1
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Collantes-Fernández E, Horcajo P, Benavides J, Sánchez-Sánchez R, Blanco-Murcia J, Montaner-Da Torre S, Hecker YP, Ortega-Mora LM, Pastor-Fernández I. Evaluating the suitability of placental bovine explants for ex vivo modelling of host-pathogen interactions in Neospora caninum infections. Theriogenology 2024; 230:305-313. [PMID: 39368452 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2024] [Revised: 10/02/2024] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/07/2024]
Abstract
Bovine abortions, often caused by infectious agents like Neospora caninum, inflict substantial economic losses. Studying host-pathogen interactions in pregnant cows is challenging, and existing cell cultures lack the intricate complexity of real tissues. To bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo models, we explored the use of cryopreserved bovine placental explants. Building upon our successful development of protocols for obtaining, culturing, and cryopreserving sheep placental explants, we applied these methods to bovine tissues. Here, we compared fresh and cryopreserved bovine explants, evaluating their integrity and functionality over culture time. Additionally, we investigated their susceptibility to N. caninum infection. Our findings revealed that bovine explants deteriorate faster in culture compared to sheep explants, exhibiting diminished viability and function. Cryopreservation further exacerbated this deterioration. While fresh explants were successfully infected with N. caninum, parasite replication was limited. Notably, cryopreservation reduced infection efficiency. This pioneering work paves the way for developing ex vivo models to study reproductive pathogens in cattle. However, further optimization of the model is essential. These improved models will have the potential to significantly reduce the reliance on animals in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Collantes-Fernández
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pilar Horcajo
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Roberto Sánchez-Sánchez
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Javier Blanco-Murcia
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain; Animal Medicine and Surgery Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Sandra Montaner-Da Torre
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Yanina P Hecker
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Iván Pastor-Fernández
- SALUVET Group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain; Parasitology Unit, Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
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2
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Stapleton PA. The Application of Engineered Nanomaterials in Perinatal Therapeutics. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2303072. [PMID: 37438678 PMCID: PMC10784409 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a vulnerable life stage for the mother and developing fetus. Because of this dual concern, approved therapeutic options for pre-existing conditions or pregnancy-induced pathologies, placental deformities, or fetal concerns are extremely limited. These cases often leave patients and clinicians having to choose between maternal health and fetal development. Recent advancements in nanomedicine and nanotherapeutic devices have made the development of perinatal therapeutics an attractive objective. However, perinatal medicine requires a multifaceted approach given the interactions between maternal, placental, and fetal physiology. Maternal-fetal interactions are centralized to the placenta, a specialized transient barrier organ, to allow for nutrient and waste exchange. Perinatal nanotherapeutics must be designed for placental avoidance or uptake. In this review, pregnancy-related conditions, experimental models, and modes of drug delivery during pregnancy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe A Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, 160 Frelinghuysen Rd., Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, 170 Frelinghuysen Rd., Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
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3
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López-Guzmán C, García AM, Ramirez JD, Aliaga TT, Fernández-Moya A, Kemmerling U, Vásquez AM. Plasmodium falciparum alters the trophoblastic barrier and stroma villi organization of human placental villi explants. Malar J 2024; 23:130. [PMID: 38693572 PMCID: PMC11064279 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-04960-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sequestration of Plasmodium falciparum infected erythrocytes in the placenta, and the resulting inflammatory response affects maternal and child health. Despite existing information, little is known about the direct impact of P. falciparum on the placental barrier formed by trophoblast and villous stroma. This study aimed to assess placental tissue damage caused by P. falciparum in human placental explants (HPEs). METHODS HPEs from chorionic villi obtained of human term placentas (n = 9) from normal pregnancies were exposed to P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes (IE) for 24 h. HPEs were embedded in paraffin blocks and used to study tissue damage through histopathological and histochemical analysis and apoptosis using TUNEL staining. Culture supernatants were collected to measure cytokine and angiogenic factors and to determine LDH activity as a marker of cytotoxicity. A subset of archived human term placenta paraffin-embedded blocks from pregnant women with malaria were used to confirm ex vivo findings. RESULTS Plasmodium falciparum-IE significantly damages the trophoblast layer and the villous stroma of the chorionic villi. The increased LDH activity and pathological findings such as syncytial knots, fibrin deposits, infarction, trophoblast detachment, and collagen disorganization supported these findings. The specific damage to the trophoblast and the thickening of the subjacent basal lamina were more pronounced in the ex vivo infection. In contrast, apoptosis was higher in the in vivo infection. This disparity could be attributed to the duration of exposure to the infection, which significantly varied between individuals naturally exposed over time and the 24-h exposure in the ex vivo HPE model. CONCLUSION Exposure to P. falciparum-IE induces a detachment of the syncytiotrophoblast, disorganization of the stroma villi, and an increase in apoptosis, alterations that may be associated with adverse results such as intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina López-Guzmán
- Grupo Malaria, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Calle 62 #52-59 Torre 1, Laboratorio 610, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Ana María García
- Grupo Malaria, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Calle 62 #52-59 Torre 1, Laboratorio 610, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Juan Diego Ramirez
- Grupo Malaria, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Calle 62 #52-59 Torre 1, Laboratorio 610, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Trinidad Torres Aliaga
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Independencia 1027, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandro Fernández-Moya
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Independencia 1027, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ulrike Kemmerling
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Independencia 1027, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ana María Vásquez
- Grupo Malaria, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Calle 62 #52-59 Torre 1, Laboratorio 610, Medellín, Colombia.
- Escuela de Microbiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Calle 67 # 53-108, Bloque 5, Oficina 5-135, Medellín, Colombia.
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4
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Olmos-Ortiz A, Díaz L, Flores-Espinosa P, Mancilla-Herrera I, Zaga-Clavellina V. In Vitro Culturing of Human Term Placental Explants. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2781:39-45. [PMID: 38502441 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3746-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
The study of the human placenta has always been appealing, given the importance of this temporal organ capable of sustaining the beginning of life and development of a new human being within the womb. Culturing placental explants has been an easy and reliable method to study some placental morphological, biochemical, and physiological features for a very long time. Besides low time consumption, requirement of few resources, and wide versatility, the placental explant in vitro culture retains cell-cell interaction in a 3D structure resembling the in vivo setting, which is why it is the option of choice for many researchers in the field. This chapter will describe a simplified method for culturing explants from human term placentas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Olmos-Ortiz
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Lorenza Díaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ismael Mancilla-Herrera
- Department of Infectology and Immunology, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Verónica Zaga-Clavellina
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Mexico City, Mexico
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5
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Horcajo P, Ortega-Mora LM, Benavides J, Sánchez-Sánchez R, Amieva R, Collantes-Fernández E, Pastor-Fernández I. Ovine placental explants: A new ex vivo model to study host‒pathogen interactions in reproductive pathogens. Theriogenology 2023; 212:157-171. [PMID: 37729817 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive failure is one of the main performance constraints in ruminant livestock. Transmissible agents such as Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are commonly involved in the occurrence of abortion in ruminants, but little is known about the mechanisms involved. While in vivo models are optimal for the study of abortion pathogenesis, they have a high economic cost and come with ethical concerns. Unfortunately, alternative in vitro models fail to replicate the complex in vivo placental structure. To overcome the limitations of currently available models, we developed an ex vivo model based on the cultivation of fresh and cryopreserved sheep placental explants, enabling the biobanking of tissues. Reproducible and simple markers of tissue integrity (histology, RNA concentrations), viability (resazurin reduction), and functionality (synthesis of steroid hormones) were also investigated, allowing a clear quality assessment of the model. This work shows that, similar to fresh explants, tissues cryopreserved in ethylene glycol using slow freezing rates maintain not only their structure and function but also their receptivity to T. gondii and N. caninum infection. In addition, the findings demonstrate that explant lifespan is mainly limited by the culture method, with protocols requiring improvements to extend it beyond 2 days. These findings suggest that cryopreserved tissues can be exploited to study the initial host‒pathogen interactions taking place in the placenta, thus deepening the knowledge of the specific mechanisms that trigger reproductive failure in sheep. Importantly, this work paves the way for the development of similar models in related species and contributes to the reduction of experimental animal use in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Horcajo
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Julio Benavides
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-ULE), Grulleros, León, 24346, Spain.
