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Dmitrenko B, Gatinois V, D’Ottavi M, El Mouatani A, Bouret P, Debiesse S, Mondain M, Akkari M, Dallemagne M, Pellestor F, Perre PV, Molès JP. Quantification of Female Chimeric Cells in the Tonsils of Male Children and Their Determinants. Cells 2023; 12:2116. [PMID: 37626925 PMCID: PMC10453410 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162116] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The factors influencing mother-to-child cell trafficking and persistence over children's lives have yet to be established. The quantification of maternal microchimerism was previously reported through HLA-based approaches, which introduced bias regarding the tolerogenic environment. We aimed to identify cells of maternal origin irrespective of the HLA repertoire and to ascertain the determinants of microchimeric cells. This case-control study enrolled 40 male infants attending pediatric surgery from January 2022 to October 2022. Female cells were quantified in infants' tonsil tissue by using cytogenetic fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) coupled with optimized automated microscopy. Out of the 40 infants, half (47.4%) had been breastfed for more than one month, a quarter for less a month, and 10 children (26.3%) were never breastfed. XX cells were observed in male tonsils in two-thirds of participants at a median density of 5 cells per 100,000 cells. In univariate analyses, child age was negatively associated with a high female cell density. In exploratory multivariate analyses, previous breastfeeding is a likely determinant of the persistence of these cells in the host, as well as the rank among siblings. Part of the benefit of breastmilk for child health may therefore be driven by breastfeeding-related microchimerism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Dmitrenko
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, University of Montpellier, INSERM, EFS, 34394 Montpellier, France; (B.D.); (M.D.); (S.D.); (P.V.P.)
| | - Vincent Gatinois
- Unit of Chromosomal Genetics and Research Plateform Chromostem, Department of Medical Genetics, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier CHRU, 34090 Montpellier, France; (V.G.); (A.E.M.); (P.B.); (F.P.)
| | - Morgana D’Ottavi
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, University of Montpellier, INSERM, EFS, 34394 Montpellier, France; (B.D.); (M.D.); (S.D.); (P.V.P.)
| | - Ahmed El Mouatani
- Unit of Chromosomal Genetics and Research Plateform Chromostem, Department of Medical Genetics, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier CHRU, 34090 Montpellier, France; (V.G.); (A.E.M.); (P.B.); (F.P.)
| | - Pauline Bouret
- Unit of Chromosomal Genetics and Research Plateform Chromostem, Department of Medical Genetics, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier CHRU, 34090 Montpellier, France; (V.G.); (A.E.M.); (P.B.); (F.P.)
| | - Ségolène Debiesse
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, University of Montpellier, INSERM, EFS, 34394 Montpellier, France; (B.D.); (M.D.); (S.D.); (P.V.P.)
| | - Michel Mondain
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Gui de Chauliac Hospital, University of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France; (M.M.); (M.A.); (M.D.)
| | - Mohamed Akkari
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Gui de Chauliac Hospital, University of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France; (M.M.); (M.A.); (M.D.)
| | - Maxime Dallemagne
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Gui de Chauliac Hospital, University of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France; (M.M.); (M.A.); (M.D.)
| | - Franck Pellestor
- Unit of Chromosomal Genetics and Research Plateform Chromostem, Department of Medical Genetics, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier CHRU, 34090 Montpellier, France; (V.G.); (A.E.M.); (P.B.); (F.P.)
| | - Philippe Vande Perre
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, University of Montpellier, INSERM, EFS, 34394 Montpellier, France; (B.D.); (M.D.); (S.D.); (P.V.P.)
| | - Jean-Pierre Molès
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, University of Montpellier, INSERM, EFS, 34394 Montpellier, France; (B.D.); (M.D.); (S.D.); (P.V.P.)
