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Low-Dose Tacrolimus Promotes the Migration and Invasion and Nitric Oxide Production in the Human-Derived First Trimester Extravillous Trophoblast Cells In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158426. [PMID: 35955565 PMCID: PMC9369346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Placentation is one of the most important determinants for a successful pregnancy, and this is dependent on the process of trophoblast migration and invasion. Progesterone receptors (PGR) are critical effectors of progesterone (P4) signaling that is required for trophoblast migration and invasion conducive to a successful gestation. In immune complicated pregnancies, evidence has shown that abnormal placentation occurs because of aberrant expression of PGR. Therapeutic intervention with tacrolimus (FK506) was able to restore PGR expression and improve pregnancy outcomes in immune-complicated gestations; however, the exact mode of action of tacrolimus in assisting placentation is not clear. Here, we attempt to uncover the mode of action of tacrolimus by examining its effects on trophoblast invasion and migration in the human-derived extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cell line, the HTR-8/SVneo cells. Using a variety of functional assays, we demonstrated that low-dose tacrolimus (10 ng/mL) was sufficient to significantly (p < 0.001) stimulate the migration and invasion of the HTR-8/SVneo cells, inducing their cytosolic/nuclear progesterone receptor expression and activation, and modulating their Nitric Oxide (NO) production. Moreover, tacrolimus abrogated the suppressive effect of the NOS inhibitor Nω- Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester (L-NAME) on these vital processes critically involved in the establishment of human pregnancy. Collectively, our data suggest an immune-independent mode of action of tacrolimus in positively influencing placentation in complicated gestations, at least in part, through promoting the migration and invasion of the first trimester extravillous trophoblast cells by modulating their NO production and activating their cytosolic/nuclear progesterone-receptors. To our knowledge, this is the first report to show that the mode of action of tacrolimus as a monotherapy for implantation failure is plausibly PGR-dependent.
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Battaglia C, Morotti E, Montaguti E, Mariacci G, Facchinetti F, Pilu G. Plasma and amniotic fluid concentrations of nitric oxide: Effects on uterine artery and placental vasculature in women who underwent voluntary pregnancy termination and in women with missed and threatened abortion. A pilot study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022; 270:105-110. [PMID: 35042176 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES First trimester miscarriage is a multifactorial event. Various angiogenic factors have been proposed as possible early markers of non-viable pregnancies. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the systemic nitric oxide (NO) production in healthy early pregnancy and its possible role in first trimester miscarriage. STUDY DESIGN We prospectively enrolled women referred to our Unit for elective termination of pregnancy, threatened abortion or missed abortion. Blood samples were taken for testing circulating NO plasma levels. Subsequently, all patients underwent 2-D ultrasonographic analysis and Color Doppler imaging to assess the pulsatility index of the uterine arteries. 3-D ultrasonographic and power Doppler analysis allowed a volumetric and vascular reconstruction of the placenta. During dilatation and vacuum aspiration, amniotic fluid was collected. RESULTS Seventy-two patients were enrolled: 25 with elective termination of pregnancy (Group I); 17 with threatened abortion (Group II); 30 with missed abortion (Group III). Group II showed greater placental volume and lower uterine arteries PI than others. The plasma NO concentration resulted statistically higher in women with threatened abortion, while amniotic fluid NO concentration were higher in the viable pregnancies (Group I) than in the aborted fetuses (Group III). Plasma NO was inversely correlated with both mean arterial pressure and uterine artery PI and was positively correlated with amniotic fluid NO and CRL; amniotic fluid NO was positively correlated with placental Vascularization Index and Vascularization-Flow Index. CONCLUSION Amniotic NO concentration was higher in viable pregnancies and positively related to Doppler 3D indices of vascularization and blood flow within the placenta. Further studies are needed to elucidate its role in first trimester miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare Battaglia
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Italy
| | - Elena Morotti
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Italy
| | - Elisa Montaguti
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Italy
| | - Giacomo Mariacci
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Italy
| | - Fabio Facchinetti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Modena-Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Pilu
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna and IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S.Orsola-Malpighi, Italy
