1
|
Zhao Y, Wang Y, Gu P, Tuo L, Wang L, Jiang SW. Transgenic mice applications in the study of endometriosis pathogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1376414. [PMID: 38933332 PMCID: PMC11199864 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1376414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM), characterized by ectopic growth of endometrial tissues and recurrent pelvic pain, is a common disease with severe negative impacts on the life quality of patients. Conventional uterine tissue transplantation-based models have been broadly used to investigate the pathogenic mechanism(s) of EM. Transgenic mice with whole body or uterine/pelvic tissue-specific labelling by the expression of GFP, β-gal or other light-emitting or chromogenic markers enable investigators to analyze the contribution to endometriotic lesions by the donor or recipient side after uterine tissue transplantation. Moreover, when coupled to uterine tissue transplantation, transgenic mice with a specific EM-related gene knocked out or overexpressed make it possible to determine the gene's in vivo role(s) for EM pathogenesis. Furthermore, observations on the rise of de novo endometriotic lesions as well as structural/functional changes in the eutopic endometrium or pelvic tissues after gene manipulation will directly relate the cognate gene to the onset of EM. A major advantage of transgenic EM models is their efficiency for analyzing gene interactions with hormonal, dietetic and/or environmental factors. This review summarizes the features/sources/backgrounds of transgenic mice and their applications to EM studies concerning hormonal regulation, angiogenesis and inflammation. Findings from these studies, the advantages/disadvantages of transgenic EM models, and future expectations are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yali Zhao
- Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pinlang Gu
- Department of Gynecology, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingjin Tuo
- Lianyungang Research Institute for Women’s and Children’s Health, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Leilei Wang
- Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shi-Wen Jiang
- Lianyungang Research Institute for Women’s and Children’s Health, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li H, Dong J, Wang Z, Cui L, Liu K, Guo L, Li J, Wang H. Development potential of selenium in the prevention and treatment of bovine endometritis. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14647. [PMID: 38924282 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Endometritis is a common postpartum disease in cows. It delays uterine involution and impairs normal physiological function. This can result in long-term or even lifelong infertility and cause significant losses to the dairy farming industry. Traditional treatments like antibiotics possess certain shortcomings, such as antibiotic residues, the abuse of antibiotics, and increased antimicrobial resistance of pathogens. Alternative treatment strategies are needed to minimize the utilization of antibiotics in dairy production. As an essential trace element in animals, selenium (Se) plays a vital role in regulating immune function, the inflammatory response, and oxidative stress, affecting the speed and completeness of tissue repair. This paper reviewed previous studies to analyse the potential of Se in the prevention and treatment of bovine endometritis, aiming to provide a new direction to increase production capacity in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanqing Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Junsheng Dong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Luying Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kangjun Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Long Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jianji Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Heng Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, China
- International Research Laboratory of Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonotic Diseases of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liang Y, Shuai Q, Zhang X, Jin S, Guo Y, Yu Z, Xu X, Ao R, Peng Z, Lv H, He S, Wang C, Song G, Liu Z, Zhao H, Feng Q, Du R, Zheng B, Chen Z, Xie J. Incorporation of Decidual Stromal Cells Derived Exosomes in Sodium Alginate Hydrogel as an Innovative Therapeutic Strategy for Advancing Endometrial Regeneration and Reinstating Fertility. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303674. [PMID: 38315148 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) stands as a prevalent medical condition characterized by endometrial fibrosis and scar tissue formation within the uterine cavity, resulting in infertility and, in severe cases, recurrent miscarriages. Cell therapy, especially with stem cells, offers an alternative to surgery, but concerns about uncontrolled differentiation and tumorigenicity limit its use. Exosomes, more stable and immunogenicity-reduced than parent cells, have emerged as a promising avenue for IUA treatment. In this study, a novel approach has been proposed wherein exosomes originating from decidual stromal cells (DSCs) are encapsulated within sodium alginate hydrogel (SAH) scaffolds to repair endometrial damage and restore fertility in a mouse IUA model. Current results demonstrate that in situ injection of DSC-derived exosomes (DSC-exos)/SAH into the uterine cavity has the capability to induce uterine angiogenesis, initiate mesenchymal-to-epithelial transformation (MET), facilitate collagen fiber remodeling and dissolution, promote endometrial regeneration, enhance endometrial receptivity, and contribute to the recovery of fertility. RNA sequencing and advanced bioinformatics analysis reveal miRNA enrichment in exosomes, potentially supporting endometrial repair. This finding elucidates how DSC-exos/SAH mechanistically fosters collagen ablation, endometrium regeneration, and fertility recovery, holding the potential to introduce a novel IUA treatment and offering invaluable insights into the realm of regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Liang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Qizhi Shuai
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Shanshan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Yuqian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Zhaowei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Xinrui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Ruifang Ao
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Zhiwei Peng
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Huimin Lv
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University (Shanxi Bethune Hospital), Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Taiyuan, 030032, China
| | - Sheng He
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Chunfang Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Guohua Song
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Zhizhen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Qilong Feng
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Ruochen Du
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Bin Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Zhaoyang Chen
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Human Disease and Animal Models, Experimental Animal Center of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect and Cell Regeneration, Taiyuan, Shanxi, 030001, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang X, Li J, Lu W, Gao F, Zhang S, Li J. Therapeutic roles of platelet-rich plasma to restore female reproductive and endocrine dysfunction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1374382. [PMID: 38654928 PMCID: PMC11035829 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1374382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Millions of women worldwide are infertile due to gynecological disorders, including premature ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome, Asherman syndrome, endometrial atrophy, and fallopian tube obstruction. These conditions frequently lead to infertility and have a substantial impact on the quality of life of the affected couples, primarily because of their psychological implications and high financial costs. Recently, using platelets to stimulate cell proliferation and tissue differentiation has emerged as a promising approach in regenerative medicine. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) shows considerable potential for promoting endometrial hypertrophy and follicle development, making it a promising therapeutic option for tissue repair or replacement. This review provides an overview of the recent advancements and underlying mechanisms of PRP therapy for various female reproductive diseases and presents new therapeutic options for addressing female infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoning Wang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Weiwei Lu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Fangbo Gao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Songling Zhang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Obstetrics Centre, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jiajia Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Gynecology and Obstetrics Centre, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- The Laboratory of Cancer Precision Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ulrich ND, Vargo A, Ma Q, Shen YC, Hannum DF, Gurczynski SJ, Moore BB, Schon S, Lieberman R, Shikanov A, Marsh EE, Fazleabas A, Li JZ, Hammoud SS. Cellular heterogeneity and dynamics of the human uterus in healthy premenopausal women. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.07.583985. [PMID: 38559249 PMCID: PMC10979868 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.07.583985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The human uterus is a complex and dynamic organ whose lining grows, remodels, and regenerates in every menstrual cycle or upon tissue damage. Here we applied single-cell RNA sequencing to profile more the 50,000 uterine cells from both the endometrium and myometrium of 5 healthy premenopausal individuals, and jointly analyzed the data with a previously published dataset from 15 subjects. The resulting normal uterus cell atlas contains more than 167K cells representing the lymphatic endothelium, blood endothelium, stromal, ciliated epithelium, unciliated epithelium, and immune cell populations. Focused analyses within each major cell type and comparisons with subtype labels from prior studies allowed us to document supporting evidence, resolve naming conflicts, and to propose a consensus annotation system of 39 subtypes. We release their gene expression centroids, differentially expressed genes, and mRNA patterns of literature-based markers as a shared community resource. We find many subtypes show dynamic changes over different phases of the cycle and identify multiple potential progenitor cells: compartment-wide progenitors for each major cell type, transitional cells that are upstream of other subtypes, and potential cross-lineage multipotent stromal progenitors that may be capable of replenishing the epithelial, stromal, and endothelial compartments. When compared to the healthy premenopausal samples, a postpartum and a postmenopausal uterus sample revealed substantially altered tissue composition, involving the rise or fall of stromal, endothelial, and immune cells. The cell taxonomy and molecular markers we report here are expected to inform studies of both basic biology of uterine function and its disorders. SIGNIFICANCE We present single-cell RNA sequencing data from seven individuals (five healthy pre-menopausal women, one post-menopausal woman, and one postpartum) and perform an integrated analysis of this data alongside 15 previously published scRNA-seq datasets. We identified 39 distinct cell subtypes across four major cell types in the uterus. By using RNA velocity analysis and centroid-centroid comparisons we identify multiple computationally predicted progenitor populations for each of the major cell compartments, as well as potential cross-compartment, multi-potent progenitors. While the function and interactions of these cell populations remain to be validated through future experiments, the markers and their "dual characteristics" that we describe will serve as a rich resource to the scientific community. Importantly, we address a significant challenge in the field: reconciling multiple uterine cell taxonomies being proposed. To achieve this, we focused on integrating historical and contemporary knowledge across multiple studies. By providing detailed evidence used for cell classification we lay the groundwork for establishing a stable, consensus cell atlas of the human uterus.
