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Trilla Solà C, Parra Roca J, Llurba Olivé E. Reference Ranges of 2-Dimensional Placental Biometry and 3-Dimensional Placental Volume between 11 and 14 Weeks of Gestation. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1556. [PMID: 39061694 PMCID: PMC11276113 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14141556] [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: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to provide gestational age (GA) specific reference ranges for 2-dimensional (2D) placental biometry and 3-dimensional (3D) placental volume between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation. METHODS Placental biometry including 2D and 3D variables was calculated in 1142 first-trimester singleton pregnancies with non-complicated outcome between September 2016 and February 2020. Ultrasound datasets were obtained at the time of the first-trimester ultrasound, and 2D basal plate (BP), chorionic plate (CP), placental thickness (PT), and 3D placental volume (PV) were measured following a standardized methodology. Reference ranges for each variable were calculated according to GA and crown-rump-length (CRL). RESULTS A total of 1142 uncomplicated pregnancies were considered for analysis. All placental measurements increased significantly between 11 and 14 weeks, especially for PT (39.64%) and PV (64.4%). Reference ranges were constructed for each 2D and 3D first-trimester placental variable using the best-fit regression model for the predicted mean and SD as a function of GA and CRL. CONCLUSIONS Reference ranges of 2D placental biometry and 3D placental volume between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation were constructed, generating reference values. Placental biometry showed a progressive increase during the first trimester. This highlights the importance of using reference range charts according to GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Trilla Solà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Primary Care Interventions to Prevent Maternal and Child Chronic Diseases of Perinatal and Developmental Origin Network (RICORS, RD21/0012/0001), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Parra Roca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa Llurba Olivé
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Primary Care Interventions to Prevent Maternal and Child Chronic Diseases of Perinatal and Developmental Origin Network (RICORS, RD21/0012/0001), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Dieckmann L, Lahti-Pulkkinen M, Cruceanu C, Räikkönen K, Binder EB, Czamara D. Quantitative trait locus mapping in placenta: A comparative study of chorionic villus and birth placenta. HGG ADVANCES 2024; 5:100326. [PMID: 38993113 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2024.100326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The placenta, a pivotal player in the prenatal environment, holds crucial insights into early developmental pathways and future health outcomes. In this study, we explored genetic molecular regulation in chorionic villus samples (CVS) from the first trimester and placenta tissue at birth. We assessed quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping on DNA methylation and gene expression data in a Finnish cohort of 574 individuals. We found more QTLs in birth placenta than in first-trimester placenta. Nevertheless, a substantial amount of associations overlapped in their effects and showed consistent direction in both tissues, with increasing molecular genetic effects from early pregnancy to birth placenta. The identified QTLs in birth placenta were most enriched in genes with placenta-specific expression. Conducting a phenome-wide-association study (PheWAS) on the associated SNPs, we observed numerous overlaps with genome-wide association study (GWAS) hits (spanning 57 distinct traits and 23 SNPs), with notable enrichments for immunological, skeletal, and respiratory traits. The QTL-SNP rs1737028 (chr6:29737993) presented with the highest number of GWAS hits. This SNP was related to HLA-G expression via DNA methylation and was associated with various immune, respiratory, and psychiatric traits. Our findings implicate increasing genetic molecular regulation during the course of pregnancy and support the involvement of placenta gene regulation, particularly in immunological traits. This study presents a framework for understanding placenta-specific gene regulation during pregnancy and its connection to health-related traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Dieckmann
- Department Genes and Environment, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany; International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany
| | - Marius Lahti-Pulkkinen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, 00271 Helsinki, Finland; Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK
| | - Cristiana Cruceanu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katri Räikkönen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elisabeth B Binder
- Department Genes and Environment, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Darina Czamara
- Department Genes and Environment, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany.