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Placental blood flow sensing and regulation in fetal growth restriction. Placenta 2021; 113:23-28. [PMID: 33509641 PMCID: PMC8448138 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The mechanical force of blood flow is a fundamental determinant of vascular homeostasis. This frictional stimulation of cells, fluid shear stress (FSS), is increasingly recognised as being essential to placental development and function. Here, we focus on the role of FSS in regulating fetoplacental circulatory flow, both in normal pregnancy and that affected by fetal growth restriction (FGR). The fetus is reliant on placental perfusion to meet its circulatory and metabolic demands. Failure of normal vascular adaptation and the mechanisms enabling responsive interaction between fetoplacental and maternal circulations can result in FGR. FSS generates vasodilatation at least partly through the release of endothelial nitric oxide, a process thought to be vital for adequate blood flow. Where FGR is caused by placental dysfunction, placental vascular anatomy is altered, alongside endothelial dysfunction and hypoxia, each impacting upon the complex balance of FSS forces. Identifying specific mechanical sensors and the mechanisms governing how FSS force is converted into biochemical signals is a fast-paced area of research. Here, we raise awareness of Piezo1 proteins, recently discovered to be FSS-sensitive in fetoplacental endothelium, and with emerging roles in NO generation, vascular tone and angiogenesis. We discuss the emerging concept that activating mechanosensors such as Piezo1 ultimately results in the orchestrated processes of placental vascular adaptation. Piecing together the mechanisms governing endothelial responses to FSS in placental insufficiency is an important step towards developing new treatments for FGR.
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Mukosera GT, Clark TC, Ngo L, Liu T, Schroeder H, Power GG, Yellon SM, Parast MM, Blood AB. Nitric oxide metabolism in the human placenta during aberrant maternal inflammation. J Physiol 2020; 598:2223-2241. [PMID: 32118291 DOI: 10.1113/jp279057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Nitric oxide (NO) is a gasotransmitter with important physiological and pathophysiological roles in pregnancy. There is limited information available about the sources and metabolism of NO and its bioactive metabolites (NOx) in both normal and complicated pregnancies. The present study characterized and quantified endogenous NOx in human and mouse placenta following determination of the stability of exogenous NOx in placental homogenates. NOx have differential stability in placental homogenates. NO and iron nitrosyl species (FeNOs), are relatively unstable in placental homogenates from normal placentas. Exogenous NO, nitrite and nitrosothiols react with placental homogenates to form iron nitrosyl complexes. FeNOs were also detected endogenously in mouse and human placenta. NOx levels in placental villous tissue are increased in fetal growth restriction vs. placentas from women with normal pregnancies, particularly in fetal growth restriction associated with pre-eclampsia. Villitis was not associated, however, with an increase in NOx levels in either normotensive or pre-eclamptic placentas. The results call for further investigation of FeNOs in normal and complicated pregnancies. ABSTRACT Nitric oxide (NO) is a gasotransmitter with important roles in pregnancy under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Although products of NO metabolism (NOx) also have significant bioactivity, little is known about the role of NO and NOx under conditions of aberrant placental inflammation during pregnancy. An ozone-based chemiluminescence approach was used to investigate the stability and metabolic fate of NOx in human placental homogenates from uncomplicated pregnancies in healthy mothers compared to that in placental tissue from normotensive and pre-eclamptic pregnancies complicated with fetal growth restriction (FGR) with and without villitis of unknown aetiology. We hypothesized that placental NOx would be increased in FGR vs. normal tissue, and be further increased in villitis vs. non-villitis placentas. Findings indicate that nitrate, nitrite and nitrosothiols, but not NO or iron nitrosyl species (FeNOs), are relatively stable in placental homogenates from normal placentas, and that NO, nitrite and nitrosothiols react with placental homogenates to form iron nitrosyl complexes. Furthermore, NOx levels in placental villous tissue are increased in FGR vs. placentas from women with normal pregnancies, particularly in FGR associated with pre-eclampsia. However, in contrast to our hypothesis, villitis was not associated with an increase in NOx levels in either normotensive or pre-eclamptic placentas. Our results also strongly support the involvement of FeNOs in both mouse and human placenta, and call for their further study as a critical mechanistic link between pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- George T Mukosera
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Tatianna C Clark
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Larry Ngo
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Taiming Liu
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Hobe Schroeder
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Gordon G Power
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Steven M Yellon
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
| | - Mana M Parast
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, 200 W Arbor Dr, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
| | - Arlin B Blood
