, particularly highlighting their roles in preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation development. This research seeks to the interplay between endoplasmic reticulum stress and impaired autophagy in the placental trophoderm, offering novel insights into their contribution to pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zheng
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Repubic of China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Zha
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Repubic of China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Repubic of China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Mabrouk Elsabagh
- Department of Animal Production and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Nigde, Turkey
- Department of Nutrition and Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, KafrelSheikh, Egypt
| | - Hongrong Wang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Repubic of China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengzhi Wang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Repubic of China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Reclamation Science, Shihezi, P. R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolic Manipulation of Herbivorous Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Repubic of China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Lu X, Lan X, Fu X, Li J, Wu M, Xiao L, Zeng Y. Screening Preeclampsia Genes and the Effects of CITED2 on Trophoblastic Function. Int J Gen Med 2024; 17:3493-3509. [PMID: 39161403 PMCID: PMC11330746 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s475310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious complication of obstetrics and represents a significant challenge in terms of understanding its underlying mechanism. It has been shown that a number of disorders involve dysregulation of the CBP/p300-interacting transactivator with glutamic acid/aspartic acid-rich carboxyl-terminal domain 2 (CITED2). However, the relationship between PE and CITED2 is still mostly unclear. This work aimed to confirm the hub genes linked to PE and explore the roles of CITED2 in trophoblast using experimental and bioinformatic methods. Methods To determine the hub genes, bioinformatics research was performed on two datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) public database. Immune infiltration analysis and enrichment analysis were also used to identify the related pathways and immune cells. PCR and WB were then used to validate the mRNA and protein levels of CITED2 in the PE samples. Finally, the expression of CITED2 was knocked down using siRNA to investigate the function of CITED2 in trophoblast development in vitro. Results The study's findings showed that the NOTCH signaling pathways, glycolysis, and hypoxia were the main areas of enrichment for the six PE-related genes that were tested. The results of immune infiltration suggest that activated NK cells and regulatory T cells may play an important role in this process. CITED2 was significantly upregulated in the PE placenta. In functional tests, the knockdown of CITED2 may enhance apoptosis while suppressing migration, invasion, and proliferation of cells. Conclusion This study offers important proof that CITED2 influences trophoblast cell function and may one day be a therapeutic target for PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujing Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xi Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqian Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yachang Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People’s Republic of China
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Zhao X, Liu S, Yang Z, Li Y. Molecular mechanisms and genetic factors contributing to the developmental dysplasia of the hip. Front Genet 2024; 15:1413500. [PMID: 39156961 PMCID: PMC11327038 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1413500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The most prevalent hip disease in neonates is developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). A timely and accurate diagnosis is required to provide the most effective treatment for pediatric patients with DDH. Heredity and gene variation have been the subject of increased attention and research worldwide as one of the factors contributing to the pathogenesis of DDH. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), genome-wide linkage analyses (GWLA), and exome sequencing (ES) have identified variants in numerous genes and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as being associated with susceptibility to DDH in sporadic and DDH family patients. Furthermore, the DDH phenotype can be observed in animal models that exhibit susceptibility genes or loci, including variants in CX3CR1, KANSL1, and GDF5. The dentification of noncoding RNAs and de novo gene variants in patients with DDH-related syndrome has enhanced our understanding of the genes implicated in DDH. This article reviews the most recent molecular mechanisms and genetic factors that contribute to DDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Zhao
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Shenyang Orthopaedic Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- College of Police Dog Technology, Criminal Investigation Police University of China, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhonghua Yang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Varberg KM, Moreno-Irusta A, Novoa A, Musser B, Varberg JM, Goering JP, Saadi I, Iqbal K, Okae H, Arima T, Williams J, Pisarska MD, Soares MJ. Leveraging chorionic villus biopsies for the derivation of patient-specific trophoblast stem cells. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2022.12.07.22283218. [PMID: 39108523 PMCID: PMC11302605 DOI: 10.1101/2022.12.07.22283218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Human trophoblast stem (TS) cells are an informative in vitro model for the generation and testing of biologically meaningful hypotheses. The goal of this project was to derive patient-specific TS cell lines from clinically available chorionic villus sampling biopsies. Cell outgrowths were captured from human chorionic villus tissue specimens cultured in modified human TS cell medium. Cell colonies emerged early during the culture and cell lines were established and passaged for several generations. Karyotypes of the newly established chorionic villus-derived trophoblast stem (TS CV ) cell lines were determined and compared to initial genetic diagnoses from freshly isolated chorionic villi. Phenotypes of TSCV cells in the stem state and following differentiation were compared to cytotrophoblast-derived TS (TS CT ) cells. TSCV and TSCT cells uniformly exhibited similarities in the stem state and following differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast cells. Chorionic villus tissue specimens provide a valuable source for TS cell derivation. They expand the genetic diversity of available TS cells and are associated with defined clinical outcomes. TSCV cell lines provide a new set of experimental tools for investigating trophoblast cell lineage development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaela M. Varberg
- 1nstitute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Ayelen Moreno-Irusta
- 1nstitute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Allynson Novoa
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Brynne Musser
- 1nstitute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | | | - Jeremy P. Goering
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Irfan Saadi
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Khursheed Iqbal
- 1nstitute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - John Williams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Margareta D. Pisarska
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Michael J. Soares
- 1nstitute for Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160
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Donohoe ME, Morey R, Li Y, Pizzo D, Kallol S, Cho HY, Soncin F, Parast MM. Identification of HTRA4 as a Transcriptional Target of p63 in Trophoblast. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:1162-1170. [PMID: 38880601 PMCID: PMC11220921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The placenta plays a crucial role in pregnancy success. ΔNp63α (p63), a transcription factor from the TP53 family, is highly expressed in villous cytotrophoblasts (CTBs), the epithelial stem cells of the human placenta, and is involved in CTB maintenance and differentiation. We examined the mechanisms of action of p63 by identifying its downstream targets. Gene expression changes were evaluated following overexpression and knockdown of p63 in the JEG3 choriocarcinoma cell line, using microarray-based RNA profiling. High-temperature requirement A4 (HTRA4), a placenta-specific serine protease involved in trophoblast differentiation and altered in preeclampsia, was identified as a gene reciprocally regulated by p63, and its expression was characterized in primary human placental tissues by RNA-sequencing and in situ hybridization. Potential p63 DNA-binding motifs were identified in the HTRA4 promoter, and p63 occupancy at some of these sites was confirmed using chromatin immunoprecipitation, followed by quantitative PCR in both JEG3 and trophoblast stem cells. These data begin to identify members of the transcriptional network downstream of p63, thus laying the groundwork for probing mechanisms by which this important transcription factor regulates trophoblast stemness and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Donohoe
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Robert Morey
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Yingchun Li
- Center for Genes, Environment, and Health, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Donald Pizzo
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Sampada Kallol
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Hee-Young Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Francesca Soncin
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Mana M Parast
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California; Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California.