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Tang X, Geng Y, Gao R, Chen Z, Mu X, Zhang Y, Yin X, Ma Y, Chen X, Li F, He J. Maternal exposure to beta-Cypermethrin disrupts placental development by dysfunction of trophoblast cells from oxidative stress. Toxicology 2024; 504:153796. [PMID: 38582279 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153796] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
As a broad-spectrum and efficient insecticide, beta-Cypermethrin (β-CYP) poses a health risk to pregnancy. It matters the mechanisms of maternal exposure to β-CYP for impacting reproductive health. The placenta, a transient organ pivotal for maternal-fetal communication during pregnancy, plays a crucial role in embryonic development. The effect of β-CYP exposure on the placenta and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain obscure. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of β-CYP exposure on placental development and the function of trophoblast, as well as the underlying mechanisms through CD-1 mouse model (1, 10, 20 mg/kg.bw) and in vitro HTR-8/SVneo cell model (12.5, 25, 50, 100 μM). We found slower weight gain and reduced uterine wet weight in pregnant mice with maternal exposure to β-CYP during pregnancy, as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes such as uterine bleeding and embryo resorption. The abnormal placental development in response to β-CYP was noticed, including imbalanced placental structure and disrupted labyrinthine vascular development. Trophoblasts, pivotal in placental development and vascular remodeling, displayed abnormal differentiation under β-CYP exposure. This aberration was characterized by thickened trophoblast layers in the labyrinthine zone, accompanied by mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum swelling within trophoblasts. Further researches on human chorionic trophoblast cell lines revealed that β-CYP exposure induced apoptosis in HTR-8/SVneo cells. This induction resulted in a notable decrease in migration and invasion abilities, coupled with oxidative stress and the inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway. N-acetylcysteine (an antioxidant) partially restored the impaired Notch signaling pathway in HTR-8/SVneo cells, and mitigated cellular functional damage attributed to β-CYP exposure. Collectively, exposure to β-CYP induced oxidative stress and then led to inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway and dysfunction of trophoblast cells, ultimately resulted in abnormal placenta and pregnancy. These findings indicate Reactive Oxygen Species as potential intervention targets to mitigate β-CYP toxicity. The comprehensive elucidation contributes to our understanding of β-CYP biosafety and offers an experimental basis for preventing and managing its reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Tang
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanqing Geng
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rufei Gao
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuxiu Chen
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyi Mu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Yin
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yidan Ma
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junlin He
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Davis D, Kurz E, Hooper ME, Atchan M, Spiller S, Blackburn J, Bushell M, Lewis V, Leung M, Samarawickrema I, Knight-Agarwal C. The holistic maternity care needs of women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A systematic review with thematic synthesis. Women Birth 2024; 37:166-176. [PMID: 37684120 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM Models of care for women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have evolved in an ad hoc way and do not meet women's needs. BACKGROUND GDM affects 50,000 Australian women per annum with prevalence quadrupling in the last ten years. Many health services are struggling to provide a quality service. People with diabetes are calling for care that focuses on their wellbeing more broadly. AIM To examine the holistic (emotional, social, economic, and spiritual) care needs of women with GDM. METHODS Qualitative and mixed-methods studies capturing the healthcare experiences of women with GDM were searched for in CINAHL, Medline, Web of Science and Scopus. English-language studies published between 2011 and 2023 were included. Quality of studies was assessed using Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool and NVIVO was used to identify key themes and synthesise data. FINDINGS Twenty-eight studies were included, representing the experiences of 958 women. Five themes reflect women's holistic needs through their journey from initial diagnosis to postpartum: psychological impact, information and education, making change for better health, support, and care transition. DISCUSSION The biomedical, fetal-centric model of care neglects the woman's holistic wellbeing resulting in high levels of unmet need. Discontinuity between tertiary and primary services results in a missed opportunity to assist women to make longer term changes that would benefit themselves (and their families) into the future. CONCLUSIONS The provision of holistic models of care for this cohort is pivotal to improving clinical outcomes and the experiences of women with GDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Davis
- University of Canberra, Faculty of Health, Australia; ACT Government, Health Directorate, Australia.
