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Hannon PR, Akin JW, Curry Jr TE. Exposure to a phthalate mixture disrupts ovulatory progesterone receptor signaling in human granulosa cells in vitro†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:552-565. [PMID: 37552060 PMCID: PMC10577275 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad091] [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: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to phthalates disrupts ovarian function. However, limited studies have investigated the effects of phthalate mixtures on ovulation, especially in women. Human granulosa cells were used to test the hypothesis that exposure to a phthalate mixture (PHTmix) disrupts progesterone (P4)/progesterone receptor (PGR) signaling, which is a crucial pathway for ovulation. In addition, progestin and cyclic adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate (cAMP) supplementation were tested as methods to circumvent phthalate toxicity. Granulosa cells from women undergoing in vitro fertilization were acclimated in culture to regain responsiveness to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG; clinical luteinizing hormone analogue). Granulosa cells were treated with or without hCG, and with or without PHTmix (1-500 μg/ml; dimethylsulfoxide = vehicle control) for 0.5-36 h. In the supplementation experiments, cells were treated with or without R5020 (stable progestin), and with or without 8-Br-cAMP (stable cAMP analogue). Exposure to hCG + PHTmix decreased P4 levels and mRNA levels of steroidogenic factors when compared to hCG. This was accompanied by decreased mRNA levels of PGR and downstream P4/PGR ovulatory mediators (ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 1 (ADAMTS1), C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4), pentraxin 3 (PTX3), and regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2)) in the hCG + PHTmix groups compared to hCG. Exposure to hCG + PHTmix 500 μg/ml decreased cAMP levels and protein kinase A activity compared to hCG. Supplementation with progestin in the hCG + PHTmix 500 μg/ml group did not rescue toxicity, while supplementation with cAMP restored PGR levels and downstream P4/PGR mediator levels to hCG levels. These findings suggest that phthalate mixture exposure inhibits P4/PGR signaling in human granulosa cells via decreased steroidogenesis, cAMP levels, and protein kinase A activity. Restored P4/PGR signaling with cAMP supplementation provides a potential cellular target for intervention of phthalate-induced ovulatory dysfunction in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick R Hannon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | - Thomas E Curry Jr
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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2
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Choi Y, Jeon H, Brännström M, Akin JW, Curry TE, Jo M. A single-cell gene expression atlas of human follicular aspirates: Identification of leukocyte subpopulations and their paracrine factors. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22843. [PMID: 36934419 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201746rr] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Abstract
Leukocytes are in situ regulators critical for ovarian function. However, little is known about leukocyte subpopulations and their interaction with follicular cells in ovulatory follicles, especially in humans. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed using follicular aspirates obtained from four IVF patients and identified 13 cell groups: one granulosa cell group, one thecal cell group, 10 subsets of leukocytes, and one group of RBC/platelet. RNA velocity analyses on five granulosa cell populations predicted developmental dynamics denoting two projections of differentiation states. The cell type-specific transcriptomic profiling analyses revealed the presence of a diverse array of leukocyte-derived factors that can directly impact granulosa cell function by activating their receptors (e.g., cytokines and secretory ligands) and are involved in tissue remodeling (e.g., MMPs, ADAMs, ADAMTSs, and TIMPs) and angiogenesis (e.g., VEGFs, PGF, FGF, IGF, and THBS1) in ovulatory follicles. Consistent with the findings from the scRNA-seq data, the leukocyte-specific expression of CD68, IL1B, and MMP9 was verified in follicle tissues collected before and at defined hours after hCG administration from regularly cycling women. Collectively, this study demonstrates that this data can be used as an invaluable resource for identifying important leukocyte-derived factors that promote follicular cell function, thereby facilitating ovulation and luteinization in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohan Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Hayce Jeon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Stockholm IVF-EUGIN, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - James W Akin
- Bluegrass Fertility Center, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Thomas E Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Misung Jo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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3
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Ullah A, Pervaz S, Adu-Gyamfi EA, Czika A, Guo M, Wang MJ, Wang YX. CXCL13 and CXCR5 are upregulated in PCOS mice ovaries but downregulated following metformin administration. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 556:111730. [PMID: 35921919 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is becoming a common pathology among women, yet its pathogenesis remains enigmatic. The chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 13 (CXCL13) and its receptor type 5 (CXCR5) regulate inflammatory responses but their roles in PCOS remain unknown. Metformin is commonly administered to PCOS patients but its mechanism of action remains unclear. Thus, we aimed to determine the expression of CXCL13 and CXCR5 in the ovaries of PCOS mice and to evaluate the therapeutic effect of metformin on them. The study comprised four groups of mice: control, PCOS, PCOS plus metformin, and PCOS plus vehicle. CXCL13 and CXCR5 were found to be elevated in the ovarian tissues of the PCOS mice. Metformin reduced ovarian CXCL13 and CXCR5 expressions in the PCOS mice. Hence, CXCL13 and CXCR5 are potentially involved in PCOS pathogenesis; and metformin may help alleviate the symptoms of PCOS by inhibiting CXCL13 expression and actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Ullah