Collapse
|
6
|
Di X, Duan Z, Ma Y, Song X, Hao Y, Li G, Tan Z, Lou Y, Lin X. Jiawei Shoutai Pill promotes decidualization by regulating the SGK1/ENaC pathway in recurrent spontaneous abortion. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116939. [PMID: 37479068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Jiawei Shoutai Pill (JWSTW) is a traditional herbal formula for recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). Although JWSTW significantly improves the clinical symptoms of RSA patients, its molecular mechanism remains unclear. AIM OF STUDY This study evaluated the expression and function of the serum/glucocorticoid regulated kinase 1/epithelial sodium channel (SGK1/ENaC) pathway and decidualization level in RSA patients and mice. It also investigated the therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms of JWSTW. MATERIALS AND METHODS 30 early RSA patients and 30 normal pregnant women undergoing induced abortion during the same period were included in the study. Decidual tissues were collected, and HE staining, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and RT-PCR were used to detect protein and mRNA expression levels of SGK1, ENaC-a, estrogen Rreceptor β (ERβ), and progesterone receptor (PR) in patients' decidual tissues. Protein expression levels of prolactin receptor (PRLR) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1) were also detected. A classical RSA mouse model was constructed, and the mice were randomly divided into four groups: normal, model, dydrogesterone (DQYT) (0.33 g/kg/d), and JWSTW (1.66 g/kg/d). The normal and model groups received the same volume of distilled water by gavage for 8 and 14 days after pregnancy. On the 14th day of pregnancy, the embryonic loss rate of each group, the number of offspring born to naturally delivered mice, and the protein or mRNA expression levels of key factors of the SGK1/ENaC pathway (SGK1, ENaC-a, ERβ, and PR), decidual proliferation marker (Ki67), mesenchymal-epithelial transition (E-cadherin and Vimentin), and decidualization markers (PRLR and IGFBP-1) in mouse decidual tissue on the eighth day of pregnancy were observed. RESULTS The decidual tissue structure of RSA patients was abnormal. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significantly reduced positive expression of SGK1, ENaC-a, ERβ, and PR proteins in the decidual tissue of RSA patients (P < 0.001). Western blot and RT-PCR analyses demonstrated significantly decreased protein and mRNA expression of SGK1, ENaC-a, ERβ, and PR in the decidual tissue of RSA patients (all P < 0.05). Additionally, protein expression of PRLR and IGFBP-1 was significantly reduced (both P < 0.001). The RSA mouse model exhibited a significant increase in embryo loss rate and decreased litter size (both P < 0.001). Treatment with DQYT and JWSTW rescued the embryo loss rate and litter size to varying extents (all P < 0.05). The protein or mRNA expression levels of SGK1, ENaC-a, ERβ, PR, Ki67, E-cadherin, vimentin, PRLR, and IGFBP-1 in RSA mice were improved to different degrees after treatment with DQYT and JWSTW (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Abnormal SGK1/ENaC signaling pathway regulation is closely associated with early endometrial damage in RSA patients. JWSTW promotes endometrial proliferation and mesenchymal-epithelial transition through the SGK1/ENaC signaling pathway, improving endometrial shedding. Consequently, JWSTW is a potential treatment for RSA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Di
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050091, China.
| | - Zibo Duan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050091, China.
| | - Yucong Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050091, China.
| | - Xiaodan Song
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050091, China.
| | - Yanzhi Hao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Liver-Kidney Patterns, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050091, China.
| | - Guolei Li
- Hebei Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China.
| | - Zhanwang Tan
- Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China.
| | - Yingying Lou
- Hebei Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China.
| | - Xiaohua Lin
- Hebei Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050011, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
The uterine lining (endometrium) regenerates repeatedly over the life span as part of its normal physiology. Substantial portions of the endometrium are shed during childbirth (parturition) and, in some species, menstruation, but the tissue is rapidly rebuilt without scarring, rendering it a powerful model of regeneration in mammals. Nonetheless, following some assaults, including medical procedures and infections, the endometrium fails to regenerate and instead forms scars that may interfere with normal endometrial function and contribute to infertility. Thus, the endometrium provides an exceptional platform to answer a central question of regenerative medicine: Why do some systems regenerate while others scar? Here, we review our current understanding of diverse endometrial disruption events in humans, nonhuman primates, and rodents, and the associated mechanisms of regenerative success and failure. Elucidating the determinants of these disparate repair processes promises insights into fundamental mechanisms of mammalian regeneration with substantial implications for reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire J Ang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Taylor D Skokan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
| | - Kara L McKinley
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mohamadali M, Ghiaseddin A, Irani S, Amirkhani MA, Dahmardehei M. Design and evaluation of a skin-on-a-chip pumpless microfluidic device. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8861. [PMID: 37258538 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34796-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of microfluidic culture technology facilitates the progress of study of cell and tissue biology. This technology expands the understanding of pathological and physiological changes. A skin chip, as in vitro model, consisting of normal skin tissue with epidermis and dermis layer (full thickness) was developed. Polydimethylsiloxane microchannels with a fed-batched controlled perfusion feeding system were used to create a full-thick ex-vivo human skin on-chip model. The design of a novel skin-on-a-chip model was reported, in which the microchannel structures mimic the architecture of the realistic vascular network as nutrients transporter to the skin layers. Viabilities of full-thick skin samples cultured on the microbioreactor and traditional tissue culture plate revealed that a precise controlled condition provided by the microfluidic enhanced tissue viability at least for seven days. Several advantages in skin sample features under micro-scale-controlled conditions were found such as skin mechanical strength, water adsorption, skin morphology, gene expression, and biopsy longevity. This model can provide an in vitro environment for localizing drug delivery and transdermal drug diffusion studies. The skin on the chip can be a valuable in vitro model for representing the interaction between drugs and skin tissue and a realistic platform for evaluating skin reaction to pharmaceutical materials and cosmetic products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Mohamadali
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ghiaseddin
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
- Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Shiva Irani
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mostafa Dahmardehei
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dickson MJ, Gruzdev A, DeMayo FJ. iCre recombinase expressed in the anti-Müllerian hormone receptor 2 gene causes global genetic modification in the mouse†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:575-583. [PMID: 36721982 PMCID: PMC10106842 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetically engineered mice are widely used to study the impact of altered gene expression in vivo. Within the reproductive tract, the Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) mouse model is used to ablate genes in ovarian granulosa and uterine stromal cells. There are reports of Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) inducing recombination in non-target tissues. We hypothesized the inefficiency or off-target Cre action in Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) mice is due to lack of recombination in every cell that expresses Amhr2. To investigate, we created a new targeted knock-in mouse model, Amhr2-iCre(Fjd), by inserting a codon-optimized improved Cre (iCre) into exon 1 of the Amhr2 gene. Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)/+ males were mated with females that contain a lox-stop-lox cassette in the Sun1 gene so when DNA recombination occurs, SUN1-sfGFP fusion protein is expressed in a peri-nuclear pattern. In adult Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)/+ Sun1LsL/+ mice, Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)-mediated genetic recombination was apparent in uterine epithelial, stromal, and myometrial cells, while Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr)/+ Sun1LsL/+ females demonstrated inter-mouse variability of Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) activity in uterine cells. Fluorescence was observed in Amhr2-iCre(Fjd)-positive mice at post-natal Day 1, indicating global genetic recombination, while fluorescence of individual Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr)-positive pups varied. To determine the developmental stage that genetic recombination first occurs, Sun1LsL/LsL females were super-ovulated and mated with Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr)/+ or Amhr2(iCre/+)Fjd males, then putative zygotes were collected and cultured. In the four-cell embryo, Amhr2-iCre(Fjd) and Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) activities were apparent in 100% and 25-100% of cells, respectively. In conclusion, Amhr2-IRES-Cre(Bhr) or Amhr2-iCre(Fjd) driven by the Amhr2 promoter is active in the early embryo and can lead to global genetic modification, rendering this transgenic mouse model ineffective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie J Dickson
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Artiom Gruzdev
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kriseman ML, Tang S, Liao Z, Jiang P, Parks SE, Cope DI, Yuan F, Chen F, Masand RP, Castro PD, Ittmann MM, Creighton CJ, Tan Z, Monsivais D. SMAD2/3 signaling in the uterine epithelium controls endometrial cell homeostasis and regeneration. Commun Biol 2023; 6:261. [PMID: 36906706 PMCID: PMC10008566 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04619-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The regenerative potential of the endometrium is attributed to endometrial stem cells; however, the signaling pathways controlling its regenerative potential remain obscure. In this study, genetic mouse models and endometrial organoids are used to demonstrate that SMAD2/3 signaling controls endometrial regeneration and differentiation. Mice with conditional deletion of SMAD2/3 in the uterine epithelium using Lactoferrin-iCre develop endometrial hyperplasia at 12-weeks and metastatic uterine tumors by 9-months of age. Mechanistic studies in endometrial organoids determine that genetic or pharmacological inhibition of SMAD2/3 signaling disrupts organoid morphology, increases the glandular and secretory cell markers, FOXA2 and MUC1, and alters the genome-wide distribution of SMAD4. Transcriptomic profiling of the organoids reveals elevated pathways involved in stem cell regeneration and differentiation such as the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and retinoic acid signaling (RA) pathways. Therefore, TGFβ family signaling via SMAD2/3 controls signaling networks which are integral for endometrial cell regeneration and differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maya L Kriseman
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Peixin Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sydney E Parks
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dominique I Cope
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fengju Chen
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ramya P Masand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Patricia D Castro
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michael M Ittmann
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zhi Tan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li X, Duan H, Wang S, Lv CX. Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes reverse endometrial fibrosis by the miR-145-5p/ZEB2 axis in intrauterine adhesions. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:234-243. [PMID: 36567149 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the specific mechanism of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (UCMSC-exos) in regulating endometrial repair and regeneration? DESIGN In this study, UCMSC-exos were harvested by differential ultracentrifugation from umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell culture supernatant and identified with western blotting, transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) at different concentrations was used to construct the intrauterine adhesions cell model. The fibrotic markers were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The effects of miR-145-5p over-expression on endometrial fibrosis were assessed. Dual luciferase assay was performed to verify the relationship between miR-145-5p and zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2). RESULTS The isolated UCMSC-exos had a typical cup-shaped morphology, expressed the specific exosomal markers Alix, CD63 and TSG101, and were approximately 50-150 nm in diameter. TGFβ1 at 10 ng/ml significantly promoted endometrial fibrosis, which was reversed by 20 µg/ml UCMSC-exos. Exosomal miR-145-5p ameliorated TGFβ1-induced endometrial fibrosis. ZEB2 was inversely regulated by exosomal miR-145-5p as a direct target. CONCLUSIONS UCMSC-exos might reverse endometrial stromal cell fibrosis by regulating the miR-145-5p/ZEB2 axis, representing a potential novel strategy to promote endometrial repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Li
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China.
| | - Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Cheng-Xiao Lv
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing 100006, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen TQ, Wei XJ, Liu HY, Zhan SH, Yang XJ. Telocyte-Derived Exosomes Provide an Important Source of Wnts That Inhibits Fibrosis and Supports Regeneration and Repair of Endometrium. Cell Transplant 2023; 32:9636897231212746. [PMID: 38006220 PMCID: PMC10676634 DOI: 10.1177/09636897231212746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) often occurred after common obstetrical and gynecological procedures or infections in women of reproductive age. It was characterized by the formation of endometrial fibrosis and prevention of endometrial regeneration, usually with devastating fertility consequences and poor treatment outcomes so far. Telocytes (TCs), as a novel interstitial cell type, present in female uterus with in vitro therapeutic potential in decidualization-defective gynecologic diseases. This study aims to further investigate the role of TC-derived Wnt ligands carried by exosomes (Exo) in reversal of fibrosis and enhancement of regeneration repair in endometrium. IUA cellular and animal models were established from endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and mice, followed with treatment of TC-conditioned medium (TCM) or TC-derived Exo. In cellular model, fibrosis markers (collagen type 1 alpha 1 [COL1A1], fibronectin [FN], and α-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA]), angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]), and pathway protein (β-catenin) were determined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting (WB), and immunofluorescence. Results showed that, TCs (either TCM or TC-derived Exo) provide a source of Wnts that inhibit cellular fibrosis, as evidenced by significantly elevated VEGF and β-catenin with decreased fibrotic markers, whereas TCs lost salvage on fibrosis after being blocked with Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors (XAV939 or ETC-159). Further in mouse model, regeneration repair (endometrial thickness, number of glands, and fibrosis area ratio), fibrosis markers (fibronectin [FN]), mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) (E-cadherin, N-cadherin), and angiogenesis (VEGF, microvessel density [MVD]) were studied by hematoxylin-eosin (HE), Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry. Results demonstrated that TC-Exo treatment effectively promotes regeneration repair of endometrium by relieving fibrosis, enhancing MET, and angiogenesis. These results confirmed new evidence for therapeutic perspective of TC-derived Exo in IUAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Quan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Jiao Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hai-Yan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Sheng-Hua Zhan
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
A re-appraisal of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) in endometrial epithelial remodeling. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 391:393-408. [PMID: 36401092 PMCID: PMC9889438 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03711-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) is a mechanism of endometrial epithelial regeneration. It is also implicated in adenocarcinoma and endometriosis. Little is known about this process in normal uterine physiology. Previously, using pregnancy and menses-like mouse models, MET occurred only as an epithelial damage/repair mechanism. Here, we hypothesized that MET also occurs in other physiological endometrial remodeling events, outside of damage/repair, such as during the estrous cycle and adenogenesis (gland development). To investigate this, Amhr2-Cre-YFP/GFP mesenchyme-specific reporter mice were used to track the fate of mesenchymal-derived (MD) cells. Using EpCAM (epithelial marker), EpCAM+YFP+ MD-epithelial cells were identified in all stages of the estrous cycle except diestrus, in both postpartum and virgin mice. EpCAM+YFP+ MD-epithelial cells comprised up to 80% of the epithelia during estrogen-dominant proestrus and significantly declined to indistinguishable from control uteri in diestrus, suggesting MET is hormonally regulated. MD-epithelial cells were also identified during postnatal epithelial remodeling. MET occurred immediately after birth at postnatal day (P) 0.5 with EpCAM+GFP+ cells ranging from negligible (0.21%) to 82% of the epithelia. EpCAM+GFP+ MD-epithelial cells declined during initiation of adenogenesis (P8, avg. 1.75%) and then increased during gland morphogenesis (P14, avg. 10%). MD-epithelial cells expressed markers in common with non-MD-epithelial cells (e.g., EpCAM, FOXA2, ESR1, PGR). However, MD-epithelial cells were differentially regulated postnatally and in adults, suggesting a functional distinction in the two populations. We conclude that MET occurs not only as an epithelial damage/repair mechanism but also during other epithelial remodeling events, which to our knowledge has not been demonstrated in other tissues.
Collapse
|
14
|
Kirkwood PM, Gibson DA, Shaw I, Dobie R, Kelepouri O, Henderson NC, Saunders PTK. Single-cell RNA sequencing and lineage tracing confirm mesenchyme to epithelial transformation (MET) contributes to repair of the endometrium at menstruation. eLife 2022; 11:e77663. [PMID: 36524724 PMCID: PMC9873258 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium experiences repetitive cycles of tissue wounding characterised by piecemeal shedding of the surface epithelium and rapid restoration of tissue homeostasis. In this study, we used a mouse model of endometrial repair and three transgenic lines of mice to investigate whether epithelial cells that become incorporated into the newly formed luminal epithelium have their origins in one or more of the mesenchymal cell types present in the stromal compartment of the endometrium. Using scRNAseq, we identified a novel population of PDGFRb + mesenchymal stromal cells that developed a unique transcriptomic signature in response to endometrial breakdown/repair. These cells expressed genes usually considered specific to epithelial cells and in silico trajectory analysis suggested they were stromal fibroblasts in transition to becoming epithelial cells. To confirm our hypothesis we used a lineage tracing strategy to compare the fate of stromal fibroblasts (PDGFRa+) and stromal perivascular cells (NG2/CSPG4+). We demonstrated that stromal fibroblasts can undergo a mesenchyme to epithelial transformation and become incorporated into the re-epithelialised luminal surface of the repaired tissue. This study is the first to discover a novel population of wound-responsive, plastic endometrial stromal fibroblasts that contribute to the rapid restoration of an intact luminal epithelium during endometrial repair. These findings form a platform for comparisons both to endometrial pathologies which involve a fibrotic response (Asherman's syndrome, endometriosis) as well as other mucosal tissues which have a variable response to wounding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe M Kirkwood
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Douglas A Gibson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Isaac Shaw
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Ross Dobie
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Olympia Kelepouri
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Neil C Henderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Philippa TK Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhao F, Grimm SA, Jia S, Yao HHC. Contribution of the Wolffian duct mesenchyme to the formation of the female reproductive tract. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac182. [PMID: 36204418 PMCID: PMC9523451 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract develops from its embryonic precursor, the Müllerian duct. In close proximity to the Müllerian duct lies the precursor for the male reproductive tract, the Wolffian duct, which is eliminated in the female embryo during sexual differentiation. We discovered that a component of the Wolffian duct, its mesenchyme, is not eliminated after sexual differentiation. Instead, the Wolffian duct mesenchyme underwent changes in transcriptome and chromatin accessibility from male tract to female tract identity, and became a unique mesenchymal population in the female reproductive tract with localization and transcriptome distinct from the mesenchyme derived from the Müllerian duct. Partial ablation of the Wolffian duct mesenchyme stunted the growth of the fetal female reproductive tract in ex vivo organ culture. These findings reveal a new fetal origin of mesenchymal tissues for female reproductive tract formation and reshape our understanding of sexual differentiation of reproductive tracts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Zhao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Sara A Grimm
- Integrative Bioinformatics Support Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Shua Jia
- Present address: Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The Mechanism of Wnt Pathway Regulated by Telocytes to Promote the Regeneration and Repair of Intrauterine Adhesions. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3809792. [PMID: 35844454 PMCID: PMC9279088 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3809792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Background Telocytes (TCs), a novel interstitial cell type in the reproductive tract, participating in pathophysiology of intrauterine adhesions (IUA). This study further investigates the hypothesis that TCs, a source of Wnt, promote the regeneration and repair of IUA. Methods RNA sequencing datasets of IUA patient (GSE160633) and mouse intestine mesenchymal cells (GSE94072) in GEO database were analyzed for differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) measured indicated gene expression in TC-educated endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and noneducated ESCs and verified the results of data mining from GEO database. Results The expression levels of Wnt genes were downregulated in IUA compared to the control and were upregulated in TCs. In particular, the changes of Wnt5a expression level were the most significant (logFC = 4.0314 and adjusted P value = 0.0023), and the relative Wnt5a expression level was remarkably higher in TC-educated ESCs than noneducated ESCs verified by qRT-PCR (P = 0.0027). Conclusions TCs may enhance the regeneration and repair of IUA through the Wnt signaling pathway.
Collapse
|
17
|
Maenhoudt N, De Moor A, Vankelecom H. Modeling Endometrium Biology and Disease. J Pers Med 2022; 12:1048. [PMID: 35887546 PMCID: PMC9316888 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12071048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium, lining the uterine lumen, is highly essential for human reproduction. Its exceptional remodeling plasticity, including the transformation process to welcome and nest the embryo, is not well understood. Lack of representative and reliable study models allowing the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying endometrium development and biology to be deciphered is an important hurdle to progress in the field. Recently, powerful organoid models have been developed that not only recapitulate endometrial biology such as the menstrual cycle, but also faithfully reproduce diseases of the endometrium such as endometriosis. Moreover, single-cell profiling endeavors of the endometrium in health and disease, and of derived organoids, start to provide deeper insight into cellular complexity and expression specificities, and in resulting tissue processes. This granular portrayal will not only help in understanding endometrium biology and disease, but also in pinning down the tissue's stem cells, at present not yet conclusively defined. Here, we provide a general overview of endometrium development and biology, and the efforts of modeling both the healthy tissue, as well as its key diseased form of endometriosis. The future of modeling and deciphering this key tissue, hidden inside the womb, looks bright.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hugo Vankelecom
- Unit of Stem Cell Research, Cluster of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, Leuven Stem Cell Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (N.M.); (A.D.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Embryo-Maternal Communication under Healthy Conditions or Viral Infections: Lessons from a Bovine Model. Cells 2022; 11:cells11121858. [PMID: 35740987 PMCID: PMC9221285 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121858] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine mesenchymal stem cells are a relevant cell population found in the maternal reproductive tract that exhibits the immunomodulation capacity required to prevent embryo rejection. The phenotypic plasticity showed by both endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSC) and embryonic trophoblast through mesenchymal to epithelial transition and epithelial to mesenchymal transition, respectively, is essential for embryo implantation. Embryonic trophoblast maintains active crosstalk via EVs and soluble proteins with eMSC and peripheral blood MSC (pbMSC) to ensure the retention of eMSC in case of pregnancy and induce the chemotaxis of pbMSC, critical for successful implantation. Early pregnancy-related proteins and angiogenic markers are detected as cargo in EVs and the soluble fraction of the embryonic trophectoderm secretome. The pattern of protein secretion in trophectoderm-EVs changes depending on their epithelial or mesenchymal phenotype and due to the uptake of MSC EVs. However, the changes in this EV-mediated communication between maternal and embryonic MSC populations infected by viruses that cause abortions in cattle are poorly understood. They are critical in the investigation of reproductive viral pathologies.
