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Shaji A, Kumaresan A, Sinha MK, Nag P, Patil S, Jeyakumar S, Gowdar Veerappa V, Manimaran A, Ramesha K. Identification of potential differences in salivary proteomic profiles between estrus and diestrus stage of estrous cycle in dairy cows. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2024; 70:204-217. [PMID: 39008339 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2024.2370328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
In the present study, a comparative global high-throughput proteomic analysis strategy was used to identify proteomic differences between estrus and diestrus stage of estrous cycle in dairy cows. Saliva was collected from cows during estrus and diestrus, and subjected to LC-MS/MS-based proteomic analysis. A total of 2842 proteins were detected in the saliva of cows, out of which, 2437 and 1428 non-redundant proteins were identified in estrous and diestrous saliva, respectively. Further, it was found that 1414 and 405 salivary proteins were specific to estrus and diestrus, respectively while 1023 proteins were common to both groups. Among the significantly dysregulated proteins, the expression of 56 proteins was down-regulated (abundance ratio <0.5) while 40 proteins were up-regulated (abundance ratio > 2) in estrous compared to diestrous saliva. The proteins, such as HSD17B12, INHBA, HSP70, ENO1, SRD5A1, MOS, AMH, ECE2, PDGFA, OPRK1, SYN1, CCNC, PLIN5, CETN1, AKR1C4, NMNAT1, CYP2E1, and CYP19A1 were detected only in the saliva samples derived from estrous cows. Considerable number of proteins detected in the saliva of estrous cows were found to be involved in metabolic pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, toll-like receptor signaling pathway, steroid biosynthesis pathway, insulin signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, estrogen signaling pathway, oxytocin signaling pathway, TGF-β signaling pathway and oocyte meiosis. On the other hand, proteins detected in saliva of diestrous cows were involved mainly in metabolic pathway. Collectively, these data provide preliminary evidence of a potential difference in salivary proteins at different stages of estrous cycle in dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsha Shaji
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Manish Kumar Sinha
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Pradeep Nag
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Shivanagouda Patil
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Sakthivel Jeyakumar
- Dairy Production Section, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Vedamurthy Gowdar Veerappa
- Dairy Production Section, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Ayyasamy Manimaran
- Dairy Production Section, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Kerekoppa Ramesha
- Dairy Production Section, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
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Wu G, Grassi P, Molina BG, MacIntyre DA, Sykes L, Bennett PR, Dell A, Haslam SM. Glycomics of cervicovaginal fluid from women at risk of preterm birth reveals immuno-regulatory epitopes that are hallmarks of cancer and viral glycosylation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:20813. [PMID: 39242814 PMCID: PMC11379862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71950-x] [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: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy the immune system needs to maintain immune tolerance of the foetus while also responding to infection, which can cause premature activation of the inflammatory pathways leading to the onset of labour and preterm birth. The vaginal microbiome is an important modifier of preterm birth risk, with Lactobacillus dominance during pregnancy associated with term delivery while high microbial diversity is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. Glycans on glycoproteins along the lower female reproductive tract are fundamental to microbiota-host interactions and the mediation of inflammatory responses. However, the specific glycan epitopes involved in these processes are not well understood. To address this, we conducted glycomic analyses of cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) from 36 pregnant women at high risk of preterm birth and 4 non-pregnant women. Our analysis of N- and O-glycans revealed a rich CVF glycome. While O-glycans were shown to be the main carriers of ABO blood group epitopes, the main features of N-glycans were the presence of abundant paucimannose and high mannose glycans, and a remarkable diversity of complex bi-, tri-, and tetra-antennary glycans decorated with fucose and sialic acid. We identified immuno-regulatory epitopes, such as Lewis antigens, and found that fucosylation was negatively correlated to pro-inflammatory factors, such as IL-1β, MMP-8, C3a and C5a, while glycans with only sialylated antennae were mainly positively correlated to those. Similarly, paucimannose glycans showed a positive correlation to pro-inflammatory factors. We revealed a high abundance of glycans which have previously been identified as hallmarks of cancer and viral glycosylation, such as Man8 and Man9 high mannose glycans. Although each pregnant woman had a unique glycomic profile, longitudinal studies showed that the main glycosylation features were consistent throughout pregnancy in women who delivered at term, whereas women who experienced extreme preterm birth exhibited sharp changes in the CVF glycome shortly before delivery. These findings shed light on the processes underlying the role of glycosylation in maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome and associated host immune responses. In addition, these discoveries facilitate our understanding of the lower female reproductive tract which has broad implications for women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wu
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Paola Grassi
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Belen Gimeno Molina
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Institute of Reproductive & Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, UK
- The Parasol Foundation Centre for Women's Health and Cancer Research, St Mary's Hospital, London, W1 2NY, UK
| | - David A MacIntyre
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Institute of Reproductive & Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, UK
| | - Lynne Sykes
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Institute of Reproductive & Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, UK
- The Parasol Foundation Centre for Women's Health and Cancer Research, St Mary's Hospital, London, W1 2NY, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Institute of Reproductive & Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, UK
| | - Anne Dell
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Stuart M Haslam
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK.
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Pelayo P, Hussain FA, Werlang CA, Wu CM, Woolston BM, Xiang CM, Rutt L, France MT, Ravel J, Ribbeck K, Kwon DS, Balskus EP. Prevotella are major contributors of sialidases in the human vaginal microbiome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2400341121. [PMID: 39186657 PMCID: PMC11388281 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2400341121] [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: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Elevated bacterial sialidase activity in the female genital tract is strongly associated with poor health outcomes including preterm birth and bacterial vaginosis (BV). These negative effects may arise from sialidase-mediated degradation of the protective mucus layer in the cervicovaginal environment. Prior biochemical studies of vaginal bacterial sialidases have focused solely on the BV-associated organism Gardnerella vaginalis. Despite their implications for sexual and reproductive health, sialidases from other vaginal bacteria have not been characterized. Here, we show that vaginal Prevotella species produce sialidases that possess variable activity toward mucin substrates. The sequences of sialidase genes and their presence are largely conserved across clades of Prevotella from different geographies, hinting at their importance globally. Finally, we find that Prevotella sialidase genes and transcripts, including those encoding mucin-degrading sialidases from Prevotella timonensis, are highly prevalent and abundant in human vaginal genomes and transcriptomes. Together, our results identify Prevotella as a critical source of sialidases in the vaginal microbiome, improving our understanding of this detrimental bacterial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pelayo
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Fatima A Hussain
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Massachusetts General Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Caroline A Werlang
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Chloe M Wu
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Benjamin M Woolston
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Claire M Xiang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Lindsay Rutt
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Michael T France
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Katharina Ribbeck
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Douglas S Kwon
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Massachusetts General Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Emily P Balskus
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
- HHMI, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
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Izadifar Z, Cotton J, Chen S, Horvath V, Stejskalova A, Gulati A, LoGrande NT, Budnik B, Shahriar S, Doherty ER, Xie Y, To T, Gilpin SE, Sesay AM, Goyal G, Lebrilla CB, Ingber DE. Mucus production, host-microbiome interactions, hormone sensitivity, and innate immune responses modeled in human cervix chips. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4578. [PMID: 38811586 PMCID: PMC11137093 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48910-0] [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: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Modulation of the cervix by steroid hormones and commensal microbiome play a central role in the health of the female reproductive tract. Here we describe organ-on-a-chip (Organ Chip) models that recreate the human cervical epithelial-stromal interface with a functional epithelial barrier and production of mucus with biochemical and hormone-responsive properties similar to living cervix. When Cervix Chips are populated with optimal healthy versus dysbiotic microbial communities (dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus and Gardnerella vaginalis, respectively), significant differences in tissue innate immune responses, barrier function, cell viability, proteome, and mucus composition are observed that are similar to those seen in vivo. Thus, human Cervix Organ Chips represent physiologically relevant in vitro models to study cervix physiology and host-microbiome interactions, and hence may be used as a preclinical testbed for development of therapeutic interventions to enhance women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Izadifar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Urology Department, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Justin Cotton
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Siyu Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Davis, Davis, California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Viktor Horvath
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Anna Stejskalova
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Aakanksha Gulati
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Nina T LoGrande
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Bogdan Budnik
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Sanjid Shahriar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Erin R Doherty
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Yixuan Xie
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Davis, Davis, California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Tania To
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Sarah E Gilpin
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Adama M Sesay
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Girija Goyal
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Carlito B Lebrilla
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Davis, Davis, California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Donald E Ingber
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Cambridge, MA, 02134, USA.