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Sadaf Pervaz
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Armin Czika
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, Brasov, Romania
| | - Man Guo
- Department of Physiology of School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei-Jiao Wang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Department of Physiology of School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
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4
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Makowczenko KG, Jastrzebski JP, Paukszto L, Dobrzyn K, Kiezun M, Smolinska N, Kaminski T. Chemerin Impact on Alternative mRNA Transcription in the Porcine Luteal Cells. Cells 2022; 11:715. [PMID: 35203364 PMCID: PMC8870241 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemerin participates in the regulation of processes related to physiological and disorder mechanisms in mammals, including metabolism, obesity, inflammation, and reproduction. In this study, we have investigated chemerin influence on alternative mRNA transcription within the porcine luteal cell transcriptome, such as differential expression of long non-coding RNAs (DELs) and their interactions with differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differences in alternative splicing of transcripts (DASs), and allele-specific expression (ASEs) related to the single nucleotide variants (SNVs) frequency. Luteal cells were collected from gilts during the mid-luteal phase of the oestrous cycle. After in vitro culture of cells un-/treated with chemerin, the total RNA was isolated and sequenced using the high-throughput method. The in silico analyses revealed 24 DELs cis interacting with 6 DEGs and trans-correlated with 300 DEGs, 137 DASs events, and 18 ASEs. The results enabled us to analyse metabolic and signalling pathways in detail, providing new insights into the effects of chemerin on the corpus luteum functions related to inflammatory response, leukocyte infiltration, the occurrence of luteotropic and luteolytic signals (leading to apoptosis and/or necroptosis). Validation of the results using qPCR confirmed the predicted expression changes. Chemerin at physiological concentrations significantly modifies the transcription processes in the porcine luteal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol G. Makowczenko
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
| | - Jan P. Jastrzebski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Lukasz Paukszto
- Department of Botany and Nature Protection, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Plac Lodzki 1, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Kamil Dobrzyn
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Marta Kiezun
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
| | - Nina Smolinska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
| | - Tadeusz Kaminski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
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5
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McIntosh SZ, Quinn KE, Ashley RL. CXCL12 May Drive Inflammatory Potential in the Ovine Corpus Luteum During Implantation. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:122-132. [PMID: 34755321 PMCID: PMC8677687 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00791-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Adequate corpus luteum (CL) function is paramount to successful pregnancy. Structural and functional CL integrity is controlled by diverse cell types that contribute and respond to the local cytokine milieu. The chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and receptor, CXCR4, are modulators of inflammation and cell survival, but little is understood about CXCL12-CXCR4 axis and CL functional regulation. Corpora lutea from control nonpregnant ewes (n = 5; day 10 estrous cycle (D10C)) and pregnant ewes (n = 5/day) on days 20 (D20P) and 30 (D30P) post-breeding were analyzed for gene and protein expression of CXCL12, CXCR4, and select inflammatory cytokines. In separate cell culture studies, cytokine production was evaluated following CXCL12 treatment. Abundance of CXCL12 and CXCR4 increased (P < 0.05) in pregnant ewes compared to nonpregnant ewes, as determined by a combination of quantitative PCR, immunoblot, and immunofluorescence microscopy. CXCR4 was detected in steroidogenic and nonsteroidogenic cells in ovine CL, and select pro-inflammatory mediators were greater in CL from pregnant ewes. In vitro studies revealed greater abundance of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) following CXCL12 administration (P = 0.05), while P4 levels in cell media were unchanged. Fully functional CL of pregnant ewes is characterized by increased abundance of inflammatory cytokines which may function in a luteotropic manner. We report concurrent increases in CXCL12, CXCR4, and select inflammatory mediators in ovine CL as early pregnancy progresses. We propose CXCL12 stimulates production of select cytokines, rather than P4 in the CL to assist in CL establishment and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacia Z McIntosh
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, MSC 3-I, PO Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA
| | - Kelsey E Quinn
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, MSC 3-I, PO Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA.,Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ryan L Ashley
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, New Mexico State University, MSC 3-I, PO Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM, 88003, USA.