| | - Ella Kurz
- University of Canberra, Faculty of Health, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Mary Bushell
- University of Canberra, Faculty of Health, Australia
| | | | - Myra Leung
- University of Canberra, Faculty of Health, Australia
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Shen Y, Cui Q, Xiao L, Wang L, Li Q, Zhang R, Chen Z, Niu J. Down-regulated Wnt7a and GPR124 in early-onset preeclampsia placentas reduce invasion and migration of trophoblast cells. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:41-49. [PMID: 37694534 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0565] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Preeclampsia (PE) is a disease specific to pregnancy that causes 9-10 % of maternal deaths. Early-onset PE (<34 weeks' gestation) is the most dangerous category of PE. Wnt7a and GPR124 (G protein-coupled receptor 124) are widely expressed in the human reproductive process. Especially during embryogenesis and tumorigenesis, Wnt7a plays a crucial role. However, few studies have examined the association between Wnt7a-GPR124 and early-onset PE. The aim of this study was to examine the significance of Wnt7a and GPR124 in early-onset PE as well as Wnt7a's role in trophoblast cells. METHODS Immunohistochemistry (IHC), real-time PCR, and western blotting (WB) were used to investigate Wnt7a and GPR124 expression in normal and early-onset PE placentas. Additionally, FACS, Transwell, and CCK-8 assays were used to diagnose Wnt7a involvement in migration, invasion, and proliferation. RESULTS In the early-onset PE group, Wnt7a and GPR124 expression was significantly lower than in the normal group, especially in the area of syncytiotrophoblasts (STBs) and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs). A negative correlation was found between Wnt7a RNA and GPR124 expression (r=-0.42, p<0.01). However, the Wnt7a RNA expression level was positive correlated with PE severity. In further cellular functional experiments, knockdown of Wnt7a inhibits HTR8/SVeno cells invasion and migration but has little effect on proliferation and apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Through the Wnt pathway, Wnt7a regulates trophoblast cell invasion and migration, and may contribute to early-onset preeclampsia pathogenesis. A molecular level study of Wnt7a will be needed to find downstream proteins and mechanisms of interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Shen
- Department of Obstetrics, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinan, P.R. China
| | - Qingyu Cui
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, P.R. China
| | - Li Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, P.R. China
| | - Lifeng Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, P.R. China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, P.R. China
| | - Ruihong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, P.R. China
| | - Zhaowen Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, P.R. China
| | - Jianmin Niu
- Department of Obstetrics, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
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Guo X, Dilidaxi D, Li L, Wang C, Ma X, Sang F, Pei G, Li W. Aspirin protects human trophoblast HTR-8/SVneo cells from H 2O 2-Induced oxidative stress via NADPH/ROS pathway. Placenta 2023; 144:55-63. [PMID: 37995441 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy complication that can lead to maternal, fetal, and neonatal deaths in clinical practice. Accumulation of trophoblastic reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could result in oxidative stress and cell apoptosis, is considered to play an important role in PE pathology. It has been reported that aspirin has a positive effect on PE treatment in high-risk pregnant women. METHODS In vitro, extravillous trophoblast cell line (HTR-8/SVneo) were treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 150 μM) after the presence of aspirin (90 and 120 μM) with or without GKT137831 (a Nox4 inhibitor, 20 μM). A series of experiments including CCK-8 assays, flow cytometry, biochemical testing, and Western Blotting etc. verified the protective effects and potential mechanisms of aspirin against oxidative stress-induced damage in PE. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that H2O2 induces oxidative stress and apoptosis in HTR8/SVneo cells. However, aspirin pretreatment rescue cell viability and reduce LDH activity of HTR-8/SVneo cells. Aspirin can suppress the ROS overproduction and MDA level while increase SOD content and CAT activity. In addition, aspirin pretreatment significantly alleviated cell apoptosis and suppressed the expression of Nox4 and its subunits (p22phox and p47phox) at protein and mRNA levels. The above results were more obvious after the combination of aspirin with GKT137831. DISCUSSION This study demonstrated that aspirin protects human trophoblasts against H2O2-induced oxidative stress and cell apoptosis via suppressing NADPH/ROS pathway. These findings provide novel insights for the application of aspirin as a protective and curative agent against PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Urumqi Youai Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China
| | - Dinareer Dilidaxi
- Department of Pharmacy, Urumqi Youai Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China
| | - Lihua Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Urumqi Youai Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Urumqi Youai Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China
| | - Xiaoqing Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Urumqi Youai Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China
| | - Fei Sang
- Department of Pharmacy, Urumqi Youai Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China
| | - Guizhen Pei
- Department of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Production & Construction Corps Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Urumqi Youai Hospital, Urumqi, 830000, China.