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5
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Paterson ESJ, Scheck S, McDowell S, Bedford N, Girling JE, Henry CE. Comparison of cervicovaginal fluid extracellular vesicles isolated from paired cervical brushes and vaginal swabs. JOURNAL OF EXTRACELLULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 3:e153. [PMID: 38939571 PMCID: PMC11080783 DOI: 10.1002/jex2.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynaecological condition, with a long diagnostic delay. Surgery is required to confirm a diagnosis, highlighting the need for a non-invasive biomarker. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) may have a role in endometriosis pathogenesis, yet there is limited EV biomarker literature available. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of isolating cervico-vaginal fluid EVs sampled using cervical brushes and vaginal swabs and to compare these methods. After providing informed consent, patients undergoing surgery for suspected endometriosis had cervical brush and vaginal swab samples collected under general anaesthetic. Isolated EVs were characterised through negative stain transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Western blotting (TSG101, CD63, Calnexin, ApoB, Albumin), tunable resistive pulse sensing (TRPS), microBCA assays and RT-qPCR of miRNAs. PCR was performed on samples prior to EV isolation to assess bacteria present in samples. Cervical brush and vaginal swab EVs were intact vesicles with limited co-isolated contaminants. Cervical brushes had higher concentrations of particles compared to match vaginal swabs, although both samples had low concentrations. Protein and miRNA yield were similar between matched samples. PCR demonstrated only a small amount DNA within samples was bacterial (>0.5%). Cervico-vaginal fluids EVs were successfully isolated from cervical brushes and vaginal swabs, demonstrating a new method of sampling reproductive EVs. EV yield from both sample types was low. Similar protein and miRNA levels suggest either sampling method may be suitable for biomarker studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Scheck
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's HealthUniversity of OtagoWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyWellington Hospital, Te Whatu Ora ‐ Capital, Coast and Hutt ValleyWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
| | - Simon McDowell
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyWellington Hospital, Te Whatu Ora ‐ Capital, Coast and Hutt ValleyWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
| | - Nick Bedford
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyWellington Hospital, Te Whatu Ora ‐ Capital, Coast and Hutt ValleyWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
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Huang X, Lin R, Mao B, Tang X, Zhao J, Zhang Q, Cui S. Lactobacillus crispatus CCFM1339 Inhibits Vaginal Epithelial Barrier Injury Induced by Gardnerella vaginalis in Mice. Biomolecules 2024; 14:240. [PMID: 38397477 PMCID: PMC10886512 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020240] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The vaginal epithelial barrier, which integrates mechanical, immune, chemical, and microbial defenses, is pivotal in safeguarding against external pathogens and upholding the vaginal microecological equilibrium. Although the widely used metronidazole effectively curtails Gardnerella vaginalis, a key pathogen in bacterial vaginosis, it falls short in restoring the vaginal barrier or reducing recurrence rates. Our prior research highlighted Lactobacillus crispatus CCFM1339, a vaginally derived Lactobacillus strain, for its capacity to modulate the vaginal epithelial barrier. In cellular models, L. crispatus CCFM1339 fortified the integrity of the cellular monolayer, augmented cellular migration, and facilitated repair. Remarkably, in animal models, L. crispatus CCFM1339 substantially abated the secretion of the barrier disruption biomarker E-cadherin (from 101.45 to 82.90 pg/mL) and increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (35.18% vs. the model), consequently mitigating vaginal inflammation in mice. Immunological assays in vaginal tissues elucidated increased secretory IgA levels (from 405.56 to 740.62 ng/mL) and curtailed IL-17 gene expression. Moreover, L. crispatus CCFM1339 enhanced Lactobacilli abundance and attenuated Enterobacterium and Enterococcus within the vaginal microbiome, underscoring its potential in probiotic applications for vaginal barrier regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
| | - Rumeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
| | - Bingyong Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Jianxin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Qiuxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Shumao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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7
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Kameyama A. Supported Molecular Matrix Electrophoresis. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2763:79-97. [PMID: 38347402 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3670-1_7] [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] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Distinct bands of mucins cannot be banded using a gel electrophoresis based on a molecular sieving effect due to their very large molecular weight and remarkable diversity in glycosylation. In contrast, membrane electrophoresis can separate mucins as round bands. Here, we present an analysis of mucin separation via membrane electrophoresis using a porous polyvinylidene difluoride membrane, which is highly stable against chemical modifications and various organic solvents. The separated mucins can not only be stained with dyes but also with antibodies and lectins, and glycans can be released from the excised bands and analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Kameyama
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan.
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8
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Fair S, Abril-Parreño L. Expression Analysis of Genes Corresponding to Mucins and Their Glycans from Cervical Tissue Using RNA Sequencing. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2763:269-280. [PMID: 38347418 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3670-1_23] [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] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
In the female reproductive tract, mucin proteins are the main component of mucus secreted by cervical goblet cells and play an essential role in many biological functions. They act as a medium for lubrication and mainting a cervical mucosal barrier against ascending pathogens from the vagina while also allowing sperm migration. The expression of mucin genes as well as the levels of O-glycosylation changes across the oestrous cycle. Detection and characterization of mucins and their glycans is important to understand the interface between the external and the internal environment, as the cervical epithelium represents the first line of defense against infections of the upper reproductive tract. Advances in the field of molecular biology have made possible to study differences in mucin and glycan gene expression which can help to understand impeded sperm transport as well as variation in the susceptibility to infection. This chapter discusses procedures relevant for both animals and humans on how to recover cervical tissue and perform a gene expression analysis of genes corresponding to mucins and their glycans using RNA sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Fair
- Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Laura Abril-Parreño
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
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9
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Matsuda A, Boottanun P, Koizumi S, Nagai M, Kuno A. Differential Glycoform Analysis of MUC1 Derived from Biological Specimens Using an Antibody-Overlay Lectin Microarray. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2763:223-236. [PMID: 38347414 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3670-1_19] [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] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
The association between altered glycosylation of MUC1 and various disease events has sparked significant interest. However, analytical technologies to investigate the disease-related glycoforms of endogenous MUC1 in blood and tissue specimens are limited. Therefore, we devised a reliable technique for differential analysis of endogenous MUC1 glycoforms based on an antibody-assisted lectin microarray. Its highly sensitive detection aids in analyzing soluble MUC1 from relatively small amounts of serum via a simple enrichment process. Micro-/macro-dissection of the MUC1-positive region is combined with glycoform analysis of the membrane-tethered MUC1. Thus, we have optimized the protocol for sample qualification using immunohistochemistry, sample pretreatment for tissue sections, protein extraction, purification via immunoprecipitation, and the antibody-overlay lectin microarray, which are sequentially essential for differential glycoform analysis of endogenous MUC1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Matsuda
- Sysmex Corporation, Reagent Engineering, Protein Technology Group, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Patcharaporn Boottanun
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Sachiko Koizumi
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Misugi Nagai
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kuno
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Ibaraki, Japan.
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10
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Kulaksiz D, Bayoglu Tekin Y, Deger O, Baki Erin K. Investigating the relationship between the cervical mucoprotein levels and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2023; 75:559-564. [PMID: 35785924 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05102-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer has been ranked as the fourth most common cancer in women. The role of HPV, the DNA virus identified in the 1980s, in almost all cervical cancers is undisputed. In patients scanned with smear and HPV, a cervical biopsy is performed accompanied by colposcopic examination, and the lesion is defined. The concentration of mucoproteins varies in the structure of the cervical mucus with neoplasms. The major aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the levels of cervical mucoprotein in patients at the early stages of cervical cancer and evaluate if these levels can be used in the early diagnosis of this cancer type. METHODS The study was designed as a prospective cohort study. Samples from cervical mucus were taken and stored before colposcopy examination of human papillomavirus (HPV) positive patients (N.=100). According to the pathology results, while 36 cases constituted the precancerous group, no suspicion of cancer was found in 64 cases. To ensure standardization, colposcopy was performed immediately after the menstrual cycle and at least 0.5 mL of the cervical mucus sample was taken from all individual patients used in this study. Cervical mucus samples of the patients were analyzed for mucoproteins MUC1, MUC2, MUC5AC and MUC5B. RESULTS All mucoprotein levels were found to be higher in patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) than those of subjects with normal pathology for cervical neoplasia. CONCLUSIONS Significant relationship was obtained between cervical intraepithelial neoplasms and the levels of mucoproteins in cervical mucus. The results showed that diagnosis of neoplasia with HPV may be easily performed by utilizing any mucoprotein test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Kulaksiz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Trabzon, Türkiye -
| | - Yesim Bayoglu Tekin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Trabzon, Türkiye
| | - Orhan Deger
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Türkiye
| | - Kubra Baki Erin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Trabzon, Türkiye
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11
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Habibullah MM. The role of CFTR channel in female infertility. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:1228-1237. [PMID: 36576330 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2161427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a cAMP-activated trans-membrane ATP gated anion channel present in most epithelia, which transports chloride and bicarbonate ions across the apical membrane. Mutations in the CFTR protein are known to result in defective expression or function, notably the inhibition of chloride and bicarbonate transport. This can result in cystic fibrosis (CF), a disorder characterised by thickness of the mucus lining of the epithelial cells of the alimentary and respiratory tracts, sweat ducts and reproductive organs. As a consequence, there is a reduction in fluid transport at the apical surface. While the most devastating effect of CF is mortality, about 98% of men with CF are infertile, consequent of early blockage of or failure to develop the mesonephrotic ducts as well as the vas deferens. The effect of CF of female fertility is less well-understood. This review highlights the genetics and pathophysiology as well as the mechanism of action of CF on female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud M Habibullah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Agarwal K, Choudhury B, Robinson LS, Morrill SR, Bouchibiti Y, Chilin-Fuentes D, Rosenthal SB, Fisch KM, Peipert JF, Lebrilla CB, Allsworth JE, Lewis AL, Lewis WG. Resident microbes shape the vaginal epithelial glycan landscape. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eabp9599. [PMID: 38019934 PMCID: PMC11419735 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abp9599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial cells are covered in carbohydrates (glycans). This glycan coat or "glycocalyx" interfaces directly with microbes, providing a protective barrier against potential pathogens. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition associated with adverse health outcomes in which bacteria reside in direct proximity to the vaginal epithelium. Some of these bacteria, including Gardnerella, produce glycosyl hydrolase enzymes. However, glycans of the human vaginal epithelial surface have not been studied in detail. Here, we elucidate key characteristics of the "normal" vaginal epithelial glycan landscape and analyze the impact of resident microbes on the surface glycocalyx. In human BV, glycocalyx staining was visibly diminished in electron micrographs compared to controls. Biochemical and mass spectrometric analysis showed that, compared to normal vaginal epithelial cells, BV cells were depleted of sialylated N- and O-glycans, with underlying galactose residues exposed on the surface. Treatment of primary epithelial cells from BV-negative women with recombinant Gardnerella sialidases generated BV-like glycan phenotypes. Exposure of cultured VK2 vaginal epithelial cells to recombinant Gardnerella sialidase led to desialylation of glycans and induction of pathways regulating cell death, differentiation, and inflammatory responses. These data provide evidence that vaginal epithelial cells exhibit an altered glycan landscape in BV and suggest that BV-associated glycosidic enzymes may lead to changes in epithelial gene transcription that promote cell turnover and regulate responses toward the resident microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Agarwal