- Lawrence D Longo Center for Perinatal Biology and Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA
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Ganguly E, Aljunaidy MM, Kirschenman R, Spaans F, Morton JS, Phillips TEJ, Case CP, Cooke CLM, Davidge ST. Sex-Specific Effects of Nanoparticle-Encapsulated MitoQ (nMitoQ) Delivery to the Placenta in a Rat Model of Fetal Hypoxia. Front Physiol 2019; 10:562. [PMID: 31178743 PMCID: PMC6543892 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy complications associated with chronic fetal hypoxia have been linked to the development of adult cardiovascular disease in the offspring. Prenatal hypoxia has been shown to increase placental oxidative stress and impair placental function in a sex-specific manner, thereby affecting fetal development. As oxidative stress is central to placental dysfunction, we developed a placenta-targeted treatment strategy using the antioxidant MitoQ encapsulated into nanoparticles (nMitoQ) to reduce placental oxidative/nitrosative stress and improve placental function without direct drug exposure to the fetus in order to avoid off-target effects during development. We hypothesized that, in a rat model of prenatal hypoxia, nMitoQ prevents hypoxia-induced placental oxidative/nitrosative stress, promotes angiogenesis, improves placental morphology, and ultimately improves fetal oxygenation. Additionally, we assessed whether there were sex differences in the effectiveness of nMitoQ treatment. Pregnant rats were intravenously injected with saline or nMitoQ (100 μl of 125 μM) on gestational day (GD) 15 and exposed to either normoxia (21% O2) or hypoxia (11% O2) from GD15 to 21. On GD21, placentae from both sexes were collected for detection of superoxide, nitrotyrosine, nitric oxide, CD31 (endothelial cell marker), and fetal blood spaces, Vegfa and Igf2 mRNA expression in the placental labyrinth zone. Prenatal hypoxia decreased male fetal weight, which was not changed by nMitoQ treatment; however, placental efficiency (fetal/placental weight ratio) decreased by hypoxia and was increased by nMitoQ in both males and females. nMitoQ treatment reduced the prenatal hypoxia-induced increase in placental superoxide levels in both male and female placentae but improved oxygenation in only female placentae. Nitrotyrosine levels were increased in hypoxic female placentae and were reduced by nMitoQ. Prenatal hypoxia reduced placental Vegfa and Igf2 expression in both sexes, while nMitoQ increased Vegfa and Igf2 expression only in hypoxic female placentae. In summary, our study suggests that nMitoQ treatment could be pursued as a potential preventative strategy against placental oxidative stress and programming of adult cardiovascular disease in offspring exposed to hypoxia in utero. However, sex differences need to be taken into account when developing therapeutic strategies to improve fetal development in complicated pregnancies, as nMitoQ treatment was more effective in placentae from females than males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esha Ganguly
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Mais M. Aljunaidy
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Raven Kirschenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jude S. Morton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - C. Patrick Case
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Christy-Lynn M. Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sandra T. Davidge
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Almeida Lima Veiga G, Souza Ramos Angrimani D, Garcia Silva LC, Machado Regazzi F, Lúcio CF, Infantosi Vannucchi C. Hemodynamics of the uterine and umbilical arteries during the perinatal period in ewes. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 198:210-219. [PMID: 30297203 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Examining feto-maternal blood flow is extremely important for accurate prenatal control and predicting adverse conditions during puerperium. We aimed to analyze blood flow of uterine artery (UA) and umbilical artery (UMA) from and subsequent to mid-gestation, lambing and postpartum of 15 ewes, subjected to lambing induction with aglepristone. Hemodynamic variables, diameter and blood flow of UA and UMA were determined by Doppler and B-mode ultrasonography at 60, 90 and 120 days of pregnancy, at 12 h before, 12 h after first aglepristone injection and 12 h after induction and days 1, 3, 5, 7, 15 and 30 after lambing. The UMA peak systolic:diastolic velocity (S/D), resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) decreased from mid-pregnancy until 120 d, whereas peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and time average maximum velocity (TAMAX) increased towards 120 d. The UMA RI additionally decreased at 12 h after lambing induction. The UMA diameter and volume increased from mid-gestation until 12 h before lambing induction. UA PSV and TAMAX increased from 60 until 90 days of pregnancy, while EDV, PSV and TAMAX decreased soon after parturition, with a further reduction at 7 days. The UA diameter and volume decreased during postpartum, stabilizing by 15 days after parturition. In conclusion, pregnancy is marked by progressive increase in uterine and umbilical blood flow, while lambing acutely diminishes umbilical vascular resistance, suggesting lack of progesterone influence on vasodilation. Conversely, puerperium is characterized by reduction in uterine blood supply mostly within the first 2 weeks of postpartum in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele Almeida Lima Veiga