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Derisoud E, Jiang H, Zhao A, Chavatte-Palmer P, Deng Q. Revealing the molecular landscape of human placenta: a systematic review and meta-analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing studies. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:410-441. [PMID: 38478759 PMCID: PMC11215163 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With increasing significance of developmental programming effects associated with placental dysfunction, more investigations are devoted to improving the characterization and understanding of placental signatures in health and disease. The placenta is a transitory but dynamic organ adapting to the shifting demands of fetal development and available resources of the maternal supply throughout pregnancy. Trophoblasts (cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblasts, and extravillous trophoblasts) are placental-specific cell types responsible for the main placental exchanges and adaptations. Transcriptomic studies with single-cell resolution have led to advances in understanding the placenta's role in health and disease. These studies, however, often show discrepancies in characterization of the different placental cell types. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We aim to review the knowledge regarding placental structure and function gained from the use of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq), followed by comparing cell-type-specific genes, highlighting their similarities and differences. Moreover, we intend to identify consensus marker genes for the various trophoblast cell types across studies. Finally, we will discuss the contributions and potential applications of scRNAseq in studying pregnancy-related diseases. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a comprehensive systematic literature review to identify different cell types and their functions at the human maternal-fetal interface, focusing on all original scRNAseq studies on placentas published before March 2023 and published reviews (total of 28 studies identified) using PubMed search. Our approach involved curating cell types and subtypes that had previously been defined using scRNAseq and comparing the genes used as markers or identified as potential new markers. Next, we reanalyzed expression matrices from the six available scRNAseq raw datasets with cell annotations (four from first trimester and two at term), using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to compare gene expression among studies and annotate trophoblast cell markers in both first trimester and term placentas. Furthermore, we integrated scRNAseq raw data available from 18 healthy first trimester and nine term placentas, and performed clustering and differential gene expression analysis. We further compared markers obtained with the analysis of annotated and raw datasets with the literature to obtain a common signature gene list for major placental cell types. OUTCOMES Variations in the sampling site, gestational age, fetal sex, and subsequent sequencing and analysis methods were observed between the studies. Although their proportions varied, the three trophoblast types were consistently identified across all scRNAseq studies, unlike other non-trophoblast cell types. Notably, no marker genes were shared by all studies for any of the investigated cell types. Moreover, most of the newly defined markers in one study were not observed in other studies. These discrepancies were confirmed by our analysis on trophoblast cell types, where hundreds of potential marker genes were identified in each study but with little overlap across studies. From 35 461 and 23 378 cells of high quality in the first trimester and term placentas, respectively, we obtained major placental cell types, including perivascular cells that previously had not been identified in the first trimester. Importantly, our meta-analysis provides marker genes for major placental cell types based on our extensive curation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review and meta-analysis emphasizes the need for establishing a consensus for annotating placental cell types from scRNAseq data. The marker genes identified here can be deployed for defining human placental cell types, thereby facilitating and improving the reproducibility of trophoblast cell annotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Derisoud
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Allan Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- INRAE, BREED, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Qiaolin Deng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
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10
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Horvat Mercnik M, Schliefsteiner C, Sanchez-Duffhues G, Wadsack C. TGFβ signalling: a nexus between inflammation, placental health and preeclampsia throughout pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:442-471. [PMID: 38519450 PMCID: PMC11215164 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae007] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is a unique and pivotal organ in reproduction, controlling crucial growth and cell differentiation processes that ensure a successful pregnancy. Placental development is a tightly regulated and dynamic process, in which the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily plays a central role. This family of pleiotropic growth factors is heavily involved in regulating various aspects of reproductive biology, particularly in trophoblast differentiation during the first trimester of pregnancy. TGFβ signalling precisely regulates trophoblast invasion and the cell transition from cytotrophoblasts to extravillous trophoblasts, which is an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-like process. Later in pregnancy, TGFβ signalling ensures proper vascularization and angiogenesis in placental endothelial cells. Beyond its role in trophoblasts and endothelial cells, TGFβ signalling contributes to the polarization and function of placental and decidual macrophages by promoting maternal tolerance of the semi-allogeneic foetus. Disturbances in early placental development have been associated with several pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE) which is one of the severe complications. Emerging evidence suggests that TGFβ is involved in the pathogenesis of PE, thereby offering a potential target for intervention in the human placenta. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This comprehensive review aims to explore and elucidate the roles of the major members of the TGFβ superfamily, including TGFβs, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), activins, inhibins, nodals, and growth differentiation factors (GDFs), in the context of placental development and function. The review focusses on their interactions within the major cell types of the placenta, namely trophoblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, in both normal pregnancies and pregnancies complicated by PE throughout pregnancy. SEARCH METHODS A literature search was carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar, searching terms: 'TGF signalling preeclampsia', 'pregnancy TGF signalling', 'preeclampsia tgfβ', 'preeclampsia bmp', 'preeclampsia gdf', 'preeclampsia activin', 'endoglin preeclampsia', 'endoglin pregnancy', 'tgfβ signalling pregnancy', 'bmp signalling pregnancy', 'gdf signalling pregnancy', 'activin signalling pregnancy', 'Hofbauer cell tgfβ signalling', 'placental macrophages tgfβ', 'endothelial cells tgfβ', 'endothelium tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion Smad', 'trophoblast invasion bmp', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ', 'tgfβ preeclampsia', 'tgfβ placental development', 'TGFβ placental function', 'endothelial dysfunction preeclampsia tgfβ signalling', 'vascular remodelling placenta TGFβ', 'inflammation pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune response pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune tolerance pregnancy tgfβ', 'TGFβ pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy tregs', 'tgfβ pregnancy tregs', 'TGFβ placenta NK cells', 'TGFβ placenta tregs', 'NK cells preeclampsia', 'Tregs preeclampsia'. Only articles published in English until 2023 were used. OUTCOMES A comprehensive understanding of TGFβ signalling and its role in regulating interconnected cell functions of the main placental cell types provides valuable insights into the processes essential for successful placental development and growth of the foetus during pregnancy. By orchestrating trophoblast invasion, vascularization, immune tolerance, and tissue remodelling, TGFβ ligands contribute to the proper functioning of a healthy maternal-foetal interface. However, dysregulation of TGFβ signalling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE, where the shallow trophoblast invasion, defective vascular remodelling, decreased uteroplacental perfusion, and endothelial cell and immune dysfunction observed in PE, are all affected by an altered TGFβ signalling. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The dysregulation of TGFβ signalling in PE has important implications for research and clinical practice. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying mechanisms, including the role of different ligands and their regulation under pathophysiological conditions, in order to discover new therapeutic targets. Distinguishing between clinically manifested subtypes of PE and studying TGFβ signalling in different placental cell types holistically is an important first step. To put this knowledge into practice, pre-clinical animal models combined with new technologies are needed. This may also lead to improved human research models and identify potential therapeutic targets, ultimately improving outcomes for affected pregnancies and reducing the burden of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gonzalo Sanchez-Duffhues
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC), Tissue-Specific BMP Signalling ISPA-HUCA, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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11