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Giassi M, Hemon MF, Martin M, Roudier J, Auger I, Lambert NC. In utero position matters for littermate cell transfer in mice: an additional and confounding source with maternal microchimerism. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1200920. [PMID: 37575249 PMCID: PMC10422045 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1200920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Feto-maternal cell transfer during pregnancy is called microchimerism (Mc). Its persistence in respective hosts is increasingly studied as to its potential role in immune tolerance, autoimmunity, cancer, and degenerative diseases. Murine models with transgenic reporter genes, heterozygously carried by the mother, allow maternal Mc tracking in wild-type (WT) offspring. However, as gestation in mice is multi-embryonic, an exchange of cells between fetuses carrying the same reporter gene as their mother and negative WT littermate, named littermate Mc (LMc), can occur and be confounded with the maternal source. We propose here to evaluate LMc contribution in mice. Methods To avoid the maternal confounding source of Mc, transgenic males, heterozygous for a reporter gene, here, the human leukocyte antigen DRB1*04 (DR4+/-), were crossed with WT females (DR4-/-). DR4+/- LMc was specifically quantified by HLA-DR4 quantitative PCR, i) in utero in main organs from 15 DR4-/- fetuses from three litters of 11, nine, and five; and ii) after birth in two litters of eight pups: in two DR4-/- stillborns and four DR4-/- adult mice. Results At embryonic stages, DR4-/- fetuses having one or two nearby DR4+/- littermates in the same uterine horn were almost seven times more frequently positive for DR4- microchimerism in their organs (p = 0.01) and had quantitatively more LMc (p = 0.009) than those without nearby DR4+/- littermates. Furthermore, LMc persists at birth and into adulthood with interindividual heterogeneity. Conclusions This study identifies heterogeneity for LMc acquisition according to in utero position and different interpretation of previously published results on maternal Mc in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Giassi
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMRs) 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Marie F. Hemon
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMRs) 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Arthritis R&D, Neuilly-sur-Seine, France
| | - Marielle Martin
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMRs) 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Jean Roudier
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMRs) 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Rheumatology Department, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | - Isabelle Auger
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMRs) 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Nathalie C. Lambert
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMRs) 1097 Arthrites Autoimmunes, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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Male origin microchimerism and brain cancer: a case–cohort study. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04494-0. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04494-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
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Male-origin microchimerism and endometrial cancer: A prospective case-cohort study. Cancer Epidemiol 2022; 79:102169. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2022.102169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Olsen SDH, Kolte AM, Bang N, Krog MC, Steffensen R, Nielsen HS, Jakobsen MA. The development of an indel panel for microchimerism detection. Exp Mol Pathol 2022; 127:104804. [PMID: 35718190 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2022.104804] [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: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to create a simple assay for microchimerism detection independent of sex and without HLA genotyping. METHODS The method is based on detection of insertion or deletions utilizing a multiplex PCR followed by fragment analysis by capillary electrophoresis, and probe-based qPCR assays. A total of 192 samples, taken either before pregnancy, during 1st trimester, or either during 2nd trimester or at miscarriage, obtained from a cohort of 97 female patients with either primary or secondary recurrent pregnancy loss, were screened for fetal microchimerism by the indel panel as well as an existing assay based on detection of the Y-chromosome marker; DYS14. RESULTS The overall prevalence of DYS14 positive samples was 29% (55/192) whereas 32% (61/192) tested positive by the indel method. There was an overall agreement of 64% (122/192) between the results obtained by the two methods. A Fisher's Exact test showed no statistic significant difference in the prevalence of microchimerism detected by the two methods at any of the three times of sampling. The distribution of the number of positive wells detected by both methods were compared by a Mann-Whitney U test, which showed no statistically significant difference at any of the three times of sampling. CONCLUSION The data indicates that microchimerism can be detected efficiently by the indel method. This makes it possible to detect both female and male cells without the need of HLA-genotyping. Furthermore, the indel method has potential to be implemented as a routine analysis. This will remove the sex bias in future explorations of the role microchimerism plays in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie D H Olsen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Astrid M Kolte
- The Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Unit, The Capital Region, Copenhagen University Hospitals, Hvidovre Hospital, DK-2650, Hvidovre & Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nina Bang