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel Souza Ramos Angrimani
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Liege Cristina Garcia Silva
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Machado Regazzi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristina Fátima Lúcio
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Infantosi Vannucchi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 -05508-270, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Zafer E, Yenisey C, Kurek Eken M, Ozdemir E, Kurt Omurlu I, Yuksel H. Second trimester maternal serum-amniotic fluid nitric oxide and vascular endothelial growth factor levels in relation to uterine artery Doppler indices in pregnancies with normal outcome. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2018; 38:1088-1092. [PMID: 29884106 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2018.1454409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to explore the possible relations of maternal serum and amniotic fluid nitric oxide (NO) and of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) concentrations with uterine artery Doppler indices (UtADs) in a healthy second trimester obstetric population. In this regard, the levels of NO and VEGF-A were measured in maternal sera and the amniotic fluid samples were in 36 subjects who were in their early second trimester of pregnancy. The mean levels for VEGF-A were 110.3 ± 31.5 pg/ml in maternal serum and 149.6 ± 31.3 pg/ml in amniotic fluid. Mean levels for NO were 5.7 ± 4.7 µmol in maternal serum and 12.9 ± 3.4 µmol in amniotic fluid. UtADs were measured concurrently with the sample collections. The mean value for uterine artery pulsatility index (PI) was 1.3 ± 0.4. The measurements were then analysed for possible correlations, whereby no correlation was found between UtAD and maternal serum levels of either molecule (p = .828 and p = .662 for VEGF-A and NO, respectively). However, a positive correlation was found between the NO levels in the amniotic fluid compartment and UtAD (r = 0.432, p = .009 for PI). Therefore, a correlation of UtAD with amniotic fluid NO can be expected in pregnancies with a normal outcome. Impact Statement What is already known on this subject? Nitric oxide (NO) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) are important vasoactive molecules that play significant roles in early angiogenesis and placentation. What the results of this study add? There is a positive correlation between the amniotic fluid NO levels and the uterine artery Doppler indices (UtADs) in the second trimester of pregnancies with normal outcomes. What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or future research? A correlation between amniotic fluid NO levels and UtAD may indicate a normal trophoblastic invasion. Disturbance of this balance may be expected in certain adverse pregnancy outcomes. Additional studies are needed to further explore the molecular signs of early abnormal placentation and their clinical reflection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Zafer
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Adnan Menderes University Hospital , Aydin , Turkey
| | - Cigdem Yenisey
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Adnan Menderes University Hospital , Aydin , Turkey
| | - Meryem Kurek Eken
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Adnan Menderes University Hospital , Aydin , Turkey
| | - Ezgi Ozdemir
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Adnan Menderes University Hospital , Aydin , Turkey
| | - Imran Kurt Omurlu
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Adnan Menderes University Hospital , Aydin , Turkey
| | - Hasan Yuksel
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Adnan Menderes University Hospital , Aydin , Turkey
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Programación epigenética placentaria en restricción del crecimiento intrauterino. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 87:154-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rchipe.2016.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Postberg J, Kanders M, Forcob S, Willems R, Orth V, Hensel KO, Weil PP, Wirth S, Jenke AC. CpG signalling, H2A.Z/H3 acetylation and microRNA-mediated deferred self-attenuation orchestrate foetal NOS3 expression. Clin Epigenetics 2015; 7:9. [PMID: 25699114 PMCID: PMC4333899 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-014-0042-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An adverse intrauterine environment leads to permanent physiological changes including vascular tone regulation, potentially influencing the risk for adult vascular diseases. We therefore aimed to monitor responsive NOS3 expression in human umbilical artery endothelial cells (HUAEC) and to study the underlying epigenetic signatures involved in its regulation. RESULTS NOS3 and STAT3 mRNA levels were elevated in HUAEC of patients who suffered from placental insufficiency. 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, H3K9ac and Histone 2A (H2A).Zac at the NOS3 transcription start site directly correlated with NOS3 mRNA levels. Concomitantly, we observed entangled histone acetylation patterns and NOS3 response upon hypoxic conditions in vitro. Knock-down of either NOS3 or STAT3 by RNAi provided evidence for a functional NOS3/STAT3 relationship. Moreover, we recognized massive turnover of Stat3 at a discrete binding site in the NOS3 promoter. Interestingly, induced hyperacetylation resulted in short-termed increase of NOS3 mRNA followed by deferred decrease indicating that NOS3 expression could become self-attenuated by co-expressed intronic 27 nt-ncRNA. Reporter assay results and phylogenetic analyses enabled us to propose a novel model for STAT3-3'-UTR targeting by this 27-nt-ncRNA. CONCLUSIONS An adverse intrauterine environment leads to adaptive changes of NOS3 expression. Apparently, a rapid NOS3 self-limiting response upon ectopic triggers co-exists with longer termed expression changes in response to placental insufficiency involving differential epigenetic signatures. Their persistence might contribute to impaired vascular endothelial response and consequently increase the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Postberg