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Biswa Choudhury
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Lloyd S. Robinson
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
| | - Sydney R. Morrill
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Yasmine Bouchibiti
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States of America
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States of America
| | - Daisy Chilin-Fuentes
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Sara B. Rosenthal
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Kathleen M. Fisch
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey F. Peipert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States of America
| | - Carlito B. Lebrilla
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States of America
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States of America
| | - Jenifer E. Allsworth
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, University of Missouri, Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO 64110, United States of America
| | - Amanda L. Lewis
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Warren G. Lewis
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, UCSD, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
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Jenkins DJ, Woolston BM, Hood-Pishchany MI, Pelayo P, Konopaski AN, Quinn Peters M, France MT, Ravel J, Mitchell CM, Rakoff-Nahoum S, Whidbey C, Balskus EP. Bacterial amylases enable glycogen degradation by the vaginal microbiome. Nat Microbiol 2023; 8:1641-1652. [PMID: 37563289 PMCID: PMC10465358 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01447-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The human vaginal microbiota is frequently dominated by lactobacilli and transition to a more diverse community of anaerobic microbes is associated with health risks. Glycogen released by lysed epithelial cells is believed to be an important nutrient source in the vagina. However, the mechanism by which vaginal bacteria metabolize glycogen is unclear, with evidence implicating both bacterial and human enzymes. Here we biochemically characterize six glycogen-degrading enzymes (GDEs), all of which are pullanases (PulA homologues), from vaginal bacteria that support the growth of amylase-deficient Lactobacillus crispatus on glycogen. We reveal variations in their pH tolerance, substrate preferences, breakdown products and susceptibility to inhibition. Analysis of vaginal microbiome datasets shows that these enzymes are expressed in all community state types. Finally, we confirm the presence and activity of bacterial and human GDEs in cervicovaginal fluid. This work establishes that bacterial GDEs can participate in the breakdown of glycogen, providing insight into metabolism that may shape the vaginal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominick J Jenkins
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin M Woolston
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Indriati Hood-Pishchany
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paula Pelayo
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - M Quinn Peters
- Department of Chemistry, Seattle University, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael T France
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Caroline M Mitchell
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Seth Rakoff-Nahoum
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | | | - Emily P Balskus
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Rapp K, Wei S, Roberts M, Yao S, Fei SS, Gao L, Ray K, Wang A, Godiah R, Han L. Transcriptional profiling of mucus production and modification in rhesus macaque endocervical cells under hormonal regulation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.18.541362. [PMID: 37292621 PMCID: PMC10245652 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.18.541362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Objective Endocervical mucus production is a key regulator of fertility throughout the menstrual cycle. With cycle-dependent variability in mucus quality and quantity, cervical mucus can either facilitate or block sperm ascension into the upper female reproductive tract. This study seeks to identify genes involved in the hormonal regulation of mucus production, modification, and regulation through profiling the transcriptome of endocervical cells from the non-human primate, the Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta). Design Experimental. Setting Translational science laboratory. Intervention We treated differentiated primary endocervical cultures with estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) to mimic peri-ovulatory and luteal-phase hormonal changes. Using RNA-sequencing, we identified differential expression of gene pathways and mucus producing and modifying genes in cells treated with E2 compared to hormone-free conditions and E2 compared to E2-primed cells treated with P4. Main Outcome Measures We pursued differential gene expression analysis on RNA-sequenced cells. Sequence validation was done using qPCR. Results Our study identified 158 genes that show significant differential expression in E2-only conditions compared to hormone-free control, and 250 genes that show significant differential expression in P4-treated conditions compared to E2-only conditions. From this list, we found hormone-induced changes in transcriptional profiles for genes across several classes of mucus production, including ion channels and enzymes involved in post-translational mucin modification that have not previously been described as hormonally regulated. Conclusion Our study is the first to use an in vitro culture system to create an epithelial-cell specific transcriptome of the endocervix. As a result, our study identifies new genes and pathways that are altered by sex-steroids in cervical mucus production.
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Roberts M, Yao S, Wei S, Jensen JT, Han L. Hormonal regulation of non-cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator ion channels in the endocervix. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:163-171. [PMID: 36907435 PMCID: PMC10355220 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize ion channel expression and localization in the endocervix under different hormonal conditions using a nonhuman primate primary endocervical epithelial cell model. DESIGN Experimental. SETTING University-based, translational science laboratory. INTERVENTIONS We cultured and treated conditionally reprogrammed primary rhesus macaque endocervix cells with estradiol and progesterone and measured gene expression changes for several known ion channel and ion channel regulators of mucus secreting epithelia. Using both rhesus macaque endocervical samples and human samples, we localized channels in the endocervix using immunohistochemistry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The relative abundance of transcripts was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Immunostaining results were evaluated qualitatively. RESULTS Compared with controls, we found that estradiol increased gene expression for ANO6, NKCC1, CLCA1, and PDE4D. Progesterone down-regulated gene expression for ANO6, SCNN1A, SCNN1B, NKCC1, and PDE4D (P≤.05). Immunohistochemistry confirmed endocervical cell membrane localization of ANO1, ANO6, KCNN4, LRR8CA, and NKCC1. CONCLUSIONS We found several ion channels and ion channel regulators that are hormonally sensitive in the endocervix. These channels, therefore, may play a role in the cyclic fertility changes in the endocervix and could be further investigated as targets for future fertility and contraceptive studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie Roberts
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, Oregon.
| | - Shan Yao
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, Oregon
| | - Shuhao Wei
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, Oregon
| | - Jeffrey T Jensen
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, Oregon; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Leo Han
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, Oregon; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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16
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Gollapudi S, Jamal S, Kamatar A, Yuan F, Wang L, Lafer EM, Belardi B, Stachowiak JC. Steric pressure between glycosylated transmembrane proteins inhibits internalization by endocytosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2215815120. [PMID: 37023126 PMCID: PMC10104535 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2215815120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Clathrin-mediated endocytosis is essential for the removal of transmembrane proteins from the plasma membrane in all eukaryotic cells. Many transmembrane proteins are glycosylated. These proteins collectively comprise the glycocalyx, a sugar-rich layer at the cell surface, which is responsible for intercellular adhesion and recognition. Previous work has suggested that glycosylation of transmembrane proteins reduces their removal from the plasma membrane by endocytosis. However, the mechanism responsible for this effect remains unknown. To study the impact of glycosylation on endocytosis, we replaced the ectodomain of the transferrin receptor, a well-studied transmembrane protein that undergoes clathrin-mediated endocytosis, with the ectodomain of MUC1, which is highly glycosylated. When we expressed this transmembrane fusion protein in mammalian epithelial cells, we found that its recruitment to endocytic structures was substantially reduced in comparison to a version of the protein that lacked the MUC1 ectodomain. This reduction could not be explained by a loss of mobility on the cell surface or changes in endocytic dynamics. Instead, we found that the bulky MUC1 ectodomain presented a steric barrier to endocytosis. Specifically, the peptide backbone of the ectodomain and its glycosylation each made steric contributions, which drove comparable reductions in endocytosis. These results suggest that glycosylation constitutes a biophysical signal for retention of transmembrane proteins at the plasma membrane. This mechanism could be modulated in multiple disease states that exploit the glycocalyx, from cancer to atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadhana Gollapudi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
| | - Sabah Jamal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
| | - Advika Kamatar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
| | - Feng Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
| | - Liping Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Eileen M. Lafer
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Brian Belardi
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
| | - Jeanne C. Stachowiak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
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17
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Warr S, Pini T, de Graaf SP, Rickard JP. Molecular insights to the sperm-cervix interaction and the consequences for cryopreserved sperm. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:183-196. [PMID: 36191077 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreserved ram spermatozoa are limited in their capacity to traverse the ovine cervix and achieve fertilization. This altered interaction may be related to modified molecular communication between frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa, seminal plasma, and the female tract. As such, this review aims to identify the biological processes which underpin sperm maturation and transport throughout the female reproductive tract to elucidate factors which may alter this natural process in cryopreserved ram spermatozoa. We also assess critical barriers to ram spermatozoa specific to the ovine cervix and the role of seminal plasma in mitigating these barriers. Transcriptomics is explored as a new approach to understand the sperm-cervix interaction. Recent studies have demonstrated that both spermatozoa and seminal plasma contain a complex profile of coding and non-coding RNAs. These molecular species have clear links with functional fertility, and mounting evidence suggests they may be altered by cryopreservation. Emerging in vitro cell culture models are also investigated as a "next step" in studying this interaction, utilizing transcriptomics to identify subtle changes in female tract gene expression in response to spermatozoa. The application of such models is proposed as an exciting opportunity to investigate the unique challenges faced by cryopreserved spermatozoa traversing the ovine cervix prior to fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Warr
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Taylor Pini
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Simon P de Graaf
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jessica P Rickard
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Proteome Mapping of Cervical Mucus and Its Potential as a Source of Biomarkers in Female Tract Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021038. [PMID: 36674559 PMCID: PMC9863546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021038] [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: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical mucus (CM) is a viscous fluid that is produced by the cervical glands and functions as a uterine cervix plug. Its viscosity decreases during ovulation, providing a window for non-invasive sampling. This study focuses on proteomic characterization of CM to evaluate its potential as a non-invasively acquired source of biomarkers and in understanding of molecular (patho)physiology of the female genital tract. The first objective of this work was to optimize experimental workflow for CM processing and the second was to assess differences in the proteomic composition of CM during natural ovulatory cycles obtained from intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles and in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Proteomic analysis of CM samples revealed 4370 proteins involved in processes including neutrophil degranulation, cellular stress responses, and hemostasis. Differential expression analysis revealed 199 proteins enriched in IUI samples and 422 enriched in IVF. The proteins enriched in IUI were involved in phosphatidic acid synthesis, responses to external stimulus, and neutrophil degranulation, while those enriched in IVF samples were linked to neutrophil degranulation, formation of a cornified envelope and hemostasis. Subsequent analyses clarified the protein composition of the CM and how it is altered by hormonal stimulation of the uterus.