| | - Roberto Sánchez-Sánchez
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rafael Amieva
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Esther Collantes-Fernández
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - Iván Pastor-Fernández
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
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6
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Liu X, Wang G, Huang H, Lv X, Si Y, Bai L, Wang G, Li Q, Yang W. Exploring maternal-fetal interface with in vitro placental and trophoblastic models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1279227. [PMID: 38033854 PMCID: PMC10682727 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1279227] [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: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta, being a temporary organ, plays a crucial role in facilitating the exchange of nutrients and gases between the mother and the fetus during pregnancy. Any abnormalities in the development of this vital organ not only lead to various pregnancy-related disorders that can result in fetal injury or death, but also have long-term effects on maternal health. In vitro models have been employed to study the physiological features and molecular regulatory mechanisms of placental development, aiming to gain a detailed understanding of the pathogenesis of pregnancy-related diseases. Among these models, trophoblast stem cell culture and organoids show great promise. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current mature trophoblast stem cell models and emerging organoid models, while also discussing other models in a systematic manner. We believe that this knowledge will be valuable in guiding further exploration of the complex maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlu Liu
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Emergency, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Haiqin Huang
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Lv
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Yanru Si
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Lixia Bai
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Guohui Wang
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Qinghua Li
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Weiwei Yang
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
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7
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Tekkatte C, Lindsay SA, Duggan E, Castro-Martínez A, Hakim A, Saldana I, Zhang Y, Zhou J, Sebastian R, Liu Y, Pontigon DS, Meads M, Liu TN, Pizzo DP, Nolan J, Parast MM, Laurent LC. Identification of optimal conditions for human placental explant culture and extracellular vesicle release. iScience 2023; 26:108046. [PMID: 37829201 PMCID: PMC10565782 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can mediate intercellular communication, including signaling between the placenta and maternal tissues. Human placental explant culture is a versatile in vitro model system to investigate placental function. We performed systematic studies in different tissue culture media types and oxygen tensions to identify a defined serum-free culture condition that supports high trophoblast viability and metabolism, as well as the release of similar populations of EVs, compared to traditional undefined conditions that contain media additives potentially contaminated with exogenous EVs. We also determined the time frame in which trophoblast viability and functionality remain optimal. Multiplex vesicle flow cytometry with classical EV and placenta-specific markers revealed three separate populations of explant-derived EVs: small CD63+ EVs; large PLAP+ EVs; and CD63-/PLAP- EVs. These culture and analytical approaches will enable in vitro modeling of short-term effects of environmental perturbations associated with pregnancy complications on placental function and EV release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandana Tekkatte
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Scott A. Lindsay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Erika Duggan
- Scintillon Institute, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
- Cellarcus Biosciences Inc, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Anelizze Castro-Martínez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Abbas Hakim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Isabella Saldana
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Rachel Sebastian
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Yukun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, SUN Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, SUN Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Devin S. Pontigon
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Morgan Meads
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Tzu Ning Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Donald P. Pizzo
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - John Nolan
- Scintillon Institute, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
- Cellarcus Biosciences Inc, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Mana M. Parast
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Louise C. Laurent
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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8
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Li X, Li ZH, Wang YX, Liu TH. A comprehensive review of human trophoblast fusion models: recent developments and challenges. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:372. [PMID: 37816723 PMCID: PMC10564767 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01670-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
As an essential component of the maternal-fetal interface, the placental syncytiotrophoblast layer contributes to a successful pregnancy by secreting hormones necessary for pregnancy, transporting nutrients, mediating gas exchange, balancing immune tolerance, and resisting pathogen infection. Notably, the deficiency in mononuclear trophoblast cells fusing into multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Despite the availability of many models for the study of trophoblast fusion, there exists a notable disparity from the ideal model, limiting the deeper exploration into the placental development. Here, we reviewed the existing models employed for the investigation of human trophoblast fusion from several aspects, including the development history, latest progress, advantages, disadvantages, scope of application, and challenges. The literature searched covers the monolayer cell lines, primary human trophoblast, placental explants, human trophoblast stem cells, human pluripotent stem cells, three-dimensional cell spheres, organoids, and placenta-on-a-chip from 1938 to 2023. These diverse models have significantly enhanced our comprehension of placental development regulation and the underlying mechanisms of placental-related disorders. Through this review, our objective is to provide readers with a thorough understanding of the existing trophoblast fusion models, making it easier to select most suitable models to address specific experimental requirements or scientific inquiries. Establishment and application of the existing human placental trophoblast fusion models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Li
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, Chongqing, China
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuo-Hang Li
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China
- Medical Laboratory Department, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Yaan, 625099, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China.
| | - Tai-Hang Liu
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, 400016, Chongqing, China.
- The Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, 400016, Chongqing, China.
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9
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Fein KC, Arral ML, Kim JS, Newby AN, Whitehead KA. Placental drug transport and fetal exposure during pregnancy is determined by drug molecular size, chemistry, and conformation. J Control Release 2023; 361:29-39. [PMID: 37473809 PMCID: PMC10624237 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Pregnant people are unable to take many prescription and over-the-counter medications because of suspected or known risk to the fetus. This undermedication contributes to the high maternal mortality rate in the United States and detracts from the quality of life of pregnant people. As such, there is an urgent need to develop safe pharmaceutical formulations for use during pregnancy. Most drugs are small molecules that easily cross the placenta, which is the biological barrier that separates the maternal and fetal bloodstreams. One potential approach to preventing fetal drug accumulation is to design drug compounds that are excluded by the placenta; however, there is little understanding of how macromolecular drug properties affect transplacental transport. To address this knowledge gap, we examined the transport behavior of fluorescently-labeled polymers with varying size, conformation, and chemistry. We compared these polymers to unconjugated fluorescein, a small molecule model drug that readily crosses biological barriers. We found that molecular size affected transplacental transport in an in vitro model, BeWo b30 monolayers, as well as in pregnant mice, with larger polymers having lower permeability. In addition to size, polymer chemistry altered behavior, with polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules permeating the placental barrier to a greater extent than dextrans of equivalent molecular weight. PEG molecules were also more readily taken up into placental cells in vivo. These findings will inform the future development of drug conjugates or other macromolecular medicines that can safely be used during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine C Fein
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Mariah L Arral
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Julie S Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Alexandra N Newby
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Kathryn A Whitehead
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America.
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10
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Weng J, Couture C, Girard S. Innate and Adaptive Immune Systems in Physiological and Pathological Pregnancy. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:402. [PMID: 36979094 PMCID: PMC10045867 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
The dynamic immunological changes occurring throughout pregnancy are well-orchestrated and important for the success of the pregnancy. One of the key immune adaptations is the maternal immune tolerance towards the semi-allogeneic fetus. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of what is known about the innate and adaptive immunological changes in pregnancy and the role(s) of specific immune cells during physiological and pathological pregnancy. Alongside this, we provided details of remaining questions and challenges, as well as future perspectives for this growing field of research. Understanding the immunological changes that occur can inform potential strategies on treatments for the optimal health of the neonate and pregnant individual both during and after pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Weng
- Mayo Clinic Medical Scientist Training Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Camille Couture
- Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Universite de Montreal, Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Sylvie Girard
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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11
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Dusza HM, van Boxel J, van Duursen MBM, Forsberg MM, Legler J, Vähäkangas KH. Experimental human placental models for studying uptake, transport and toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 860:160403. [PMID: 36417947 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are ubiquitous in the environment and have recently been found in human lungs, blood and placenta. However, data on the possible effects of MNPs on human health is extremely scarce. The potential toxicity of MNPs during pregnancy, a period of increased susceptibility to environmental insults, is of particular concern. The placenta provides a unique interface between maternal and fetal circulation which is essential for in utero survival and healthy pregnancy. Placental toxicokinetics and toxicity of MNPs are still largely unexplored and the limited studies performed up to now focus mainly on polystyrene particles. Practical and ethical considerations limit research options in humans, and extrapolation from animal studies is challenging due to marked differences between species. Nevertheless, diverse in vitro and ex vivo human placental models exist e.g., plasma membrane vesicles, mono-culture and co-culture of placental cells, placenta-on-a-chip, villous tissue explants, and placental perfusion that can be used to advance this research area. The objective of this concise review is to recapitulate different human placental models, summarize the current understanding of placental uptake, transport and toxicity of MNPs and define knowledge gaps. Moreover, we provide perspectives for future research urgently needed to assess the potential hazards and risks of MNP exposure to maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna M Dusza
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jeske van Boxel
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Majorie B M van Duursen
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Markus M Forsberg
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Juliette Legler
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kirsi H Vähäkangas
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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12
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Aslaner DM, Alghothani O, Saldana TA, Ezell KG, Yallourakis MD, MacKenzie DM, Miller RA, Wold LE, Gorr MW. E-cigarette vapor exposure in utero causes long-term pulmonary effects in offspring. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2022; 323:L676-L682. [PMID: 36218276 PMCID: PMC9722245 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00233.2022] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The in utero environment is sensitive to toxicant exposure, altering the health and growth of the fetus, and thus sensitive to contaminant exposure. Though recent clinical data suggest that e-cigarette use does no further harm to birth outcomes than a nicotine patch, this does not account for the effects of vaping during pregnancy on the long-term health of offspring. Pregnant mice were exposed to: 1) e-cigarette vapor with nicotine (PV + Nic; 2% Nic in 50:50 propylene glycol: vegetable glycerin), 2) e-cigarette vapor without nicotine [PV; (50:50 propylene glycol:vegetable glycerin)], or 3) HEPA filtered air (FA). Dams were removed from exposure upon giving birth. At 5 mo of age, pulmonary function tests on the offspring revealed female and male mice from the PV group had greater lung stiffness (Ers) and alveolar stiffness (H) compared with the FA group. Furthermore, baseline compliance (Crs) was reduced in female mice from the PV group and in male mice from the PV and PV + Nic groups. Lastly, female mice had decreased forced expiratory volume (FEV0.1) in the PV group, but not in the male groups, compared with the FA group. Lung histology revealed increased collagen deposition around the vessels/airways and in alveolar tissue in PV and PV + Nic groups. Furthermore, goblet hyperplasia was observed in PV male and PV/PV + Nic female mice. Our work shows that in utero exposure to e-cigarette vapor, regardless of nicotine presence, causes lung dysfunction and structural impairments that persist in the offspring to adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Aslaner
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Omar Alghothani
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ty A Saldana
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | | | | | - Roy A Miller
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Loren E Wold
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Matthew W Gorr
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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13
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Tan JP, Liu X, Polo JM. Establishment of human induced trophoblast stem cells via reprogramming of fibroblasts. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:2739-2759. [PMID: 36241724 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00742-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During early mammalian embryonic development, trophoblast cells play an essential role in establishing cell-cell interactions at the maternal-fetal interface to ensure a successful pregnancy. In a recent study, we showed that human fibroblasts can be reprogrammed into induced trophoblast stem (iTS) cells by transcription factor-mediated nuclear reprogramming using the Yamanaka factors OCT4, KLF4, SOX2 and c-MYC (OKSM) and a selection of TS cell culture conditions. The derivation of TS cells from human blastocysts or first-trimester placenta can be limited by difficulties in obtaining adequate material as well as ethical implications. By contrast, the described approach allows the generation of iTS cells from the adult cells of individuals with diverse genetic backgrounds, which are readily accessible to many laboratories around the world. Here we describe a step-by-step protocol for the generation and establishment of human iTS cells directly from dermal fibroblasts using a non-integrative reprogramming method. The protocol consists of four main sections: (1) recovery of cryopreserved human dermal fibroblasts, (2) somatic cell reprogramming, (3) passaging of reprogramming intermediates and (4) derivation of iTS cell cultures followed by routine maintenance of iTS cells. These iTS cell lines can be established in 2-3 weeks and cultured long term over 50 passages. We also discuss several characterization methods that can be performed to validate the iTS cells derived using this approach. Our protocol allows researchers to generate patient-specific iTS cells to interrogate the trophoblast and placenta biology as well as their interactions with embryonic cells in health and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Ping Tan
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China.
- Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jose M Polo
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
- Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
- The South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
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Kojima J, Ono M, Kuji N, Nishi H. Human Chorionic Villous Differentiation and Placental Development. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:8003. [PMID: 35887349 PMCID: PMC9325306 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, the placenta provides the only fetomaternal connection and is essential for establishing a pregnancy as well as fetal well-being. Additionally, it allows maternal physiological adaptation and embryonic immunological acceptance, support, and nutrition. The placenta is derived from extra-embryonic tissues that develop rapidly and dynamically in the first weeks of pregnancy. It is primarily composed of trophoblasts that differentiate into villi, stromal cells, macrophages, and fetal endothelial cells (FEC). Placental differentiation may be closely related to perinatal diseases, including fetal growth retardation (FGR) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), and miscarriage. There are limited findings regarding human chorionic villous differentiation and placental development because conducting in vivo studies is extremely difficult. Placental tissue varies widely among species. Thus, experimental animal findings are difficult to apply to humans. Early villous differentiation is difficult to study due to the small tissue size; however, a detailed analysis can potentially elucidate perinatal disease causes or help develop novel therapies. Artificial induction of early villous differentiation using human embryonic stem (ES) cells/induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells was attempted, producing normally differentiated villi that can be used for interventional/invasive research. Here, we summarized and correlated early villous differentiation findings and discussed clinical diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masanori Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan; (J.K.); (N.K.); (H.N.)
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15
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Fliedel L, Alhareth K, Mignet N, Fournier T, Andrieux K. Placental Models for Evaluation of Nanocarriers as Drug Delivery Systems for Pregnancy Associated Disorders. Biomedicines 2022; 10:936. [PMID: 35625672 PMCID: PMC9138319 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated disorders affect around 20% of pregnancies each year around the world. The risk associated with pregnancy therapeutic management categorizes pregnant women as "drug orphan" patients. In the last few decades, nanocarriers have demonstrated relevant properties for controlled drug delivery, which have been studied for pregnancy-associated disorders. To develop new drug dosage forms it is mandatory to have access to the right evaluation models to ensure their usage safety and efficacy. This review exposes the various placental-based models suitable for nanocarrier evaluation for pregnancy-associated therapies. We first review the current knowledge about nanocarriers as drug delivery systems and how placenta can be used as an evaluation model. Models are divided into three categories: in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo placental models. We then examine the recent studies using those models to evaluate nanocarriers behavior towards the placental barrier and which information can be gathered from these results. Finally, we propose a flow chart on the usage and the combination of models regarding the nanocarriers and nanoparticles studied and the intended therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Fliedel
- Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques Pour la Santé (UTCBS), Inserm U1267, CNRS UMR8258, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France; (L.F.); (K.A.); (N.M.)
- Pathophysiology and Pharmacotoxicology of the Human Placenta, Pre and Postnatal Microbiota Unit (3PHM), Inserm U1139, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France;
| | - Khair Alhareth
- Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques Pour la Santé (UTCBS), Inserm U1267, CNRS UMR8258, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France; (L.F.); (K.A.); (N.M.)
| | - Nathalie Mignet
- Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques Pour la Santé (UTCBS), Inserm U1267, CNRS UMR8258, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France; (L.F.); (K.A.); (N.M.)
| | - Thierry Fournier
- Pathophysiology and Pharmacotoxicology of the Human Placenta, Pre and Postnatal Microbiota Unit (3PHM), Inserm U1139, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France;
| | - Karine Andrieux
- Unité de Technologies Chimiques et Biologiques Pour la Santé (UTCBS), Inserm U1267, CNRS UMR8258, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France; (L.F.); (K.A.); (N.M.)
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16
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The impact of Zika virus exposure on the placental proteomic profile. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1868:166270. [PMID: 34582966 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection has caused severe unexpected clinical outcomes in neonates and adults during the recent outbreak in Latin America, particularly in Brazil. Congenital malformations associated with ZIKV have been frequently reported; nevertheless, the mechanism of vertical transmission and the involvement of placental cells remains unclear. In this study, we applied quantitative proteomics analysis in a floating explant model of chorionic villi of human placental tissues incubated with ZIKV and with ZIKV pre-adsorbed with anti-ZIKV envelope protein. Proteomic data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD025764. Altered levels of proteins were involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammatory processes, and the integrin-cytoskeleton complex. Antibody-opsonized ZIKV particles differentially modulated the pattern of protein expression in placental cells; this phenomenon may play a pivotal role in determining the course of infection and the role of mixed infections. The expression of specific proteins was also evaluated by immunoperoxidase assays. These data fill gaps in our understanding of early events after ZIKV placental exposure and help identify infection control targets.
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17
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Costa J, Mackay R, de Aguiar Greca SC, Corti A, Silva E, Karteris E, Ahluwalia A. The Role of the 3Rs for Understanding and Modeling the Human Placenta. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153444. [PMID: 34362227 PMCID: PMC8347836 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Modeling the physiology of the human placenta is still a challenge, despite the great number of scientific advancements made in the field. Animal models cannot fully replicate the structure and function of the human placenta and pose ethical and financial hurdles. In addition, increasingly stricter animal welfare legislation worldwide is incentivizing the use of 3R (reduction, refinement, replacement) practices. What efforts have been made to develop alternative models for the placenta so far? How effective are they? How can we improve them to make them more predictive of human pathophysiology? To address these questions, this review aims at presenting and discussing the current models used to study phenomena at the placenta level: in vivo, ex vivo, in vitro and in silico. We describe the main achievements and opportunities for improvement of each type of model and critically assess their individual and collective impact on the pursuit of predictive studies of the placenta in line with the 3Rs and European legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Costa
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Ruth Mackay
- Centre for Genome Engineering and Maintenance, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK;
| | | | - Alessandro Corti
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabete Silva
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK; (S.-C.d.A.G.); (E.S.); (E.K.)
| | - Emmanouil Karteris
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK; (S.-C.d.A.G.); (E.S.); (E.K.)