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Maria Christine Krog
- The Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Unit, The Capital Region, Copenhagen University Hospitals, Hvidovre Hospital, DK-2650, Hvidovre & Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rudi Steffensen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Henriette S Nielsen
- The Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Unit, The Capital Region, Copenhagen University Hospitals, Hvidovre Hospital, DK-2650, Hvidovre & Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Marianne A Jakobsen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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Cómitre-Mariano B, Martínez-García M, García-Gálvez B, Paternina-Die M, Desco M, Carmona S, Gómez-Gaviro MV. Feto-maternal microchimerism: Memories from pregnancy. iScience 2022; 25:103664. [PMID: 35072002 PMCID: PMC8762399 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a bidirectional transplacental cell trafficking between mother and fetus during pregnancy in placental mammals. The presence and persistence of fetal cells in maternal tissues are known as fetal microchimerism (FMc). FMc has high multilineage potential with a great ability to differentiate and functionally integrate into maternal tissue. FMc has been found in various maternal tissues in animal models and humans. Its permanence in the maternal body up to decades after delivery suggests it might play an essential role in maternal pathophysiology. Studying the presence, localization, and characteristics of FMc in maternal tissues is key to understanding its impact on the woman's body. Here we comprehensively review the existence of FMc in different species and organs and tissues, aiming to better characterize their possible role in human health and disease. We also highlight several methodological considerations that would optimize the detection, quantification, and functional determination of FMc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Cómitre-Mariano
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. (IiSGM), C/Doctor Esquerdo 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain
| | - Magdalena Martínez-García
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. (IiSGM), C/Doctor Esquerdo 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), C/ Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Pabellón 11, planta baja, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Bárbara García-Gálvez
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. (IiSGM), C/Doctor Esquerdo 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Paternina-Die
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. (IiSGM), C/Doctor Esquerdo 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), C/ Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Pabellón 11, planta baja, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Desco
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. (IiSGM), C/Doctor Esquerdo 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), C/ Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Pabellón 11, planta baja, 28029 Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Bioingeniería e Ingeniería Aeroespacial, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avenida de la Universidad, 30, 28911 Leganés, Spain.,Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III, CNIC, C/ Melchor Fernandez Almagro 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Susanna Carmona
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. (IiSGM), C/Doctor Esquerdo 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), C/ Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Pabellón 11, planta baja, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Victoria Gómez-Gaviro
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. (IiSGM), C/Doctor Esquerdo 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), C/ Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Pabellón 11, planta baja, 28029 Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Bioingeniería e Ingeniería Aeroespacial, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avenida de la Universidad, 30, 28911 Leganés, Spain
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Abstract
BACKGROUND During pregnancy a feto-maternal exchange of cells through the placenta conducts to maternal microchimerism (Mc) in the child and fetal Mc in the mother. Because of this bidirectional traffic of cells, pregnant women have also acquired maternal cells in utero from their mother and could transfer grandmaternal (GdM) cells to their child through the maternal bloodstream during pregnancy. Thus, cord blood (CB) samples could theoretically carry GdMMc. Nevertheless this has never been demonstrated. METHODS Using Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-specific quantitative PCR assays on three-generation families, we were able to test 28 CB samples from healthy primigravid women for GdMMc in whole blood (WB) and isolated cells (PBMC, T, B, granulocytes, stem cells). FINDINGS Five CB samples (18%) had GdMMc which could not be confounded with maternal source, with quantities 100 fold lower than maternal Mc in WB and PBMC. Risk of aneuploidies and/or related invasive prenatal procedures significantly correlated with the presence of GdMMc in CB (p=0.024). Significantly decreased HLA compatibility was observed in three-generation families from CB samples carrying GdMMc (p=0.019). INTERPRETATION Transgenerational transfer of cells could have implications in immunology and evolution. Further analyses will be necessary to evaluate whether GdMMc in CB is a passive or immunologically active transfer and whether invasive prenatal procedures could trigger GdMMc. FUNDING Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur APEX grant # 2012_06549E, 2012_11786F and 2014_03978) and the Foundation for Medical Research (FRM Grant #ING20140129045).