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhang L, Long W, Xu W, Chen X, Zhao X, Wu B. Digital Cell Atlas of Mouse Uterus: From Regenerative Stage to Maturational Stage. Front Genet 2022; 13:847646. [PMID: 35669188 PMCID: PMC9163836 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.847646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrium undergoes repeated repair and regeneration during the menstrual cycle. Previous attempts using gene expression data to define the menstrual cycle failed to come to an agreement. Here we used single-cell RNA sequencing data of C57BL/6J mice uteri to construct a novel integrated cell atlas of mice uteri from the regenerative endometrium to the maturational endometrium at the single-cell level, providing a more accurate cytological-based elucidation for the changes that occurred in the endometrium during the estrus cycle. Based on the expression levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, differentially expressed genes, and gene ontology terms, we delineated in detail the transitions of epithelial cells, stromal cells, and immune cells that happened during the estrus cycle. The transcription factors that shaped the differentiation of the mononuclear phagocyte system had been proposed, being Mafb, Irf7, and Nr4a1. The amounts and functions of immune cells varied sharply in two stages, especially NK cells and macrophages. We also found putative uterus tissue-resident macrophages and identified potential endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (high expression of Cd34, Pdgfrb, Aldh1a2) in vivo. The cell atlas of mice uteri presented here would improve our understanding of the transitions that occurred in the endometrium from the regenerative endometrium to the maturational endometrium. With the assistance of a normal cell atlas as a reference, we may identify morphologically unaffected abnormalities in future clinical practice. Cautions would be needed when adopting our conclusions, for the limited number of mice that participated in this study may affect the strength of our conclusions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leyi Zhang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
- Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention & Intervention, National Ministry of Education), Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenying Long
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Wanwan Xu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Xiuying Chen
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhao
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Bingbing Wu
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
- *Correspondence: Bingbing Wu,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gorsek Sparovec T, Markert UR, Reif P, Schoell W, Moser G, Feichtinger J, Mihalic ZN, Kargl J, Gargett CE, Gold D. The fate of human SUSD2+ endometrial mesenchymal stem cells during decidualization. Stem Cell Res 2022; 60:102671. [PMID: 35093718 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2022.102671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Regeneration of the endometrial stromal compartment in premenopausal women is likely maintained by the perivascular endometrial mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (eMSC) expressing sushi domain containing 2 (SUSD2). The fate of SUSD2+ eMSC during pregnancy and their role in decidualization is not fully known. The aim of our study was to determine the effect of progesterone on the stemness of the SUSD2+ eMSC isolated from non-pregnant uterine samples. Secondary objectives were to characterize the functional capacity including differentiation and clonogenicity assays of SUSD2+ eMSC isolated from decidua at full term and compare it to the capacity of those isolated from non-pregnant uterine samples. Progesterone treatment induced changes in the decidual gene expression profile in non-pregnant SUSD2+ eMSC. Data analysis of a publicly available single cell RNA-seq data set revealed differential expression of several mesenchymal and epithelial signature genes between the SUSD2+ eMSC and the decidual stromal cells, suggesting mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition occurs during decidualization. Histological analysis revealed a significantly lower abundance of SUSD2+ eMSC in 1st trimester and full term samples compared to non-pregnant samples, p = 0.0296 and 0.005, respectively. The differentiation and the colony forming capacity did not differ significantly between the cells isolated from non-pregnant and pregnant uterine samples. Our results suggest that SUSD2+ eMSC undergo decidualization in vitro, while maintaining MSC plasma membrane phenotype. Human eMSC seem to play an important role in the course of endometrial decidualization and embryo implantation. Pregnancy reduced the abundance of SUSD2+ eMSC, however eMSC function remains intact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Udo R Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
| | - Philipp Reif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| | - Wolfgang Schoell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| | - Gerit Moser
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| | - Julia Feichtinger
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| | - Zala Nikita Mihalic
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| | - Julia Kargl
- Otto Loewi Research Center, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Australia.
| | - Daniela Gold
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cousins FL, Filby CE, Gargett CE. Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells–Their Role in Endometrial Repair and Regeneration. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:811537. [PMID: 36304009 PMCID: PMC9580754 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.811537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a remarkable tissue, undergoing ~450 cycles of proliferation, differentiation, shedding (menstruation), repair, and regeneration over a woman's reproductive lifespan. Post-menstrual repair is an extremely rapid and scar-free process, with re-epithelialization of the luminal epithelium completed within 48 h of initiation of shedding. Following menstruation, the functionalis grows from the residual basalis layer during the proliferative phase under the influence of rising circulating estrogen levels. The regenerative capacity of the endometrium is attributed to stem/progenitor cells which reside in both the epithelial and stromal cell compartments of the basalis layer. Finding a definitive marker for endometrial epithelial progenitors (eEPCs) has proven difficult. A number of different markers have been suggested as putative progenitor markers including, N-cadherin, SSEA-1, AXIN2, SOX-9 and ALDH1A1, some of which show functional stem cell activity in in vitro assays. Each marker has a unique location(s) in the glandular epithelium, which has led to the suggestion that a differentiation hierarchy exists, from the base of epithelial glands in the basalis to the luminal epithelium lining the functionalis, where epithelial cells express different combinations of markers as they differentiate and move up the gland into the functionalis away from the basalis niche. Perivascular endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) can be identified by co-expression of PDGFRβ and CD146 or by a single marker, SUSD2. This review will detail the known endometrial stem/progenitor markers; their identity, location and known interactions and hierarchy across the menstrual cycle, in particular post-menstrual repair and estrogen-driven regeneration, as well as their possible contributions to menstruation-related disorders such as endometriosis and regeneration-related disorder Asherman's syndrome. We will also highlight new techniques that allow for a greater understanding of stem/progenitor cells' role in repair and regeneration, including 3D organoids, 3D slice cultures and gene sequencing at the single cell level. Since mouse models are commonly used to study menstruation, repair and regeneration we will also detail the mouse stem/progenitor markers that have been investigated in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Fiona L. Cousins
| | - Caitlin E. Filby
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Caroline E. Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kirkwood PM, Shaw IW, Saunders PTK. Mechanisms of Scarless Repair at Time of Menstruation: Insights From Mouse Models. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:801843. [PMID: 36304046 PMCID: PMC9580659 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.801843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a remarkable tissue which may experience up to 400 cycles of hormone-driven proliferation, differentiation and breakdown during a woman's reproductive lifetime. During menstruation, when the luminal portion of tissue breaks down, it resembles a bloody wound with piecemeal shedding, exposure of underlying stroma and a strong inflammatory reaction. In the absence of pathology within a few days the integrity of the tissue is restored without formation of a scar and the endometrium is able to respond appropriately to subsequent endocrine signals in preparation for establishment of pregnancy if fertilization occurs. Understanding mechanisms regulating scarless repair of the endometrium is important both for design of therapies which can treat conditions where this is aberrant (heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, Asherman's syndrome) as well as to provide new information that might allow us to reduce fibrosis and scar formation in other tissues. Menstruation only occurs naturally in species that exhibit spontaneous stromal cell decidualization during the fertile cycle such as primates (including women) and the Spiny mouse. To take advantage of genetic models and detailed time course analysis, mouse models of endometrial shedding/repair involving hormonal manipulation, artificial induction of decidualization and hormone withdrawal have been developed and refined. These models are useful in modeling dynamic changes across the time course of repair and have recapitulated key features of endometrial repair in women including local hypoxia and immune cell recruitment. In this review we will consider the evidence that scarless repair of endometrial tissue involves changes in stromal cell function including mesenchyme to epithelial transition, epithelial cell proliferation and multiple populations of immune cells. Processes contributing to endometrial fibrosis (Asherman's syndrome) as well as scarless repair of other tissues including skin and oral mucosa are compared to that of menstrual repair.
Collapse
|
23
|
Lin LL, Makwana S, Chen M, Wang CM, Gillette LH, Huang TH, Burney RO, Nicholson BJ, Kirma NB. Cellular junction and mesenchymal factors delineate an endometriosis-specific response of endometrial stromal cells to the mesothelium. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 539:111481. [PMID: 34624439 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a debilitating gynecologic disorder that affects ∼10% of women of reproductive age. Endometriosis is characterized by growth of endometriosis lesions within the abdominal cavity, generally thought to arise from retrograde menstruation of shed endometrial tissue. While the pathophysiology underlying peritoneal endometriosis lesion formation is still unclear, the interaction between invading endometrial tissue and the peritoneal mesothelial lining is an essential step in lesion formation. In this study, we assessed proteomic differences between eutopic endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) from women with and without endometriosis in response to peritoneal mesothelial cell (PMC) exposure, using single-cell cytometry by time-of-flight (CyTOF). Co-cultured primary eutopic ESCs from women with and without endometriosis with an established PMC line were subjected to immunostaining with a panel of Maxpar CyTOF metal-conjugated antibodies (n = 28) targeting cell junction and mesenchymal markers, which are involved in cell-cell adhesions and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Exposure of the ESCs to PMCs resulted in a drastic shift in cellular expression profiles in ESCs derived from endometriosis, whereas little effect by PMCs was observed in ESCs from non-endometriosis subjects. The transcription factor SNAI1 was consistently repressed by PMC interactions. ESCs from endometriosis patients are unique in that they respond to PMCs by undergoing changes in adhesive properties and mesenchymal characteristics that would facilitate lesion formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ling Lin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Simran Makwana
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Meizhen Chen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Chiou-Miin Wang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Tim H Huang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Bruce J Nicholson
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, Texas, USA.