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Dong M, Dong Y, Bai J, Li H, Ma X, Li B, Wang C, Li H, Qi W, Wang Y, Fan A, Han C, Xue F. Interactions between microbiota and cervical epithelial, immune, and mucus barrier. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1124591. [PMID: 36909729 PMCID: PMC9998931 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1124591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The female reproductive tract harbours hundreds of bacterial species and produces numerous metabolites. The uterine cervix is located between the upper and lower parts of the female genital tract. It allows sperm and birth passage and hinders the upward movement of microorganisms into a relatively sterile uterus. It is also the predicted site for sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as Chlamydia, human papilloma virus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The healthy cervicovaginal microbiota maintains cervical epithelial barrier integrity and modulates the mucosal immune system. Perturbations of the microbiota composition accompany changes in microbial metabolites that induce local inflammation, damage the cervical epithelial and immune barrier, and increase susceptibility to STI infection and relative disease progression. This review examined the intimate interactions between the cervicovaginal microbiota, relative metabolites, and the cervical epithelial-, immune-, and mucus barrier, and the potent effect of the host-microbiota interaction on specific STI infection. An improved understanding of cervicovaginal microbiota regulation on cervical microenvironment homeostasis might promote advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for various STI diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yalan Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Junyi Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Huanrong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaotong Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Bijun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Huiyang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenhui Qi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingmei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Aiping Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Cha Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Cha Han, ; Fengxia Xue,
| | - Fengxia Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Cha Han, ; Fengxia Xue,
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Adapen C, Réot L, Menu E. Role of the human vaginal microbiota in the regulation of inflammation and sexually transmitted infection acquisition: Contribution of the non-human primate model to a better understanding? FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:992176. [PMID: 36560972 PMCID: PMC9763629 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.992176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human vaginal microbiota has a central role in the regulation of the female reproductive tract (FRT) inflammation. Indeed, on one hand an optimal environment leading to a protection against sexually transmitted infections (STI) is associated with a high proportion of Lactobacillus spp. (eubiosis). On the other hand, a more diverse microbiota with a high amount of non-Lactobacillus spp. (dysbiosis) is linked to a higher local inflammation and an increased STI susceptibility. The composition of the vaginal microbiota is influenced by numerous factors that may lead to a dysbiotic environment. In this review, we first discuss how the vaginal microbiota composition affects the local inflammation with a focus on the cytokine profiles, the immune cell recruitment/phenotype and a large part devoted on the interactions between the vaginal microbiota and the neutrophils. Secondly, we analyze the interplay between STI and the vaginal microbiota and describe several mechanisms of action of the vaginal microbiota. Finally, the input of the NHP model in research focusing on the FRT health including vaginal microbiota or STI acquisition/control and treatment is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Adapen
- Micalis Institute, AgroParisTech, INRAE, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Louis Réot
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Commissariat à l'énergie Atomique et aux énergies Alternatives (CEA), Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-Immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB)/Department of Infectious Disease Models and Innovative Therapies (IDMIT), Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Elisabeth Menu
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Commissariat à l'énergie Atomique et aux énergies Alternatives (CEA), Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-Immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB)/Department of Infectious Disease Models and Innovative Therapies (IDMIT), Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- Mucosal Immunity and Sexually Transmitted Infection Control (MISTIC) Group, Department of Virology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
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21
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Shapiro RL, DeLong K, Zulfiqar F, Carter D, Better M, Ensign LM. In vitro and ex vivo models for evaluating vaginal drug delivery systems. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114543. [PMID: 36208729 PMCID: PMC9940824 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal drug delivery systems are often preferred for treating a variety of diseases and conditions of the female reproductive tract (FRT), as delivery can be more targeted with less systemic side effects. However, there are many anatomical and biological barriers to effective treatment via the vaginal route. Further, biocompatibility with the local tissue and microbial microenvironment is desired. A variety of in vitro and ex vivo models are described herein for evaluating the physicochemical properties and toxicity profile of vaginal drug delivery systems. Deciding whether to utilize organoids in vitro or fresh human cervicovaginal mucus ex vivo requires careful consideration of the intended use and the formulation characteristics. Optimally, in vitro and ex vivo experimentation will inform or predict in vivo performance, and examples are given that describe utilization of a range of methods from in vitro to in vivo. Lastly, we highlight more advanced model systems for other mucosa as inspiration for the future in model development for the FRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Shapiro
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
| | - Kevin DeLong
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Fareeha Zulfiqar
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Davell Carter
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Marina Better
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Laura M Ensign
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Infectious Diseases, and Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
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22
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Izadifar Z, Sontheimer-Phelps A, Lubamba BA, Bai H, Fadel C, Stejskalova A, Ozkan A, Dasgupta Q, Bein A, Junaid A, Gulati A, Mahajan G, Kim S, LoGrande NT, Naziripour A, Ingber DE. Modeling mucus physiology and pathophysiology in human organs-on-chips. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114542. [PMID: 36179916 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The surfaces of human internal organs are lined by a mucus layer that ensures symbiotic relationships with commensal microbiome while protecting against potentially injurious environmental chemicals, toxins, and pathogens, and disruption of this layer can contribute to disease development. Studying mucus biology has been challenging due to the lack of physiologically relevant human in vitro models. Here we review recent progress that has been made in the development of human organ-on-a-chip microfluidic culture models that reconstitute epithelial tissue barriers and physiologically relevant mucus layers with a focus on lung, colon, small intestine, cervix and vagina. These organ-on-a-chip models that incorporate dynamic fluid flow, air-liquid interfaces, and physiologically relevant mechanical cues can be used to study mucus composition, mechanics, and structure, as well as investigate its contributions to human health and disease with a level of biomimicry not possible in the past.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Izadifar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | | | - Bob A Lubamba
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Haiqing Bai
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Cicely Fadel
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Anna Stejskalova
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Alican Ozkan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Queeny Dasgupta
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Amir Bein
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Abidemi Junaid
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Aakanksha Gulati
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Gautam Mahajan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Seongmin Kim
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Nina T LoGrande
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Arash Naziripour
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Donald E Ingber
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Cambridge, MA 02138, United Kingdom.
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23
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Schimpf U, Caldas-Silveira E, Katchan L, Vigier-Carriere C, Lantier I, Nachmann G, Gidlöf S, Jonasson AF, Björndahl L, Trombotto S, Druart X, Crouzier T. Topical reinforcement of the cervical mucus barrier to sperm. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabm2417. [PMID: 36449601 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abm2417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Close to half of the world's pregnancies are still unplanned, reflecting a clear unmet need in contraception. Ideally, a contraceptive would provide the high efficacy of hormonal treatments, without systemic side effects. Here, we studied topical reinforcement of the cervical mucus by chitosan mucoadhesive polymers as a form of female contraceptive. Chitosans larger than 7 kDa effectively cross-linked human ovulatory cervical mucus to prevent sperm penetration in vitro. We then demonstrated in vivo using the ewe as a model that vaginal gels containing chitosan could stop ram sperm at the entrance of the cervical canal and prevent them from reaching the uterus, whereas the same gels without chitosan did not substantially limit sperm migration. Chitosan did not affect sperm motility in vitro or in vivo, suggesting reinforcement of the mucus physical barrier as the primary mechanism of action. The chitosan formulations did not damage or irritate the ewe vaginal epithelium, in contrast to nonoxynol-9 spermicide. The demonstration that cervical mucus can be reinforced topically to create an effective barrier to sperm may therefore form the technological basis for muco-cervical barrier contraceptives with the potential to become an alternative to hormonal contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Schimpf
- Division of Glycoscience, Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering Science in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health (CBH), AlbaNova University Center, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Material and Environmental Chemistry (MMK), Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erika Caldas-Silveira
- PIXANIM, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, UMR INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Ljudmila Katchan
- Cirqle Biomedical Contraception ApS, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Isabelle Lantier
- French National Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE), UMR ISP, Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Gilai Nachmann
- Division of Glycoscience, Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering Science in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health (CBH), AlbaNova University Center, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Gidlöf
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels alle 8, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Aino Fianu Jonasson
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels alle 8, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Lars Björndahl
- ANOVA-Andrology, Sexual Medicine, Transmedicine, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, Norra Stationsgatan 69, 113 64 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stéphane Trombotto
- Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, IMP, UMR 5223, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- PIXANIM, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, UMR INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Thomas Crouzier
- Division of Glycoscience, Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering Science in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health (CBH), AlbaNova University Center, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.,Cirqle Biomedical Contraception ApS, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.,AIMES-Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences, Karolinska Institutet and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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24
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Fernandez-Hermida Y, Vincenzoni F, Milardi D, Astorri AL, Urbani A, Grande G, Azagra R. Light Microscopy and Proteomic Patterns of Ovulation in Cervical Mucus. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1815. [PMID: 36362970 PMCID: PMC9698449 DOI: 10.3390/life12111815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing number of couples interested in identifying the fertile window for the purpose of conceiving. From what has been published so far, it can be concluded that there are no reliable methods to predict ovulation, and, therefore, to predict the fertile window. Proteins of the cervical mucus (CM) could behave as biomarkers to allow the early and precise identification of ovulation. CM samples were collected from the lumen of the cervical canal from women of reproductive age, on three different days of the same menstrual cycle. Samples were first analyzed and classified by light microscopy. High-resolution mass spectrometry and bioinformatic analysis were performed afterwards to determine the in vivo changes of CM protein composition. CM underwent cyclical changes in its biophysical composition, which were evidenced by changes in the crystallographic patterns observed under the light microscope. The proteomic analysis revealed changes in the protein composition of CM along the cycle. Twenty-five out of the forty-eight total proteins identified could become potential biomarkers of ovulation. The coordinated changes in the composition of the CM around the time of ovulation could be happening to specifically grant access to a foreign body, such as the sperm might be.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Fernandez-Hermida
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Internacional University of Catalonia, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallés, Spain
| | - Federica Vincenzoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Milardi
- International Scientific Institute “Paul VI”, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico “A. Gemelli” IRCSS, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Astorri
- International Scientific Institute “Paul VI”, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico “A. Gemelli” IRCSS, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Urbani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grande
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Rafael Azagra
- Health Center Badia del Valles, Institut Català de la Salut, 08214 Badia del Vallés, Spain
- GROIMAP Research Group, Research Support Unit Metropolitana Nord, Instituto Universitario IDIAP Jordi Gol, 08290 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Spain
- Fundació Privada PRECIOSA per la Investigació, 0821 Barberá del Vallés, Spain
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25
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Han L, Roberts M, Luo A, Wei S, Slayden OD, Macdonald KD. Functional evaluation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator in the endocervix†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:732-740. [PMID: 35532160 PMCID: PMC9476216 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac090] [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: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is an apical membrane chloride/bicarbonate ion channel in epithelial cells. Mutations in CFTR cause cystic fibrosis, a disease characterized by thickened mucus secretions and is associated with subfertility and infertility. CFTR function has been well characterized in vitro and in vivo in airway and other epithelia studies. However, little is known about CFTR function in the cervix in health and its contribution to cyclic regulation of fertility from endocervical mucus changes. Contributing to this research gap is the lack of information on the effect of sex steroid hormones on CFTR expression in cervical epithelial cells across the menstrual cycle. Herein, we demonstrate the hormonal regulation of CFTR expression in endocervical cells both in vitro and in vivo, and that conditionally reprogrammed endocervical epithelial cells can be used to interrogate CFTR ion channel function. CFTR activity was demonstrated in vitro using electrophysiological methods and functionally inhibited by the CFTR-specific inhibitors inh-172 and GlyH-101. We also report that CFTR expression is increased by estradiol in the macaque cervix both in vitro and in vivo in Rhesus macaques treated with artificial menstrual cycles. Estrogen upregulation of CFTR is blocked in vivo by cotreatment with progesterone. Our findings provide the most comprehensive evidence to date that steroid hormones drive changes in CFTR expression. These data are integral to understanding the role of CFTR as a fertility regulator in the endocervix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Mackenzie Roberts
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Addie Luo
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Shuhao Wei
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ov D Slayden
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kelvin D Macdonald
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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26
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Acupuncture for Female Infertility: Discussion on Action Mechanism and Application. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3854117. [PMID: 35832528 PMCID: PMC9273356 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3854117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A higher incidence of female infertility has been reported with an unexpectedly early appearance in recent years. The female infertility treatment and application of assisted reproductive technology have recently gained immense interest from scientists. Many studies have discussed the beneficial effects of acupuncture on female infertility. With advancements in science and medical technology, acupuncture-related research has increased in investigating its effectiveness in treating female infertility. This review focuses on a compilation of research in recent years on acupuncture for female infertility treatment and the exploration of the underlying mechanism. For this purpose, literature was searched using various search engines like PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search was refined by only focusing on recent studies on acupuncture effectiveness and mechanism in female infertility and evaluating pregnancy outcomes.