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Johnson BN, Peters HE, Lambalk CB, Dolan CV, Willemsen G, Ligthart L, Mijatovic V, Hottenga JJ, Ehli EA, Boomsma DI. Male microchimerism in females: a quantitative study of twin pedigrees to investigate mechanisms. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2529-2537. [PMID: 34293108 PMCID: PMC8373473 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab170] [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: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does having a male co-twin, older brothers, or sons lead to an increased probability of persistent male microchimerism in female members of twin pedigrees? SUMMARY ANSWER The presence of a male co-twin did not increase risk of male microchimerism and the prevalence of male microchimerism was not explained by having male offspring or by having an older brother. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Microchimerism describes the presence of cells within an organism that originate from another zygote and is commonly described as resulting from pregnancy in placental mammals. It is associated with diseases with a female predilection including autoimmune diseases and pregnancy-related complications. However, microchimerism also occurs in nulliparous women; signifying gaps in the understanding of risk factors contributing to persistent microchimerism and the origin of the minor cell population. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This cross-sectional study composed of 446 adult female participants of the Netherlands Twin Register (NTR). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants included in the study were female monozygotic (MZ) twins, female dizygotic same-sex twins and females of dizygotic opposite-sex twin pairs, along with the mothers and sisters of these twins. Peripheral blood samples collected from adult female participants underwent DNA extraction and were biobanked prior to the study. To detect the presence of male-origin microchimerism, DNA samples were tested for the relative quantity of male specific Y chromosome gene DYS14 compared to a common β-globin gene using a highly sensitive quantitative PCR assay. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We observed a large number of women (26.9%) having detectable male microchimerism in their peripheral blood samples. The presence of a male co-twin did not increase risk of male microchimerism (odds ratio (OR) = 1.23: SE 0.40, P = 0.61) and the prevalence of male microchimerism was not explained by having male offspring (OR 0.90: SE 0.19, P = 0.63) or by having an older brother (OR = 1.46: SE 0.32, P = 0.09). The resemblance (correlation) for the presence of microchimerism was similar (P = 0.66) in MZ pairs (0.27; SE 0.37) and in first-degree relatives (0.091; SE 0.092). However, age had a positive relationship with the presence of male microchimerism (P = 0.02). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION After stratifying for variables of interest, some participant groups resulted in a low numbers of subjects. We investigated microchimerism in peripheral blood due to the proposed mechanism of cell acquisition via transplacental blood exchange; however, this does not represent global chimerism in the individual and microchimerism may localize to numerous other tissues. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Immune regulation during pregnancy is known to mitigate allosensitization and support tolerance to non-inherited antigens found on donor cells. While unable to identify a specific source that promotes microchimerism prevalence within pedigrees, this study points to the underlying complexities of natural microchimerism in the general population. These findings support previous studies which have identified the presence of male microchimerism among women with no history of pregnancy, suggesting alternative sources of microchimerism. The association of detectable male microchimerism with age is suggestive of additional factors including time, molecular characteristics and environment playing a critical role in the prevalence of persistent microchimerism. The present study necessitates investigation into the molecular underpinnings of natural chimerism to provide insight into women’s health, transplant medicine and immunology. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work is funded by Royal Netherlands Academy of Science Professor Award (PAH/6635 to D.I.B.); The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development (ZonMw)—Genotype/phenotype database for behavior genetic and genetic epidemiological studies (ZonMw 911-09-032); Biobanking and Biomolecular Research Infrastructure (BBMRI–NL, 184.021.007; 184.033.111); The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO)—Netherlands Twin Registry Repository (NWO-Groot 480-15-001/674); the National Institutes of Health—The Rutgers University Cell and DNA Repository cooperative agreement (NIMH U24 MH068457-06), Grand Opportunity grants Integration of genomics and transcriptomics in normal twins and major depression (NIMH 1RC2 MH089951-01), and Developmental trajectories of psychopathology (NIMH 1RC2 MH089995); and European Research Council—Genetics of Mental Illness (ERC 230374). C.B.L. declares a competing interest as editor-in-chief of Human Reproduction and his department receives unrestricted research grants from Ferring, Merck and Guerbet. All remaining authors have no conflict-of-interest to declare in regards to this work. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- B N Johnson