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Weingrill RB, Lee MJ, Benny P, Riel J, Saiki K, Garcia J, de Magalhaes Oliveira LFA, da Silva Fonseca EJ, de Souza ST, de Oliveira Silva D’Amato F, Silva UR, Dutra ML, Marques ALX, Borbely AU, Urschitz J. Temporal trends in microplastic accumulation in placentas from pregnancies in Hawai'i. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 180:108220. [PMID: 37741006 PMCID: PMC10593309 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are created for commercial use, are shed from textiles, or result from the breakdown of larger plastic items. Recent reports have shown that microplastics accumulate in human tissues and may have adverse health consequences. Currently, there are no standardized environmental monitoring systems to track microplastic accumulation within human tissues. Using Raman spectroscopy, we investigated the temporal exposures to plastic pollution in Hawai'i and noted a significant increase in the accumulation of microplastics in discarded placentas over the past 15 years, with changes in the size and chemical composition of the polymers. These findings provide a rare insight into the vulnerability and sensitivity of Pacific Island residents to plastic pollution and illustrate how discarded human tissues can be used as an innovative environmental plastic pollution monitoring system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Barbano Weingrill
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Men-Jean Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Paula Benny
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Jonathan Riel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Kevin Saiki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Jacob Garcia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Ueslen Rocha Silva
- Physics Institute, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceio, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Mariana Lima Dutra
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Campus A.C. Simões, Maceio, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Aldilane Lays Xavier Marques
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Campus A.C. Simões, Maceio, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Urban Borbely
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Campus A.C. Simões, Maceio, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Johann Urschitz
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Geisler HC, Safford HC, Mitchell MJ. Rational Design of Nanomedicine for Placental Disorders: Birthing a New Era in Women's Reproductive Health. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2300852. [PMID: 37191231 PMCID: PMC10651803 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202300852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a transient organ that forms during pregnancy and acts as a biological barrier, mediating exchange between maternal and fetal circulation. Placental disorders, such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, placenta accreta spectrum, and gestational trophoblastic disease, originate in dysfunctional placental development during pregnancy and can lead to severe complications for both the mother and fetus. Unfortunately, treatment options for these disorders are severely lacking. Challenges in designing therapeutics for use during pregnancy involve selectively delivering payloads to the placenta while protecting the fetus from potential toxic side effects. Nanomedicine holds great promise in overcoming these barriers; the versatile and modular nature of nanocarriers, including prolonged circulation times, intracellular delivery, and organ-specific targeting, can control how therapeutics interact with the placenta. In this review, nanomedicine strategies are discussed to treat and diagnose placental disorders with an emphasis on understanding the unique pathophysiology behind each of these diseases. Finally, prior study of the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying these placental disorders has revealed novel disease targets. These targets are highlighted here to motivate the rational design of precision nanocarriers to improve therapeutic options for placental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah C. Geisler
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Hannah C. Safford
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Michael J. Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for RNA Innovation, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19014, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
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Anxiety, stress, and depression in Australian pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross sectional study. Midwifery 2023; 119:103619. [PMID: 36812820 PMCID: PMC9933579 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2023.103619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid responses by health services to suppress transmission of the virus. AIM This study aimed to investigate predictors of anxiety, stress and depression in Australian pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic including continuity of carer and the role of social support. METHODS Women aged 18 years and over in their third trimester of pregnancy were invited to complete an online survey between July 2020 and January 2021. The survey included validated tools for anxiety, stress, and depression. Regression modelling was used to identify associations between a range of factors including continuity of carer, and mental health measures. FINDINGS 1668 women completed the survey. One quarter screened positive for depression, 19% for moderate or higher range anxiety, and 15.5% for stress. The most significant contribution to higher anxiety, stress, and depression scores was a pre-existing mental health condition, followed by financial strain and a current complex pregnancy. Protective factors included age, social support, and parity. DISCUSSION Maternity care strategies to reduce COVID-19 transmission restricted women's access to their customary pregnancy supports and increased their psychological morbidity. CONCLUSION Factors associated with anxiety, stress and depression scores during the COVID-19 pandemic were identified. Maternity care during the pandemic compromised pregnant women's support systems.