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Poulsen LC, Bøtkjær JA, Østrup O, Petersen KB, Andersen CY, Grøndahl ML, Englund ALM. Two waves of transcriptomic changes in periovulatory human granulosa cells. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:1230-1245. [PMID: 32378719 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does the human granulosa cell (GC) transcriptome change during ovulation? SUMMARY ANSWER Two transcriptional peaks were observed at 12 h and at 36 h after induction of ovulation, both dominated by genes and pathways known from the inflammatory system. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The crosstalk between GCs and the oocyte, which is essential for ovulation and oocyte maturation, can be assessed through transcriptomic profiling of GCs. Detailed transcriptional changes during ovulation have not previously been assessed in humans. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective cohort study comprised 50 women undergoing fertility treatment in a standard antagonist protocol at a university hospital-affiliated fertility clinic in 2016-2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS From each woman, one sample of GCs was collected by transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration either before or 12 h, 17 h or 32 h after ovulation induction (OI). A second sample was collected at oocyte retrieval, 36 h after OI. Total RNA was isolated from GCs and analyzed by microarray. Gene expression differences between the five time points were assessed by ANOVA with a random factor accounting for the pairing of samples, and seven clusters of protein-coding genes representing distinct expression profiles were identified. These were used as input for subsequent bioinformatic analyses to identify enriched pathways and suggest upstream regulators. Subsets of genes were assessed to explore specific ovulatory functions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We identified 13 345 differentially expressed transcripts across the five time points (false discovery rate, <0.01) of which 58% were protein-coding genes. Two clusters of mainly downregulated genes represented cell cycle pathways and DNA repair. Upregulated genes showed one peak at 12 h that resembled the initiation of an inflammatory response, and one peak at 36 h that resembled the effector functions of inflammation such as vasodilation, angiogenesis, coagulation, chemotaxis and tissue remodelling. Genes involved in cell-matrix interactions as a part of cytoskeletal rearrangement and cell motility were also upregulated at 36 h. Predicted activated upstream regulators of ovulation included FSH, LH, transforming growth factor B1, tumour necrosis factor, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, coagulation factor 2, fibroblast growth factor 2, interleukin 1 and cortisol, among others. The results confirmed early regulation of several previously described factors in a cascade inducing meiotic resumption and suggested new factors involved in cumulus expansion and follicle rupture through co-regulation with previously described factors. LARGE SCALE DATA The microarray data were deposited to the Gene Expression Omnibus (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gds/, accession number: GSE133868). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The study included women undergoing ovarian stimulation and the findings may therefore differ from a natural cycle. However, the results confirm significant regulation of many well-established ovulatory genes from a series of previous studies such as amphiregulin, epiregulin, tumour necrosis factor alfa induced protein 6, tissue inhibitor of metallopeptidases 1 and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, which support the relevance of the results. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The study increases our understanding of human ovarian function during ovulation, and the publicly available dataset is a valuable resource for future investigations. Suggested upstream regulators and highly differentially expressed genes may be potential pharmaceutical targets in fertility treatment and gynaecology. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was funded by EU Interreg ÔKS V through ReproUnion (www.reprounion.eu) and by a grant from the Region Zealand Research Foundation. None of the authors have any conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Poulsen
- Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Lykkebækvej 14, 4600 Køge, Denmark
| | - J A Bøtkjær
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - O Østrup
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - K B Petersen
- Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Lykkebækvej 14, 4600 Køge, Denmark
| | - C Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - M L Grøndahl
- Fertility Clinic, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - A L M Englund
- Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Lykkebækvej 14, 4600 Køge, Denmark