| | - Arti Ahluwalia
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, 56122 Pisa, Italy
- Interuniversity Centro for the Promotion of 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro3R), Italy
- Correspondence:
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18
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Srinivasan V, Melbourne A, Oyston C, James JL, Clark AR. Multiscale and multimodal imaging of utero-placental anatomy and function in pregnancy. Placenta 2021; 112:111-122. [PMID: 34329969 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.07.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Placental structures at the nano-, micro-, and macro scale each play important roles in contributing to its function. As such, quantifying the dynamic way in which placental structure evolves during pregnancy is critical to both clinical diagnosis of pregnancy disorders, and mechanistic understanding of their pathophysiology. Imaging the placenta, both exvivo and invivo, can provide a wealth of structural and/or functional information. This review outlines how imaging across modalities and spatial scales can ultimately come together to improve our understanding of normal and pathological pregnancies. We discuss how imaging technologies are evolving to provide new insights into placental physiology across disciplines, and how advanced computational algorithms can be used alongside state-of-the-art imaging to obtain a holistic view of placental structure and its associated functions to improve our understanding of placental function in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Melbourne
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, Kings College London, UK
| | - Charlotte Oyston
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys R Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand
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Kupper N, Pritz E, Siwetz M, Guettler J, Huppertz B. Placental Villous Explant Culture 2.0: Flow Culture Allows Studies Closer to the In Vivo Situation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147464. [PMID: 34299084 PMCID: PMC8308011 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, freely floating placental villi are adapted to fluid shear stress due to placental perfusion with maternal plasma and blood. In vitro culture of placental villous explants is widely performed under static conditions, hoping the conditions may represent the in utero environment. However, static placental villous explant culture dramatically differs from the in vivo situation. Thus, we established a flow culture system for placental villous explants and compared commonly used static cultured tissue to flow cultured tissue using transmission and scanning electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) measurements. The data revealed a better structural and biochemical integrity of flow cultured tissue compared to static cultured tissue. Thus, this new flow system can be used to simulate the blood flow from the mother to the placenta and back in the most native-like in vitro system so far and thus can enable novel study designs.
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20
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Shojaei S, Ali MS, Suresh M, Upreti T, Mogourian V, Helewa M, Labouta HI. Dynamic placenta-on-a-chip model for fetal risk assessment of nanoparticles intended to treat pregnancy-associated diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166131. [PMID: 33766738 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant women often have to take medication either for pregnancy-related diseases or for previously existing medical conditions. Current maternal medications pose fetal risks due to off target accumulation in the fetus. Nanoparticles, engineered particles in the nanometer scale, have been used for targeted drug delivery to the site of action without off-target effects. This has opened new avenues for treatment of pregnancy-associated diseases while minimizing risks on the fetus. It is therefore instrumental to study the potential transfer of nanoparticles from the mother to the fetus. Due to limitations of in vivo and ex vivo models, an in vitro model mimicking the in vivo situation is essential. Placenta-on-a-chip provides a microphysiological recapitulation of the human placenta. Here, we reviewed the fetal risks associated with current therapeutic approaches during pregnancy, analyzed the advantages and limitations of current models used for nanoparticle assessment, and highlighted the current need for using dynamic placenta-on-a-chip models for assessing the safety of novel nanoparticle-based therapies during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla Shojaei
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Moustafa S Ali
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Madhumita Suresh
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Tushar Upreti
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Victoria Mogourian
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Michael Helewa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Hagar I Labouta
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Biomedical Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
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21
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Vangrieken P, Al-Nasiry S, Bast A, Leermakers PA, Tulen CBM, Janssen GMJ, Kaminski I, Geomini I, Lemmens T, Schiffers PMH, van Schooten FJ, Remels AHV. Hypoxia-induced mitochondrial abnormalities in cells of the placenta. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245155. [PMID: 33434211 PMCID: PMC7802931 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Impaired utero-placental perfusion is a well-known feature of early preeclampsia and is associated with placental hypoxia and oxidative stress. Although aberrations at the level of the mitochondrion have been implicated in PE pathophysiology, whether or not hypoxia-induced mitochondrial abnormalities contribute to placental oxidative stress is unknown. METHODS We explored whether abnormalities in mitochondrial metabolism contribute to hypoxia-induced placental oxidative stress by using both healthy term placentae as well as a trophoblast cell line (BeWo cells) exposed to hypoxia. Furthermore, we explored the therapeutic potential of the antioxidants MitoQ and quercetin in preventing hypoxia-induced placental oxidative stress. RESULTS Both in placental explants as well as BeWo cells, hypoxia resulted in reductions in mitochondrial content, decreased abundance of key molecules involved in the electron transport chain and increased expression and activity of glycolytic enzymes. Furthermore, expression levels of key regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis were decreased while the abundance of constituents of the mitophagy, autophagy and mitochondrial fission machinery was increased in response to hypoxia. In addition, placental hypoxia was associated with increased oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Moreover, experiments with MitoQ revealed that hypoxia-induced reactive oxygen species originated from the mitochondria in the trophoblasts. DISCUSSION This study is the first to demonstrate that placental hypoxia is associated with mitochondrial-generated reactive oxygen species and significant alterations in the molecular pathways controlling mitochondrial content and function. Furthermore, our data indicate that targeting mitochondrial oxidative stress may have therapeutic benefit in the management of pathologies related to placental hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Vangrieken
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, School for Cardiovascular Diseases (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Salwan Al-Nasiry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Aalt Bast
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter A. Leermakers
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Christy B. M. Tulen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ger. M. J. Janssen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School for Cardiovascular Diseases (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Iris Kaminski
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Iris Geomini
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Titus Lemmens
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul M. H. Schiffers
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School for Cardiovascular Diseases (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Frederik J. van Schooten
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Alex H. V. Remels
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Io S, Kondoh E, Chigusa Y, Kawasaki K, Mandai M, Yamada AS. New era of trophoblast research: integrating morphological and molecular approaches. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:611-633. [PMID: 32728695 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Many pregnancy complications are the result of dysfunction in the placenta. The pathogenic mechanisms of placenta-mediated pregnancy complications, however, are unclear. Abnormal placental development in these conditions begins in the first trimester, but no symptoms are observed during this period. To elucidate effective preventative treatments, understanding the differentiation and development of human placenta is crucial. This review elucidates the uniqueness of the human placenta in early development from the aspect of structural characteristics and molecular markers. We summarise the morphogenesis of human placenta based on human specimens and then compile molecular markers that have been clarified by immunostaining and RNA-sequencing data across species. Relevant studies were identified using the PubMed database and Google Scholar search engines up to March 2020. All articles were independently screened for eligibility by the authors based on titles and abstracts. In particular, the authors carefully examined literature on human placentation. This review integrates the development of human placentation from morphological approaches in comparison with other species and provides new insights into trophoblast molecular markers. The morphological features of human early placentation are described in Carnegie stages (CS), from CS3 (floating blastocyst) to CS9 (emerging point of tertiary villi). Molecular markers are described for each type of trophoblast involved in human placental development. We summarise the character of human trophoblast cell lines and explain how long-term culture system of human cytotrophoblast, both monolayer and spheroid, established in recent studies allows for the generation of human trophoblast cell lines. Due to differences in developmental features among species, it is desirable to understand early placentation in humans. In addition, reliable molecular markers that reflect normal human trophoblast are needed to advance trophoblast research. In the clinical setting, these markers can be valuable means for morphologically and functionally assessing placenta-mediated pregnancy complications and provide early prediction and management of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Io
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research & Application, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eiji Kondoh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Chigusa
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kaoru Kawasaki
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masaki Mandai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - And Shigehito Yamada
- Human Health Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Congenital Anomaly Research Center, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Advances in imaging feto-placental vasculature: new tools to elucidate the early life origins of health and disease. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2020; 12:168-178. [PMID: 32746961 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420000720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Optimal placental function is critical for fetal development, and therefore a crucial consideration for understanding the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). The structure of the fetal side of the placental vasculature is an important determinant of fetal growth and cardiovascular development. There are several imaging modalities for assessing feto-placental structure including stereology, electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, micro-computed tomography, light-sheet microscopy, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. In this review, we present current methodologies for imaging feto-placental vasculature morphology ex vivo and in vivo in human and experimental models, their advantages and limitations and how these provide insight into placental function and fetal outcomes. These imaging approaches add important perspective to our understanding of placental biology and have potential to be new tools to elucidate a deeper understanding of DOHaD.