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Li H, Peng H, Hong W, Wei Y, Tian H, Huang X, Jia L, Zheng J, Duan T, He Q, Wang K. Human Placental Endothelial Cell and Trophoblast Heterogeneity and Differentiation Revealed by Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010087. [PMID: 36611882 PMCID: PMC9818681 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is an important organ for fetal and maternal health during pregnancy and impacts offspring health late in life. Defects in placental vasculature and trophoblast have been identified in several pregnancy complications. Thus, the detailed molecular profile and heterogeneity of endothelial cells and trophoblasts in placentas will aid us in better understanding placental behaviors and improving pregnancy outcomes. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed to profile the transcriptomics of human placental villous tissues from eleven patients with normal pregnancies in the first and second trimesters (6-16 weeks of gestation). RESULTS The transcriptomic landscape of 52,179 single cells was obtained, and the cells were classified as trophoblasts, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, erythroid cells, Hofbauer cells, and macrophages. Our analysis further revealed the three subtypes of placental endothelial cells, with distinct metabolic signatures and transcription factor regulatory networks. We also determined the transcriptomic features of the trophoblast subpopulations and characterized two distinct populations of progenitor cells in cytotrophoblasts, which were capable of differentiating to extravillous trophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our study provided a high-resolution molecular profile of the human placenta between 6 and 16 weeks of gestation. Our data revealed the placental cell complexity and demonstrated the transcriptional networks and signaling involved in placental endothelial and trophoblast differentiation during early pregnancy, which will be a resource for future studies of the human placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Hao Peng
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Wei Hong
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Yingying Wei
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Haojun Tian
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Xiaojie Huang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Linyan Jia
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Tao Duan
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Qizhi He
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
- Correspondence: (Q.H.); (K.W.)
| | - Kai Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 201204, China
- Correspondence: (Q.H.); (K.W.)
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11
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Olney KC, Plaisier SB, Phung TN, Silasi M, Perley L, O'Bryan J, Ramirez L, Kliman HJ, Wilson MA. Sex differences in early and term placenta are conserved in adult tissues. Biol Sex Differ 2022; 13:74. [PMID: 36550527 PMCID: PMC9773522 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-022-00470-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy complications vary based on the fetus's genetic sex, which may, in part, be modulated by the placenta. Furthermore, developmental differences early in life can have lifelong health outcomes. Yet, sex differences in gene expression within the placenta at different timepoints throughout pregnancy and comparisons to adult tissues remains poorly characterized. METHODS Here, we collect and characterize sex differences in gene expression in term placentas (≥ 36.6 weeks; 23 male XY and 27 female XX). These are compared with sex differences in previously collected first trimester placenta samples and 42 non-reproductive adult tissues from GTEx. RESULTS We identify 268 and 53 sex-differentially expressed genes in the uncomplicated late first trimester and term placentas, respectively. Of the 53 sex-differentially expressed genes observed in the term placentas, 31 are also sex-differentially expressed genes in the late first trimester placentas. Furthermore, sex differences in gene expression in term placentas are highly correlated with sex differences in the late first trimester placentas. We found that sex-differential gene expression in the term placenta is significantly correlated with sex differences in gene expression in 42 non-reproductive adult tissues (correlation coefficient ranged from 0.892 to 0.957), with the highest correlation in brain tissues. Sex differences in gene expression were largely driven by gene expression on the sex chromosomes. We further show that some gametologous genes (genes with functional copies on X and Y) will have different inferred sex differences if the X-linked gene expression in females is compared to the sum of the X-linked and Y-linked gene expression in males. CONCLUSIONS We find that sex differences in gene expression are conserved in late first trimester and term placentas and that these sex differences are conserved in adult tissues. We demonstrate that there are sex differences associated with innate immune response in late first trimester placentas but there is no significant difference in gene expression of innate immune genes between sexes in healthy full-term placentas. Finally, sex differences are predominantly driven by expression from sex-linked genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly C Olney
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
| | - Seema B Plaisier
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
| | - Tanya N Phung
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
| | - Michelle Silasi
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mercy Hospital St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63141, USA
| | - Lauren Perley
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jane O'Bryan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Lucia Ramirez
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA
| | - Harvey J Kliman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Melissa A Wilson
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, PO Box 874501, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA.
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA.
- The Biodesign Center for Mechanisms of Evolution, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85282, USA.
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12
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Expression of Key Steroidogenic Enzymes in Human Placenta and Associated Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes. MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/fm9.0000000000000167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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13
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Micro-RNAs in Human Placenta: Tiny Molecules, Immense Power. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27185943. [PMID: 36144676 PMCID: PMC9501247 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27185943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding single-stranded RNAs that modulate the expression of various target genes after transcription. The expression and distribution of kinds of miRNAs have been characterized in human placenta during different gestational stages. The identified miRNAs are recognized as key mediators in the regulation of placental development and in the maintenance of human pregnancy. Aberrant expression of miRNAs is associated with compromised pregnancies in humans, and dysregulation of those miRNAs contributes to the occurrence and development of related diseases during pregnancy, such as pre-eclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), recurrent miscarriage, preterm birth (PTB) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA). Thus, having a better understanding of the expression and functions of miRNAs in human placenta during pregnancy and thereby developing novel drugs targeting the miRNAs could be a potentially promising method in the prevention and treatment of relevant diseases in future. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of the expression pattern and function regulation of miRNAs in human placental development and related diseases.