| | - Nameer B Kirma
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Muter J, Kong CS, Brosens JJ. The Role of Decidual Subpopulations in Implantation, Menstruation and Miscarriage. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:804921. [PMID: 36303960 PMCID: PMC9580781 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.804921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In each menstrual cycle, the endometrium becomes receptive to embryo implantation while preparing for tissue breakdown and repair. Both pregnancy and menstruation are dependent on spontaneous decidualization of endometrial stromal cells, a progesterone-dependent process that follows rapid, oestrogen-dependent proliferation. During the implantation window, stromal cells mount an acute stress response, which leads to the emergence of functionally distinct decidual subsets, reflecting the level of replication stress incurred during the preceding proliferative phase. Progesterone-dependent, anti-inflammatory decidual cells (DeC) form a robust matrix that accommodates the conceptus whereas pro-inflammatory, progesterone-resistant stressed and senescent decidual cells (senDeC) control tissue remodelling and breakdown. To execute these functions, each decidual subset engages innate immune cells: DeC partner with uterine natural killer (uNK) cells to eliminate senDeC, while senDeC co-opt neutrophils and macrophages to assist with tissue breakdown and repair. Thus, successful transformation of cycling endometrium into the decidua of pregnancy not only requires continuous progesterone signalling but dominance of DeC over senDeC, aided by recruitment and differentiation of circulating NK cells and bone marrow-derived decidual progenitors. We discuss how the frequency of cycles resulting in imbalanced decidual subpopulations may determine the recurrence risk of miscarriage and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Muter
- Division of Biomedicine, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Joanne Muter
| | - Chow-Seng Kong
- Division of Biomedicine, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Jan J. Brosens
- Division of Biomedicine, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lamptey J, Czika A, Aremu JO, Pervaz S, Adu-Gyamfi EA, Otoo A, Li F, Wang YX, Ding YB. The role of fascin in carcinogenesis and embryo implantation. Exp Cell Res 2021; 409:112885. [PMID: 34662557 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The cytoskeleton, with its actin bundling proteins, plays crucial roles in a host of cellular function, such as cancer metastasis, antigen presentation and trophoblast migration and invasion, as a result of cytoskeletal remodeling. A key player in cytoskeletal remodeling is fascin. Upregulation of fascin induces the transition of epithelial phenotypes to mesenchymal phenotypes through complex interaction with transcription factors. Fascin expression also regulates mitochondrial F-actin to promote oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in some cancer cells. Trophoblast cells, on the other hand, exhibit similar physiological functions, involving the upregulation of genes crucial for its migration and invasion. Owing to the similar tumor-like characteristics among cancer and trophoblats, we review recent studies on fascin in relation to cancer and trophoblast cell biology; and based on existing evidence, link fascin to the establishment of the maternal-fetal interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jones Lamptey
- School of Basic Medicine, 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; Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, KCCR, UPO, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Armin Czika
- School of Basic Medicine, 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
| | - John Ogooluwa Aremu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People's Republic of China
| | - Sadaf Pervaz
- School of Basic Medicine, 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
| | - Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- School of Basic Medicine, 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
| | - Antonia Otoo
- School of Basic Medicine, 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
| | - Fangfang Li
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, 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
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Rawlings TM, Makwana K, Taylor DM, Molè MA, Fishwick KJ, Tryfonos M, Odendaal J, Hawkes A, Zernicka-Goetz M, Hartshorne GM, Brosens JJ, Lucas ES. Modelling the impact of decidual senescence on embryo implantation in human endometrial assembloids. eLife 2021; 10:e69603. [PMID: 34487490 PMCID: PMC8523170 DOI: 10.7554/elife.69603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Decidual remodelling of midluteal endometrium leads to a short implantation window after which the uterine mucosa either breaks down or is transformed into a robust matrix that accommodates the placenta throughout pregnancy. To gain insights into the underlying mechanisms, we established and characterized endometrial assembloids, consisting of gland-like organoids and primary stromal cells. Single-cell transcriptomics revealed that decidualized assembloids closely resemble midluteal endometrium, harbouring differentiated and senescent subpopulations in both glands and stroma. We show that acute senescence in glandular epithelium drives secretion of multiple canonical implantation factors, whereas in the stroma it calibrates the emergence of anti-inflammatory decidual cells and pro-inflammatory senescent decidual cells. Pharmacological inhibition of stress responses in pre-decidual cells accelerated decidualization by eliminating the emergence of senescent decidual cells. In co-culture experiments, accelerated decidualization resulted in entrapment of collapsed human blastocysts in a robust, static decidual matrix. By contrast, the presence of senescent decidual cells created a dynamic implantation environment, enabling embryo expansion and attachment, although their persistence led to gradual disintegration of assembloids. Our findings suggest that decidual senescence controls endometrial fate decisions at implantation and highlight how endometrial assembloids may accelerate the discovery of new treatments to prevent reproductive failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Rawlings
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Komal Makwana
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Deborah M Taylor
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS TrustCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Matteo A Molè
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Katherine J Fishwick
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Maria Tryfonos
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Joshua Odendaal
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS TrustCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Amelia Hawkes
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS TrustCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- Synthetic Mouse and Human Embryology Group, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Division of Biology and Biological EngineeringPasadenaUnited Kingdom
| | - Geraldine M Hartshorne
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS TrustCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS TrustCoventryUnited Kingdom
| | - Emma S Lucas
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of WarwickCoventryUnited Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Uniquely among adult tissues, the human endometrium undergoes cyclical shedding, scar-free repair and regeneration during a woman's reproductive life. Therefore, it presents an outstanding model for study of such processes. This Review examines what is known of endometrial repair and regeneration following menstruation and parturition, including comparisons with wound repair and the influence of menstrual fluid components. We also discuss the contribution of endometrial stem/progenitor cells to endometrial regeneration, including the importance of the stem cell niche and stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles. Finally, we comment on the value of endometrial epithelial organoids to extend our understanding of endometrial development and regeneration, as well as therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lois A Salamonsen
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jennifer C Hutchison
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 25-31 Wright St, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lv Q, Wang L, Luo X, Chen X. Adult stem cells in endometrial regeneration: Molecular insights and clinical applications. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:379-394. [PMID: 34014590 PMCID: PMC8362170 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial damage is an important cause of female reproductive problems, manifested as menstrual abnormalities, infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and other complications. These conditions are collectively termed "Asherman syndrome" (AS) and are typically associated with recurrent induced pregnancy terminations, repeated diagnostic curettage and intrauterine infections. Cancer treatment also has unexpected detrimental side effects on endometrial function in survivors independently of ovarian effects. Endometrial stem cells act in the regeneration of the endometrium and in repair through direct differentiation or paracrine effects. Nonendometrial adult stem cells, such as bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells, with autologous and allogenic applications, can also repair injured endometrial tissue in animal models of AS and in human studies. However, there remains a lack of research on the repair of the damaged endometrium after the reversal of tumors, especially endometrial cancers. Here, we review the biological mechanisms of endometrial regeneration, and research progress and challenges for adult stem cell therapy for damaged endometrium, and discuss the potential applications of their use for endometrial repair after cancer remission, especially in endometrial cancers. Successful application of such cells will improve reproductive parameters in patients with AS or cancer. Significance: The endometrium is the fertile ground for embryos, but damage to the endometrium will greatly impair female fertility. Adult stem cells combined with tissue engineering scaffold materials or not have made great progress in repairing the injured endometrium due to benign lesions. However, due to the lack of research on the repair of the damaged endometrium caused by malignant tumors or tumor therapies, the safety and effectiveness of such stem cell-based therapies need to be further explored. This review focuses on the molecular insights and clinical application potential of adult stem cells in endometrial regeneration and discusses the possible challenges or difficulties that need to be overcome in stem cell-based therapies for tumor survivors. The development of adult stem cell-related new programs will help repair damaged endometrium safely and effectively and meet fertility needs in tumor survivors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoying Lv
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xuezhen Luo
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ghosh A, Syed SM, Kumar M, Carpenter TJ, Teixeira JM, Houairia N, Negi S, Tanwar PS. In Vivo Cell Fate Tracing Provides No Evidence for Mesenchymal to Epithelial Transition in Adult Fallopian Tube and Uterus. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107631. [PMID: 32402291 PMCID: PMC8094408 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) is thought to be involved in the maintenance, repair, and carcinogenesis of the fallopian tube (oviduct) and uterine epithelium. However, conclusive evidence for the conversion of mesenchymal cells to epithelial cells in these organs is lacking. Using embryonal cell lineage tracing with reporters driven by mesenchymal cell marker genes of the female reproductive tract (AMHR2, CSPG4, and PDGFRβ), we show that these reporters are also expressed by some oviductal and uterine epithelial cells at birth. These mesenchymal reporter-positive epithelial cells are maintained in adult mice across multiple pregnancies, respond to ovarian hormones, and form organoids. However, no labeled epithelial cells are present in any oviductal or uterine epithelia when mesenchymal cell labeling was induced in adult mice. Organoids developed from mice labeled in adulthood were also negative for mesenchymal reporters. Collectively, our work found no definitive evidence of MET in the adult fallopian tube and uterine epithelium. Mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) is postulated to be involved in the maintenance and regeneration of the epithelium of female reproductive organs. Here, Ghosh et al. report no definitive evidence of MET in the adult epithelium of oviduct and uterus using in vivo cell lineage tracing and organoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arnab Ghosh
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Shafiq M Syed
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Manish Kumar
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Tyler J Carpenter
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Jose M Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Nathaniel Houairia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Sumedha Negi
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Pradeep S Tanwar
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Tkaczuk-Włach J, Kędzierski W, Jonik I, Sadok I, Filip A, Kankofer M, Polkowski W, Ziółkowski P, Gamian A, Staniszewska M. Immunomodulatory Factors in Primary Endometrial Cell Cultures Isolated from Cancer and Noncancerous Human Tissue-Focus on RAGE and IDO1. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051013. [PMID: 33922995 PMCID: PMC8145962 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Immune modulatory factors like indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) generating kynurenine (Kyn) and receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) contribute to endometrial and cancer microenvironment. Using adequate experimental models is needed to learn about the significance of these molecular factors in endometrial biology. In this paper we study IDO1 activity and RAGE expression in the in vitro cultured primary human endometrial cells derived from cancerous and noncancerous tissue. Methods: The generated primary cell cultures from cancer and noncancerous endometrial tissues were characterized using immunofluorescence and Western Blot for expression of endometrial and cancer markers. IDO1 activity was studied by Kyn quantification with High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detector. Results: The primary cultures of endometrial cells were obtained with 80% success rate and no major genetic aberrations. The cells retained in vitro expression of markers (mucin MUC1 and HER2) or immunomodulatory factors (RAGE and IDO1). Increased Kyn secretion was associated with cancer endometrial cell culture in contrast to the control one. Conclusions: Primary endometrial cells express immune modulatory factors RAGE and IDO1 in vitro associated with cancer phenotype of endometrium.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Antigens, Neoplasm/genetics