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.,Netherlands Twin Register, Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H E Peters
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Reproduction and Development (AR&D) Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C B Lambalk
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Reproduction and Development (AR&D) Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C V Dolan
- Netherlands Twin Register, Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Willemsen
- Netherlands Twin Register, Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - L Ligthart
- Netherlands Twin Register, Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - V Mijatovic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J J Hottenga
- Netherlands Twin Register, Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E A Ehli
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - D I Boomsma
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development (AR&D) Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Twin Register, Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Hallum S, Jakobsen MA, Gerds TA, Pinborg A, Tjønneland A, Kamper-Jørgensen M. Male origin microchimerism and ovarian cancer. Int J Epidemiol 2021; 50:87-94. [PMID: 32065627 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduced risk of ovarian cancer is commonly ascribed to reduced exposure to endogenous hormones during pregnancy, using oral contraceptives or not using hormone replacement therapy. However, exposure to hormones alone account for less than half of all cases. Many women carry small amounts of male cells-known as male origin microchimerism-in their circulation and remarkable impacts of these cells on women's health are being published. Here, we pursue the possibility that male origin microchimerism has a role in reducing ovarian cancer risk. METHODS We conducted a prospective case-cohort study using blood samples and questionnaire data from 700 women participating in the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health cohort. Blood samples were analysed for Y chromosome presence as a marker of male microchimerism. We evaluated the association between male microchimerism and ovarian cancer, using weighted Cox regression models reporting hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Male microchimerism was detected in 46% of cases and 65.9% of controls. Women testing positive for male microchimerism had a reduced hazard rate of ovarian cancer compared with women testing negative (HR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.29-0.68). We found no evidence of interaction with measures of hormonal exposures (P = 0.50). CONCLUSIONS For the first time we report that women who test positive for male microchimerism in their circulation have reduced rates of ovarian cancer compared with women who test negative. Although the underlying mechanisms are presently unknown, we believe male microchimerism is potent in preventing ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Hallum
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas Alexander Gerds
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anja Pinborg
- Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Tjønneland
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Institute of Cancer Epidemiology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Kamper-Jørgensen
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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10
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Hallum S, Gerds TA, Sehested TSG, Jakobsen MA, Tjønneland A, Kamper-Jørgensen M. Impact of Male-Origin Microchimerism on Cardiovascular Disease in Women: A Prospective Cohort Study. Am J Epidemiol 2021; 190:853-863. [PMID: 33184639 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwaa250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing parity is associated with an increased risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke in women. This is probably attributable to biological responses of pregnancy. Male cells of presumed fetal origin are commonly present in women years after pregnancy-a phenomenon termed male-origin microchimerism (MOM). In this study, we investigated whether MOM was associated with risk of IHD and ischemic stroke in women. We evaluated the association between MOM and ischemic events in a cohort of 766 Danish women enrolled in the Diet, Cancer and Health cohort during 1993-1997 when aged 50-64 years. Of these women, 545 (71.2%) tested positive for MOM through targeting of the Y chromosome (DYS14 DNA sequence) in their blood. Multiple Cox regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals. We found that MOM was associated with a significantly reduced rate of IHD (hazard ratio = 0.44, 95% confidence interval: 0.23, 0.83) but not ischemic stroke (hazard ratio = 0.80, 95% confidence interval: 0.46, 1.41). Our findings show that microchimerism positivity is associated with a lower rate of later IHD development in women. Although the underlying mechanisms are presently unknown, MOM may be relevant in women's cardiovascular health. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Lee AW. Commentary: Could microchimerism play a role in ovarian carcinogenesis? Int J Epidemiol 2021; 50:95-96. [PMID: 32879955 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyaa153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alice W Lee