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Ramos IF, Ross KM, Rinne GR, Somers JA, Mancuso RA, Hobel CJ, Coussons-Read M, Dunkel Schetter C. Pregnancy anxiety, placental corticotropin-releasing hormone and length of gestation. Biol Psychol 2022; 172:108376. [PMID: 35667479 PMCID: PMC10022399 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2022.108376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High pregnancy anxiety is a consistent predictor of earlier labor and delivery. Placental corticotropin-releasing hormone (pCRH) predicts earlier delivery consistently and it has been identified as a biological mediator of the association between pregnancy anxiety and gestational length. However, studies have not examined whether changes in pregnancy anxiety are associated with earlier birth as mediated by changes in pCRH during pregnancy. Accordingly, this study tests whether linear changes in pregnancy anxiety are associated with length of gestation indirectly through nonlinear increases in pCRH over pregnancy. METHODS A sample of pregnant women (n=233) completed prenatal assessments in early pregnancy, second trimester, and third trimester that included a 4-item assessment of pregnancy anxiety and collection of blood samples assayed for pCRH using radioimmunoassay. Length of gestation was abstracted from medical records after birth. RESULTS Increases in pregnancy anxiety from early pregnancy to third trimester predicted shorted length of gestation, as did nonlinear increases in pCRH over pregnancy. However, there was no evidence of an indirect effect of changes in pregnancy anxiety on length of gestation via changes in pCRH. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that linear changes in pregnancy anxiety and nonlinear changes in pCRH during pregnancy are independent risk factors for shortened gestational length. This study adds to a small but growing body of work on biopsychological processes in pregnancy and length of gestation. Modeling changes in psychological and biological processes during pregnancy could provide more insight into understanding risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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15
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Deep Learning Algorithm-Based Ultrasound Image Information in Diagnosis and Treatment of Pernicious Placenta Previa. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3452176. [PMID: 35707039 PMCID: PMC9192257 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3452176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study was to explore the value of the deep dictionary learning algorithm in constructing a B ultrasound scoring system and exploring its application in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of pernicious placenta previa (PPP). 60 patients with PPP were divided into a low-risk group (severe, implantable) and high-risk group (adhesive, penetrating) according to their clinical characteristics, B ultrasound imaging characteristics, and postpartum pathological examination results. Under PPP ultrasonic image information using the deep learning algorithm, the B ultrasound image diagnostic scoring system was established to predict the depth of various types of placenta accreta. The results showed that the cut-off values of severe, implantable, adhesive, and penetrating types were <2.3, 2.3-6.5, 6.5-9, and ≥9 points, respectively; there were significant differences in the termination of pregnancy and neonatal birth weight between the two groups (P < 0.05); the positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and false positive rate of ultrasound images based on the deep dictionary learning algorithm for PPP were 95.33%, 94.89%, and 3.56%, respectively. Thus, the ultrasound image diagnostic scoring system based on the deep learning algorithm has an important predictive role for PPP, which can provide a more targeted diagnosis and treatment plan for patients in clinical practice and improve the prediction and treatment efficiency.