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Miriam Kanders
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Sakeh Forcob
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Rhea Willems
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Valerie Orth
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Kai Oliver Hensel
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Patrick Philipp Weil
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Stefan Wirth
- HELIOS Childrens Hospital, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research, Witten/Herdecke University, Wuppertal, Germany
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Herrera EA, Krause B, Ebensperger G, Reyes RV, Casanello P, Parra-Cordero M, Llanos AJ. The placental pursuit for an adequate oxidant balance between the mother and the fetus. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:149. [PMID: 25009498 PMCID: PMC4068002 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is the exchange organ that regulates metabolic processes between the mother and her developing fetus. The adequate function of this organ is clearly vital for a physiologic gestational process and a healthy baby as final outcome. The umbilico-placental vasculature has the capacity to respond to variations in the materno-fetal milieu. Depending on the intensity and the extensity of the insult, these responses may be immediate-, mediate-, and long-lasting, deriving in potential morphostructural and functional changes later in life. These adjustments usually compensate the initial insults, but occasionally may switch to long-lasting remodeling and dysfunctional processes, arising maladaptation. One of the most challenging conditions in modern perinatology is hypoxia and oxidative stress during development, both disorders occurring in high-altitude and in low-altitude placental insufficiency. Hypoxia and oxidative stress may induce endothelial dysfunction and thus, reduction in the perfusion of the placenta and restriction in the fetal growth and development. This Review will focus on placental responses to hypoxic conditions, usually related with high-altitude and placental insufficiency, deriving in oxidative stress and vascular disorders, altering fetal and maternal health. Although day-to-day clinical practice, basic and clinical research are clearly providing evidence of the severe impact of oxygen deficiency and oxidative stress establishment during pregnancy, further research on umbilical and placental vascular function under these conditions is badly needed to clarify the myriad of questions still unsettled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio A Herrera
- Laboratorio de Función y Reactividad Vascular, Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile ; International Center for Andean Studies, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Bernardo Krause
- División de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - German Ebensperger
- Laboratorio de Función y Reactividad Vascular, Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto V Reyes
- Laboratorio de Función y Reactividad Vascular, Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Paola Casanello
- División de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile ; División de Pediatría, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Mauro Parra-Cordero
- Unidad Materno-Fetal, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Anibal J Llanos
- Laboratorio de Función y Reactividad Vascular, Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile ; International Center for Andean Studies, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile
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Paradis A, Zhang L. Role of endothelin in uteroplacental circulation and fetal vascular function. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2014; 11:594-605. [PMID: 24063378 DOI: 10.2174/1570161111311050004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Revised: 05/10/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Endothelins are 21-amino acid peptides involved in vascular homeostasis. Three types of peptide have been identified, with endothelin-1 (ET-1) being the most potent vasoconstrictor currently known. Two endothelin receptor subtypes are found in various tissues, including the brain, heart, blood vessel, lung, and placenta. The ETA-receptor is associated with vasoconstriction in vascular smooth muscle. Conversely, the ETB-receptor can elicit a vasoconstrictor effect in vascular smooth muscle and a vasodilator effect via its action in endothelial cells. Both receptors play a key role in maintaining circulatory homeostasis and vascular function. Changes in ET-1 expression are found in various disease states, and overexpression of ET-1 is observed in hypertension and preeclampsia in pregnancy. Placental localization of ET-1 implies a key role in regulating the uteroplacental circulation. Additionally, ET-1 is important in the fetal circulation and is involved in the pulmonary circulation and closure of the ductus arteriosus after birth, as well as fetal growth constriction in utero. ET receptor antagonists and nitric oxide donors may provide therapeutic potential in treating conditions associated with overexpression of ET and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Paradis