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Yan X, Fang Y, Yuan Y, Ding Y, Yu H, Li Y, Shi Q, Gao Y, Zhou X, Zhang D, Yuan E, Zhou H, Zhao X, Zhang L. Combined analysis of the effects of hypoxia and oxidative stress on DNA methylation and the transcriptome in HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18469. [PMID: 38899809 PMCID: PMC11187809 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18469] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The alterations in DNA methylation and transcriptome in trophoblast cells under conditions of low oxygen and oxidative stress have major implications for pregnancy-related disorders. However, the exact mechanism is still not fully understood. In this study, we established models of hypoxia (H group) and oxidative stress (HR group) using HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells and performed combined analysis of genome-wide DNA methylation changes using reduced representation bisulphite sequencing and transcriptome expression changes using RNA sequencing. Our findings revealed that the H group exhibited a higher number of differentially methylated genes and differentially expressed genes than the HR group. In the H group, only 0.90% of all differentially expressed genes displayed simultaneous changes in DNA methylation and transcriptome expression. After the threshold was expanded, this number increased to 6.29% in the HR group. Notably, both the H group and HR group exhibited concurrent alterations in DNA methylation and transcriptome expression within Axon guidance and MAPK signalling pathway. Among the top 25 differentially methylated KEGG pathways in the promoter region, 11 pathways were commonly enriched in H group and HR group, accounting for 44.00%. Among the top 25 KEGG pathways in transcriptome with significant differences between the H group and HR group, 10 pathways were consistent, accounting for 40.00%. By integrating our previous data on DNA methylation from preeclamptic placental tissues, we identified that the ANKRD37 and PFKFB3 genes may contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia through DNA methylation-mediated transcriptome expression under hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinjing Yan
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
| | - Yang Fang
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
| | - Yujie Yuan
- Judicial Appraisal InstitutionThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Yangnan Ding
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
| | - Haiyang Yu
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
| | - Yina Li
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
| | - Qianqian Shi
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
| | - Yongrui Gao
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
| | - Xinyuan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Dongxin Zhang
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Department of Laboratory MedicineZhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Enwu Yuan
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
- Tianjian Advanced Biomedical LaboratoryZhengzhouChina
| | - Hongwei Zhou
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Department of Laboratory MedicineZhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xin Zhao
- Tianjian Advanced Biomedical LaboratoryZhengzhouChina
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Laboratory MedicineThird Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
- Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for In Vitro Diagnosis of Hypertensive Disorders of PregnancyZhengzhouChina
- Tianjian Advanced Biomedical LaboratoryZhengzhouChina
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12
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Fu T, Wang X, Zhao X, Jiang Y, Liu X, Zhang H, Ren Y, Li Z, Hu X. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of decidual immune cell landscape in the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes induced by Toxoplasma gondii infection. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:213. [PMID: 38730500 PMCID: PMC11088043 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06266-w] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, particularly in early pregnancy. Previous studies have illustrated the landscape of decidual immune cells. However, the landscape of decidual immune cells in the maternal-fetal microenvironment during T. gondii infection remains unknown. METHODS In this study, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze the changes in human decidual immune cells following T. gondii infection. The results of scRNA-seq were further validated with flow cytometry, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS Our results showed that the proportion of 17 decidual immune cell clusters and the expression levels of 21 genes were changed after T. gondii infection. Differential gene analysis demonstrated that T. gondii infection induced the differential expression of 279, 312, and 380 genes in decidual NK cells (dNK), decidual macrophages (dMφ), and decidual T cells (dT), respectively. Our results revealed for the first time that several previously unknown molecules in decidual immune cells changed following infection. This result revealed that the function of maternal-fetal immune tolerance declined, whereas the killing ability of decidual immune cells enhanced, eventually contributing to the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes. CONCLUSIONS This study provides valuable resource for uncovering several novel molecules that play an important role in the occurrence of abnormal pregnancy outcomes induced by T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Fu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyue Zhao
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medial University, Yantai, 264100, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuzhu Jiang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianbing Liu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yushan Ren
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhidan Li
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xuemei Hu
- Department of Immunology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Shannon MJ, McNeill GL, Koksal B, Baltayeva J, Wächter J, Castellana B, Peñaherrera MS, Robinson WP, Leung PCK, Beristain AG. Single-cell assessment of primary and stem cell-derived human trophoblast organoids as placenta-modeling platforms. Dev Cell 2024; 59:776-792.e11. [PMID: 38359834 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.01.023] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) and related trophoblast organoids are state-of-the-art culture systems that facilitate the study of trophoblast development and human placentation. Using single-cell transcriptomics, we evaluate how organoids derived from freshly isolated first-trimester trophoblasts or from established hTSC cell lines reproduce developmental cell trajectories and transcriptional regulatory processes defined in vivo. Although organoids from primary trophoblasts and hTSCs overall model trophoblast differentiation with accuracy, specific features related to trophoblast composition, trophoblast differentiation, and transcriptional drivers of trophoblast development show levels of misalignment. This is best illustrated by the identification of an expanded progenitor state in stem cell-derived organoids that is nearly absent in vivo and transcriptionally shares both villous cytotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast characteristics. Together, this work provides a comprehensive resource that identifies strengths and limitations of current trophoblast organoid platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Shannon
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gina L McNeill
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Burak Koksal
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jennet Baltayeva
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jasmin Wächter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Castellana
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Maria S Peñaherrera
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wendy P Robinson
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Peter C K Leung
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alexander G Beristain
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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14
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Zhou W, Li X, Li X, Liu Y, Song W, Yang Q. The role of circular RNA in preeclampsia: From pathophysiological mechanism to clinical application. Life Sci 2024; 338:122407. [PMID: 38184270 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a common pregnancy-induced hypertension disorder that poses a significant threat to the health of pregnant women and fetuses, and has become a leading cause of maternal, fetal, and neonatal mortality. Currently, the therapy strategy for PE is mainly prevention management and symptomatic treatment, and only delivery can completely terminate PE. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of PE is needed to make treatment and prevention more effective and targeted. With the deepening of molecular etiology research, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been found to be widely involved in various processes of PE pathogenesis. As a kind of RNA with a special "head to tail" loop structure, the characteristics of circRNAs enable them to play diverse roles in the pathophysiology of PE, and can also serve as ideal biomarkers for early prediction and monitoring progression of PE. In this review, we summarized the latest research on PE-related circRNAs, trying to elucidate the unique or shared roles of circRNAs in various pathophysiological mechanisms of PE, aiming to provide a whole picture of current research on PE-related circRNAs, and extend a new perspective for the precise screening and targeted therapy of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhou
- Medical Research Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; Department of Cancer Epidemiology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiuying Li
- Medical Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Xin Li
- Medical College, Jilin Engineering Vocational College, Siping, Jilin, China.