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16
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Lu Y, Zhang X, Li X, Deng L, Wei C, Yang D, Tan X, Pan W, Pang L. MiR-135a-5p suppresses trophoblast proliferative, migratory, invasive, and angiogenic activity in the context of unexplained spontaneous abortion. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:82. [PMID: 35610725 PMCID: PMC9128262 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00952-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spontaneous abortions (SA) is amongst the most common complications associated with pregnancy in humans, and the underlying causes cannot be identified in roughly half of SA cases. We found miR-135a-5p to be significantly upregulated in SA-associated villus tissues, yet the function it plays in this context has yet to be clarified. This study explored the function of miR-135a-5p and its potential as a biomarker for unexplained SA. METHOD RT-qPCR was employed for appraising miR-135a-5p expression within villus tissues with its clinical diagnostic values being assessed using ROC curves. The effects of miR-135a-5p in HTR-8/SVneo cells were analyzed via wound healing, Transwell, flow cytometry, EdU, CCK-8, and tube formation assays. Moreover, protein expression was examined via Western blotting, and interactions between miR-135a-5p and PTPN1 were explored through RIP-PCR, bioinformatics analyses and luciferase reporter assays. RESULTS Relative to normal pregnancy (NP), villus tissue samples from pregnancies that ended in unexplained sporadic miscarriage (USM) or unexplained recurrent SA (URSA) exhibited miR-135a-5p upregulation. When this miRNA was overexpressed in HTR-8/SVneo cells, their migration, proliferation, and cell cycle progression were suppressed, as were their tube forming and invasive activities. miR-135a-5p over-expression also downregulated the protein level of cyclins, PTPN1, MMP2 and MMP9. In RIP-PCR assays, the Ago2 protein exhibited significant miR-135a-5p and PTPN1 mRNA enrichment, and dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated PTPN1 to be a bona fide miR-135a-5p target gene within HTR-8/SVneo cells. CONCLUSION miR-135a-5p may suppress trophoblast migratory, invasive, proliferative, and angiogenic activity via targeting PTPN1, and it may thus offer value as a biomarker for unexplained SA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yebin Lu
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis and Genetic Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, China
| | - Xueyu Li
- Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi, China
| | - Lingjie Deng
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis and Genetic Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
| | | | - Dongmei Yang
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis and Genetic Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
| | - Xuemei Tan
- Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
| | | | - Lihong Pang
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis and Genetic Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China.
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17
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Zhang Q, Zhang Z, Wang C, Yu Y, Xie Q, Zhang Y. Detection and significance of main anchoring villus in early pregnancy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2021; 158:439-446. [PMID: 34767260 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To find and explore the relationship among the length of the embryo's main anchoring villus and the week of gestation, embryonic crown-rump length (CRL), and maternal blood human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) during early pregnancy using ultrasound. METHODS A total of 108 women with singleton pregnancies underwent ultrasound examination of the fetus during the early months of their pregnancy (5+5 -13+6 weeks of pregnancy). The main anchoring villus was detected using HD-Flow and SlowflowHD mode ultrasound. The detection rate and length of the main anchoring villus were recorded. The correlations among main anchoring villus with gestational weeks, CRL, and blood hCG were obtained. RESULTS The main anchoring villus was detected in all women (108/108). It could be found throughout the early gestational weeks from as early as 4+6 weeks. The length of the main anchoring villus increased with gestational age, and was positively correlated with CRL and the logarithm of hCG (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our results showed that the detection rate of the main anchoring villus was 100% and the length of the main anchoring villus was correlated with gestational week, CRL, and blood hCG. The main anchoring villus could represent where the embryo implanted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Ultrasound Department, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhikun Zhang
- Ultrasound Department, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
| | - Chengji Wang
- Medical Laboratory Department, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Ultrasound Department, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
| | - Qing Xie
- Ultrasound Department, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Ultrasound Department, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China.,Medical Laboratory Department, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin, China.,Department of Ultrasonic Diagnostic of Second Clinical Institute, Chengde Medical College, Chengde, China
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18
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Adu-Gyamfi EA, Wang YX, Ding YB. The interplay between thyroid hormones and the placenta: a comprehensive review†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:8-17. [PMID: 31494673 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) regulate a number of metabolic processes during pregnancy. After implantation, the placenta forms and enhances embryonic growth and development. Dysregulated maternal THs signaling has been observed in malplacentation-mediated pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, miscarriage, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), but the molecular mechanisms involved in this association have not been fully characterized. In this review, we have discussed THs signaling and its roles in trophoblast proliferation, trophoblast differentiation, trophoblast invasion of the decidua, and decidual angiogenesis. We have also explored the relationship between specific pregnancy complications and placental THs transporters, deiodinases, and THs receptors. In addition, we have examined the effects of specific endocrine disruptors on placental THs signaling. The available evidence indicates that THs signaling is involved in the formation and functioning of the placenta and serves as the basis for understanding the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of dysthyroidism-associated pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, miscarriage, and IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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Scher MS. "The First Thousand Days" Define a Fetal/Neonatal Neurology Program. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:683138. [PMID: 34408995 PMCID: PMC8365757 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.683138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene-environment interactions begin at conception to influence maternal/placental/fetal triads, neonates, and children with short- and long-term effects on brain development. Life-long developmental neuroplasticity more likely results during critical/sensitive periods of brain maturation over these first 1,000 days. A fetal/neonatal program (FNNP) applying this perspective better identifies trimester-specific mechanisms affecting the maternal/placental/fetal (MPF) triad, expressed as brain malformations and destructive lesions. Maladaptive MPF triad interactions impair progenitor neuronal/glial populations within transient embryonic/fetal brain structures by processes such as maternal immune activation. Destructive fetal brain lesions later in pregnancy result from ischemic placental syndromes associated with the great obstetrical syndromes. Trimester-specific MPF triad diseases may negatively impact labor and delivery outcomes. Neonatal neurocritical care addresses the symptomatic minority who express the great neonatal neurological syndromes: encephalopathy, seizures, stroke, and encephalopathy of prematurity. The asymptomatic majority present with neurologic disorders before 2 years of age without prior detection. The developmental principle of ontogenetic adaptation helps guide the diagnostic process during the first 1,000 days to identify more phenotypes using systems-biology analyses. This strategy will foster innovative interdisciplinary diagnostic/therapeutic pathways, educational curricula, and research agenda among multiple FNNP. Effective early-life diagnostic/therapeutic programs will help reduce neurologic disease burden across the lifespan and successive generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Scher
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Fetal/Neonatal Neurology Program, Emeritus Scholar Tenured Full Professor in Pediatrics and Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
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20
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Abnormal cGMP-dependent protein kinase I-mediated decidualization in preeclampsia. Hypertens Res 2020; 44:318-324. [PMID: 33093639 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-020-00561-6] [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: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Defective decidual function contributes to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. However, the precise mechanism of defective decidua during preeclampsia has not been characterized. During decidualization, endometrial stromal cells undergo phenotypic changes that are consistent with mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET). cGMP-dependent kinase protein I (PKGI)/VASP signaling is important in cell motility proliferation, differentiation and cell adhesion. To investigate this aim, we analyzed PKGI levels, phosphorylated VASP protein levels, and eNOS and sGC protein expression levels during pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia, which indicated that PKGI/VASP signaling function is decreased by the condition. Moreover, we evaluated the differential expression of genes that regulate MET in the decidua resulting from preeclampsia and healthy pregnancies. We discovered that vimentin mRNA levels are decreased in the decidua of preeclampsia, which indicates that excessive MET occurs in the decidua of preeclampsia pregnancies. A fundamental developmental MET program occurred in response to signaling pathways. These results suggest the important role of decreased PKGI/VASP signaling during excessive MET in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
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Li Z, Kurosawa O, Iwata H. A Novel Human Placental Barrier Model Based on Trophoblast Stem Cells Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Tissue Eng Part A 2020; 26:780-791. [PMID: 32323636 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2019.0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta acts as an interface between the fetus and the expecting mother. Various drugs and environmental pollutants can pass through the human placental barrier and may harm the developing fetus. Currently available in vitro placental barrier models are often inadequate, because they are lacking the functional trophoblast cells. Therefore, we developed and characterized a new human placental model using trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Umbilical vein endothelial cells, fibroblast, and TSCs were cocultured using micromesh cell culture technique. These cells formed a tight three-layered structure. This coculture model induced progressive fusion of TSCs and formed a syncytialized epithelium that resembles the in vivo syncytiotrophoblast. Our model allowed the cultured trophoblasts to form microvilli and to reconstitute expression and physiological localization of membrane transport proteins, such as transporter for ATP-binding cassette subfamily B member 1, ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 3, and glucose transporter-1. Drug permeability assays were performed using five compounds. The results from the permeability assays were comparable to the ones obtained with ex vivo placental models. In conclusion, we developed a novel coculture model mimicking human placenta that provides a useful tool for the studies on transfer of substances between the mother and fetus. Impact statement Compared with the currently available in vitro placental barrier models, a novel three-dimensional coculture placental barrier model presented in this study morphologically and functionally modeled the true placental barrier. The use of human trophoblast stem cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells substantially improved the current model. The use of micromesh sheet as a bioscaffold facilitated the formation of a good multilayer structure, which is closer to the physical appearance of the placenta observed in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuosi Li
- The "Compass to Healthy Life" Research Complex Program, RIKEN Institute, Kobe, Japan
| | - Osamu Kurosawa
- The "Compass to Healthy Life" Research Complex Program, RIKEN Institute, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiroo Iwata
- The "Compass to Healthy Life" Research Complex Program, RIKEN Institute, Kobe, Japan.,Research Promotion Institution for COI Site, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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