- Antigens, Neoplasm/metabolism
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Case-Control Studies
- Endometrial Neoplasms/genetics
- Endometrial Neoplasms/immunology
- Endometrial Neoplasms/metabolism
- Endometrial Neoplasms/pathology
- Endometrium/immunology
- Endometrium/metabolism
- Endometrium/pathology
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- Immunomodulation
- Indoleamine-Pyrrole 2,3,-Dioxygenase/genetics
- Indoleamine-Pyrrole 2,3,-Dioxygenase/metabolism
- Kynurenine/metabolism
- Middle Aged
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/genetics
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
- Primary Cell Culture
- Prognosis
- Receptor, ErbB-2/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-2/metabolism
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Tkaczuk-Włach
- Diagnostic Techniques Unit, Collegium Maximum, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 4/6, 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Witold Kędzierski
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (W.K.); (I.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Ilona Jonik
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (W.K.); (I.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Ilona Sadok
- Laboratory of Separation and Spectroscopic Method Applications, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynow 1J, 20-708 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Agata Filip
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetic Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwillowska 11, 20-080 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Marta Kankofer
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-033 Lublin, Poland; (W.K.); (I.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Wojciech Polkowski
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwillowska 13, 20-080 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Piotr Ziółkowski
- Department of Pathomorphology, Wroclaw Medical University, Marcinkowskiego 1, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Andrzej Gamian
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Weigla 12, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Staniszewska
- Laboratory of Separation and Spectroscopic Method Applications, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynow 1J, 20-708 Lublin, Poland;
- SDS Optic S.A., Centrum ECOTECH-COMPLEX, Block A, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +48-814-545-621
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Cousins FL, Pandoy R, Jin S, Gargett CE. The Elusive Endometrial Epithelial Stem/Progenitor Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:640319. [PMID: 33898428 PMCID: PMC8063057 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.640319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium undergoes approximately 450 cycles of proliferation, differentiation, shedding and regeneration over a woman's reproductive lifetime. The regenerative capacity of the endometrium is attributed to stem/progenitor cells residing in the basalis layer of the tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells have been extensively studied in the endometrium, whereas endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells have remained more elusive. This review details the discovery of human and mouse endometrial epithelial stem/progenitor cells. It highlights recent significant developments identifying putative markers of these epithelial stem/progenitor cells that reveal their in vivo identity, location in both human and mouse endometrium, raising common but also different viewpoints. The review also outlines the techniques used to identify epithelial stem/progenitor cells, specifically in vitro functional assays and in vivo lineage tracing. We will also discuss their known interactions and hierarchy and known roles in endometrial dynamics across the menstrual or estrous cycle including re-epithelialization at menses and regeneration of the tissue during the proliferative phase. We also detail their potential role in endometrial proliferative disorders such as endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ronald Pandoy
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Shiying Jin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Caroline E. Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Min J, Lu N, Huang S, Chai X, Wang S, Peng L, Wang J. Phenotype and biological characteristics of endometrial mesenchymal stem/stromal cells: A comparison between intrauterine adhesion patients and healthy women. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13379. [PMID: 33206449 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a uterine disorder with partial or total obstruction of the uterine cavity and/or the cervical canal primarily caused by intrauterine operations and infections. It is the most common cause of uterine infertility and recurrent abortion. However, the reasons for endometrium repair disorders in patients with IUA are still unclear. While increasing evidence demonstrates that endometrial mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (EMSCs) contribute to the regeneration and repair of endometrium, the roles of EMSCs in the pathogenesis of IUA have not been reported. METHODS AND STUDY We investigated the differences of phenotype and biological characteristics between EMSCs from women with IUA and healthy women. Firstly, the fibrosis of endometrium were measured by immunohistochemistry and Masson staining. Second, we used immunofluorescence to detect the location of EMSCs in endometrial tissue, and the proportion of CD146+ CD140b+ in the two groups was compared by flow cytometry. Then, plate colony formation experiment, CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, would-healing assay, and transwell invasion experiment were used to compare the cloning ability, proliferation, cell cycle, migration and invasion capabilities respectively. Finally, we compared the potential angiogenesis and immunosuppression capabilities. RESULTS Our results showed that there were fewer CD146+ CD140b+ cells in patients with IUA, and the clone-forming, migration, invasion, angiogenic and immunosuppressive abilities of the EMSCs of patients with IUA were significantly decreased compared with those of healthy women. CONCLUSION There are some differences between the EMSCs of IUA patients and healthy women, which may be related to the occurrence of IUA and dysfunction of endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Min
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Na Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Shengjian Huang
- Hunan Guangxiu Hi-tech Life Technology Co., Ltd., Changsha, China
| | - Xiahua Chai
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Susu Wang
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lin Peng
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cell, Changsha, China.,Guangxiu Hospital Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Wang
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC Xiangya, Changsha, China.,Hunan Guangxiu Hi-tech Life Technology Co., Ltd., Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Guo SW. Cancer-associated mutations in endometriosis: shedding light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:423-449. [PMID: 32154564 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological disease. Thus, it came as a complete surprise when it was reported recently that the majority of deep endometriosis lesions harbour somatic mutations and a sizeable portion of them contain known cancer-associated mutations (CAMs). Four more studies have since been published, all demonstrating the existence of CAMs in different subtypes of endometriosis. While the field is still evolving, the confirmation of CAMs has raised many questions that were previously overlooked. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A comprehensive overview of CAMs in endometriosis has been produced. In addition, with the recently emerged understanding of the natural history of endometriotic lesions as well as CAMs in normal and apparently healthy tissues, this review attempts to address the following questions: Why has there been such a wild discrepancy in reported mutation frequencies? Why does ectopic endometrium have a higher mutation rate than that of eutopic endometrium? Would the presence of CAMs in endometriotic lesions increase the risk of cancer to the bearers? Why do endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart? What clinical implications, if any, do the CAMs have for the bearers? Do these CAMs tell us anything about the pathogenesis and/or pathophysiology of endometriosis? SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was searched, from its inception to September 2019, for all papers in English using the term 'endometriosis and CAM', 'endometriosis and cancer-driver mutation', 'somatic mutations', 'fibrosis', 'fibrosis and epigenetic', 'CAMs and tumorigenesis', 'somatic mutation and normal tissues', 'oestrogen receptor and fibrosis', 'oxidative stress and fibrosis', 'ARID1A mutation', and 'Kirsten rat sarcoma mutation and therapeutics'. All retrieved papers were read and, when relevant, incorporated into the review results. OUTCOMES Seven papers that identified CAMs in endometriosis using various sequencing methods were retrieved, and their results were somewhat different. Yet, it is apparent that those using microdissection techniques and more accurate sequencing methods found more CAMs, echoing recent discoveries that apparently healthy tissues also harbour CAMs as a result of the replicative aging process. Hence endometriotic lesions, irrespective of subtype, if left intact, would generate CAMs as part of replicative aging, oxidative stress and perhaps other factors yet to be identified and, in some rare cases, develop cancer. The published data still are unable to paint a clear picture on pathogenesis of endometriosis. However, since endometriotic epithelial cells have a higher turnover than their stromal counterpart due to cyclic bleeding, and since the endometriotic stromal component can be formed by refresh influx of mesenchymal cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, mesothelial-mesenchymal transition and other processes as well as recruitment of bone-marrow-derived stem cells and outflow due to smooth muscle metaplasia, endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart. The epithelial and stromal cellular components develop in a dependent and co-evolving manner. Genes involved in CAMs are likely to be active players in lesional fibrogenesis, and hyperestrogenism and oxidative stress are likely drivers of both CAMs and fibrogenesis. Finally, endometriotic lesions harbouring CAMs would conceivably be more refractory to medical treatment, due, in no small part, to their high fibrotic content and reduced vascularity and cellularity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The accumulating data on CAMs in endometriosis have shed new light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of endometriosis. They also suggest new challenges in management. The distinct yet co-evolving developmental trajectories of endometriotic stroma and epithelium underscore the importance of the lesional microenvironment and ever-changing cellular identity. Mutational profiling of normal endometrium from women of different ages and reproductive history is needed in order to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis. Moreover, one area that has conspicuously received scant attention is the epigenetic landscape of ectopic, eutopic and normal endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fu DJ, De Micheli AJ, Bidarimath M, Ellenson LH, Cosgrove BD, Flesken-Nikitin A, Nikitin AY. Cells expressing PAX8 are the main source of homeostatic regeneration of adult mouse endometrial epithelium and give rise to serous endometrial carcinoma. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:dmm047035. [PMID: 32998907 PMCID: PMC7648606 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.047035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans and mice have cyclical regeneration of the endometrial epithelium. It is expected that such regeneration is ensured by tissue stem cells, but their location and hierarchy remain debatable. A number of recent studies have suggested the presence of stem cells in the mouse endometrial epithelium. At the same time, it has been reported that this tissue can be regenerated by stem cells of stromal/mesenchymal or bone marrow cell origin. Here, we describe a single-cell transcriptomic atlas of the main cell types of the mouse uterus and epithelial subset transcriptome and evaluate the contribution of epithelial cells expressing the transcription factor PAX8 to the homeostatic regeneration and malignant transformation of adult endometrial epithelium. According to lineage tracing, PAX8+ epithelial cells are responsible for long-term maintenance of both luminal and glandular epithelium. Furthermore, multicolor tracing shows that individual glands and contiguous areas of luminal epithelium are formed by clonal cell expansion. Inactivation of the tumor suppressor genes Trp53 and Rb1 in PAX8+ cells, but not in FOXJ1+ cells, leads to the formation of neoplasms with features of serous endometrial carcinoma, one of the most aggressive types of human endometrial malignancies. Taken together, our results show that the progeny of single PAX8+ cells represents the main source of regeneration of the adult endometrial epithelium. They also provide direct experimental genetic evidence for the key roles of the P53 and RB pathways in the pathogenesis of serous endometrial carcinoma and suggest that PAX8+ cells represent the cell of origin of this neoplasm.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Aging
- Animals
- Cell Proliferation
- Disease Models, Animal
- Endometrial Neoplasms/genetics
- Endometrial Neoplasms/pathology
- Endometrium/pathology
- Epithelial Cells/metabolism
- Epithelial Cells/pathology
- Epithelium/metabolism
- Epithelium/pathology
- Female
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Homeostasis
- Immunophenotyping
- Integrases/metabolism
- Mice, Transgenic
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/genetics
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/pathology
- PAX8 Transcription Factor/genetics
- PAX8 Transcription Factor/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Regeneration
- Uterus/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dah-Jiun Fu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrea J De Micheli
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Cornell Stem Cell Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Mallikarjun Bidarimath
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Lora H Ellenson
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Benjamin D Cosgrove
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Cornell Stem Cell Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrea Flesken-Nikitin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Alexander Yu Nikitin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
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.