| | - Yaojia Liu
- Medical Research Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Wenling Song
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Medical Research Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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15
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Lan X, Guo L, Hu C, Zhang Q, Deng J, Wang Y, Chen ZJ, Yan J, Li Y. Fibronectin mediates activin A-promoted human trophoblast migration and acquisition of endothelial-like phenotype. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:61. [PMID: 38263146 PMCID: PMC10807102 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During human early placentation, a proportion of extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) migrate to the maternal decidua, differentiating into endovascular EVTs to remodel spiral arteries and ensure the establishment of blood circulation at the maternal-fetal interface. Inadequate EVT migration and endovascular differentiation are closely associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as miscarriage. Activin A and fibronectin are both secretory molecules abundantly expressed at the maternal-fetal interface. Activin A has been reported to regulate EVT biological functions. However, whether fibronectin mediates activin A-promoted EVT migration and acquisition of endothelial-like phenotype as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Additionally, the role of fibronectin in pregnancy establishment and maintenance warrants further investigation. METHODS Primary and immortalized (HTR8/SVneo) human EVTs were used as in vitro study models. Cultured human first-trimester chorionic villous explants were utilized for ex vivo validation. A local fibronectin knockdown model in ICR mouse uteri, achieved by nonviral in vivo transfection with small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting fibronectin 1 (si-Fn1), was employed to explore the roles of fibronectin in the establishment and maintenance of early pregnancy. RESULTS Our results showed that activin A treatment significantly induced fibronectin 1 (FN1) mRNA expression and fibronectin protein production, which is essential for human trophoblast migration and endothelial-like tube formation. Both basal and activin A-upregulated fibronectin expression were abolished by the TGF-β type I receptor inhibitor SB431542 or siRNA-mediated knockdown of activin receptor-like kinase (ALK4) or SMAD4. Moreover, activin A-increased trophoblast migration and endothelial-like tube formation were attenuated following the depletion of fibronectin. Fibronectin knockdown via intrauterine siRNA administration reduced CD31 and cytokeratin 8 (CK8) expression at the maternal-fetal interface, resulting in a decrease in the number of implantation sites and embryos. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that activin A promotes trophoblast cell migration and acquisition of endothelial-like phenotype via ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4-mediated fibronectin upregulation. Furthermore, through a local fibronectin knockdown model in mouse uteri, we found that the absence of fibronectin at the maternal-fetal interface impedes endovascular migration of trophoblasts and decidual vascularization, thereby interfering with early embryo implantation and the maintenance of pregnancy. These findings provide novel insights into placental development during early pregnancy establishment and contribute to the advancement of therapeutic approaches for managing pregnancy complications related to trophoblast dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangxin Lan
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ling Guo
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Cuiping Hu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Jianye Deng
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Yan Li
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
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16
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Gong C, Yang W, Liu X, Li X, Wang Y, Tian C. Low follistatin level is a causal risk factor for spontaneous abortion: a two-sample mendelian randomization study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1255591. [PMID: 38234423 PMCID: PMC10792017 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1255591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Recurrent pregnancy loss is a distressing event during pregnancy, and understanding its causal factors is crucial. Follistatin, a glycoprotein involved in folliculogenesis and embryogenesis, has been implicated as a potential contributor to the risk of spontaneous abortion. However, establishing a causal relationship requires rigorous investigation using robust methods. Methods In this study, we utilized mendelian randomization (MR), a powerful genetic epidemiological approach, to examine the causal relationship between follistatin levels and spontaneous abortion. We obtained instrumental variables strongly associated with follistatin levels from large-scale genome-wide association from the IEU database. The inverse variance weighting (IVW) method was taken as gold standard. We also performed sensitivity test to evaluate the robustness of our result. Results MR analysis revealed a significant causal relationship between low follistatin levels and spontaneous abortion (p = 0.03). Sensitivity analyses, including pleiotropy test, heterogeneity test, and leave-one-out analysis, all supported the robustness of our findings. Conclusion Our study provides compelling evidence supporting the causal relationship between low follistatin levels and increased risk of spontaneous abortion. These findings underscore the importance of follistatin in the etiology of spontaneous abortion and suggest potential preventive interventions. Modulating follistatin levels or relevant pathways could hold promise for reducing the incidence of spontaneous abortion and improving reproductive outcomes. The utilization of MRs strengthens the validity of our results by mitigating confounding and reverse causality biases. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and explore therapeutic strategies targeting follistatin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xinliang Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yutong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Chan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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17
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Haider S, Knöfler M, Latos PA. Trophoblast Organoids as a Novel Tool to Study Human Placental Development and Function. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2728:195-222. [PMID: 38019403 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3495-0_17] [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] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The human placenta provides the site of exchange between the maternal and fetal bloodstreams, acts as an endocrine organ, and has immunological functions. The majority of pregnancy disorders including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction have their roots in pathological placentation. Yet, the underlying molecular causes of these complications remain largely unknown, not least due to the lack of reliable in vitro models. Recent establishment of 2D human trophoblast stem cells and 3D trophoblast organoids has been a major advancement that opened new avenues for trophoblast research. Here we provide a protocol detailing isolation of cytotrophoblast from the first trimester human placenta, establishment of trophoblast organoids, their culture and differentiation conditions. Overall, we describe an in vitro system that offers an excellent model to study the molecular basis of placental development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Martin Knöfler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulina A Latos
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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18
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Ji K, Zhong J, Cui L, Wang X, Chen LN, Wen B, Yang F, Deng W, Pan X, Wang L, Bao J, Chen Y, Liu H. Exploring myometrial microenvironment changes at the single-cell level from nonpregnant to term pregnant states. Physiol Genomics 2024; 56:32-47. [PMID: 37955337 PMCID: PMC11281821 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00067.2023] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The microenvironment and cell populations within the myometrium play crucial roles in maintaining uterine structural integrity and protecting the fetus during pregnancy. However, the specific changes occurring at the single-cell level in the human myometrium between nonpregnant (NP) and term pregnant (TP) states remain unexplored. In this study, we used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) and spatial transcriptomics (ST) to construct a transcriptomic atlas of individual cells in the myometrium of NP and TP women. Integrated analysis of scRNA-Seq and ST data revealed spatially distinct transcriptional characteristics and examined cell-to-cell communication patterns based on ligand-receptor interactions. We identified and categorized 87,845 high-quality individual cells into 12 populations from scRNA-Seq data of 12 human myometrium tissues. Our findings demonstrated alterations in the proportions of five subpopulations of smooth muscle cells in TP. Moreover, an increase in monocytic cells, particularly M2 macrophages, was observed in TP myometrium samples, suggesting their involvement in the anti-inflammatory response. This study provides unprecedented single-cell resolution of the NP and TP myometrium, offering new insights into myometrial remodeling during pregnancy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, the myometrium was examined at the single-cell level during pregnancy. We identified spatially distinct cell populations and observed alterations in smooth muscle cells and increased M2 macrophages in term pregnant women. These findings offer unprecedented insights into myometrial remodeling and the anti-inflammatory response during pregnancy. The study advances our understanding of pregnancy-related myometrial changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyuan Ji
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Junmin Zhong
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Long Cui
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodi Wang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Na Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bolun Wen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Yang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenfeng Deng
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuyu Pan
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lele Wang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjie Bao
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - YunShan Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Huishu Liu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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19