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7
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Park CJ, Lin PC, Zhou S, Barakat R, Bashir ST, Choi JM, Cacioppo JA, Oakley OR, Duffy DM, Lydon JP, Ko CJ. Progesterone Receptor Serves the Ovary as a Trigger of Ovulation and a Terminator of Inflammation. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107496. [PMID: 32294429 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.03.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovulation is triggered by the gonadotropin surge that induces the expression of two key genes, progesterone receptor (Pgr) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (Ptgs2), in the granulosa cells of preovulatory follicles. Their gene products PGR and PTGS2 activate two separate pathways that are both essential for successful ovulation. Here, we show that the PGR plays an additional essential role: it attenuates ovulatory inflammation by diminishing the gonadotropin surge-induced Ptgs2 expression. PGR indirectly terminates Ptgs2 expression and PGE2 synthesis in granulosa cells by inhibiting the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), a transcription factor required for Ptgs2 expression. When the expression of PGR is ablated in granulosa cells, the ovary undergoes a hyperinflammatory condition manifested by excessive PGE2 synthesis, immune cell infiltration, oxidative damage, and neoplastic transformation of ovarian cells. The PGR-driven termination of PTGS2 expression may protect the ovary from ovulatory inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Jin Park
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Po-Ching Lin
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Sherry Zhou
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Radwa Barakat
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA; Department of Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Qalyubia 13518, Egypt
| | - Shah Tauseef Bashir
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Jeong Moon Choi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Joseph A Cacioppo
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Oliver R Oakley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475, USA
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, PO Box 1980, Norfolk, VA 23501, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - CheMyong J Ko
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA.
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8
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Hughes CHK, Murphy BD. Nuclear receptors: Key regulators of somatic cell functions in the ovulatory process. Mol Aspects Med 2020; 78:100937. [PMID: 33288229 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2020.100937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The development of the ovarian follicle to its culmination by ovulation is an essential element of fertility. The final stages of ovarian follicular growth are characterized by granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation, and steroid synthesis under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The result is a population of granulosa cells poised to respond to the ovulatory surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). Members of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors play indispensable roles in the regulation of these events. The key regulators of the final stages of follicular growth that precede ovulation from this family include the estrogen receptor beta (ESR2) and the androgen receptor (AR), with additional roles for others, including steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1) and liver receptor homolog-1 (LRH-1). Following the LH surge, the mural and cumulus granulosa cells undergo rapid changes that result in expansion of the cumulus layer, and a shift in ovarian steroid hormone biosynthesis from estradiol to progesterone production. The nuclear receptor best associated with these events is LRH-1. Inadequate cumulus expansion is also observed in the absence of AR and ESR2, but not the progesterone receptor (PGR). The terminal stages of ovulation are regulated by PGR, which increases the abundance of the proteases that are directly responsible for rupture. It further regulates the prostaglandins and cytokines associated with the inflammatory-like characteristics of ovulation. LRH-1 regulates PGR, and is also a key regulator of steroidogenesis, cellular proliferation, and cellular migration, and cytoskeletal remodeling. In summary, nuclear receptors are among the panoply of transcriptional regulators with roles in ovulation, and several are necessary for normal ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla H K Hughes
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Qc, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Bruce D Murphy
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, Qc, J2S 2M2, Canada.