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Vangrieken P, Remels AHV, Al-Nasiry S, Bast A, Janssen GMJ, von Rango U, Vroomans D, Pinckers YCW, van Schooten FJ, Schiffers PMH. Placental hypoxia-induced alterations in vascular function, morphology, and endothelial barrier integrity. Hypertens Res 2020; 43:1361-1374. [DOI: 10.1038/s41440-020-0528-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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25
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Hemberger M, Hanna CW, Dean W. Mechanisms of early placental development in mouse and humans. Nat Rev Genet 2019; 21:27-43. [PMID: 31534202 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-019-0169-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The importance of the placenta in supporting mammalian development has long been recognized, but our knowledge of the molecular, genetic and epigenetic requirements that underpin normal placentation has remained remarkably under-appreciated. Both the in vivo mouse model and in vitro-derived murine trophoblast stem cells have been invaluable research tools for gaining insights into these aspects of placental development and function, with recent studies starting to reshape our view of how a unique epigenetic environment contributes to trophoblast differentiation and placenta formation. These advances, together with recent successes in deriving human trophoblast stem cells, open up new and exciting prospects in basic and clinical settings that will help deepen our understanding of placental development and associated disorders of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Hemberger
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK. .,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Courtney W Hanna
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wendy Dean
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada. .,Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK. .,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
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Vinketova К, Karagyozov I, Koleva V, Hristov M, Mourdjeva M, Sperandio M, Oreshkova T. Progesterone and cyclic adenosine monophosphate down-regulate CD90 in the stromal cells of human decidua. In vitro evidence and in situ findings. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e13043. [PMID: 30151982 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE CD90 is a glycoprotein involved in leukocyte relocation and cell differentiation. CD90 is expressed in endothelial and stromal cells in human endometrium; however, its role in the remodeling of the decidual tissue during pregnancy is poorly understood. Here, we investigate how CD90 expression in decidual stromal cells (DSCs) is regulated. METHOD OF STUDY The native CD90 receptor in stromal cells in decidua was investigated via histology. We further develop in vitro culture of DSCs which allows us to test the effects of hormones and paracrine signals on CD90 expression. RESULTS Stromal cells in first-trimester human decidua display heterogeneous levels of CD90 expression. In vitro analyses reveal that progesterone, a factor normally secreted by trophoblast cells in the placenta, and extracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate, a known downstream signaling messenger of progesterone, reduce CD90 expression in DSCs by ~30%. This reduction in CD90 expression correlates with a change toward a more highly differentiated cell state. CONCLUSION DSCs in early pregnancy show different levels of CD90 expression, suggesting different DSC differentiation and selective interactions with cells during decidual morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Кameliya Vinketova
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Akad. K. Bratanov" - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Iliya Karagyozov
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Advanced Pelvic Surgery, Tokuda Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | - Michael Hristov
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Milena Mourdjeva
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Akad. K. Bratanov" - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Markus Sperandio
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Tsvetelina Oreshkova
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Akad. K. Bratanov" - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Chu PW, Yang ZJ, Huang HH, Chang AA, Cheng YC, Wu GJ, Lan HC. Low-dose bisphenol A activates the ERK signaling pathway and attenuates steroidogenic gene expression in human placental cells†. Biol Reprod 2017; 98:250-258. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Po-Wei Chu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital Songshan branch, National Defense Medical Center Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Zhi-Jie Yang
- Institute of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Hsin Huang
- Institute of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ai-An Chang
- Institute of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Cheng
- Institute of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gwo-Jang Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chieh Lan
- Institute of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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28
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Valero L, Alhareth K, Gil S, Simasotchi C, Roques C, Scherman D, Mignet N, Fournier T, Andrieux K. Assessment of dually labelled PEGylated liposomes transplacental passage and placental penetration using a combination of two ex-vivo human models: the dually perfused placenta and the suspended villous explants. Int J Pharm 2017; 532:729-737. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.07.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Turner MA, Vause S, Greenwood SL. The Regulation of Interleukin-6 Secretion by Prostanoids and Members of the Tumor Necrosis Factor Superfamily in Fresh Villous Fragments of Term Human Placenta. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 11:141-8. [PMID: 15051033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsgi.2003.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether prostanoids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and members of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily can regulate placental secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and whether labor influences any such effects. METHODS Villous fragments of term, human placenta were kept in culture for up to 4 hours, and IL-6 concentrations were measured in the supernatant. We assessed the effects of the following prostanoids: PGE(2), PGF(2alpha), thromboxane A(2) mimetic (U-46619), and carbacyclin, a stable prostacyclin analogue (all at 1 microM); NSAIDs: indomethacin (150 microM) or nimesulide (100 microM); and Fas ligand (5 ng/mL). RESULTS Secretion (mean +/- standard error) of IL-6 was, for control conditions, 1.92 +/- 0.28 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours; for PGE(2), 3.57 +/- 0.29 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours, P <.01; and for carbacyclin, 3.11 +/- 0.44 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours, P <.01. Incubation with PGF(2alpha) or the thromboxane A(2) analogue, U46619, had no effect on IL-6 secretion under these conditions. Fas ligand stimulated IL-6 secretion (3.06 +/- 0.38 fmol/mg wet weight per 3 hours, P <.05). Labor did not alter the effects of prostanoids or FasL. The effects of NSAIDs were assessed over 4 hours. Secretion (median, interquartile range) was, under control conditions 3.26, 2.83-6.23 fmol/mg wet weight per 4 hours, with indomethacin 1.4, 1.28-3.21 (P <.05), and with nimesulide 0.75, 0.50-1.56 fmol/mg wet weight per 4 hours. The magnitude of the effect of Fas ligand in the presence of NSAIDs depended on whether the placentas were delivered before or after labor. CONCLUSION Prostanoids, NSAIDs, and the Fas ligand regulate placental IL-6 secretion. Although the effects of individual agents did not vary with the presence or absence of labor, modulation of IL-6 secretion by labor became apparent when agents were combined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Turner
- Academic Unit of Child Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
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30
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the role of oxidative stress in two common placental-related disorders of pregnancy, miscarriage and preeclampsia. METHODS Review of published literature. RESULTS Miscarriage and preeclampsia manifest at contrasting stages of pregnancy, yet both have their roots in deficient trophoblast invasion during early gestation. Early after implantation, endovascular trophoblast cells migrate down the lumens of spiral arteries, and are associated with their physiological conversion into flaccid conduits. Initially these cells occlude the arteries, limiting maternal blood flow into the placenta. The embryo therefore develops in a low oxygen environment, protecting differentiating cells from damaging free radicals. Once embryogenesis is complete, the maternal intervillous circulation becomes fully established, and intraplacental oxygen concentration rises threefold. Onset of the circulation is normally a progressive periphery-center phenomenon, and high levels of oxidative stress in the periphery may induce formation of the chorion laeve. If trophoblast invasion is severely impaired, plugging of the spiral arteries is incomplete, and onset of the maternal intervillous circulation is premature and widespread throughout the placenta. Syncytiotrophoblastic oxidative damage is extensive, and likely a major contributory factor to miscarriage. Between these two extremes will be found differing degrees of trophoblast invasion compatible with ongoing pregnancy but resulting in deficient conversion of the spiral arteries and an ischemia-reperfusion-type phenomenon. Placental perfusion will be impaired to a greater or lesser extent, generating commensurate placental oxidative stress that is a major contributory factor to preeclampsia. CONCLUSION Miscarriage, missed miscarriage, and early- and late-onset preeclampsia represent a spectrum of disorders secondary to deficient trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham J Burton
- Department of Anatomy, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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31
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Kolahi K, Louey S, Varlamov O, Thornburg K. Real-Time Tracking of BODIPY-C12 Long-Chain Fatty Acid in Human Term Placenta Reveals Unique Lipid Dynamics in Cytotrophoblast Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153522. [PMID: 27124483 PMCID: PMC4849650 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
While the human placenta must provide selected long-chain fatty acids to support the developing fetal brain, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the transport process. We tracked the movement of the fluorescently labeled long-chain fatty acid analogue, BODIPY-C12, across the cell layers of living explants of human term placenta. Although all layers took up the fatty acid, rapid esterification of long-chain fatty acids and incorporation into lipid droplets was exclusive to the inner layer cytotrophoblast cells rather than the expected outer syncytiotrophoblast layer. Cytotrophoblast is a progenitor cell layer previously relegated to a repair role. As isolated cytotrophoblasts differentiated into syncytialized cells in culture, they weakened their lipid processing capacity. Syncytializing cells suppress previously active genes that regulate fatty-acid uptake (SLC27A2/FATP2, FABP4, ACSL5) and lipid metabolism (GPAT3, LPCAT3). We speculate that cytotrophoblast performs a previously unrecognized role in regulating placental fatty acid uptake and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Kolahi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- Center for Developmental Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Samantha Louey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Oleg Varlamov