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Liu Z, Geng Y, Huang Y, Hu R, Li F, Ding J, Ma W, Dong H, Song K, Xu X, Wu X, Song Y, Zhang M. Bushen Antai recipe alleviates embryo absorption by enhancing immune tolerance and angiogenesis at the maternal-fetal interface via mobilizing MDSCs in abortion-prone mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155164. [PMID: 37952407 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a tricky puzzle that disturbs female reproduction worldwide. According to previous research, Bushen Antai recipe (BAR), a classic Chinese herbal formula widely used in clinic for miscarriage, exhibited multifaceted benefits in improving embryo implantation and attenuating early pregnancy loss. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), a set of immunoregulatory cells critical in inflammation balance, get growing attention for their indispensable role in successful pregnancy. PURPOSE To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of BAR in abortion-prone mice and explore the potential mechanisms of BAR regarding MDSCs. METHODS RPL mice (CBA/J females paired with DBA/2 males, BALB/c males were used as the control) were administered with BAR1 (5.7 g/kg), BAR2 (11.4 g/kg), progesterone (P4), or distilled water from embryo day (D) 0.5 until D10.5. The rate of embryo absorption on D10.5 and the health status of progeny were measured. The systemic inflammatory states and the placenta-uterus milieu were assessed by serum cytokine levels, placenta-uterus architecture, and related protein expression at the maternal-fetal interface. Flow cytometry analysis was carried out to measure the frequency of MDSCs. Furthermore, we established the MDSCs-depletion mouse model by using C57BL/6 females mated with BALB/c males via intraperitoneal injection of anti-Gr-1 antibody on D6.5, while irrelative LTF antibody was used as the control. Similarly, BAR1, BAR2, P4, or distilled water was separately applied. Embryo absorption rate, systemic inflammatory states, placenta-uterus milieu, and MDSCs frequency were evaluated as mentioned above. RESULTS Significantly, embryo absorption rate was increased with disrupted placenta-uterus milieu and exorbitant proinflammatory cytokines in RPL mice, meanwhile, MDSCs number in the placenta-uterus unit were apparently reduced (⁎⁎⁎p < 0.001). BAR treatment markedly alleviated the poor conditions above and increased MDSCs number (####p < 0.0001). Flow cytometry analysis validated the efficacy of anti-Gr-1 antibody and the raised embryo absorption rate confirmed the essentiality of MDSCs in normal pregnancy (⁎⁎p < 0.01). Besides, the placenta-uterus milieu was destroyed, accompanied by the impaired expression of immune tolerance and angiogenesis related factors in the MDSCs-depletion mice. Even though, BAR treatment reversed the embryo resorption phenotype and optimized the serum cytokine milieu, mobilizing MDSCs and rejuvenating active intercellular communication. Thereby, BAR facilitated the expression of MDSCs-related functional molecules, promoting immune tolerance and vascular remodeling at the placenta-uterus unit. CONCLUSION We unfurled the remarkable therapeutic ability of BAR in abortion-prone mice, and this was achieved by mobilizing MDSCs, thus favoring immune tolerance and angiogenesis at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuli Geng
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanjing Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahui Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of medicine, Wayne state university, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haoxu Dong
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kunkun Song
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohu Xu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Fu R, Li Y, Li X, Jiang W. Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy: Global Burden From 1990 to 2019, Current Research Hotspots and Emerging Trends. Curr Probl Cardiol 2023; 48:101982. [PMID: 37479005 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2023.101982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) constitute a worldwide health problem for pregnant women and their infants. This study provided HDP burden over 1990 to 2019 by region and age distribution, and predicted changes in related values for the next 25 years. We then conducted an econometric analysis of the author distribution, collaborative networks, keyword burst clustering, and spatio-temporal analysis of HDP-related publications from 2012 to 2022 to access current scientific developments and hotspots. The number of pregnant women with HDP has been increasing over the past 30 years, with regional and age-stratified differences in the burden of disease. Additionally, projections suggest an increase of deaths due to maternal HDP among adolescents younger than 20 years. Current research is mostly centered on pre-eclampsia, with hot keywords including trophoblast, immune tolerance, frozen-thawed embryo transfer, aspirin, gestational diabetes association, and biomarkers. Researches on the pathological mechanism, classification, and subtypes of HDP need to be further advanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Fu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yihui Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaogang Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weihong Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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21
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Lackner AI, Pollheimer J, Latos P, Knöfler M, Haider S. Gene-network based analysis of human placental trophoblast subtypes identifies critical genes as potential targets of therapeutic drugs. J Integr Bioinform 2023; 20:jib-2023-0011. [PMID: 38127662 PMCID: PMC10777358 DOI: 10.1515/jib-2023-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
During early pregnancy, extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) play a crucial role in modifying the maternal uterine environment. Failures in EVT lineage formation and differentiation can lead to pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and pregnancy loss. Despite recent advances, our knowledge on molecular and external factors that control and affect EVT development remains incomplete. Using trophoblast organoid in vitro models, we recently discovered that coordinated manipulation of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling is essential for EVT development. To further investigate gene networks involved in EVT function and development, we performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) on our RNA-Seq data. We identified 10 modules with a median module membership of over 0.8 and sizes ranging from 1005 (M1) to 72 (M27) network genes associated with TGFβ activation status or in vitro culturing, the latter being indicative for yet undiscovered factors that shape the EVT phenotypes. Lastly, we hypothesized that certain therapeutic drugs might unintentionally interfere with placentation by affecting EVT-specific gene expression. We used the STRING database to map correlations and the Drug-Gene Interaction database to identify drug targets. Our comprehensive dataset of drug-gene interactions provides insights into potential risks associated with certain drugs in early gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Ian Lackner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Pollheimer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulina Latos
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Knöfler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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22
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Dietrich B, Kunihs V, Lackner AI, Meinhardt G, Koo BK, Pollheimer J, Haider S, Knöfler M. NOTCH3 signalling controls human trophoblast stem cell expansion and differentiation. Development 2023; 150:dev202152. [PMID: 37905445 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202152] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Failures in growth and differentiation of the early human placenta are associated with severe pregnancy disorders such as pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction. However, regulatory mechanisms controlling development of placental epithelial cells, the trophoblasts, remain poorly elucidated. Using trophoblast stem cells (TSCs), trophoblast organoids (TB-ORGs) and primary cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) of early pregnancy, we herein show that autocrine NOTCH3 signalling controls human placental expansion and differentiation. The NOTCH3 receptor was specifically expressed in proliferative CTB progenitors and its active form, the nuclear NOTCH3 intracellular domain (NOTCH3-ICD), interacted with the transcriptional co-activator mastermind-like 1 (MAML1). Doxycycline-inducible expression of dominant-negative MAML1 in TSC lines provoked cell fusion and upregulation of genes specific for multinucleated syncytiotrophoblasts, which are the differentiated hormone-producing cells of the placenta. However, progenitor expansion and markers of trophoblast stemness and proliferation were suppressed. Accordingly, inhibition of NOTCH3 signalling diminished growth of TB-ORGs, whereas overexpression of NOTCH3-ICD in primary CTBs and TSCs showed opposite effects. In conclusion, the data suggest that canonical NOTCH3 signalling plays a key role in human placental development by promoting self-renewal of CTB progenitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Dietrich
- Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Victoria Kunihs
- Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas I Lackner
- Maternal-Fetal Immunology Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gudrun Meinhardt
- Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bon-Kyoung Koo
- Center for Genome Engineering, Institute for Basic Science, Yuseong-Gu, Daejeon 34126, Republic of Korea
| | - Jürgen Pollheimer
- Maternal-Fetal Immunology Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Haider
- Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Knöfler
- Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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23
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Zhuang BM, Cao DD, Li TX, Liu XF, Lyu MM, Wang SD, Cui XY, Wang L, Chen XL, Lin XL, Lee CL, Chiu PCN, Yeung WSB, Yao YQ. Single-cell characterization of self-renewing primary trophoblast organoids as modeling of EVT differentiation and interactions with decidual natural killer cells. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:618. [PMID: 37853336 PMCID: PMC10583354 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09690-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extravillous trophoblast cell (EVT) differentiation and its communication with maternal decidua especially the leading immune cell type natural killer (NK) cell are critical events for placentation. However, appropriate in vitro modelling system and regulatory programs of these two events are still lacking. Recent trophoblast organoid (TO) has advanced the molecular and mechanistic research in placentation. Here, we firstly generated the self-renewing TO from human placental villous and differentiated it into EVTs (EVT-TO) for investigating the differentiation events. We then co-cultured EVT-TO with freshly isolated decidual NKs for further study of cell communication. TO modelling of EVT differentiation as well as EVT interaction with dNK might cast new aspect for placentation research. RESULTS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was applied for comprehensive characterization and molecular exploration of TOs modelling of EVT differentiation and interaction with dNKs. Multiple distinct trophoblast states and dNK subpopulations were identified, representing CTB, STB, EVT, dNK1/2/3 and dNKp. Lineage trajectory and Seurat mapping analysis identified the close resemblance of TO and EVT-TO with the human placenta characteristic. Transcription factors regulatory network analysis revealed the cell-type specific essential TFs for controlling EVT differentiation. CellphoneDB analysis predicted the ligand-receptor complexes in dNK-EVT-TO co-cultures, which relate to cytokines, immunomodulation and angiogenesis. EVT was known to affect the immune properties of dNK. Our study found out that on the other way around, dNKs could exert effects on EVT causing expression changes which are functionally important. CONCLUSION Our study documented a single-cell atlas for TO and its applications on EVT differentiation and communications with dNKs, and thus provide methodology and novel research cues for future study of human placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai-Mei Zhuang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Medical school of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dan-Dan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China.
| | - Tian-Xi Li
- Geneplus-Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Min-Min Lyu
- Department of Clinical-Translational and Basic Research Laboratory, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Shenzhen, Futian District, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Si-Dong Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Medical school of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Cui
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Li Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong S.A.R
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong S.A.R
| | - William S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong S.A.R
| | - Yuan-Qing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China.