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9
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Liu C, Pan B, Yang L, Wang B, Li J. Beta defensin 3 enhances ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and migration via ERK1/2 pathway in vitro†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1057-1065. [PMID: 30445521 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are regarded as host defense peptides that possess bactericidal activity as well as immunomodulatory function. However, the role of AMP in the mammalian ovary is unknown. In the present study, porcine granulosa cells were utilized in a cell model to study the role of porcine beta defensin 2 (pBD2; pDEFB4B) and 3 (pBD3; pDEFB103A) during ovarian follicular development. Granulosa cells were cultured in the absence and presence of 1, 10, and 50 μg/ml of pDEFB4B or pDEFB103A. After 24 h of treatment, pDEFB103A but not pDEFB4B stimulated granulosa cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.05). This effect was dependent on the stage of follicular development. In addition, transwell cell migration assay showed that in the presence of pDEFB103A (10 μg/ml), a 2.5-fold increase in cell migration was achieved. Furthermore, further study revealed that pDEFB103A increased the mRNA levels of cyclin D1 (CCND1) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), both associated with cell proliferation. To study the potential pathway involved in pDEFB103A-induced cell proliferation and migration, western blots were performed. It was found that pDEFB103A significantly increased the phosphorylated-ERK1/2 to nonphosphorylated ratio. Moreover, pretreatment with the U0126, a specific ERK1/2 phosphorylation inhibitor, suppressed PDEFB103A inducing GCs ERK1/2 phosphorylation, as well as proliferation and migration, suggesting that PDEFB103A may act via activating the ERK1/2 pathway. Furthermore, using a signal transduction pathway Elk-1 trans-reporting system, the activation of ERK1/2 pathway by PDEFB103A was further confirmed. Our data suggest that AMP may play a physiological role in the mammalian ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canying Liu
- Department of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - Bo Pan
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - Lu Yang
- Shanghai Academy of Agriculture Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingyun Wang
- Department of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Julang Li
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
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10
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Shi JW, Yang HL, Fan DX, Yang SL, Qiu XM, Wang Y, Lai ZZ, Ha SY, Ruan LY, Shen HH, Zhou WJ, Li MQ. The role of CXC chemokine ligand 16 in physiological and pathological pregnancies. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 83:e13223. [PMID: 31972050 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The survival and development of a semi-allogeneic fetus during pregnancy require the involvement of a series of cytokines and immune cells. Chemokines are a type of special cytokine those were originally described as having a role in leukocyte trafficking. CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL) 16 is a member of the chemokine family, and CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) 6 is its sole receptor. Emerging evidence has shown that CXCL16/CXCR6 is expressed at the maternal-fetal interface, by cell types that include trophoblast cells, decidual stroma cells, and decidual immune cells (eg, monocytes, γδT cells, and natural killer T (NKT) cells). The regulation of expression of CXCL16 is quite complex, and this process involves a multitude of factors. CXCL16 exerts a critical role in the establishment of a successful pregnancy through a series of molecular interactions at the maternal-fetal interface. However, an abnormal expression of CXCL16 is associated with certain pathological states associated with pregnancy, including recurrent miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In the present review, the expression and pleiotropic roles of CXCL16 under conditions of physiological and pathological pregnancy are systematically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wei Shi
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Li Yang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Deng-Xuan Fan
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao-Liang Yang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Min Qiu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Lai
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu-Yu Ruan
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Hui Shen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jie Zhou
- Center of Reproductive Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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11
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Ruszkowska M, Sadowska A, Nynca A, Orlowska K, Swigonska S, Molcan T, Paukszto L, Jastrzebski JP, Ciereszko RE. The effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin (TCDD) on the transcriptome of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) knock-down porcine granulosa cells. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8371. [PMID: 32002328 PMCID: PMC6982409 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a toxic man-made chemical, adversely affecting reproductive processes. The well-characterized canonical mechanism of TCDD action involves the activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway, but AhR-independent mechanisms were also suggested. By applying RNA interference technology and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) we aimed to identify genes involved in the mechanism of TCDD action in AhR knock-down porcine granulosa cells. Methods Porcine granulosa cells were transfected with small interfering RNAs targeting mRNA of AhR. After transfection, medium was exchanged and the AhR knock-down cells were treated with TCDD (100 nM) for 3, 12 or 24 h, total cellular RNA was isolated and designated for NGS. Following sequencing, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. To analyze functions and establish possible interactions of DEGs, the Gene Ontology (GO) database and the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database were used, respectively. Results The AhR gene expression level and protein abundance were significantly decreased after AhR-targeted siRNAs transfection of the cells. In TCDD-treated AhR knock-down cells we identified 360 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; P-adjusted < 0.05 and log2 fold change [log2FC] ≥ 1.0). The functional enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed that TCDD influenced the expression of genes involved, among other, in the metabolism of vitamin A, follicular development and oocyte maturation, proliferation and differentiation as well as inflammation, stress response, apoptosis and oncogenesis. The three-time point study demonstrated that TCDD-induced changes in the transcriptome of AhR knock-down porcine granulosa cells were especially pronounced during the early stages of the treatment (3 h). Conclusions TCDD affected the transcriptome of AhR knock-down porcine granulosa cells. The molecules involved in the AhR-independent action of TCDD were indicated in the study. The obtained data contribute to better understanding of molecular processes induced by xenobiotics in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Ruszkowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Sadowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Anna Nynca
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Karina Orlowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Sylwia Swigonska
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Tomasz Molcan
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Lukasz Paukszto
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jan P Jastrzebski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Renata E Ciereszko
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland.,Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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12
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Daniel SK, Seo YD, Pillarisetty VG. The CXCL12-CXCR4/CXCR7 axis as a mechanism of immune resistance in gastrointestinal malignancies. Semin Cancer Biol 2019; 65:176-188. [PMID: 31874281 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Single agent checkpoint inhibitor therapy has not been effective for most gastrointestinal solid tumors, but combination therapy with drugs targeting additional immunosuppressive pathways is being attempted. One such pathway, the CXCL12-CXCR4/CXCR7 chemokine axis, has attracted attention due to its effects on tumor cell survival and metastasis as well as immune cell migration. CXCL12 is a small protein that functions in normal hematopoietic stem cell homing in addition to repair of damaged tissue. Binding of CXCL12 to CXCR4 leads to activation of G protein signaling kinases such as P13K/mTOR and MEK/ERK while binding to CXCR7 leads to β-arrestin mediated signaling. While some gastric and colorectal carcinoma cells have been shown to make CXCL12, the primary source in pancreatic cancer and peritoneal metastases is cancer-associated fibroblasts. Binding of CXCL12 to CXCR4 and CXCR7 on tumor cells leads to anti-apoptotic signaling through Bcl-2 and survivin upregulation, as well as promotion of the epithelial-to-mesechymal transition through the Rho-ROCK pathway and alterations in cell adhesion molecules. High levels of CXCL12 seen in the bone marrow, liver, and spleen could partially explain why these are popular sites of metastases for many tumors. CXCL12 is a chemoattractant for lymphocytes at lower levels, but becomes chemorepellant at higher levels; it is unclear exactly what gradient exists in the tumor microenvironment and how this influences tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. AMD3100 (Plerixafor or Mozobil) is a small molecule CXCR4 antagonist and is the most frequently used drug targeting the CXCL12-CXCR4/CXCR7 axis in clinical trials for gastrointestinal solid tumors currently. Other small molecules and monoclonal antibodies against CXCR4 are being trialed. Further understanding of the CXCL12- CXCR4/CXCR7 chemokine axis in the tumor microenvironment will allow more effective targeting of this pathway in combination immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara K Daniel
- University of Washington, Dept. of Surgery, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Y David Seo
- University of Washington, Dept. of Surgery, Seattle, WA, USA
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13
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Bae H, Lim W, Bazer FW, Whang KY, Song G. Mitigation of ER-stress and inflammation by chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 21 during early pregnancy. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 94:73-84. [PMID: 30711450 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The immune system plays an important role in pregnancy. Chemokines recruit leukocytes at the maternal-fetal interface during early pregnancy. However, the role of the chemokine, C-C motif chemokine ligand 21 (CCL21), is less known. The aim of this study was to identify the expression of CCL21 and its receptor, CCR7, in the endometrium during estrous cycle and early pregnancy, and to investigate the functional effects of CCL21 on porcine trophectoderm (pTr) and porcine uterine luminal epithelial (pLE) cells. Our results indicated that CCL21 and CCR7 are increased in the glandular (GE) and luminal epithelium (LE) of the endometrium during early pregnancy, compared to estrous pigs. Recombinant CCL21 improved pTr and pLE cell proliferation through activation of the PI3K and MAPK pathways and suppression of tunicamycin-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress or LPS-induced inflammation. Collectively, these results provide novel insights into CCL21-mediated signaling mechanisms at the maternal-fetal interface during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyocheol Bae