Collapse
|
36
|
Liu T, Shi F, Ying Y, Chen Q, Tang Z, Lin H. Mouse model of menstruation: An indispensable tool to investigate the mechanisms of menstruation and gynaecological diseases (Review). Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:4463-4474. [PMID: 33174022 PMCID: PMC7646730 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal menstruation may result in several pathological alterations and gynaecological diseases, including endometriosis, menstrual pain and miscarriage. However, the pathogenesis of menstruation remains unclear due to the limited number of animal models available to study the menstrual cycle. In recent years, an effective, reproducible, and highly adaptive mouse model to study menstruation has been developed. In this model, progesterone and oestrogen were administered in cycles following the removal of ovaries. Subsequently, endometrial decidualisation was induced using sesame oil, followed by withdrawal of progesterone administration. Vaginal bleeding in mice is similar to that in humans. Therefore, the use of mice as a model organism to study the mechanism of menstruation and gynaecological diseases may prove to be an important breakthrough. The present review is focussed ond the development and applications of a mouse model of menstruation. Furthermore, various studies have been described to improve this model and the research findings that may aid in the treatment of menstrual disorders in women are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Fuli Shi
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Ying Ying
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qiongfeng Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhimin Tang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Hui Lin
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhang FL, Huang YL, Zhou XY, Tang XL, Yang XJ. Telocytes enhanced in vitro decidualization and mesenchymal-epithelial transition in endometrial stromal cells via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:4384-4396. [PMID: 32913513 PMCID: PMC7476159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) is essential for preparing endometrium for embryo implantation. Telocytes (TCs), a novel type of interstitial cell, exist in the female reproductive tract and participate in the pathophysiology of diseases. This study further investigates the hypothesis that TCs, a source of Wnt, modulates decidualization and MET in ESCs. We had observed differential expression of Wnt ligands in primary mice ESCs and TCs by qPCR. TCM-induced decidualization and MET was assessed in ESCs. Changes in markers for decidualization (cyclin-D3, desmin, d/tPRP), stromal cells (N-cadherin), epithelial cells (E-cadherin), and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway (β-catenin, FOXO1) were quantified by western blot and RT-PCR. β-catenin knockdown in ESCs decreased the degree of TCM-induced decidualization and MET, with significantly reversed expression profiles (P < 0.05). This is the first study to show that TCs can enhance decidualization and MET in ESCs through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling-pathway. Therefore, we describe a promising cell therapy for gynecological conditions and related reproductive problems associated with defective decidualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Lei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Yue-Lin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Xiao-Ye Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Xue-Ling Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Xiao-Jun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yin M, Zhou HJ, Lin C, Long L, Yang X, Zhang H, Taylor H, Min W. CD34 +KLF4 + Stromal Stem Cells Contribute to Endometrial Regeneration and Repair. Cell Rep 2020; 27:2709-2724.e3. [PMID: 31141693 PMCID: PMC6548470 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.04.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The regenerative capacity of the human endometrium requires a population of local stem cells. However, the phenotypes, locations, and origin of these cells are still unknown. In a mouse menstruation model, uterine stromal SM22α+-derived CD34+KLF4+ stem cells are activated and integrate into the regeneration area, where they differentiate and incorporate into the endometrial epithelium; this process is correlated with enhanced protein SUMOylation in CD34+KLF4+ cells. Mice with a stromal SM22α-specific SENP1 deletion (SENP1smKO) exhibit accelerated endometrial repair in the regeneration model and develop spontaneous uterine hyperplasia. Mechanistic studies suggest that SENP1 deletion induces SUMOylation of ERα, which augments ERα transcriptional activity and proliferative signaling in SM22α+CD34+KLF4+ cells. These cells then transdifferentiate to the endometrial epithelium. Our study reveals that CD34+KLF4+ stromal-resident stem cells directly contribute to endometrial regeneration, which is regulated through SENP1-mediated ERα suppression. The regenerative capacity of the human endometrium requires a population of local stem cells. Here, Yin et al. show that uterine stromal SM22α+CD34+KLF4+ stem cells are activated by ERα SUMOylation and integrate into the regeneration area, where they differentiate and incorporate into the endometrial epithelium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Yin
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Huanjiao Jenny Zhou
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Caixia Lin
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Lingli Long
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiaolei Yang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Hugh Taylor
- Department of Comparative Medicine and Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Wang Min
- Interdepartmental Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics, Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 10 Amistad St., New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
An update on stem cell therapy for Asherman syndrome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1511-1529. [PMID: 32445154 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01801-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The current treatment for Asherman syndrome is limited and not very effective. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recent evidence for stem cells in the treatment of Asherman syndrome. The advent of stem cell therapy has propagated experimentation on mice and humans as a novel treatment. The consensus is that the regenerative capacity of stem cells has demonstrated improved outcomes in terms of fertility and fibrosis in both mice and humans with Asherman syndrome. Stem cells have effects on tissue repair by homing to the injured site, recruiting other cells by secreting chemokines, modulating the immune system, differentiating into other types of cells, proliferating into daughter cells, and potentially having antimicrobial activity. The studies reviewed examine different origins and administration modalities of stem cells. In preclinical models, therapeutic systemic injection of stem cells is more effective than direct intrauterine injection in regenerating the endometrium. In conjunction, bone marrow-derived stem cells have a stronger effect on uterine regeneration than uterine-derived stem cells, likely due to their broader differentiation potency. Clinical trials have demonstrated the initial safety and effectiveness profiles of menstrual, bone marrow, umbilical cord, and adipose tissue-derived stem cells in resumption of menstruation, fertility outcomes, and endometrial regeneration.
Collapse
|
40
|
Syed SM, Tanwar PS. Axin2 + endometrial stem cells: the source of endometrial regeneration and cancer. Mol Cell Oncol 2020; 7:1729681. [PMID: 32391423 DOI: 10.1080/23723556.2020.1729681] [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: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Menstruation is one of the basic but poorly understood life processes in primates during which females shed inner uterine lining every month only to be completely regenerated back within a week. The definitive evidence for the existence and/or identity of stem cells responsible for this process has remained elusive for more than six decades now. Recently, we reported Axin2, a classical Wnt reporter gene, as a marker for endometrial stem cells that also serve as the cells of origin for endometrial cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shafiq M Syed
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Pradeep S Tanwar
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Owusu-Akyaw A, Krishnamoorthy K, Goldsmith LT, Morelli SS. The role of mesenchymal-epithelial transition in endometrial function. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:114-133. [PMID: 30407544 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human uterine endometrium undergoes significant remodeling and regeneration on a rapid and repeated basis, after parturition, menstruation, and in some cases, injury. The ability of the adult endometrium to undergo cyclic regeneration and differentiation/decidualization is essential for successful human reproduction. Multiple key physiologic functions of the endometrium require the cells of this tissue to transition between mesenchymal and epithelial phenotypes, processes known as mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although MET/EMT processes have been widely characterized in embryonic development and in the context of malignancy, mounting evidence demonstrates the importance of MET/EMT in allowing the endometrium the phenotypic and functional flexibility necessary for successful decidualization, regeneration/re-epithelialization and embryo implantation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the observations concerning MET and EMT and their regulation in physiologic uterine functions, specifically in the context of endometrial regeneration, decidualization and embryo implantation. SEARCH METHODS Using variations of the search terms 'mesenchymal-epithelial transition', 'mesenchymal-epithelial transformation', 'epithelial-mesenchymal transition', 'epithelial-mesenchymal transformation', 'uterus', 'endometrial regeneration', 'endometrial decidualization', 'embryo implantation', a search of the published literature between 1970 and 2018 was conducted using the PubMed database. In addition, we searched the reference lists of all publications included in this review for additional relevant original studies. OUTCOMES Multiple studies demonstrate that endometrial stromal cells contribute to the regeneration of both the stromal and epithelial cell compartments of the uterus, implicating a role for MET in mechanisms responsible for endometrial regeneration and re-epithelialization. During decidualization, endometrial stromal cells undergo morphologic and functional changes consistent with MET in order to accommodate embryo implantation. Under the influence of estradiol, progesterone and multiple other factors, endometrial stromal fibroblasts acquire epithelioid characteristics, such as expanded cytoplasm and rough endoplasmic reticulum required for greater secretory capacity, rounded nuclei, increased expression of junctional proteins which allow for increased cell-cell communication, and a reorganized actin cytoskeleton. During embryo implantation, in response to both maternal and embryonic-derived signals, the maternal luminal epithelium as well as the decidualized stromal cells acquire the mesenchymal characteristics of increased migration/motility, thus undergoing EMT in order to accommodate the invading trophoblast. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Overall, the findings support important roles for MET/EMT in multiple endometrial functions required for successful reproduction. The endometrium may be considered a unique wound healing model, given its ability to repeatedly undergo repair without scarring or loss of function. Future studies to elucidate how MET/EMT mechanisms may contribute to scar-free endometrial repair will have considerable potential to advance studies of wound healing mechanisms in other tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amma Owusu-Akyaw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Kavitha Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Laura T Goldsmith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Sara S Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Woods L, Morgan N, Zhao X, Dean W, Perez-Garcia V, Hemberger M. Epigenetic changes occur at decidualisation genes as a function of reproductive ageing in mice. Development 2020; 147:147/6/dev185629. [PMID: 32184271 DOI: 10.1242/dev.185629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive decline in older female mice can be attributed to a failure of the uterus to decidualise in response to steroid hormones. Here, we show that normal decidualisation is associated with significant epigenetic changes. Notably, we identify a cohort of differentially methylated regions (DMRs), most of which gain DNA methylation between the early and late stages of decidualisation. These DMRs are enriched at progesterone-responsive gene loci that are essential for reproductive function. In female mice nearing the end of their reproductive lifespan, DNA methylation fidelity is lost at a number of CpG islands (CGIs) resulting in CGI hypermethylation at key decidualisation genes. Importantly, this hypermethylated state correlates with the failure of the corresponding genes to become transcriptionally upregulated during the implantation window. Thus, age-associated DNA methylation changes may underlie the decidualisation defects that are a common occurrence in older females. Alterations to the epigenome of uterine cells may therefore contribute significantly to the reproductive decline associated with advanced maternal age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Woods
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Natasha Morgan
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Xiang Zhao
- Dept. of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Wendy Dean
- Dept. of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.,Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Vicente Perez-Garcia
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Myriam Hemberger
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK .,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.,Dept. of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.,Dept. of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
YÜKSEL H, ZAFER E. Endometrial Stem/Progenitor Cells. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-020-00278-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
44
|