- Department of Public Health, California State University, Fullerton, Fullerton, CA, USA
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12
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Peters HE, Johnson BN, Ehli EA, Micha D, Verhoeven MO, Davies GE, Dekker JJML, Overbeek A, Berg MHVD, Dulmen-den Broeder EV, Leeuwen FEV, Mijatovic V, Boomsma DI, Lambalk CB. Low prevalence of male microchimerism in women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1117-1125. [PMID: 31111890 PMCID: PMC6554047 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is there an increased prevalence of male microchimerism in women with Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, as evidence of fetal exposure to blood and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) from a (vanished) male co-twin resulting in regression of the Müllerian duct derivatives? SUMMARY ANSWER Predominant absence of male microchimerism in adult women with MRKH syndrome does not support our hypothesis that intrauterine blood exchange with a (vanished) male co-twin is the pathophysiological mechanism. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The etiology of MRKH is unclear. Research on the phenotype analogous condition in cattle (freemartinism) has yielded the hypothesis that Müllerian duct development is inhibited by exposure to AMH in utero. In cattle, the male co-twin has been identified as the source for AMH, which is transferred via placental blood exchange. In human twins, a similar exchange of cellular material has been documented by detection of chimerism, but it is unknown whether this has clinical consequences. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION An observational case–control study was performed to compare the presence of male microchimerism in women with MRKH syndrome and control women. Through recruitment via the Dutch patients’ association of women with MRKH (comprising 300 members who were informed by email or regular mail), we enrolled 96 patients between January 2017 and July 2017. The control group consisted of 100 women who reported never having been pregnant. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS After written informed consent, peripheral blood samples were obtained by venipuncture, and genomic DNA was extracted. Male microchimerism was detected by Y-chromosome–specific real-time quantitative PCR, with use of DYS14 marker. Possible other sources for microchimerism, for example older brothers, were evaluated using questionnaire data. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The final analysis included 194 women: 95 women with MRKH syndrome with a mean age of 40.9 years and 99 control women with a mean age of 30.2 years. In total, 54 women (56.8%) were identified as having typical MRKH syndrome, and 41 women (43.2%) were identified as having atypical MRKH syndrome (when extra-genital malformations were present). The prevalence of male microchimerism was significantly higher in the control group than in the MRKH group (17.2% versus 5.3%, P = 0.009). After correcting for age, women in the control group were 5.8 times more likely to have male microchimerism (odds ratio 5.84 (CI 1.59–21.47), P = 0.008). The mean concentration of male microchimerism in the positive samples was 56.0 male genome equivalent per 1 000 000 cells. The prevalence of male microchimerism was similar in women with typical MRKH syndrome and atypical MRKH syndrome (5.6% versus 4.9%, P = 0.884). There were no differences between women with or without microchimerism in occurrence of alternative sources of XY cells, such as older brothers, previous blood transfusion, or history of sexual intercourse. LIMITATIONS, REASON FOR CAUTION We are not able to draw definitive conclusions regarding the occurrence of AMH exchange during embryologic development in women with MRKH syndrome. Our subject population includes all adult women and therefore is reliant on long-term prevalence of microchimerism. Moreover, we have only tested blood, and, theoretically, the cells may have grafted anywhere in the body during development. It must also be considered that the exchange of AMH may occur without the transfusion of XY cells and therefore cannot be discovered by chimerism detection. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first study to test the theory that freemartinism causes the MRKH syndrome in humans. The study aimed to test the presence of male microchimerism in women with MRKH syndrome as a reflection of early fetal exposure to blood and AMH from a male (vanished) co-twin. We found that male microchimerism was only present in 5.3% of the women with MRKH syndrome, a significantly lower percentage than in the control group (17.2%). Our results do not provide evidence for an increased male microchimerism in adult women with MRKH as a product of intrauterine blood exchange. However, the significant difference in favor of the control group is of interest to the ongoing discussion on microchimeric cell transfer and the possible sources of XY cells. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Dutch trial register, NTR5961.