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, College of Science and Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul, 02707, Republic of Korea
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics and Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, 77843-2471, Texas, USA
| | - Kwang-Youn Whang
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Poulsen LLC, Englund ALM, Wissing MLM, Yding Andersen C, Borup R, Grøndahl ML. Human granulosa cells function as innate immune cells executing an inflammatory reaction during ovulation: a microarray analysis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 486:34-46. [PMID: 30802528 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ovulation has been compared to a local inflammatory reaction. We performed an in silico study on a unique, PCR validated, transcriptome microarray study to evaluate if known inflammatory mechanisms operate during ovulation. The granulosa cells were obtained in paired samples at two different time points during ovulation (just before and 36 hours after ovulation induction) from nine women receiving fertility treatment. A total of 259 genes related to inflammation became significantly upregulated during ovulation (2-80 fold, p<0.05), while specific leukocyte markers were absent. The genes and pathway analysis indicated NF-KB-, MAPK- and JAK/STAT signalling (p<1.0E-10) as the major pathways involved in danger recognition and cytokine signalling to initiate inflammation. Upregulated genes further encoded enzymes in eicosanoid production, chemo-attractants, coagulation factors, cell proliferation factors involved in tissue repair, and anti-inflammatory factors to resolve the inflammation again. We conclude that granulosa cells, without involvement from the innate immune system, can orchestrate ovulation as a complete sterile inflammatory reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liv la Cour Poulsen
- Zealand Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Lykkebækvej 14, 4600, Køge, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Rehannah Borup
- Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Marie Louise Grøndahl
- Herlev Fertility Clinic, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, 2730, Herlev, Denmark
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15
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Duffy DM, Ko C, Jo M, Brannstrom M, Curry TE. Ovulation: Parallels With Inflammatory Processes. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:369-416. [PMID: 30496379 PMCID: PMC6405411 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The midcycle surge of LH sets in motion interconnected networks of signaling cascades to bring about rupture of the follicle and release of the oocyte during ovulation. Many mediators of these LH-induced signaling cascades are associated with inflammation, leading to the postulate that ovulation is similar to an inflammatory response. First responders to the LH surge are granulosa and theca cells, which produce steroids, prostaglandins, chemokines, and cytokines, which are also mediators of inflammatory processes. These mediators, in turn, activate both nonimmune ovarian cells as well as resident immune cells within the ovary; additional immune cells are also attracted to the ovary. Collectively, these cells regulate proteolytic pathways to reorganize the follicular stroma, disrupt the granulosa cell basal lamina, and facilitate invasion of vascular endothelial cells. LH-induced mediators initiate cumulus expansion and cumulus oocyte complex detachment, whereas the follicular apex undergoes extensive extracellular matrix remodeling and a loss of the surface epithelium. The remainder of the follicle undergoes rapid angiogenesis and functional differentiation of granulosa and theca cells. Ultimately, these functional and structural changes culminate in follicular rupture and oocyte release. Throughout the ovulatory process, the importance of inflammatory responses is highlighted by the commonalities and similarities between many of these events associated with ovulation and inflammation. However, ovulation includes processes that are distinct from inflammation, such as regulation of steroid action, oocyte maturation, and the eventual release of the oocyte. This review focuses on the commonalities between inflammatory responses and the process of ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - CheMyong Ko
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Misung Jo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Mats Brannstrom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Stockholm IVF, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas E Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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16
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Ophir L, Yung Y, Yerushalmi GM, Baum M, Machtinger R, Maman E, Hourvitz A. An optimized model for hCG stimulation of human mural granulosa cell culture. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:67-74. [PMID: 30661769 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian follicular development and ovulation in mammals is a highly-regulated process. Most of the current knowledge of ovarian processes was obtained from the studies of non-human models. Molecular studies on human ovarian processes suffer from lack of material and appropriate research tools. Mural granulosa cells (MGCs) culture is a major tool for studying the effect of different substances but a major problem for using these primary MGCs is their unresponsiveness to hCG stimulation at the time of oocyte retrieval. It is acceptable that MGCs regain responsiveness during days in culture but when the best time is and how to accelerate the regenerative process are unknown. The aim of the current study was to establish an optimized protocol which will provide a practical and efficient tool to examine the effect of LH/hCG on different downstream targets in luteinized MGCs. hCG effects were examined according to days in culture and hCG stimulation time. As read-out, we analyzed the gene expression of known hCG targets, protein production, and progesterone secretion. Our results show that with a daily medium exchange, the strongest effect was achieved already 4 days after seeding. On day 4, hCG stimulation triggers two major patterns of gene expression. Early induced genes were highly expressed 6-8 h after hCG, while 24 h of hCG stimulation was needed for late induced genes. Based on our results, we suggest daily medium exchange for 4 days before adding hCG and examine its effect 6 and 24 h later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libby Ophir