Javaheri A, Kianfar K, Pourmasumi S, Eftekhar M. Platelet-rich plasma in the management of Asherman's syndrome: An RCT. Int J Reprod Biomed 2020; 18:113-120. [PMID: 32259005 PMCID: PMC7097166 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v18i2.6423] [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: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Asherman's syndrome (AS) is a rare reproductive abnormality, resulting in endometrial collapse due to aggressive or recurrent endometritis and/or curettage. Objective We aimed to assess the effectiveness of using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to lower the recurrence rate of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) following hysteroscopy. Materials and Methods In this non-randomized clinical trial, women aged 20-45 years with AS diagnosed by sonohysterography, 3D sonography, hysteroscopy, or uterosalpingography between May 2018 and September 2018 were included. Participants (n = 30) were divided into case and control groups. Following hysteroscopic adhesiolysis, a Foley catheter was placed into the uterine cavity in all women. After two days, the catheter was removed, and 1-mL PRP was injected into the uterine cavity of women in the PRP (case) group, while the control received no PRP. All controls and subjects underwent diagnostic hysteroscopy 8-10 weeks following the intervention to assess the IUAs according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine scoring system. Results Our results did not reveal any significant difference in the menstrual pattern of either the control or test groups before or after treatment (p = 0.2). Moreover, the IUA stage in both studied groups before and after treatment was similar (p = 0.2). The duration of menstrual bleeding in both studied groups before and after treatment was also similar. Conclusion PRP cannot change the menstrual pattern or development of postsurgical AS, as evaluated by follow-up hysteroscopy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atiyeh Javaheri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Sadoughi Hospital, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Katayoon Kianfar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shahid Sadoughi Hospital, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Soheila Pourmasumi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Maryam Eftekhar
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Abortion Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Lv CX, Duan H, Wang S, Gan L, Xu Q. Exosomes Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Proliferation of Allogeneic Endometrial Stromal Cells. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1372-1381. [PMID: 32006246 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00165-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) have been proposed as an ideal source for cell-based therapy to promote endometrial repair and regeneration. Furthermore, increasing evidence has indicated that UCMSC-derived exosomes (UCMSC-exos) act as important paracrine mediators to recapitulate the features of MSCs and may play a vital role in this process. UCMSCs and human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were isolated and characterized. ESCs were cocultured with UCMSCs and further assessed by flow cytometry and EdU incorporation assays. UCMSC-exos were extracted by differential ultracentrifugation and identified by western blots, transmission electron microscopy, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. The internalization of UCMSC-exos by ESCs was observed under a confocal microscope. ESCs were treated with UCMSC-exos at different concentrations and for different durations, with cell viability evaluated by CCK-8 assays. The cell cycle analysis showed that the percentage of ESCs in S phase significantly increased after coculture with UCMSCs, whereas it significantly decreased after inhibition of UCMSC-exo secretions. EdU incorporation assays also showed a similar trend. The isolated UCMSC-exos had a typical cup-shaped morphology with a monolayer membrane, expressed the specific exosomal markers Alix, CD63, and TSG101 and were approximately 60 to 200 nm in diameter. The PKH26-labeled UCMSC-exos were incorporated into ESCs. Moreover, UCMSC-exos enhanced the cell growth and viability of ESCs in a dose-dependent manner, and the effects occurred in a short period of time. UCMSC-exos promote the proliferation of ESCs in a dose-dependent manner; thus, they could be used as a potential treatment to promote endometrial repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Xiao Lv
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Duan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sha Wang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Gan
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Coksuer H, Akdemir Y, Ulas Barut M. Improved in vitro fertilization success and pregnancy outcome with autologous platelet-rich plasma treatment in unexplained infertility patients that had repeated implantation failure history. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:815-818. [PMID: 30966843 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1597344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Repeated implantation failure (RIF) due to suboptimal endometrial lining is a major challenge in reproductive medicine. The study aims to evaluate effect of intrauterine platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment on frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles in patients whose endometrium was unable to achieve optimal lining in unexplained infertility patients with history of RIF. We retrospectively analyzed the charts of a total of 302 cycles performed in 273 patients attending Diyar Life ART Centre between January 2014 and January 2017. After excluding 232 cycles, we compared pregnancy outcomes of 34 patients who had suboptimal endometrial lining and underwent PRP + FET and 36 patients who had optimal endometrial lining and underwent only FET. We observed that, endometrial thickness was higher after 48 hours from PRP when compared to endometrial thickness before PRP (10 mm vs. 6.25 mm, p < .001). Clinical pregnancy rate, and importantly live birth rate were also significantly higher in PRP group than the control group. Based on this information, we showed that intrauterine autologous PRP infusion is a safe, inexpensive adjuvant treatment for optimizing endometrium especially in patients with RIF history and intrauterine PRP infusion improved not only endometrial lining but also in vitro fertilization success and pregnancy outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Coksuer
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Diyarlife IVF Center , Diyarbakır , Turkey
| | - Yesim Akdemir
- b Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Bulent Ecevit University School of Medicine , Zonguldak , Turkey
| | - Mert Ulas Barut
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harran University School of Medicine , Sanlıurfa , Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Nakajima T, Sato T, Iguchi T, Takasugi N. Retinoic acid signaling determines the fate of the uterus from the mouse Müllerian duct. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 86:56-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
48
|
Calle A, López-Martín S, Monguió-Tortajada M, Borràs FE, Yáñez-Mó M, Ramírez MÁ. Bovine endometrial MSC: mesenchymal to epithelial transition during luteolysis and tropism to implantation niche for immunomodulation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:23. [PMID: 30635057 PMCID: PMC6330450 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-1129-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The uterus is a histologically dynamic organ, and the mechanisms coordinating its regeneration during the oestrous cycle and implantation are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to isolate, immortalize and characterize bovine endometrial mesenchymal stem cell (eMSC) lines from different oestrous cycle stages (embryo in the oviduct, embryo in the uterus or absence of embryo) and examine their migratory and immunomodulatory properties in an inflammatory or implantation-like environment, as well as possible changes in cell transdifferentiation. Methods eMSCs were isolated and analysed in terms of morphological features, expression of cell surface and intracellular markers of pluripotency, inmunocytochemical analyses, alkaline phosphatase activity, proliferation and osteogenic or chondrogenic differentiation capacities, as well as their ability to migrate in response to inflammatory (TNF-α or IL-1β) or implantation (IFN-τ) cytokines and their immunomodulatory effect in the proliferation of T cells. Results All eMSCs showed MSC properties such as adherence to plastic, high proliferative capacity, expression of CD44 and vimentin, undetectable expression of CD34 or MHCII, positivity for Pou5F1 and alkaline phosphatase activity. In the absence of an embryo, eMSC showed an apparent mesenchymal to epithelial transition state. eMSC during the entire oestrous cycle differentiated to osteogenic or chondrogenic lineages, showed the ability to suppress T cell proliferation and showed migratory capacity towards pro-inflammatory signal, while responded with a block in their migration to the embryo-derived pregnancy signal. Conclusion This study describes for the first time the isolation, immortalization and characterization of bovine mesenchymal stem cell lines from different oestrous cycle stages, with a clear mesenchymal pattern and immunomodulatory properties. Our study also reports that the migratory capacity of the eMSC was increased towards an inflammatory niche but was reduced in response to the expression of implantation cytokine by the embryo. The combination of both signals (pro-inflammatory and implantation) would ensure the retention of eMSC in case of pregnancy, to ensure the immunomodulation necessary in the mother for embryo survival. In addition, in the absence of an embryo, eMSC showed an apparent mesenchymal to epithelial transition state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Calle
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Avenida Puerta de Hierro 12, local 10, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Marta Monguió-Tortajada
- REMAR Group and Nephrology Service, Germans Trias i Pujol Health Science Institute & University Hospital, UAB, Badalona, Spain
| | - Francesc Enric Borràs
- REMAR Group and Nephrology Service, Germans Trias i Pujol Health Science Institute & University Hospital, UAB, Badalona, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - María Yáñez-Mó
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, UAM, Madrid, Spain.,CBM-SO, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Ángel Ramírez
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Avenida Puerta de Hierro 12, local 10, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Dhaenens L, Lierman S, De Clerck L, Govaert E, Deforce D, Tilleman K, De Sutter P. Endometrial stromal cell proteome mapping in repeated implantation failure and recurrent pregnancy loss cases and fertile women. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 38:442-454. [PMID: 30612956 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are there proteomic differences between endometrial stromal cells of repeated implantation failure (RIF), recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and normal fertile women, and is there differential protein expression upon decidualization? DESIGN This exploratory study investigated the proteome of in-vitro cultured endometrial stromal cells of women with RIF (n = 4), women with RPL (n = 3) and normal fertile women (n = 4), comparing day 0 with 5 days of decidualization. Total proteins extracted from cell lysates were analysed by high-definition mass spectrometry. Data analysis was performed using significance analysis of microarray in R (P < 0.05; false discovery rate [FDR] 10%). RESULTS In the RIF group, ANXA6, PSMC5 and FSCN1 were up-regulated (1.9-fold, 2.5-fold and 1.9-fold, respectively), whereas PBXIP1 was down-regulated (7.7-fold) upon decidualization. In the RPL group, RPS25 and ACADVL were down-regulated (1.9-fold and 2.4-fold, respectively; FDR 10%) between the non-decidualized and the decidualized samples. In the normal fertile group VIM and RPL23A were down-regulated (1.9-fold and 2.4-fold, respectively). Comparing ratios of expression of decidualized over non-decidualized samples in the different groups revealed six differentially expressed proteins: DUX4L2, CNPY4, PDE7A, CTSK, PCBP2 and PSMD4. Comparison of RPL versus normal fertile in the decidualized condition revealed serotransferrin to be differentially expressed. The changes in expression levels for serotransferrin, ANX6, ACDVL and VIM were confirmed by western blot. CONCLUSIONS Results show a varying response of endometrial stromal cells in distinct clinical groups (RIF, RPL and normal fertile) upon in-vitro decidualization. Serotransferrin could serve as a marker for the aberrant decidualization process in RPL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lien Dhaenens
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-Fast), Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
| | - Sylvie Lierman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-Fast), Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Laura De Clerck
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth Govaert
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Dieter Deforce
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Kelly Tilleman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-Fast), Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-Fast), Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Cousins FL, O DF, Ong YR, Breault DT, Deane JA, Gargett CE. Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Expression in Mouse Endometrium During Reepithelialization and Regeneration in a Menses-Like Model. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 28:1-12. [PMID: 30358490 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The regenerative capacity of the endometrium has been attributed to resident stem/progenitor cells. A number of stem/progenitor markers have been reported for human endometrial stem/progenitor cells; however, the lack of convenient markers in the mouse has made experimental investigation into endometrial regeneration difficult. We recently identified endometrial epithelial, endothelial, and immune cells, which express a reporter for the stem/progenitor marker, mouse telomerase reverse transcriptase (mTert). In this study, we investigate the expression pattern of a green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter for mTert promoter activity (mTert-GFP) in endometrial regeneration following a menses-like event. mTert-GFP expression marks subepithelial populations of T cells and mature macrophages and may play a role in immune cell regulated repair. Clusters of mTert-GFP-positive epithelial cells were identified close to areas of reepithelialization and possibly highlight a role for mTert in the repair and regeneration of the endometrial epithelium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L Cousins
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Clayton, Australia
| | - Dorien F O
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Yih Rue Ong
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - David T Breault
- 3 Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James A Deane
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Clayton, Australia
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- 1 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University Faculty of Medicine, Clayton, Australia
| |
Collapse
|