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Affiliation(s)
- H E Peters
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - B N Johnson
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - E A Ehli
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - D Micha
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M O Verhoeven
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - G E Davies
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - J J M L Dekker
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A Overbeek
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M H van den Berg
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology/Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - E van Dulmen-den Broeder
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology/Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - F E van Leeuwen
- Department of Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - V Mijatovic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - D I Boomsma
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - C B Lambalk
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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13
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Johnson BN, Ehli EA, Davies GE, Boomsma DI. Chimerism in health and potential implications on behavior: A systematic review. Am J Med Genet A 2020; 182:1513-1529. [PMID: 32212323 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61565] [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: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we focus on the phenomenon of chimerism and especially microchimerism as one of the currently underexplored explanations for differences in health and behavior. Chimerism is an amalgamation of cells from two or more unique zygotes within a single organism, with microchimerism defined by a minor cell population of <1%. This article first presents an overview of the primary techniques employed to detect and quantify the presence of microchimerism and then reviews empirical studies of chimerism in mammals including primates and humans. In women, male microchimerism, a condition suggested to be the result of fetomaternal exchange in utero, is relatively easily detected by polymerase chain reaction molecular techniques targeting Y-chromosomal markers. Consequently, studies of chimerism in human diseases have largely focused on diseases with a predilection for females including autoimmune diseases, and female cancers. We detail studies of chimerism in human diseases and also discuss some potential implications in behavior. Understanding the prevalence of chimerism and the associated health outcomes will provide invaluable knowledge of human biology and guide novel approaches for treating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon N Johnson
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
| | - Erik A Ehli
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
| | - Gareth E Davies
- Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
| | - Dorret I Boomsma
- Netherlands Twin Register, Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Fjeldstad HE, Johnsen GM, Staff AC. Fetal microchimerism and implications for maternal health. Obstet Med 2019; 13:112-119. [PMID: 33093862 DOI: 10.1177/1753495x19884484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This review paper outlines the definition, pathophysiology, and potential maternal health consequences of cellular fetal microchimerism, the maternal acquisition of intact cells of fetal origin during pregnancy. Increased rates and amounts of cellular fetal microchimerism are associated with several placental syndromes, including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. The discovery of cellular fetal microchimerism and methods of detection are briefly outlined, and we present the mechanisms hypothesized to govern pregnancy-related and long-term maternal health effects of cellular fetal microchimerism. Specifically, we discuss the potential implications of cellular fetal microchimerism in wound healing, autoimmunity, cancer, and possibly cardiovascular disease. Cellular fetal microchimerism represents a novel area of research on maternal and transgenerational health and disease, providing exciting opportunities for developing new disease biomarkers and precision medicine with targeted prophylaxis against long-term maternal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Es Fjeldstad
- Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Guro M Johnsen
- Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Cathrine Staff
- Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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15
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Assennato SM, Owusu-Ofori S, Osei-Akoto A, Lambert NC, Allain JP. Microchimerism in Ghanaian children recipients of whole blood transfusion for severe anaemia. Vox Sang 2018; 114:162-170. [PMID: 30523635 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Transfusion-acquired microchimerism (TA-Mc) has been reported in major trauma but not in young children despite relative immunodeficiency who, in sub-Saharan Africa, often suffer severe anaemia related to haemoglobinopathies or primary malaria infections. We examined the hypothesis that such massive red cell destructions might provide conditions favourable to TA-Mc, particularly when exposed to massive amounts of parasite antigens. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-seven female children <5 years transfused with male whole blood for severe anaemia (13 with acute malaria and 14 with other causes) were retrospectively identified, and a blood sample was collected >6 months post-transfusion. Four whole blood samples from paediatric females transfused with blood from female donors and five secondary school female students never pregnant, never transfused were used as negative controls. RESULTS Nineteen patients (70%) carried male Mc with four (15%) having high levels of Mc (>100 genome equivalent of male cells/million of host cells) compared to three controls (37·5%). There was no difference in frequency or quantity of male Mc between paediatric patients with severe malaria and paediatric patients with other causes of severe anaemia. TA-Mc was not correlated with patient age, duration of whole blood storage or lymphocyte load transfused. After a median of 7 months post-transfusion, acute malaria did not increase the frequency of TA-Mc. One negative control appeared to carry low-level male cells. CONCLUSION Transfusion-acquired microchimerism appears frequent in young children transfused with whole blood for severe anaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alex Osei-Akoto