- Division of Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Kent Thornburg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- Center for Developmental Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Placental explant culture, and cellular cytolysis and cellular differentiation have been previously studied. However, oxidative stress and nitric oxide profiles have not been evaluated in these systems. The aim of this study was to determine the release of lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide from placental explants cultured over a seven day period. Placental explants were maintained for seven days in culture and the medium was changed every 24 hours. The response was assessed in terms of syncytiotrophoblast differentiation (human chorionic gonadotropin, hCG), cellular cytolysis (lactate dehydrogenase, LDH), oxidative stress (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS), and nitric oxide (NO). Levels of hCG increased progressively from day two to attain its highest level on days four and five after which it decreased gradually. In contrast, the levels of LDH, TBARS, and NO were elevated in the early days of placental culture when new syncytiotrophoblast from cytotrophoblast were forming and also in the last days of culture when tissue was declining. In conclusion, the levels of NO and lipid peroxidation follow a pattern similar to LDH and contrary to hCG. Future placental explant studies to evaluate oxidative stress and NO should consider the physiological changes inherent during the time of culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juvic M Goncalves
- a Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Central de Venezuela , Caracas , Venezuela and.,b Departamento de Biología de Organismos , Universidad Simón Bolívar , Baruta , Venezuela
| | - Ysabel C Casart
- a Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Central de Venezuela , Caracas , Venezuela and
| | - María I Camejo
- b Departamento de Biología de Organismos , Universidad Simón Bolívar , Baruta , Venezuela
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Malek A, Mattison DR. Drug development for use during pregnancy: impact of the placenta. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eog.10.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Boles JL, Ross MG, Beloosesky R, Desai M, Belkacemi L. Placental-mediated increased cytokine response to lipopolysaccharides: a potential mechanism for enhanced inflammation susceptibility of the preterm fetus. J Inflamm Res 2012; 5:67-75. [PMID: 22924006 PMCID: PMC3422858 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s32108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral palsy is a nonprogressive motor impairment syndrome that has no effective cure. The etiology of most cases of cerebral palsy remains unknown; however, recent epidemiologic data have demonstrated an association between fetal neurologic injury and infection/inflammation. Maternal infection/inflammation may be associated with the induction of placental cytokines that could result in increased fetal proinflammatory cytokine exposure, and development of neonatal neurologic injury. Therefore, we sought to explore the mechanism by which maternal infection may produce a placental inflammatory response. We specifically examined rat placental cytokine production and activation of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway in response to lipopolysaccharide exposure at preterm and near-term gestational ages. METHODS Preterm (e16) or near-term (e20) placental explants from pregnant rats were treated with 0, 1, or 10 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide. Explant integrity was assessed by lactate dehydrogenase assay. Interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis alpha levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. TLR4 and phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) protein expression levels were determined by Western blot analysis. RESULTS At both e16 and e20, lactate dehydrogenase levels were unchanged by treatment with lipopolysaccharide. After exposure to lipopolysaccharide, the release of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis alpha from e16 placental explants increased by 4-fold and 8-9-fold, respectively (P < 0.05 versus vehicle). Conversely, interleukin-6 release from e20 explants was not significantly different compared with vehicle, and tumor necrosis alpha release was only 2-fold higher (P < 0.05 versus vehicle) following exposure to lipopolysaccharide. Phosphorylated NFκB protein expression was significantly increased in the nuclear fraction from placental explants exposed to lipopolysaccharide at both e16 and e20, although TLR4 protein expression was unaffected. CONCLUSION Lipopolysaccharide induces higher interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis alpha expression at e16 versus e20, suggesting that preterm placentas may have a greater placental cytokine response to lipopolysaccharide infection. Furthermore, increased phosphorylated NFκB indicates that placental cytokine induction may occur by activation of the TLR4 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie L Boles
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, Torrance, CA, USA
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Monfared AL. Histomorphological and ultrastructural changes of the placenta in mice exposed to formaldehyde. Toxicol Ind Health 2012; 30:174-81. [PMID: 22778113 DOI: 10.1177/0748233712452603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Formaldehyde (FA) is widely used in industrial and medical settings. It has long been suspected of causing adverse reproductive and developmental effects. However, the effects of exposure to FA on the reproduction are still a matter of scientific controversy. In this study, we evaluate the hypothesis that adverse developmental outcomes of the exposure to FA might be due to its effects on the placental structure. So, histological changes of the placenta in the mice exposed to FA gas were assessed at light and electron microscopy levels. A total of 40 pregnant Balb/C mice were randomly allotted to four groups in which the animals were exposed to FA at the doses of 0 (control), 7, 14 and 28 ppm, respectively, by inhalation, consecutively, for 8 h/d during the organogenesis period. On day 17 of gestation, the animals were killed and the histological specimens of the placentas were taken for light and electron microscopy studies. Also, morphological parameters of the placentas were measured manually. The results showed that the effects of FA on the placenta are not dose dependent. In the FA-exposed mice, an increase in the number and size of trophoblastic giant cells and an enlargement of spongiotrophoblastic cells in the basal zone of placenta were seen. Also, a significant increase in placental weight as well as the ratio of placental to fetal weight but a decrease in the fetal weight were found in the treated groups when compared with those in the control mice (p < 0.05). Moreover, ultrastructural results demonstrated that the diameter of labyrinth interhemal membrane as well as the thickness of trophoblastic basement membranes were significantly increased in the FA-exposed mice. In addition, in the FA-treated animals, a severe accumulation of cytoplasmic droplets in the II and III trophoblastic layers of the placenta were seen. In conclusion, this study may suggest that the exposure to FA during the organogenesis period at doses of 7-28 ppm induces toxic changes in the placental structure. These changes disrupt placental functions and leads to a decrease in the fetal weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Louei Monfared
- Division of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Para-Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilam, Ilam, Iran
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Jensen F, Wallukat G, Herse F, Budner O, El-Mousleh T, Costa SD, Dechend R, Zenclussen AC. CD19
+
CD5
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Cells as Indicators of Preeclampsia. Hypertension 2012; 59:861-8. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.111.188276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a devastating pregnancy-associated disorder affecting 5% to 8% of pregnant women worldwide. It emerges as an autoimmune-driven disease, and, among others, the autoantibodies against angiotensin type 1 receptor II have been proposed to account for preeclampsia symptoms. Despite much attention focused on describing autoantibodies associated with preeclampsia, there is no clue concerning the cell population producing them. CD19
+
CD5
+
B-1a B cells constitute the main source of natural and polyreactive antibodies, which can be directed against own structures. Here, we aimed to identify the B-cell subpopulation responsible for autoantibody production during preeclampsia and to study their regulation, as well as their possible use as markers for the disease. The frequency of CD19
+
CD5
+
cells in peripheral blood of preeclamptic patients is dramatically increased compared with normal pregnant women as analyzed by flow cytometry. This seems to be driven by the high human chorionic gonadotropin levels present in the serum and placenta supernatant of preeclamptic patients versus normal pregnant women. Not only ≈95% of CD19
+
CD5
+
cells express the human chorionic gonadotropin receptor, but these cells also expand on human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation in a lymphocyte culture. Most importantly, isolated CD19
+
CD5
+
cells produce autoantibodies against angiotensin type 1 receptor II, and CD19
+
CD5
+
cells were further detected in the placenta of preeclamptic but not of normal pregnancies where barely B cells are present. Our results identify a B-cell population able to produce pregnancy-pathological autoantibodies as possible markers for preeclampsia, which opens vast diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Jensen
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerd Wallukat
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
| | - Florian Herse
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver Budner
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
| | - Tarek El-Mousleh
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
| | - Serban-Dan Costa
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Dechend
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- From the Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology (F.J., T.E.-M., A.C.Z.), Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Experimental and Clinical Research Center (G.W., F.H., R.D.), a joint cooperation between the Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany; University Women's Clinic (O.B., S.-D.C.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; HELIOS Klinikum Berlin-Buch (R.D.), Berlin, Germany