- Medical school of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Medical Centre, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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24
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Mao J, Feng Y, Zheng Y, Gao Y, Zhang L, Sun X, Wu Y, Zhu X, Ma F. GPR65 inhibits human trophoblast cell adhesion through upregulation of MYLK and downregulation of fibronectin via cAMP-ERK signaling in a low pH environment. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:238. [PMID: 37723567 PMCID: PMC10506227 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01249-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) are essential cells during the formation of the placenta, with the major function of invading the maternal decidua, anchoring the developing placenta to the uterus, remodeling uterine arteries, and regulating immune responses to prevent rejection. During early pregnancy, the decidua undergoes a hypoxic and acidic microenvironment, which has been shown to participate in tumor cell migration, invasion, growth, and angiogenesis. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which EVTs sense and respond to the acidic microenvironment, thereby executing their functions, remain poorly understood. METHODS The effects of G protein-coupled receptor 65 (GPR65) on cell adhesion and other cellular functions were tested using JAR spheroids, mouse blastocysts, and HTR-8/SVneo cells. Specifically, we employed HTR-8/SVneo cells for gene overexpression and silencing to investigate the underlying mechanism of GPR65's impact on trophoblast cell function under acidic conditions. Additionally, villus tissue samples obtained from early pregnancy loss patients were utilized to explore the potential association between GPR65 and its related signaling pathway molecules with the disease. RESULTS This study identified GPR65 expression widely in trophoblasts, with the highest level in EVTs. Importantly, optimal GPR65 levels are required for maintaining normal adhesion, migration, and invasion, whereas overexpression of GPR65 inhibits these functions by activating the cAMP-ERK signaling pathway, upregulating myosin light chain kinase (MYLK) and MYLK3 expression, and subsequently downregulating fibronectin. Consistently, elevated expression of GPR65, MYLK, and MYLK3 is observed in patients suffering from early pregnancy loss. CONCLUSIONS This work offers insights into the suppressive effects of GPR65 on EVT function under acidic conditions and highlights a putative target for therapeutic intervention in early pregnancy complications. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Mao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, Sichuan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying Feng
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Neurobiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yayun Zheng
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Neurobiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaqiu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, Sichuan, China
| | - Linyu Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinrui Sun
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yilun Wu
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, Sichuan, China.
| | - Fang Ma
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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25
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De Borre M, Che H, Yu Q, Lannoo L, De Ridder K, Vancoillie L, Dreesen P, Van Den Ackerveken M, Aerden M, Galle E, Breckpot J, Van Keirsbilck J, Gyselaers W, Devriendt K, Vermeesch JR, Van Calsteren K, Thienpont B. Cell-free DNA methylome analysis for early preeclampsia prediction. Nat Med 2023; 29:2206-2215. [PMID: 37640858 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02510-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a leading cause for peripartal morbidity, especially if developing early in gestation. To enable prophylaxis in the prevention of PE, pregnancies at risk of PE must be identified early-in the first trimester. To identify at-risk pregnancies we profiled methylomes of plasma-derived, cell-free DNA from 498 pregnant women, of whom about one-third developed early-onset PE. We detected DNA methylation differences between control and PE pregnancies that enabled risk stratification at PE diagnosis but also presymptomatically, at around 12 weeks of gestation (range 9-14 weeks). The first-trimester risk prediction model was validated in an external cohort collected from two centers (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.75) and integrated with routinely available maternal risk factors (AUC = 0.85). The combined risk score correctly predicted 72% of patients with early-onset PE at 80% specificity. These preliminary results suggest that cell-free DNA methylation profiling is a promising tool for presymptomatic PE risk assessment, and has the potential to improve treatment and follow-up in the obstetric clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie De Borre
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Huiwen Che
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Qian Yu
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lore Lannoo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kobe De Ridder
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leen Vancoillie
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pauline Dreesen
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Science, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Mika Van Den Ackerveken
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mio Aerden
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eva Galle
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Breckpot
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Koen Devriendt
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joris Robert Vermeesch
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristel Van Calsteren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bernard Thienpont
- Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Lawless L, Qin Y, Xie L, Zhang K. Trophoblast Differentiation: Mechanisms and Implications for Pregnancy Complications. Nutrients 2023; 15:3564. [PMID: 37630754 PMCID: PMC10459728 DOI: 10.3390/nu15163564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental development is a tightly controlled event, in which cell expansion from the trophectoderm occurs in a spatiotemporal manner. Proper trophoblast differentiation is crucial to the vitality of this gestational organ. Obstructions to its development can lead to pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and preterm birth, posing severe health risks to both the mother and offspring. Currently, the only known treatment strategy for these complications is delivery, making it an important area of research. The aim of this review was to summarize the known information on the development and mechanistic regulation of trophoblast differentiation and highlight the similarities in these processes between the human and mouse placenta. Additionally, the known biomarkers for each cell type were compiled to aid in the analysis of sequencing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Lawless
- Institute of Bioscience and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Yushu Qin
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Linglin Xie
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Ke Zhang
- Institute of Bioscience and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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27
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Farkas K, Ferretti E. Derivation of Human Extraembryonic Mesoderm-like Cells from Primitive Endoderm. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11366. [PMID: 37511125 PMCID: PMC10380231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro modeling of human peri-gastrulation development is a valuable tool for understanding embryogenetic mechanisms. The extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) is crucial in supporting embryonic development by forming tissues such as the yolk sac, allantois, and chorionic villi. However, the origin of human ExM remains only partially understood. While evidence suggests a primitive endoderm (PrE) origin based on morphological findings, current in vitro models use epiblast-like cells. To address this gap, we developed a protocol to generate ExM-like cells from PrE-like cell line called naïve extraembryonic endoderm (nEnd). We identified the ExM-like cells by specific markers (LUM and ANXA1). Moreover, these in vitro-produced ExM cells displayed angiogenic potential on a soft matrix, mirroring their physiological role in vasculogenesis. By integrating single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) data, we found that the ExM-like cells clustered with the LUM/ANXA1-rich cell populations of the gastrulating embryo, indicating similarity between in vitro and ex utero cell populations. This study confirms the derivation of ExM from PrE and establishes a cell culture system that can be utilized to investigate ExM during human peri-gastrulation development, both in monolayer cultures and more complex models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Farkas
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem), University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elisabetta Ferretti
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem), University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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28