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
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12
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Yusuf K, Wilson RD, Kamaluddeen M, Franta J, Hasan SU, Akierman A. Methemoglobin levels in umbilical cord blood of women with intrauterine growth restriction and preeclampsia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2013; 27:789-94. [DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2013.838949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Krause BJ, Prieto CP, Muñoz-Urrutia E, San Martín S, Sobrevia L, Casanello P. Role of arginase-2 and eNOS in the differential vascular reactivity and hypoxia-induced endothelial response in umbilical arteries and veins. Placenta 2012; 33:360-6. [PMID: 22391327 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2012.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The main vasodilator in the placenta is nitric oxide (NO), which is synthesized by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS). Arginase-2 competes with eNOS for l-arginine, and its activity has been related with vascular dysfunction. Recently, we showed that hypoxia induces arginase-2, and decreases eNOS activity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). However there is evidence that vascular responses to hypoxia are not similar throughout the placental vascular tree. We studied whether arginase-2 plays a role controlling vascular tone in human umbilical vessels, and the changes in the expression of arginase-2 and eNOS proteins by hypoxia in endothelial cells from umbilical arteries (HUAEC) and veins (HUVEC). In isolated umbilical vessels the presence of eNOS and arginase-2 was determined in the endothelium, and the NO-dependent vasoactive responses in the presence and absence of S-(2-boronoethyl)-L-cysteine (BEC, arginase inhibitor) were studied. Additionally, HUAEC and HUVEC were exposed (0-24 h) to hypoxia (2% O2) or normoxia (5% O2), and protein levels of eNOS (total and phosphorylated at serine-1177) and arginase-2 were determined. In umbilical arteries and veins arginase-2 and eNOS were detected mainly at the endothelium. BEC induced a higher concentration-dependent relaxation in umbilical arteries than veins, and these responses were NOS-dependent. In HUAEC exposed to hypoxia there were no changes in eNOS and arginase-2 levels, however there was a significant increase of p-eNOS. In contrast, HUVEC showed an increase in arginase-2 and a reduction of p-eNOS in response to hypoxia. These results show that arginases have a vascular role in placental vessels counteracting the NOS-dependent relaxation, which is differentially regulated in placental artery and vein endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Krause
- Perinatology Research Laboratory and Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago, Chile
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14
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Krause B, Hanson M, Casanello P. Role of nitric oxide in placental vascular development and function. Placenta 2011; 32:797-805. [PMID: 21798594 PMCID: PMC3218217 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2011] [Revised: 06/28/2011] [Accepted: 06/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the most pleiotropic signaling molecules at systemic and cellular levels, participating in vascular tone regulation, cellular respiration, proliferation, apoptosis and gene expression. Indeed NO actively participates in trophoblast invasion, placental development and represents the main vasodilator in this tissue. Despite the large number of studies addressing the role of NO in the placenta, its participation in placental vascular development and the effect of altered levels of NO on placental function remains to be clarified. This review draws a time-line of the participation of NO throughout placental vascular development, from the differentiation of vascular precursors to the consolidation of vascular function are considered. The influence of NO on cell types involved in the origin of the placental vasculature and the expression and function of the nitric oxide synthases (NOS) throughout pregnancy are described. The developmental processes involved in the placental vascular bed are considered, such as the participation of NO in placental vasculogenesis and angiogenesis through VEGF and Angiopoietin signaling molecules. The role of NO in vascular function once the placental vascular tree has developed, in normal pregnancy as well as in pregnancy-related diseases, is then discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- B.J. Krause
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago, Chile
| | - M.A. Hanson
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, Academic Unit of Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - P. Casanello
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago, Chile
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