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Errasti-Murugarren E, Díaz P, Godoy V, Riquelme G, Pastor-Anglada M. Expression and distribution of nucleoside transporter proteins in the human syncytiotrophoblast. Mol Pharmacol 2011; 80:809-17. [PMID: 21825094 DOI: 10.1124/mol.111.071837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The plasma membrane distribution and related biological activity of nucleoside transporter proteins (NTs) were investigated in human syncytiotrophoblast from term placenta using a variety of approaches, including nucleoside uptake measurements into vesicles from selected plasma membrane domains, NT immunohistochemistry, and subcellular localization (basal, heavy, and light apical membranes as well as raft-enriched membranes from the apical domain). In contrast with other epithelia, in this epithelium, we have identified the high-affinity pyrimidine-preferring human concentrative nucleoside transporter (hCNT) 1 as the only hCNT-type protein expressed at both the basal and apical membranes. hCNT1 localization in lipid rafts is also dependent on its subcellular localization in the apical plasma membrane, suggesting a complex cellular and regional expression. Overall, this result favors the view that the placenta is a pyrimidine-preferring nucleoside sink from both maternal and fetal sides, and hCNT1 plays a major role in promoting pyrimidine salvage and placental growth. This finding may be of pharmacological relevance, because hCNT1 is known to interact with anticancer nucleoside-derived drugs and other molecules, such as nicotine and caffeine, for which a great variety of harmful effects on placental and fetal development, including intrauterine growth retardation, have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaitz Errasti-Murugarren
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Aldosterone and Cortisol Acutely Stimulate Na+/H+ Exchanger Activity in the Syncytiotrophoblast of the Human Placenta: Effect of Fetal Sex. Placenta 2010; 31:289-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Revised: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 12/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Robbins JR, Skrzypczynska KM, Zeldovich VB, Kapidzic M, Bakardjiev AI. Placental syncytiotrophoblast constitutes a major barrier to vertical transmission of Listeria monocytogenes. PLoS Pathog 2010; 6:e1000732. [PMID: 20107601 PMCID: PMC2809766 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1000732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2009] [Accepted: 12/18/2009] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes is an important cause of maternal-fetal infections and serves as a model organism to study these important but poorly understood events. L. monocytogenes can infect non-phagocytic cells by two means: direct invasion and cell-to-cell spread. The relative contribution of each method to placental infection is controversial, as is the anatomical site of invasion. Here, we report for the first time the use of first trimester placental organ cultures to quantitatively analyze L. monocytogenes infection of the human placenta. Contrary to previous reports, we found that the syncytiotrophoblast, which constitutes most of the placental surface and is bathed in maternal blood, was highly resistant to L. monocytogenes infection by either internalin-mediated invasion or cell-to-cell spread. Instead, extravillous cytotrophoblasts-which anchor the placenta in the decidua (uterine lining) and abundantly express E-cadherin-served as the primary portal of entry for L. monocytogenes from both extracellular and intracellular compartments. Subsequent bacterial dissemination to the villous stroma, where fetal capillaries are found, was hampered by further cellular and histological barriers. Our study suggests the placenta has evolved multiple mechanisms to resist pathogen infection, especially from maternal blood. These findings provide a novel explanation why almost all placental pathogens have intracellular life cycles: they may need maternal cells to reach the decidua and infect the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R. Robbins
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Program in Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Defense, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Kasia M. Skrzypczynska
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Program in Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Defense, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Varvara B. Zeldovich
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Program in Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Defense, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Mirhan Kapidzic
- Institute for Regeneration Medicine, Human Embryonic Stem Cell Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Anna I. Bakardjiev
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Program in Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Defense, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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Landers KA, McKinnon BD, Li H, Subramaniam VN, Mortimer RH, Richard K. Carrier-mediated thyroid hormone transport into placenta by placental transthyretin. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94:2610-6. [PMID: 19401362 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The serum protein transthyretin (TTR) plays an important role in the transport of thyroid hormone and retinol, which are critical for normal development of the human fetus. TTR is not only synthesized and secreted into the circulation by the liver and other tissues but is also synthesized by placental trophoblasts, which separate the maternal and fetal circulations. Whether it is secreted or taken up by these cells and whether it carries thyroid hormone is unknown. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS Our objective was to study placental handling of TTR and determine whether TTR participates in placental thyroid hormone transport. We investigated the capacity of human placenta and choriocarcinoma cell lines to secrete and internalize TTR and its ligands by Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and uptake of radiolabeled TTR. RESULTS Human placental explants and TTR expressing JEG-3 cells secrete TTR. JEG-3 cells grown in bicameral chambers secrete TTR, predominantly from the apical surface. Human placental explants and JEG-3 cells internalize Alexa Fluor488-labeled TTR and (125)I-TTR. Furthermore, binding to thyroid hormones (T(4), T(3)) increases (125)I-TTR uptake by enhancing tetramer formation. Cross-linking experiments confirm internalization of the TTR-(125)I-T(4) complex. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that human placenta and choriocarcinoma cells secrete transthyretin, which binds extracellular T(4), and that T(4) binding results in increased internalization of TTR-T(4) complex. TTR production by trophoblasts may represent a mechanism to allow transfer of maternal thyroid hormone to the fetal circulation that could have important implications for fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Landers
- Conjoint Endocrine Laboratory, Bancroft Centre, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital and Pathology Queensland, Herston, Queensland 4029, Australia
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von Versen-Höynck F, Rajakumar A, Parrott MS, Powers RW. Leptin affects system A amino acid transport activity in the human placenta: evidence for STAT3 dependent mechanisms. Placenta 2009; 30:361-7. [PMID: 19203792 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2008] [Revised: 01/09/2009] [Accepted: 01/12/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amino acids are important nutrients during fetal development, and the activity of placental amino acid transporters is crucial in the regulation of fetal growth. Leptin, an adipocyte- and placenta-derived hormone, has been proposed to act as a peripheral signal in reproduction in humans. Leptin is elevated during pregnancy and elevated further in pathologic pregnancies such as preeclampsia. However, the role of leptin in placental function has not been fully elucidated. We hypothesize that leptin plays a role in the regulation of placental amino acid transport by activation of the JAK-STAT pathway. METHODS Placental amino acid transport, specifically system A transport was studied in placental villous fragments using the amino acid analog, methylaminoisobutyric acid (MeAIB). Specific inhibitors of the JAK-STAT signal transduction pathway were used to further elucidate their role in leptin-mediated effects on amino acid transport activity. Western blotting was performed to identify STAT3 phosphorylation as a measure of leptin receptor activation. RESULTS Leptin significantly increased system A amino acid transporter activity by 22-42% after 1h of incubation. Leptin activated JAK-STAT signaling pathway as evidenced by STAT3 phosphorylation, and inhibition of STAT3 or JAK2 resulted in 36-45% reduction in system A amino acid transporter activity. Furthermore, blocking endogenously produced leptin also decreased system A transport by 45% comparable to STAT3 inhibition. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that leptin stimulates system A by JAK-STAT dependent pathway in placental villous fragments. Our findings support the autocrine/paracrine role of leptin in regulating amino acid transport in the human placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- F von Versen-Höynck
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA
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Parrott MS, von Versen-Hoeynck F, Ness RB, Markovic N, Roberts JM. System A amino acid transporter activity in term placenta is substrate specific and inversely related to amino acid concentration. Reprod Sci 2008; 14:687-93. [PMID: 18000230 DOI: 10.1177/1933719107306895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Using intact villous fragments from normal term placentas, the authors characterize the effect of reduced amino acid availability on amino acid uptake via the system A amino acid transporter. Villous fragments deprived of amino acids demonstrate increased system A activity compared with those incubated in an amino acid-sufficient medium (P < .05). Similarly, placental villous fragments exposed to media containing only amino acids not specifically transported by system A have a significant increase in system A activity compared with villous fragments incubated in an amino acid-sufficient medium containing only substrates of system A (P < .05). There is a significant trend for increasing system A activity as the concentrations of the system A amino acid substrates are decreased (P < .01). Collectively, these data indicate that normal placentas can increase system A amino acid transporter activity in a substrate-specific and dose-dependent manner as a means to ensure optimal fetal growth in the presence of amino acid limitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Snook Parrott
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylania 15213, USA.
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Johnstone ED, Speake PF, Sibley CP. Epidermal growth factor and sphingosine-1-phosphate stimulate Na+/H+ exchanger activity in the human placental syncytiotrophoblast. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2007; 293:R2290-4. [PMID: 17913870 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00328.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) has a key role in intracellular pH ([pH]i) regulation of the syncytiotrophoblast in the human placenta and may have a role in the life cycle of this cell. In other cells the NHE (actually a family of up to 9 isoforms) is regulated by a variety of factors, but its regulation in the syncytiotrophoblast has not been studied. Here, we tested the hypotheses that EGF and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), both of which affect trophoblast apoptosis and, in other cell types, NHE activity, stimulate syncytiotrophoblast NHE activity. Villous fragments from term human placentas were loaded with the pH-sensitive dye, BCECF. NHE activity was measured by following the recovery of syncytiotrophoblast [pH]i following an imposed acid load, in the presence and absence of EGF, S1P, and specific inhibitors of NHE activity. Both EGF and S1P caused a dose-dependent upregulation of NHE activity in the syncytiotrophoblast. These effects were blocked by amiloride 500 microM (a nonspecific NHE blocker) and HOE694 100 microM (NHE blocker with NHE1 and 2 isoform selectivity). Effects of EGF were also reduced by the NHE3 selective blocker S3226 (used at 1 microM). These data provide the first evidence that both EGF and S1P stimulate NHE activity in the syncytiotrophoblast; they appear to do so predominantly by activating the NHE1 isoform.