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van Voorden AJ, Keijser R, Veenboer GJM, Lopes Cardozo SA, Diek D, Vlaardingerbroek JA, van Dijk M, Ris-Stalpers C, van Pelt AMM, Afink GB. EP300 facilitates human trophoblast stem cell differentiation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2217405120. [PMID: 37406095 PMCID: PMC10334808 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2217405120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Early placenta development involves cytotrophoblast differentiation into extravillous trophoblast (EVT) and syncytiotrophoblast (STB). Defective trophoblast development and function may result in severe pregnancy complications, including fetal growth restriction and pre-eclampsia. The incidence of these complications is increased in pregnancies of fetuses affected by Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, a developmental disorder predominantly caused by heterozygous mutations in CREB-binding protein (CREBBP) or E1A-binding protein p300 (EP300). Although the acetyltransferases CREBBP and EP300 are paralogs with many overlapping functions, the increased incidence of pregnancy complications is specific for EP300 mutations. We hypothesized that these complications have their origin in early placentation and that EP300 is involved in that process. Therefore, we investigated the role of EP300 and CREBBP in trophoblast differentiation, using human trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) and trophoblast organoids. We found that pharmacological CREBBP/EP300 inhibition blocks differentiation of TSCs into both EVT and STB lineages, and results in an expansion of TSC-like cells under differentiation-inducing conditions. Specific targeting by RNA interference or CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis demonstrated that knockdown of EP300 but not CREBBP, inhibits trophoblast differentiation, consistent with the complications seen in Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome pregnancies. By transcriptome sequencing, we identified transforming growth factor alpha (TGFA, encoding TGF-α) as being strongly upregulated upon EP300 knockdown. Moreover, supplementing differentiation medium with TGF-α, which is a ligand for the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), likewise affected trophoblast differentiation and resulted in increased TSC-like cell proliferation. These findings suggest that EP300 facilitates trophoblast differentiation by interfering with at least EGFR signaling, pointing towards a crucial role for EP300 in early human placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Jantine van Voorden
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Remco Keijser
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Geertruda J. M. Veenboer
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Solange A. Lopes Cardozo
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dina Diek
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jennifer A. Vlaardingerbroek
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marie van Dijk
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Carrie Ris-Stalpers
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans M. M. van Pelt
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gijs B. Afink
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Lackner AI, Haslinger P, Bohaumilitzky L, Höbler AL, Vondra S, Oblin VM, Knöfler M, Kiss H, Binder J, Haider S, Boehm T, Pollheimer J. Generation of extracellular fluids from first-trimester decidual tissues and their validation by detecting tissue-specific secreted proteins. Placenta 2023; 139:134-137. [PMID: 37390517 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
The human placenta comes in direct contact with maternal cells and blood at two interfaces. The syncytiotrophoblast layer is surrounded by maternal blood at the intervillous space, and extravillous trophoblasts breach the vascular endothelial cells layer upon spiral artery remodeling and invasion of decidual veins. However, little knowledge exists about EVT-derived secreted factors, which may serve as predictive markers for obstetrical syndromes or shape the local environment at the maternal-fetal interface. Here, we define secreted EVT-associated genes and describe a method that yields interstitial fluids from patient-matched first-trimester decidua basalis and parietalis tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Ian Lackner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Maternal-fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) at Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Haslinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Maternal-fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Lena Bohaumilitzky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Maternal-fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna Biocenter, Austria
| | - Anna-Lena Höbler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Maternal-fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Sigrid Vondra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Maternal-fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Valentina Maria Oblin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Maternal-fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Knöfler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Kiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Binder
- Department of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Placental Development Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Boehm
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Pollheimer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Biology Unit, Maternal-fetal Immunology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
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30
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Huang CC, Hsueh YW, Chang CW, Hsu HC, Yang TC, Lin WC, Chang HM. Establishment of the fetal-maternal interface: developmental events in human implantation and placentation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1200330. [PMID: 37266451 PMCID: PMC10230101 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1200330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Early pregnancy is a complex and well-orchestrated differentiation process that involves all the cellular elements of the fetal-maternal interface. Aberrant trophoblast-decidual interactions can lead to miscarriage and disorders that occur later in pregnancy, including preeclampsia, intrauterine fetal growth restriction, and preterm labor. A great deal of research on the regulation of implantation and placentation has been performed in a wide range of species. However, there is significant species variation regarding trophoblast differentiation as well as decidual-specific gene expression and regulation. Most of the relevant information has been obtained from studies using mouse models. A comprehensive understanding of the physiology and pathology of human implantation and placentation has only recently been obtained because of emerging advanced technologies. With the derivation of human trophoblast stem cells, 3D-organoid cultures, and single-cell analyses of differentiated cells, cell type-specific transcript profiles and functions were generated, and each exhibited a unique signature. Additionally, through integrative transcriptomic information, researchers can uncover the cellular dysfunction of embryonic and placental cells in peri-implantation embryos and the early pathological placenta. In fact, the clinical utility of fetal-maternal cellular trafficking has been applied for the noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of aneuploidies and the prediction of pregnancy complications. Furthermore, recent studies have proposed a viable path toward the development of therapeutic strategies targeting placenta-enriched molecules for placental dysfunction and diseases.
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31
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Karakis V, Jabeen M, Britt JW, Cordiner A, Mischler A, Li F, San Miguel A, Rao BM. Laminin switches terminal differentiation fate of human trophoblast stem cells under chemically defined culture conditions. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104650. [PMID: 36972789 PMCID: PMC10176266 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104650] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) have emerged as a powerful tool to model early placental development in vitro. Analogous to the epithelial cytotrophoblast in the placenta, hTSCs can differentiate into cells of the extravillous trophoblast (EVT) lineage or the multinucleate syncytiotrophoblast (STB). Here we present a chemically defined culture system for STB and EVT differentiation of hTSCs. Notably, in contrast to current approaches, we neither utilize forskolin for STB formation nor transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) inhibitors or a passage step for EVT differentiation. Strikingly, the presence of a single additional extracellular cue-laminin-111-switched the terminal differentiation of hTSCs from STB to the EVT lineage under these conditions. In the absence of laminin-111, STB formation occurred, with cell fusion comparable to that obtained with differentiation mediated by forskolin; however, in the presence of laminin-111, hTSCs differentiated to the EVT lineage. Protein expression of nuclear hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF1α and HIF2α) was upregulated during EVT differentiation mediated by laminin-111 exposure. A heterogeneous mixture of Notch1+ EVTs in colonies and HLA-G+ single-cell EVTs were obtained without a passage step, reminiscent of heterogeneity in vivo. Further analysis showed that inhibition of TGFβ signaling affected both STB and EVT differentiation mediated by laminin-111 exposure. TGFβ inhibition during EVT differentiation resulted in decreased HLA-G expression and increased Notch1 expression. On the other hand, TGFβ inhibition prevented STB formation. The chemically defined culture system for hTSC differentiation established herein facilitates quantitative analysis of heterogeneity that arises during hTSC differentiation and will enable mechanistic studies in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Karakis
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mahe Jabeen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - John W Britt
- Department of Genetics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Abigail Cordiner
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Adam Mischler
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Adriana San Miguel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Balaji M Rao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Golden LEAF Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA.