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27
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Park D, Reddy AP, Wilmarth PA, Jensen JT, Han L. Mucus secretions from a conditionally reprogrammed primary endocervical cell culture. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:159-165. [PMID: 35560013 PMCID: PMC9947459 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if the secretions collected from a conditionally reprogrammed primary endocervical cell culture are suitable surrogates for mucus studies. DESIGN Experimental. SETTING University research center. ANIMAL(S) Female rhesus macaque (n = 2). INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantitative proteomic analysis using tandem mass tag mass spectrometry liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. RESULT(S) We identified 3,047 proteins, common proteins present in both primary endocervical cell cultures and the mucus of rhesus macaques. We found a 71% overlap in the top 500 most prevalent proteins in the samples. Cell culture secretions contained many essential mucus proteins, including MUC5B, the primary mucin of the endocervix. CONCLUSION(S) Similarities in secreted proteins suggest that conditionally reprogrammed primary endocervical cells could be used to study mucus secretion in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daye Park
- Augusta University/University of Georgia Medical Partnership, Athens, Georgia.
| | - Ashok P. Reddy
- Proteomic Shared Resource, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Phillip A. Wilmarth
- Proteomic Shared Resource, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jeffrey T. Jensen
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR, USA,Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Leo Han
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR, USA,Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR, USA
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28
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Abril-Parreño L, Morgan J, Krogenæs A, Druart X, Cormican P, Gallagher ME, Reid C, Meade K, Saldova R, Fair S. Biochemical and molecular characterisation of sialylated cervical mucins in sheep. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:419-431. [PMID: 35470857 PMCID: PMC9382375 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sialic acid occupies terminal positions on O-glycans of cervical mucins, where they contribute to the increased viscosity of mucin thereby regulating sperm transport. This study characterised the sialylated cervical mucins from follicular phase mucus of six European ewe breeds with known differences in pregnancy rates following cervical artificial insemination using frozen-thawed semen at both synchronised and natural oestrus cycles. These were Suffolk (low fertility) and Belclare (medium fertility) in Ireland, Ile de France and Romanov (both with medium fertility) in France and Norwegian White Sheep (NWS) and Fur (both with high fertility) in Norway. Expression of mucin and sialic acid related genes was quantified using RNA-sequencing in cervical tissue from Suffolk, Belclare, Fur and NWS only. Cervical tissue was also assessed for the percentage of cervical epithelial populated by mucin secreting goblet cells in the same four ewe breeds. Biochemical analysis showed that there was an effect of ewe breed on sialic acid species, which was represented by Suffolk having higher levels of Neu5,9Ac2 compared to NWS (P < 0.05). Suffolk ewes had a lower percentage of goblet cells than Fur and NWS (P < 0.05). Gene expression analysis identified higher expression of MUC5AC, MUC5B, ST6GAL1, ST6GAL2 and lower expression of ST3GAL3, ST3GAL4 and SIGLEC10 in Suffolk compared to high fertility ewe breeds (P < 0.05). Our results indicate that specific alterations in sialylated mucin composition may be related to impaired cervical sperm transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Abril-Parreño
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, V94 T9PX, Limerick, Ireland.,Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, C15 PW93, Grange, Ireland
| | - Jack Morgan
- NIBRT GlycoScience Group, The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, A94 X099, Blackrock, Ireland
| | - Anette Krogenæs
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 5003 1432, Ås, Norway
| | - Xavier Druart
- UMR-PRC, INRA-85, Université de Tours, IFCE, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Paul Cormican
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, C15 PW93, Grange, Ireland
| | - Mary E Gallagher
- UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Colm Reid
- UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Kieran Meade
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 W6F6, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Radka Saldova
- NIBRT GlycoScience Group, The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, A94 X099, Blackrock, Ireland.,UCD School of Medicine, College of Health and Agricultural Science, University College Dublin, D07 A8NN, Dublin 4, Ireland.,CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, H91 W2TY, Galway, Ireland
| | - Sean Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, V94 T9PX, Limerick, Ireland
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29
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Towards a deeper understanding of the vaginal microbiota. Nat Microbiol 2022; 7:367-378. [PMID: 35246662 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-022-01083-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The human vaginal microbiota is a critical determinant of vaginal health. These communities live in close association with the vaginal epithelium and rely on host tissues for resources. Although often dominated by lactobacilli, the vaginal microbiota is also frequently composed of a collection of facultative and obligate anaerobes. The prevalence of these communities with a paucity of Lactobacillus species varies among women, and epidemiological studies have associated them with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes. The mechanisms that drive these associations have yet to be described in detail, with few studies establishing causative relationships. Here, we review our current understanding of the vaginal microbiota and its connection with host health. We centre our discussion around the biology of the vaginal microbiota when Lactobacillus species are dominant versus when they are not, including host factors that are implicated in shaping these microbial communities and the resulting adverse health outcomes. We discuss current approaches to modulate the vaginal microbiota, including probiotics and vaginal microbiome transplants, and argue that new model systems of the cervicovaginal environment that incorporate the vaginal microbiota are needed to progress from association to mechanism and this will prove invaluable for future research.
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30
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Lujan AL, Croci DO, Rabinovich GA, Damiani MT. Galectins as potential therapeutic targets in STIs in the female genital tract. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:240-252. [PMID: 35105978 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00562-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Every day, more than one million people worldwide acquire a sexually transmitted infection (STI). This public health problem has a direct effect on women's reproductive and sexual health as STIs can cause irreversible damage to fertility and can have negative consequences associated with discrimination and social exclusion. Infection with one sexually transmitted pathogen predisposes to co-infection with others, suggesting the existence of shared pathways that serve as molecular links between these diseases. Galectins, a family of β-galactoside-binding proteins, have emerged as endogenous mediators that facilitate cell-surface binding, internalization and cell invasion of many sexually transmitted pathogens, including Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, Candida albicans, HIV and herpes simplex virus. The ability of certain galectins to dimerize or form multimeric complexes confers the capacity to interact simultaneously with glycosylated ligands on both the pathogen and the cervico-vaginal tissue on these proteins. Galectins can act as a bridge by engaging glycans from the pathogen surface and glycosylated receptors from host cells, which is a mechanism that has been shown to be shared by several sexually transmitted pathogens. In the case of viruses and obligate intracellular bacteria, binding to the cell surface promotes pathogen internalization and cell invasion. Inflammatory responses that occur in cervico-vaginal tissue might trigger secretion of galectins, which in turn control the establishment, evolution and severity of STIs. Thus, galectin-targeted therapies could potentially prevent or decrease STIs caused by a diverse array of pathogenic microorganisms; furthermore, anti-galectin agents might reduce treatment costs of STIs and reach the most vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustin L Lujan
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica e Inmunidad, Instituto de Bioquímica y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.,Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diego O Croci
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Gabriel A Rabinovich
- Laboratorio de Glicomedicina, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), C1428AGE, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Maria T Damiani
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica e Inmunidad, Instituto de Bioquímica y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.