- Department of Paediatrics, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.,Department of Child Health, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Nathalie C Lambert
- INSERM UMRs1097, Autoimmune Arthritis (AA), Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
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16
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Broestl L, Rubin JB, Dahiya S. Fetal microchimerism in human brain tumors. Brain Pathol 2018; 28:484-494. [PMID: 28921714 PMCID: PMC5884742 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in cancer incidence and survival, including central nervous system tumors, are well documented. Multiple mechanisms contribute to sex differences in health and disease. Recently, the presence of fetal-in-maternal microchimeric cells has been shown to have prognostic significance in breast and colorectal cancers. The frequency and potential role of these cells has not been investigated in brain tumors. We therefore selected two common primary adult brain tumors for this purpose: meningioma, which is sex hormone responsive and has a higher incidence in women, and glioblastoma, which is sex hormone independent and occurs more commonly in men. Quantitative PCR was used to detect the presence of male DNA in tumor samples from women with a positive history of male pregnancy and a diagnosis of either glioblastoma or meningioma. Fluorescence in situ hybridization for the X and Y chromosomes was used to verify the existence of intact male cells within tumor tissue. Fetal microchimerism was found in approximately 80% of glioblastoma cases and 50% of meningioma cases. No correlations were identified between the presence of microchimerism and commonly used clinical or molecular diagnostic features of disease. The impact of fetal microchimeric cells should be evaluated prospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Broestl
- Department of PediatricsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMO
| | - Joshua B. Rubin
- Department of PediatricsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMO
- Department of NeuroscienceWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMO
| | - Sonika Dahiya
- Department of Pathology and ImmunologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMO
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17
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Kinder JM, Stelzer IA, Arck PC, Way SS. Immunological implications of pregnancy-induced microchimerism. Nat Rev Immunol 2017; 17:483-494. [PMID: 28480895 PMCID: PMC5532073 DOI: 10.1038/nri.2017.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Immunological identity is traditionally defined by genetically encoded antigens, with equal maternal and paternal contributions as a result of Mendelian inheritance. However, vertically transferred maternal cells also persist in individuals at very low levels throughout postnatal development. Reciprocally, mothers are seeded during pregnancy with genetically foreign fetal cells that persist long after parturition. Recent findings suggest that these microchimeric cells expressing non-inherited, familially relevant antigenic traits are not accidental 'souvenirs' of pregnancy, but are purposefully retained within mothers and their offspring to promote genetic fitness by improving the outcome of future pregnancies. In this Review, we discuss the immunological implications, benefits and potential consequences of individuals being constitutively chimeric with a biologically active 'microchiome' of genetically foreign cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M. Kinder
- Division of Infectious Disease and Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Cincinnati, Ohio 45229 USA
| | - Ina A. Stelzer
- Laboratory for Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Petra C. Arck
- Laboratory for Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sing Sing Way
- Division of Infectious Disease and Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Cincinnati, Ohio 45229 USA
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Abstract
Post-zygotic variation refers to genetic changes that arise in the soma of an individual and that are not usually inherited by the next generation. Although there is a paucity of research on such variation, emerging studies show that it is common: individuals are complex mosaics of genetically distinct cells, to such an extent that no two somatic cells are likely to have the exact same genome. Although most types of mutation can be involved in post-zygotic variation, structural genetic variants are likely to leave the largest genomic footprint. Somatic variation has diverse physiological roles and pathological consequences, particularly when acquired variants influence the clonal trajectories of the affected cells. Post-zygotic variation is an important confounder in medical genetic testing and a promising avenue for research: future studies could involve analyses of sorted and single cells from multiple tissue types to fully explore its potential.
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