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32
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Haider S, Beristain AG. Human organoid systems in modeling reproductive tissue development, function, and disease. Hum Reprod 2023:7147082. [PMID: 37119533 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Research focused on human reproductive biology has primarily relied upon clinical samples affording mainly descriptive studies with limited implementation of functional or mechanistic understanding. More importantly, restricted access to human embryonic material has necessitated the use of animals, primarily rats and mice, and short-term primary cell cultures derived from human patient material. While reproductive developmental processes are generally conserved across mammals, specific features unique to human reproduction have resulted in the development of human-based in vitro systems designed to retain or recapitulate key molecular and cellular processes important in humans. Of note, major advances in 3D epithelial stem cell-based systems modeling human reproductive organ development have been made. These cultures, broadly referred to as organoids, enable research aimed at understanding cellular hierarchies and processes controlling cellular differentiation and function. Moreover, organoids allow the pre-clinical testing of pharmacological substances, both from safety and efficacy standpoints, and hold large potential in driving aspects of personalized medicine that were previously not possible with traditional models. In this mini-review, we focus on summarizing the current state of regenerative organoid culture systems of the female and male reproductive tracts that model organ development, maintenance, and function. Specifically, we will introduce stem cell-based organoid models of the ovary/fallopian tube, endometrium, cervix, prostate gland, and testes. We will also describe organoid systems of the pre-implanting blastocyst and trophoblast, as the blastocyst and its extraembryonic trophectoderm are central to fetal, maternal, and overall pregnancy health. We describe the foundational studies leading to their development and outline the utility as well as specific limitations that are unique and common to many of these in vitro platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander G Beristain
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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33
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Li H, Peng H, Hong W, Wei Y, Tian H, Huang X, Jia L, Zheng J, Duan T, He Q, Wang K. Human Placental Endothelial Cell and Trophoblast Heterogeneity and Differentiation Revealed by Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010087. [PMID: 36611882 PMCID: PMC9818681 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is an important organ for fetal and maternal health during pregnancy and impacts offspring health late in life. Defects in placental vasculature and trophoblast have been identified in several pregnancy complications. Thus, the detailed molecular profile and heterogeneity of endothelial cells and trophoblasts in placentas will aid us in better understanding placental behaviors and improving pregnancy outcomes. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed to profile the transcriptomics of human placental villous tissues from eleven patients with normal pregnancies in the first and second trimesters (6-16 weeks of gestation). RESULTS The transcriptomic landscape of 52,179 single cells was obtained, and the cells were classified as trophoblasts, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, erythroid cells, Hofbauer cells, and macrophages. Our analysis further revealed the three subtypes of placental endothelial cells, with distinct metabolic signatures and transcription factor regulatory networks. We also determined the transcriptomic features of the trophoblast subpopulations and characterized two distinct populations of progenitor cells in cytotrophoblasts, which were capable of differentiating to extravillous trophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our study provided a high-resolution molecular profile of the human placenta between 6 and 16 weeks of gestation. Our data revealed the placental cell complexity and demonstrated the transcriptional networks and signaling involved in placental endothelial and trophoblast differentiation during early pregnancy, which will be a resource for future studies of the human placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Hao Peng
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Wei Hong
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Yingying Wei
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Haojun Tian
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Xiaojie Huang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Linyan Jia
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Tao Duan
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Qizhi He
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
- Correspondence: (Q.H.); (K.W.)
| | - Kai Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
- Correspondence: (Q.H.); (K.W.)
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The Update Immune-Regulatory Role of Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines in Recurrent Pregnancy Losses. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010132. [PMID: 36613575 PMCID: PMC9820098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy losses (RPL) is a common reproductive disorder with various underlying etiologies. In recent years, rapid progress has been made in exploring the immunological mechanisms for RPL. A propensity toward Th2 over Th1 and regulatory T (Treg) over Th17 immune responses may be advantageous for reproductive success. In women with RPL and animals prone to abortion, an inordinate expression of cytokines associated with implantation and early embryo development is present in the endometrium or decidua secreted from immune and non-immune cells. Hence, an adverse cytokine milieu at the maternal-fetal interface assaults immunological tolerance, leading to fetal rejection. Similar to T cells, NK cells can be categorized based on the characteristics of cytokines they secrete. Decidual NK (dNK) cells of RPL patients exhibited an increased NK1/NK2 ratio (IFN-γ/IL-4 producing NK cell ratios), leading to pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu and increased NK cell cytotoxicity. Genetic polymorphism may be the underlying etiologies for Th1 and Th17 propensity since it alters cytokine production. In addition, various hormones participate in cytokine regulations, including progesterone and estrogen, controlling cytokine balance in favor of the Th2 type. Consequently, the intricate regulation of cytokines and hormones may prevent the RPL of immune etiologies. Local or systemic administration of cytokines or their antagonists might help maintain adequate cytokine milieu, favoring Th2 over Th1 response or Treg over Th17 immune response in women with RPL. Herein, we provided an updated comprehensive review regarding the immune-regulatory role of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in RPL. Understanding the roles of cytokines involved in RPL might significantly advance the early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of RPL.
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35
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Liu Z, Zhai M, Zhang Q, Yang T, Wan Z, Li J, Liu X, Xu B, Du L, Chan RWS, Zhang L, Yeung WSB, Cheung KW, Chiu PCN, Wang WJ, Lee CL, Gao Y. Resolving the gene expression maps of human first-trimester chorionic villi with spatial transcriptome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1060298. [PMID: 36561369 PMCID: PMC9763897 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1060298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is important for fetal development in mammals, and spatial transcriptomic profiling of placenta helps to resolve its structure and function. In this study, we described the landscape of spatial transcriptome of human placental villi obtained from two pregnant women at the first trimester using the modified Stereo-seq method applied for paraformaldehyde (PFA) fixation samples. The PFA fixation of human placenta villi was better than fresh villi embedded in optimum cutting temperature (OCT) compound, since it greatly improved tissue morphology and the specificity of RNA signals. The main cell types in chorionic villi such as syncytiotrophoblasts (SCT), villous cytotrophoblasts (VCT), fibroblasts (FB), and extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) were identified with the spatial transcriptome data, whereas the minor cell types of Hofbauer cells (HB) and endothelial cells (Endo) were spatially located by deconvolution of scRNA-seq data. We demonstrated that the Stereo-seq data of human villi could be used for sophisticated analyses such as spatial cell-communication and regulatory activity. We found that the SCT and VCT exhibited the most ligand-receptor pairs that could increase differentiation of the SCT, and that the spatial localization of specific regulons in different cell types was associated with the pathways related to hormones transport and secretion, regulation of mitotic cell cycle, and nutrient transport pathway in SCT. In EVT, regulatory pathways such as the epithelial to mesenchyme transition, epithelial development and differentiation, and extracellular matrix organization were identified. Finally, viral receptors and drug transporters were identified in villi according to the pathway analysis, which could help to explain the vertical transmission of several infectious diseases and drug metabolism efficacy. Our study provides a valuable resource for further investigation of the placenta development, physiology and pathology in a spatial context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Qingqing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tingyu Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China,Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Birth Defects Screening, Shenzhen, China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jianlin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaofeng Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Libei Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rachel W. S. Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ka Wang Cheung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wen-Jing Wang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Wen-Jing Wang, ; Cheuk-Lun Lee, ; Ya Gao,
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Wen-Jing Wang, ; Cheuk-Lun Lee, ; Ya Gao,
| | - Ya Gao
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China,Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Birth Defects Screening, Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Wen-Jing Wang, ; Cheuk-Lun Lee, ; Ya Gao,
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The multifaceted role of GCM1 during trophoblast differentiation in the human placenta. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203071119. [PMID: 36442132 PMCID: PMC9894182 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203071119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Remodeling of the uterine vasculature by invasive extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) is a critical aspect of human placentation. Insufficient EVT invasion can lead to severe obstetrical complications like preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and preterm birth. Glial cells missing-1 (GCM1) is a transcription factor that is crucial for proper placentation in mice, and is highly expressed in human syncytiotrophoblast (ST) and EVTs. GCM1 is classically considered a master regulator of ST formation, but little is known about its contribution to the development and function of EVTs. Therefore, in this study we test the hypothesis that GCM1 is a critical regulator of both EVT and ST development and function. We show that GCM1 is highly expressed in human trophoblast stem (TS) cells differentiated into either ST or EVTs. Knockdown of GCM1 in TS cells hindered differentiation into both ST and EVT pathways. When placed in ST media, GCM1-knockdown cells formed small, unstable clusters; when placed in EVT media, cells had altered morphology and transcript profiles resembling cells trapped in an intermediate state between CT and EVT, and invasive capacity through matrix was reduced. RNA sequencing analysis of GCM1-deficient TS cells revealed downregulation of EVT-associated genes and enrichment in transcripts related to WNT signaling, which was linked to decreased expression of the EVT master regulator ASCL2 and the WNT antagonist NOTUM. Our findings reveal an essential role of GCM1 during ST and EVT development, and suggest that GCM1 regulates differentiation of human TS cells into EVTs by inducing expression of ASCL2 and NOTUM.
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