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Akthar I, Marey MA, Kim Y, Shimada M, Suarez SS, Miyamoto A. Sperm interaction with the uterine innate immune system: toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) is a main sensor in cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:139-148. [PMID: 35231265 DOI: 10.1071/rd21265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
During the passage through the female reproductive tract, sperm interact with various compartments and their immune systems. The immune system that protects the female against pathogens also could destroy sperm or prevent them from reaching the site of fertilisation. In particular, the uterine innate immune response is crucial from the perspectives of both the sperm and the uterus. Following insemination, sperm immediately start to trigger inflammation in the uterus by entering uterine glands and activating an innate immune response. In cattle, the activation occurs mainly via TLR2 signalling, if not the only one, between sperm and the uterine epithelium lining the glands. This acute immune response is manifested as the upregulation of mRNA expression of IL8, TNFA, IL1B , and PGES . As a consequence, many sperm are trapped by polymorphonuclear neutrophils, the first and major component of innate immunity. The sperm-induced uterine innate immune responses apparently serve to clear the uterus of excess sperm and, importantly, prepare the endometrium for implantation. Pathophysiological conditions in the uterus seriously disrupt this phenomenon, and thus could directly decrease fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ihshan Akthar
- Global Agromedicine Research Center (GAMRC), Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan
| | - Mohamed A Marey
- Global Agromedicine Research Center (GAMRC), Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan; and Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - Yejin Kim
- Global Agromedicine Research Center (GAMRC), Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8528, Japan
| | - Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Global Agromedicine Research Center (GAMRC), Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Japan
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Mhlekude B, Lenman A, Sidoyi P, Joseph J, Kruppa J, Businge CB, Mdaka ML, Konietschke F, Pich A, Gerold G, Goffinet C, Mall AS. The barrier functions of crude cervical mucus plugs against HIV-1 infection in the context of cell-free and cell-to-cell transmission. AIDS 2021; 35:2105-2117. [PMID: 34155151 PMCID: PMC8505157 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The cervical mucus plugs are enriched with proteins of known immunological functions. We aimed to characterize the anti-HIV-1 activity of the cervical mucus plugs against a panel of different HIV-1 strains in the contexts of cell-free and cell-associated virus. DESIGN A cohort of consenting HIV-1-negative and HIV-1-positive pregnant women in labour was recruited from Mthatha General Hospital in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, from whom the cervical mucus plugs were collected in 6 M guanidinium chloride with protease inhibitors and transported to our laboratories at -80 °C. METHODS Samples were centrifuged to remove insoluble material and dialysed before freeze--drying and subjecting them to the cell viability assays. The antiviral activities of the samples were studied using luminometric reporter assays and flow cytometry. Time-of-addition and BlaM-Vpr virus-cell fusion assays were used to pin-point the antiviral mechanisms of the cervical mucus plugs, before proteomic profiling using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS The proteinaceous fraction of the cervical mucus plugs exhibited anti-HIV-1 activity with inter-individual variations and some degree of specificity among different HIV-1 strains. Cell-associated HIV-1 was less susceptible to inhibition by the potent samples whenever compared with the cell-free HIV-1. The samples with high antiviral potency exhibited a distinct proteomic profile when compared with the less potent samples. CONCLUSION The crude cervical mucus plugs exhibit anti-HIV-1 activity, which is defined by a specific proteomic profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baxolele Mhlekude
- University of Cape Town, Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, South Africa
- TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research; a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Institute of Experimental Virology, Hannover
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Virology, Charité Campus Mitte
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Annasara Lenman
- TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research; a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Institute of Experimental Virology, Hannover
| | - Phikolomzi Sidoyi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, South Africa
| | - Jim Joseph
- Department of Human Biology, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, South Africa
| | - Jochen Kruppa
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institut für Biometrie und Klinische Epidemiologie, Charité Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Mana Lungisa Mdaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Walter Sisulu University/Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital
| | - Frank Konietschke
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institut für Biometrie und Klinische Epidemiologie, Charité Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Pich
- Hannover Medical School, Institute of Toxicology, Core Facility Proteomics, Hannover
| | - Gisa Gerold
- TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research; a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Institute of Experimental Virology, Hannover
- Umeå University, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Virology & Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Christine Goffinet
- TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research; a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Institute of Experimental Virology, Hannover
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Virology, Charité Campus Mitte
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anwar Suleman Mall
- University of Cape Town, Department of Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, South Africa
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Marczynski M, Kimna C, Lieleg O. Purified mucins in drug delivery research. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 178:113845. [PMID: 34166760 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
One of the main challenges in the field of drug delivery remains the development of strategies to efficiently transport pharmaceuticals across mucus barriers, which regulate the passage and retention of molecules and particles in all luminal spaces of the body. A thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms, which govern such selective permeability, is key for achieving efficient translocation of drugs and drug carriers. For this purpose, model systems based on purified mucins can contribute valuable information. In this review, we summarize advances that were made in the field of drug delivery research with such mucin-based model systems: First, we give an overview of mucin purification procedures and discuss the suitability of model systems reconstituted from purified mucins to mimic native mucus. Then, we summarize techniques to study mucin binding. Finally, we highlight approaches that made use of mucins as building blocks for drug delivery platforms or employ mucins as active compounds.
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34
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Mauck CK, Vincent KL. The postcoital test in the development of new vaginal contraceptives†. Biol Reprod 2021; 103:437-444. [PMID: 32657328 PMCID: PMC7401356 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Postcoital tests (PCTs) have been used for over a century in the clinical evaluation of infertile couples, and for nearly 70 years in the evaluation of new vaginal contraceptive products. PCTs have been largely replaced by more modern methods in the study of infertility, but they remain the most useful way to obtain preliminary data on the effectiveness of vaginal contraceptive products. The World Health Organization has described important aspects of the procedure. It involves collection of cervical mucus at a certain time point after intercourse and the counting and characterization of sperm found in the mucus. A wide range of progressively motile sperm (PMS) has been associated with pregnancy rates in infertility studies. Eligibility for contraceptive trials includes the requirement that couples achieve a certain threshold number of PMS per high power field at midcycle in a baseline cycle without the test product. The primary endpoint, or definition of a satisfactory result in test cycles, is predefined. A literature review identified 10 PCT studies of vaginal contraceptives involving nine test products. Phase II trials of vaginal contraceptives have not been deemed feasible in the development of any vaginal contraceptive to date. A PCT study of a test product can be predictive of contraceptive efficacy, although ultimate contraceptive effectiveness is influenced by the ease of use of the product, along with patient compliance. PCT results similar to results seen with products that later showed satisfactory performance in efficacy trials is the best indicator of likely success of a test product.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathleen L Vincent
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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35
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Abril-Parreño L, Wilkinson H, Krogenæs A, Morgan J, Gallagher ME, Reid C, Druart X, Fair S, Saldova R. Identification and characterisation of O-linked glycans in cervical mucus as biomarkers of sperm transport: A novel sheep model. Glycobiology 2021; 32:23-35. [PMID: 34379775 PMCID: PMC8881736 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwab085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical mucus plays an important role in female fertility, since it allows the entry of motile and morphological normal sperm while preventing the ascent of pathogens from the vagina. The function of cervical mucus is critically linked to its rheological properties that are in turn dictated by O-glycosylated proteins, called mucins. We aimed to characterize the O-glycan composition in the cervical mucus of six European ewe breeds with known differences in pregnancy rates following cervical/vaginal artificial insemination with frozen–thawed semen, which are due to reported differences in cervical sperm transport. These were Suffolk (low fertility) and Belclare (medium fertility) in Ireland, Ile de France and Romanov (both with medium fertility) in France, and Norwegian White Sheep (NWS) and Fur (both with high fertility) in Norway (n = 28–30 ewes/breed). We identified 124 O-glycans, from which 51 were the major glycans with core 2 and fucosylated glycans as the most common structures. The use of exogenous hormones for synchronization did not affect the O-glycan composition in both high-fertility ewe breeds, but it did in the other four ewe breeds. There was a higher abundance of the sulfated glycan (Galβ1–3[SO3-GlcNAcβ1–6]GalNAc), fucosylated glycan (GlcNAcβ1–3(Fucα1–2Galβ1–3)GalNAc) and core 4 glycan (GlcNAcβ1–3[GlcNAcβ1–6]GalNAc) in the low-fertility Suffolk breed compared with NWS (high fertility). In addition, core 4 glycans were negatively correlated with mucus viscosity. This novel study has identified O-glycans that are important for cervical sperm transport and could have applications across a range of species including human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Abril-Parreño
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Ireland
| | - Hayden Wilkinson
- NIBRT GlycoScience Group, The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Fosters Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, Ireland.,CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Anette Krogenæs
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jack Morgan
- NIBRT GlycoScience Group, The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Fosters Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, Ireland
| | - Mary E Gallagher
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Colm Reid
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Xavier Druart
- UMR-PRC, INRA-85, Université de Tours, IFCE, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Nouzilly, France
| | - Sean Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Radka Saldova
- NIBRT GlycoScience Group, The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, Fosters Avenue, Mount Merrion, Blackrock, Ireland.,CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.,School of Medicine, College of Health and Agricultural Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
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36
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Vagios S, Mitchell CM. Mutual Preservation: A Review of Interactions Between Cervicovaginal Mucus and Microbiota. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:676114. [PMID: 34327149 PMCID: PMC8313892 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.676114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
At mucosal surfaces throughout the body mucus and mucins regulate interactions between epithelia and both commensal and pathogenic bacteria. Although the microbes in the female genital tract have been linked to multiple reproductive health outcomes, the role of cervicovaginal mucus in regulating genital tract microbes is largely unexplored. Mucus-microbe interactions could support the predominance of specific bacterial species and, conversely, commensal bacteria can influence mucus properties and its influence on reproductive health. Herein, we discuss the current evidence for both synergistic and antagonistic interactions between cervicovaginal mucus and the female genital tract microbiome, and how an improved understanding of these relationships could significantly improve women’s health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stylianos Vagios
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Caroline M Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA, United States
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37
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Han L, Park D, Reddy A, Wilmarth PA, Jensen JT. Comparing endocervical mucus proteome of humans and rhesus macaques. Proteomics Clin Appl 2021; 15:e2100023. [PMID: 33991406 PMCID: PMC8653767 DOI: 10.1002/prca.202100023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Endocervical mucus changes play a key role in regulating fertility throughout the menstrual cycle and in response to hormonal contraceptives. Non-human primates (NHP) provide the most translational animal model for reproductive tract studies, as they have hormonally-regulated menstrual cycles and mucus changes, similar to women. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We used TMT labelling and LC-LC/MS to compare the proteins found in the mucus of the rhesus macaque to the mucus of the human endocervix. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD021710. RESULTS We found 3048 total proteins present in both rhesus mucus and human mucus, and of these, 57% showed a similar expression pattern. An even higher similarity occurred in the top 500 most prevalent proteins, with overlap in 341 (68%) proteins. Mucin MUC5B was the most highly expressed mucin protein (top 10 expressed proteins in both) but other key proteins related to mucus structure were present in both samples. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE We find that the mucus proteome of the endocervical mucus is highly conserved in NHP and women. This supports use of the NHP model system for studies of the endocervix and trials of novel fertility treatments targeting the cervix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Han
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR
| | - Daye Park
- Augusta University / University of Georgia Medical Partnership, Athens, GA
| | - Ashok Reddy
- Proteomic Shared Resource, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR USA
| | - Phillip A. Wilmarth
- Proteomic Shared Resource, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR USA
| | - Jeffrey T. Jensen
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR
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38
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Ge C, Feng N, Hu C, Tang Y, Li X, Wang X. Transwell isolation and difference analysis of capacitated boar sperm proteins based on the iTRAQ technique. Theriogenology 2021; 168:13-24. [PMID: 33839467 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.03.010] [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: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
During capacitation, proteins in boar sperm are released to maintain the stability of their own state and membrane structure. No studies have analyzed the differences between retained proteins and released proteins during sperm capacitation. In the present study, a Transwell chamber and polycarbonate membrane were used to separate the proteins of boar sperm and their released proteins. Isotopically labeled relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) was used to analyze each compartment protein. A total of 108 differential proteins were identified in the upper and lower chambers of the Transwell, among which 27 were significantly upregulated (p-value≤0.05 and |log2 (fold change)|≥1) and 81 were significantly downregulated (p-value≤0.05 and |log2 (fold change)|≤1). These differential proteins were mainly involved in biological processes (e.g., the regulation of cysteine peptidase activity, transmembrane transportation, ion transportation and ATP synthesis) and major signaling pathways (e.g., glutathione/galactose metabolism, cellular adhesion and PI3K-Akt), and most of them interacted with each other to some extent. In conclusion, retained proteins and released proteins of capacitated sperm were effectively separated using a Transwell chamber, and differential proteins were successfully identified from among the proteins. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that these differential proteins affect sperm capacitation mainly by adjusting sperm energy metabolism, motion characteristics and acrosome membrane status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenling Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Ni Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Chuanhuo Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Yinsheng Tang
- Guangxi Work Station of Livestock & Poultry Breed Improvement, Nanning, 530001, China.