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Affiliation(s)
- E D Johnstone
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Group, (Academic Unit of Child Health Univ. of Manchester, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 OJH
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Baumann MU, Zamudio S, Illsley NP. Hypoxic upregulation of glucose transporters in BeWo choriocarcinoma cells is mediated by hypoxia-inducible factor-1. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2007; 293:C477-85. [PMID: 17442736 PMCID: PMC4497554 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00075.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Placental hypoxia has been implicated in pregnancy pathologies, including fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia; however, the mechanism by which the trophoblast cell responds to hypoxia has not been adequately explored. Glucose transport, a process crucial to fetoplacental growth, is upregulated by hypoxia in a number of cell types. We investigated the effects of hypoxia on the regulation of trophoblast glucose transporter (GLUT) expression and activity in BeWo choriocarcinoma cells, a trophoblast cell model, and human placental villous tissue explants. GLUT1 expression in BeWo cells was upregulated by the hypoxia-inducing chemical agents desferroxamine and cobalt chloride. Reductions in oxygen tension resulted in dose-dependent increases in GLUT1 and GLUT3 expression. Exposure of cells to hypoxic conditions also resulted in an increase in transepithelial glucose transport. A role for hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 was suggested by the increase in HIF-1alpha as a result of hypoxia and by the increase in GLUT1 expression following treatment of BeWo with MG-132, a proteasomal inhibitor that increases HIF-1 levels. The function of HIF-1 was confirmed in experiments where the hypoxic upregulation of GLUT1 and GLUT3 was inhibited by antisense HIF-1alpha. In contrast to BeWo cells, hypoxia produced minimal increases in GLUT1 expression in explants; however, treatment with MG-132 did upregulate syncytial basal membrane GLUT1. Our results show that GLUTs are upregulated by hypoxia via a HIF-1-mediated pathway in trophoblast cells and suggest that the GLUT response to hypoxia in vivo will be determined not only by low oxygen tension but also by other factors that modulate HIF-1 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc U Baumann
- Dept. of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, New Jersey Medical School, 185 S. Orange Ave., MSB E506, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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46
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Shibata E, Powers RW, Rajakumar A, von Versen-Höynck F, Gallaher MJ, Lykins DL, Roberts JM, Hubel CA. Angiotensin II decreases system A amino acid transporter activity in human placental villous fragments through AT1 receptor activation. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2006; 291:E1009-16. [PMID: 16787961 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00134.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Reduced transport of amino acids from mother to fetus can lead to fetal intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). The activities of several amino acid transport systems, including system A, are decreased in placental syncytiotrophoblast of IUGR pregnancies. Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity provides an essential driving force for Na(+)-coupled system A transport, is decreased in the placenta of IUGR pregnancies, and is decreased by angiotensin II in several tissues. Several reports have shown activation of the fetoplacental renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in IUGR. We investigated the effect of angiotensin II on placental system A transport and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity in placental villi. Placental system A activity in single primary villous fragments was measured as the Na(+)-dependent uptake of alpha-(methylamino)isobutyric acid, and Na(+)/K(+) ATPase activity was measured as ouabain-sensitive uptake of (86)rubidium. Angiotensin II decreased system A activity in a concentration-dependent fashion (10-500 nmol/l). Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-R) antagonists losartan and AT1-R anti-peptide blocked the angiotensin II effect, but the angiotensin II type 2 receptor antagonist PD-123319 was without effect. System A activity was not altered by preincubation with AT1-R-independent vasoconstrictors, and antioxidants did not prevent the decrease in activity mediated by angiotensin II. Angiotensin II decreased Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity by an AT1-R dependent mechanism, and inhibition of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity decreased system A activity in a dose-response fashion. These data suggest that angiotensin II, via AT1-R signaling, decreases system A activity by suppressing Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in human placental villi, consistent with possible adverse effects of enhanced placental RAS on fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shibata
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
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Miller RK, Genbacev O, Turner MA, Aplin JD, Caniggia I, Huppertz B. Human placental explants in culture: approaches and assessments. Placenta 2005; 26:439-48. [PMID: 15950058 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2004.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Placental explant cultures in vitro are useful for studying tissue functions including cellular uptake, production and release of secretory components, cell interactions, proliferation, growth and differentiation, gene delivery, pharmacology, toxicology, and disease processes. A variety of culture conditions are required to mimic in utero environments at different times of gestation including differing oxygen partial pressures, extracellular matrices and culture medium. Optimization of explant methods is examined for first and third trimester human placental tissue and the biological processes under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642-8668, USA.
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48
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Speake PF, Mynett KJ, Glazier JD, Greenwood SL, Sibley CP. Activity and expression of Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms in the syncytiotrophoblast of the human placenta. Pflugers Arch 2005; 450:123-30. [PMID: 15772858 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-005-1382-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2004] [Accepted: 01/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) activity in the microvillous (MVM) and basal (BM) plasma membrane of the human placental syncytiotrophoblast and to determine the relative contribution of various NHE isoforms to this activity. Uptake of 22Na into isolated MVM vesicles in the presence of a H+ gradient, at initial rate, was four- to fivefold higher than that by BM vesicles (214+/-28 vs. 49+/-9 pmol/mg protein per 30 s, respectively, means+/-SEM, n=8, 6, P<0.001). The 22Na uptake by MVM, but not by BM, was reduced in the absence of a H+ gradient and in the presence of 500 microM amiloride. To determine the contribution of NHE1, NHE2 and NHE3 isoforms to NHE activity in MVM, we investigated the effect of amiloride analogues which show isoform selectivity. HOE 694, an analogue selective for NHE1 at low concentrations, inhibited 22Na uptake with an EC50 of 0.13+/-0.05 microM (n=6), whereas S3226, an analogue selective for NHE3 at low concentrations had an EC50 of 3.01+/-0.85 microM (n=5). To investigate this further, we measured recovery of syncytiotrophoblast intracellular pH (pHi) from an acid load using a H+-selective, fluorescent dye (BCECF) loaded into isolated intact placental fragments. This recovery was blocked in the absence of Na+ and the presence of amiloride (500 microM) and concentrations of HOE 694 and S3226 were comparable to those used in vesicle experiments. Overall these data show that under the conditions used NHE activity in the term placental syncytiotrophoblast is absent from BM. NHE activity in the MVM is attributable predominantly to NHE1.
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Affiliation(s)
- P F Speake
- Human Development and Reproductive Health Academic Group, Academic Unit of Child Health, University of Manchester, St. Mary's Hospital, Hathersage Road, Manchester, M13 OJH, UK.
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Ericsson A, Hamark B, Powell TL, Jansson T. Glucose transporter isoform 4 is expressed in the syncytiotrophoblast of first trimester human placenta. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:521-30. [PMID: 15528266 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placental glucose transport mechanisms in early pregnancy are poorly understood. The aims of this study were to investigate the expression of glucose transporter (GLUT) isoforms 1, 3 and 4 in first trimester villous tissue, to assess the effects of insulin on glucose uptake and compare them with term. METHODS The expression of GLUT isoforms was investigated using immunohistochemistry, Western blot and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR in trophoblast tissue from terminations at 6-13 weeks gestation and term. The effects of insulin (300 ng/ml, 1 h) on glucose uptake were studied in villous fragments. RESULTS In the first trimester, GLUT1 and GLUT3 were present in the microvillous membrane and the cytotrophoblast, and GLUT4 in perinuclear membranes in the cytosol of the syncytiotrophoblast (ST). GLUT4 protein (48 kDa) and mRNA were identified in trophoblast homogenates. Whereas GLUT1 was expressed abundantly in term placenta, the expression of GLUT3 and 4 was markedly lower at term compared with first trimester. Insulin increased glucose uptake by 182% (n=6, P<0.05) in first trimester fragments, but not in term fragments. CONCLUSIONS The insulin-regulatable GLUT4 is expressed in the cytosol of first trimester ST compatible with a role for GLUT4 in placental glucose transport in early pregnancy. The placental expression pattern of GLUT isoforms in early pregnancy is distinct from that later in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ericsson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Perinatal Center, Göteborg University, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden.
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50
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Ericsson A, Hamark B, Jansson N, Johansson BR, Powell TL, Jansson T. Hormonal regulation of glucose and system A amino acid transport in first trimester placental villous fragments. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2004; 288:R656-62. [PMID: 15539610 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00407.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in placental nutrient transfer have been implicated in fetal growth abnormalities. In pregnancies complicated by diabetes and accelerated fetal growth, upregulations of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and amino acid transporter system A have been shown in the syncytiotrophoblast of term placenta. In contrast, intrauterine growth restriction is associated with a downregulation of placental system A transporters. However, underlying mechanisms of transporter regulation are poorly understood, particularly in early pregnancy. In this study, hormonal regulation of placental glucose and system A transporters was investigated. The uptake of 3-O-[methyl-(14)C]-d-glucose was studied in villous fragments isolated from first trimester (6-13 wk of gestation) and term human placenta. Villous fragments were incubated in buffer containing insulin, leptin, cortisol, growth hormone (GH), prolactin, IGF-I, or under hypo/hyperglycemic conditions for 1 h. Subsequently, 3-O-[methyl-(14)C]-D-glucose uptake was measured with and without phloretin for 70 s in first trimester tissue and 20 s in term tissue. Methylaminoisobutyric uptake was measured with and without Na+ for 20 min. Glucose uptake was unaltered by hormones or hypo/hyperglycemia. GH decreased system A activity by 31% in first trimester (P < 0.05). The uptake of glucose was 50% higher in term compared with first trimester fragments and increased markedly between 6 and 13 wk of gestation (P < 0.05). We conclude that placental glucose transporter activity is not regulated by short exposures to the hormones or glucose concentrations tested. In contrast to term placental villous fragments, system A activity was not regulated by insulin or leptin in first trimester but was downregulated by GH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette Ericsson
- Perinatal Center, Dept. of Physiology and Pharmacology, Göteborg University, Box 432, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden.
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