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yuval Yung
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Gil Mordechai Yerushalmi
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Micha Baum
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronit Machtinger
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ettie Maman
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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17
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Kim SM, Hwang KA, Go RE, Sung JH, Choi DW, Choi KC. Exposure to cigarette smoke via respiratory system may induce abnormal alterations of reproductive organs in female diabetic rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2019; 34:13-21. [PMID: 30421503 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cigarette smoke (CS) has harmful effects on human fertility, reproduction, and development as well as on patients suffering from metabolic diseases such as diabetes than on healthy individuals. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between CS exposure and histological alterations of reproductive organs in female diabetic rats. We evaluated the histology of uteruses and ovaries obtained from female rats exposed to smoke from standard cigarettes for 4 weeks (28 hours a week). After CS exposure, tissue slides were made from uterine and ovarian samples and examined after hematoxylin and eosin staining. Immunohistochemistry was used for detection of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9), C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), and estrogen receptor (ER)α in the uterus and ovary. MMP9 is an inflammatory biomarker that increases during progression to endometriosis. As a chemokine receptor, CXCR4 is involved in development of the inner wall of the uterus and cell adhesion. In the uterus, the occurrence of MMP9, CXCR4, and ERα and the number of endometrial glands were increased by CS exposure, while in the ovary, occurrence of MMP9, CXCR4, ERα, proliferating cell nuclear antigen and the number of corpus lutea or cyst follicles were increased by CS exposure. Collectively, this study indicates that CS induced abnormal development of the uterus and ovary under induced diabetes, leading to adverse effects on normal function of reproductive organs in female rats. HIGHLIGHTS: Cigarette smoke (CS) exposure adversely affected reproductive organs of diabetic female rats. In the uterus, expression of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9), C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), estrogen receptor (ER)α, and the number of endometrial glands were increased by CS exposure, In the ovary, the expression of MMP9, CXCR4, ERα, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen and the number of corpus lutea or cyst follicles were increased by CS exposure. Exposure to CS via the respiratory system exerted a harmful impact on the uterus and ovary in female rats with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo-Min Kim
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-A Hwang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Ryeo-Eun Go
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hyuck Sung
- Laboratory of Bioconvergence Technology, Korea Conformity Laboratories, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dal-Woong Choi
- Department of Public Health Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Chul Choi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
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18
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Robker RL, Hennebold JD, Russell DL. Coordination of Ovulation and Oocyte Maturation: A Good Egg at the Right Time. Endocrinology 2018; 159:3209-3218. [PMID: 30010832 PMCID: PMC6456964 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Ovulation is the appropriately timed release of a mature, developmentally competent oocyte from the ovary into the oviduct, where fertilization occurs. Importantly, ovulation is tightly linked with oocyte maturation, demonstrating the interdependency of these two parallel processes, both essential for female fertility. Initiated by pituitary gonadotropins, the ovulatory process is mediated by intrafollicular paracrine factors from the theca, mural, and cumulus granulosa cells, as well as the oocyte itself. The result is the induction of cumulus expansion, proteolysis, angiogenesis, inflammation, and smooth muscle contraction, which are each required for follicular rupture. These complex intercellular communication networks and the essential ovulatory genes have been well defined in mouse models and are highly conserved in primates, including humans. Importantly, recent discoveries in regulation of ovulation highlight new areas of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Robker
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Correspondence: Rebecca L. Robker, PhD, Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia. E-mail:
| | - Jon D Hennebold
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Darryl L Russell
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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