| | - Xun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Xiaoye Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
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39
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Abstract
Postpartum uterine diseases are common in dairy cows and are a great concern for the dairy industry as they are associated with various consequences, including lower fertility, lower milk yield, and an overall negative impact on the host health. An infected uterus is a source of bacterial compounds and cytokines that spill into the systemic circulation, spreading inflammation to other organs. In this review article, we discuss a short overview of the anatomy of the reproductive tract of dairy cows and several infectious diseases of the uterus including metritis, endometritis, and pyometra. Additionally, we discuss the microbiome of the reproductive tract in health and during uterine diseases. As well, diagnostic criteria for metritis and endometritis and contributing factors for increased susceptibility to metritis infection are important topics of this review. To better understand how the uterus and reproductive tract respond to bacterial pathogens, a section of this review is dedicated to immunity of the reproductive tract. Both the innate and adaptive immunity systems are also discussed. We conclude the review with a factual discussion about the current treatments of uterine diseases and the new developments in the area of application of probiotics for uterine health. Mechanisms of actions of probiotics are discussed in detail and also some applications to prevent uterine infections in dairy cows are discussed.
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40
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Le Berre M, Gerlach JQ, Loughrey C, Creavin A, Pluta K, Gallagher M, Carrington SD, Joshi L, Kilcoyne M. Examination of oestrus-dependent alterations of bovine cervico-vaginal mucus glycosylation for potential as optimum fertilisation indicators. Mol Omics 2021; 17:338-346. [PMID: 33720233 DOI: 10.1039/d0mo00193g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Oestrus is the period in the sexual cycle of female mammals where they become most receptive to mating and are most fertile. Efficient detection of oestrus is a key component in successful reproductive livestock management programmes. Oestrus detection in cattle is most often performed by visual observation, such as mounting behaviour and standing heat, to facilitate more successful prediction of optimal time points for artificial insemination. This time-consuming method requires a skilled, diligent observer. Biological measurements using easily accessible biomolecules in the cervico-vaginal mucus could provide an alternative strategy to physical methods of oestrus detection, providing an inexpensive means of rapidly and accurately assessing the onset of oestrus. In this study, glycosylation changes in cervico-vaginal mucus from three heifers following oestrus induction were investigated as a proof of concept to assess whether potential glycosylation-based trends could be useful for oestrus stage indication. Mucus collected at different time points following oestrus induction was immobilised in a microarray format and its glycosylation interrogated with a panel of fluorescently labelled lectins, carbohydrate-binding proteins with different specificities. Individual animal-specific glycosylation patterns were observed, however each pattern followed a similar trend around oestrus. This unique oestrus-associated glycosylation was identified by a combination of relative binding of the lectins SNA-I and WFA for each animal. This alteration in cervico-vaginal mucus glycosylation could potentially be exploited in future to more accurately identify optimal fertilisation intervention points compared to visual signs. More effective oestrus biomarkers will lead to more successful livestock reproductive programmes, decreasing costs and animal stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Le Berre
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Jared Q Gerlach
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Catherine Loughrey
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Aileen Creavin
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Katarzyna Pluta
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Gallagher
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephen D Carrington
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lokesh Joshi
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Michelle Kilcoyne
- Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Carbohydrate Signalling Group, Discipline of Microbiology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Lacroix G, Gouyer V, Gottrand F, Desseyn JL. The Cervicovaginal Mucus Barrier. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218266. [PMID: 33158227 PMCID: PMC7663572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm births are a global health priority that affects 15 million babies every year worldwide. There are no effective prognostic and therapeutic strategies relating to preterm delivery, but uterine infections appear to be a major cause. The vaginal epithelium is covered by the cervicovaginal mucus, which is essential to health because of its direct involvement in reproduction and functions as a selective barrier by sheltering the beneficial lactobacilli while helping to clear pathogens. During pregnancy, the cervical canal is sealed with a cervical mucus plug that prevents the vaginal flora from ascending toward the uterine compartment, which protects the fetus from pathogens. Abnormalities of the cervical mucus plug and bacterial vaginosis are associated with a higher risk of preterm delivery. This review addresses the current understanding of the cervicovaginal mucus and the cervical mucus plug and their interactions with the microbial communities in both the physiological state and bacterial vaginosis, with a focus on gel-forming mucins. We also review the current state of knowledge of gel-forming mucins contained in mouse cervicovaginal mucus and the mouse models used to study bacterial vaginosis.
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Fair S, Meade KG, Reynaud K, Druart X, de Graaf SP. The biological mechanisms regulating sperm selection by the ovine cervix. Reproduction 2020; 158:R1-R13. [PMID: 30921769 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In species where semen is deposited in the vagina, the cervix has the unique function of facilitating progress of spermatozoa towards the site of fertilisation while also preventing the ascending influx of pathogens from the vagina. For the majority of species, advances in assisted reproduction techniques facilitate the bypassing of the cervix and therefore its effect on the transit of processed spermatozoa has been largely overlooked. The exception is in sheep, as it is currently not possible to traverse the ovine cervix with an inseminating catheter due to its complex anatomy, and semen must be deposited at the external cervical os. This results in unacceptably low pregnancy rates when frozen-thawed or liquid stored (>24 h) semen is inseminated. The objective of this review is to discuss the biological mechanisms which regulate cervical sperm selection. We assess the effects of endogenous and exogenous hormones on cervical mucus composition and discuss how increased mucus production and flow during oestrus stimulates sperm rheotaxis along the crypts and folds of the cervix. Emerging results shedding light on the sperm-cervical mucus interaction as well as the dialogue between spermatozoa and the innate immune system are outlined. Finally, ewe breed differences in cervical function and the impact of semen processing on the success of fertilisation, as well as the most fruitful avenues of further investigation in this area are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - K G Meade
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Co Meath, Ireland
| | - K Reynaud
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Nouzilly, France
| | - X Druart
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Nouzilly, France
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Cervical-Vaginal Mucin in Fertility Assessment: CA125 as a Predictor of the Fertile Phase of the Normal Menstrual Cycle. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56060304. [PMID: 32575768 PMCID: PMC7353875 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56060304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: To evaluate the cervical-vaginal mucin, CA125, as a measure of fertility and possible method for natural family planning (NFP). Materials and Methods: Cervical-vaginal fluid (CVF) swab samples have been previously used to measure CA125, ‘Qvaginal CA125 levels’, as a function of time of cycle relative to Day 0, the first day of positive urine LH (luteinizing hormone). Data from 15 women, 20 cycles were used with an algorithm to establish the Fertile Start Day (FSD) for the cycles. The FSD was determined as either the second consecutive day of ≥20% Qvaginal CA125 rise or the first day of ≥400% rise. The interval, (FSD to Day +3), was used as the theoretical window of fertility, and conception rates assuming abstinence during this predicted period of fertility were computed using published day-specific probabilities of conception (PoC). Results: The mean FSD was Day −4.8 ± 0.5 (SE), 95% CI (−5.9, −3.7). The estimated pregnancy failure rate (PFR) with abstinence during [FSD, +3] was 10.7% ± 2.0% (SE), 95% CI (6.9%, 14.8%); with exclusion of one cycle with very low levels of Qvaginal CA125, the estimated PFR was 9.8% ± 1.9%, 95% CI (6.3%, 13.8%). Furthermore, the day-specific Qvaginal CA125 values were normalized to the respective peak Qvaginal CA125 for each cycle, and a mean normalized day-specific Qvaginal CA125 plot was generated. The first derivative of the mean normalized day-specific Qvaginal CA125 plot showed a significant increase between Day −4.5 and Day −3.5, which correlated with the mean FSD. Conclusions: A Qvaginal CA125-based method holds promise as a means to identify the start of the fertile window and may prove useful in NFP, especially when combined with available home hormonal fertility awareness kits.
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Han L, Andrews W, Wong K, Jensen JT. Conditionally reprogrammed macaque endocervical cells retain steroid receptor expression and produce mucus. Biol Reprod 2020; 102:1191-1202. [PMID: 32232331 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical mucus produced by the endocervix plays an essential role as a hormonally induced regulator of female fertility. Cervical mucus fluctuates in both physical characteristics and in sperm penetrability in response to estrogens and progestogens. However, the mechanisms by which steroid hormones change mucus remains poorly understood. Current in vitro models have limited capability to study these questions as primary endocervical cells possess limited expansion potential, and immortalized cells lose in vivo characteristics such as steroid sensitivity. Here we overcome these limitations by establishing an in vitro primary endocervical cell culture model using conditionally reprogrammed cells (CRCs). CRC culture utilizes a Rho-kinase inhibitor and a fibroblast feeder layer to expand proliferative potential of epithelial cell types that have normally short in vitro life spans. In our studies, we produce CRC cultures using primary endocervical cells from adult female rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). We demonstrate that primary endocervical cells from the nonhuman primate can be robustly expanded using a CRC method, while retaining steroid receptor expression. Moreover, when removed from CRC conditions and switched to differentiation conditions, these cells are able to differentiate and produce mucus including MUC5B, the most prevalent mucin of the endocervix. We conclude that this method provides a promising in vitro platform for conducting mechanistic studies of cervical mucus regulation as well as for screening new therapeutic targets for fertility regulation and diseases of the endocervix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Han
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR, USA.,Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Walker Andrews
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Karsten Wong
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Jensen
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR, USA.,Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Portland, OR, USA
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Wang N, Zhang Q, Jing X, Guo J, Huang H, Xu Z. The Association Between MUC5B Mutations and Clinical Outcome in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: A Retrospective Exploratory Study in China. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e920137. [PMID: 32142504 PMCID: PMC7077059 DOI: 10.12659/msm.920137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who develop interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD), show features of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). This retrospective exploratory clinical study aimed to investigate the association between mutations in the MUC5B gene and clinical outcome in patients with RA, with or without RA-ILD, using whole-exome sequencing (WES). Material/Methods WES was performed using peripheral blood samples for mutations in the MUC5B gene in 51 patients diagnosed with RA without ILD, and 45 patients with RA-ILD. The cumulative incidence in acute exacerbations of RA-ILD and variables associated with acute exacerbations of RA-ILD were analyzed. Results In patients with RA-ILD, the main genetic variants of MUC5B were identified, with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.410 (p=0.013). Nine patients with RA without ILD (17.6%) and 19 patients with RA-ILD (42.2%) expressed MUC5B variants. Patients with RA-ILD carrying MUC5B variants had a significantly increased duration of RA-ILD (p=0.03) and showed a UIP pattern on lung HRCT (p=0.01). Acute exacerbations of RA-ILD occurred in 25 patients during follow-up, including 13 patients with mutant MUC5B and 12 patients with wildtype MUC5B. Univariate analysis showed that MUC5B mutations (p=0.043), older age of onset of RA (p=0.041), increased serum anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) (p=0.033), and a UIP imaging pattern on HRCT (p=0.015) were significantly correlated with acute exacerbations of RA-ILD. However, these findings were not supported by multivariate analysis (p=0.065). Conclusions The carrier status of MUC5B variants was an indicator of reduced prognosis and increased exacerbations of RA-ILD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Xiaoyan Jing
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Jian Guo
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Zuojun Xu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
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Charged glycan residues critically contribute to the adsorption and lubricity of mucins. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2020; 187:110614. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2019.110614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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A MUC16 IgG Binding Activity Selects for a Restricted Subset of IgG Enriched for Certain Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Epitope Specificities. J Virol 2020; 94:JVI.01246-19. [PMID: 31776284 PMCID: PMC7022352 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01246-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
We have recently shown that MUC16, a component of the glycocalyx of some mucosal barriers, has elevated binding to the G0 glycoform of the Fc portion of IgG. Therefore, IgG from patients chronically infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), who typically exhibit increased amounts of G0 glycoforms, showed increased MUC16 binding compared to uninfected controls. Using the rhesus macaque simian immunodeficiency virus SIVmac251 model, we can compare plasma antibodies before and after chronic infection. We find increased binding of IgG to MUC16 after chronic SIV infection. Antibodies isolated for tight association with MUC16 (MUC16-eluted antibodies) show reduced FcγR engagement and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity. The glycosylation profile of these IgGs was consistent with a decrease in FcγR engagement and subsequent ADCC effector function, as they contain a decrease in afucosylated bisecting glycoforms that preferentially bind FcγRs. Testing of the SIV antigen specificity of IgG from SIV-infected macaques revealed that the MUC16-eluted antibodies were enriched for certain specific epitopes, including regions of gp41 and gp120. This enrichment of specific antigen responses for fucosylated bisecting glycoforms and the subsequent association with MUC16 suggests that the immune response has the potential to direct specific epitope responses to localize to the glycocalyx through interaction with this specific mucin.IMPORTANCE Understanding how antibodies are distributed in the mucosal environment is valuable for developing a vaccine to block HIV infection. Here, we study an IgG binding activity in MUC16, potentially representing a new IgG effector function that would concentrate certain antibodies within the glycocalyx to trap pathogens before they can reach the underlying columnar epithelial barriers. These studies reveal that rhesus macaque IgG responses during chronic SIV infection generate increased antibodies that bind MUC16, and interestingly, these MUC16-tethered antibodies are enriched for binding to certain antigens. Therefore, it may be possible to direct HIV vaccine-generated responses to associate with MUC16 and enhance the antibody's ability to mediate immune exclusion by trapping virions within the glycocalyx and preventing the virus from reaching immune target cells within the mucosa. This concept will ultimately have to be tested in the rhesus macaque model, which is shown here to have MUC16-targeted antigen responses.
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Rickard JP, de Graaf SP. Sperm surface changes and their consequences for sperm transit through the female reproductive tract. Theriogenology 2020; 150:96-105. [PMID: 32067798 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spermatozoa are faced with considerable challenges during their passage through the female reproductive tract. Following deposition, they must deal with several physical and biochemical barriers as well as an aggressive immune defence system before they reach the site of fertilisation. While many factors are at play, the surface characteristics of spermatozoa are central to communication with the female and successful transit. The surface proteome of spermatozoa has been extensively studied and shown to vary considerably between species that deposit semen in the vagina (ram and bull) and uterus (boar and stallion), likely due to major differences in accessory sex gland anatomy. Comparing the surface characteristics of spermatozoa from these domestic species and how individual components may equip spermatozoa to interact with different features of the female tract could help understand how spermatozoa navigate from vagina or uterus to oviduct ampulla. Furthermore, we can begin to explain why use of high quality preserved spermatozoa in artificial insemination programs may still result in reduced fertility due to altered interaction with the female. In this review, we describe the sperm surface characteristics of the ram, bull, boar and stallion and compare changes as a result of mixture with seminal plasma and/or in vitro processing. The role of these seminal components in facilitating sperm survival and transit within the female reproductive tract is summarised, drawing attention to potential implications for applied reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia
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McCright JC, Maisel K. Engineering drug delivery systems to overcome mucosal barriers for immunotherapy and vaccination. Tissue Barriers 2019; 8:1695476. [PMID: 31775577 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2019.1695476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal surfaces protect our bodies from pathogens and external irritants using a system of biological barriers. Overcoming these barriers is a significant drug delivery challenge, particularly for immunotherapies that aim to modulate the local immune response. Reaching local lymphoid tissues and draining lymph nodes (LNs) requires crossing the mucus mesh, mucosal epithelium, and either targeting M cells covering lymphoid tissues or utilizing lymphatic transport that shuttles molecules and particulates from the periphery to the LN. We first highlight the barrier properties of mucus and mucosal epithelium, and the function of the mucosal immune system. We then dive into existing drug delivery technologies that have been engineered to overcome each of these barriers. We particularly focus on novel strategies for targeting lymphoid tissues, which has been shown to enhance immunotherapies and vaccinations, via directly targeting LNs, lymphatic vessels, and M cells that transport samples of mucosal content to the lymphoid tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob C McCright
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Katharina Maisel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park, College Park, MD, USA
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50
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Rickard JP, Pool KR, Druart X, de Graaf SP. The fate of spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract: A comparative review. Theriogenology 2019; 137:104-112. [PMID: 31230704 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The journey that spermatozoa take following deposition in the female tract is a long and perilous one. The barriers they face within the female tract differ depending on whether they are deposited in the vagina or uterus, like spermatozoa of the ram or boar respectively. Comparative studies on the transit of spermatozoa through the ewe and sow tracts serves to highlight similarities, or differences, in the way their sperm-surface properties enable them to overcome these barriers, progress through the tract and fertilise the oocyte. The female environment contributes towards this successful transit by providing a vehicle for sperm transport, aiding the removal of dead spermatozoa and other pathogens and applying strict selection pressures to ensure only those cells with the highest quality reach the site of fertilisation. Understanding the criteria behind these natural barriers helps an understanding of the limitations to fertility associated with preserved spermatozoa, and how in vitro manipulation can alter this complex interaction between spermatozoa and the female environment. Similar mechanisms or surface coat interactions exist in both species, but each has evolved to be used for physiologically disparate functions. Here we briefly describe the sperm surface characteristics of both fresh and frozen-thawed boar and ram spermatozoa and compare how these properties equip them to survive the physical, biochemical and immune interactions within the female reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - K R Pool
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - X Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Le Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut Francais du Cheval et de L'Equitation, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia
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