1
|
Prendergast C, Wray S, Dungate D, Martin C, Vaida A, Brook E, Chioma CA, Wallace H. Investigating the role of CFTR in human and mouse myometrium. Curr Res Physiol 2024; 7:100122. [PMID: 38501132 PMCID: PMC10945125 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2024.100122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Abnormal cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) function in cystic fibrosis (CF) has been linked to airway smooth muscle abnormalities including bronchial hyperresponsiveness. However, a role for CFTR in other types of smooth muscle, including myometrium, remains largely unexplored. As CF life expectancy and the number of pregnancies increases, there is a need for an understanding of the potential role of CFTR in myometrial function. Methods We investigated the role of CFTR in human and mouse myometrium. We used immunofluorescence to identify CFTR expression, and carried out contractility studies on spontaneously contracting term pregnant and non-pregnant mouse myometrium and term pregnant human myometrial biopsies from caesarean sections. Results CFTR was found to be expressed in term pregnant mouse myometrium. Inhibition of CFTR, with the selective inhibitor CFTRinh-172, significantly reduced contractility in pregnant mouse and human myometrium in a concentration-dependent manner (44.89 ± 11.02 term pregnant mouse, 9.23 ± 4.75 term-pregnant human; maximal effect at 60 μM expressed as a percentage of the pre-treatment control period). However, there was no effect of CFTRinh-172 in non-pregnant myometrium. Conclusion These results demonstrate decreased myometrial function when CFTR is inhibited, which may have implications on pregnancy and labour outcome and therapeutic decisions for labour in CF patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clodagh Prendergast
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Susan Wray
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniella Dungate
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Christine Martin
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Andra Vaida
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Elizabeth Brook
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Cecilia Ani Chioma
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Helen Wallace
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Habibullah MM. The role of CFTR channel in female infertility. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:1228-1237. [PMID: 36576330 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2161427] [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: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a cAMP-activated trans-membrane ATP gated anion channel present in most epithelia, which transports chloride and bicarbonate ions across the apical membrane. Mutations in the CFTR protein are known to result in defective expression or function, notably the inhibition of chloride and bicarbonate transport. This can result in cystic fibrosis (CF), a disorder characterised by thickness of the mucus lining of the epithelial cells of the alimentary and respiratory tracts, sweat ducts and reproductive organs. As a consequence, there is a reduction in fluid transport at the apical surface. While the most devastating effect of CF is mortality, about 98% of men with CF are infertile, consequent of early blockage of or failure to develop the mesonephrotic ducts as well as the vas deferens. The effect of CF of female fertility is less well-understood. This review highlights the genetics and pathophysiology as well as the mechanism of action of CF on female infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud M Habibullah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang Y, Wei H, Ji Y, Liu F, Shen Z, Zhang X. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator in follicular fluid and cumulus cells and its relationship with age. Exp Ther Med 2020; 21:138. [PMID: 33456505 PMCID: PMC7791913 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality deteriorates with female age and numerous indicators of oocyte quality exist. In the present study, the levels of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in the follicular fluid (FF) and cumulus cells (CCs) of infertile females in 3 different age groups were assessed to determine the relationship between CFTR and female age. The general features of the 3 groups, including age, body mass index, infertility duration, basal hormone levels and the number of retrieved oocytes were compared. The FF CFTR levels of the 3 groups were also compared and multiple age-related indicators of oocyte quality were analyzed, including the estradiol levels on the human chorionic gonadotropin injection day, the morphologically normal oocyte rate and the available or high-quality embryo rate. Immunofluorescence and PCR analyses were performed to examine CFTR expression in CCs around oocytes. The results indicated differences in general features and several indicators of oocyte quality among the 3 groups and significant differences in CFTR. The FF CFTR level was positively correlated with age, which was confirmed by immunofluorescence and PCR. Collectively, these results indicated that CFTR expression in FF and CCs may be associated with oocyte quality based on the age of individuals undergoing the assisted reproduction technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanqiu Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Hui Wei
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Yazhong Ji
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Feiping Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Zhijun Shen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| | - Xunyi Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200065, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ion Channels in The Pathogenesis of Endometriosis: A Cutting-Edge Point of View. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031114. [PMID: 32046116 PMCID: PMC7037987 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ion channels play a crucial role in many physiological processes. Several subtypes are expressed in the endometrium. Endometriosis is strictly correlated to estrogens and it is evident that expression and functionality of different ion channels are estrogen-dependent, fluctuating between the menstrual phases. However, their relationship with endometriosis is still unclear. OBJECTIVE To summarize the available literature data about the role of ion channels in the etiopathogenesis of endometriosis. METHODS A search on PubMed and Medline databases was performed from inception to November 2019. RESULTS Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), transient receptor potentials (TRPs), aquaporins (AQPs), and chloride channel (ClC)-3 expression and activity were analyzed. CFTR expression changed during the menstrual phases and was enhanced in endometriosis samples; its overexpression promoted endometrial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion throughout nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells-urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (NFκB-uPAR) signaling pathway. No connection between TRPs and the pathogenesis of endometriosis was found. AQP5 activity was estrogen-increased and, through phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase and protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), helped in vivo implantation of ectopic endometrium. In vitro, AQP9 participated in extracellular signal-regulated kinases/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/p38 MAPK) pathway and helped migration and invasion stimulating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2 and MMP9. ClC-3 was also overexpressed in ectopic endometrium and upregulated MMP9. CONCLUSION Available evidence suggests a pivotal role of CFTR, AQPs, and ClC-3 in endometriosis etiopathogenesis. However, data obtained are not sufficient to establish a direct role of ion channels in the etiology of the disease. Further studies are needed to clarify this relationship.
Collapse
|
5
|
Gifford AH, Heltshe SL, Goss CH. CFTR Modulator Use Is Associated with Higher Hemoglobin Levels in Individuals with Cystic Fibrosis. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2019; 16:331-340. [PMID: 30580531 PMCID: PMC6394125 DOI: 10.1513/annalsats.201807-449oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Understanding how cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators influence comorbid conditions like anemia is of great interest to the cystic fibrosis community. OBJECTIVES To test the hypothesis that CFTR modulators are associated with higher hemoglobin (Hgb) levels. METHODS Annualized Hgb and other laboratory, demographic, and anthropometric data were abstracted from the U.S. CF Foundation Patient Registry for adult and pediatric registrants before and after therapy with ivacaftor (IVA) or lumacaftor/ivacaftor (LUM/IVA) between January 2010 and December 2016. Univariate and multivariate linear mixed models were used to examine the effect of IVA on Hgb in patients with G551D-CFTR, and the effect of LUM/IVA on Hgb in F508del-CFTR homozygotes. Linear regression was used to characterize change in mean Hgb over time. RESULTS A total of 1,347 registrants (707 males and 640 females) with G551D-CFTR and 12,582 F508del-CFTR homozygotes (6,640 males and 5,942 females) who had never undergone lung transplant and had contemporaneous data regarding Hgb and CFTR modulator use were identified. IVA was associated with average Hgb increases of 0.54 gm/dl (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.39-0.69; P < 0.0001) and 0.18 gm/dl (95% CI, 0.01-0.35; P = 0.037) for males and females, respectively, with G551D-CFTR. LUM/IVA was associated with average Hgb increases of 0.58 gm/dl (95% CI, 0.48-0.68; P < 0.0001) and 0.26 gm/dl (95% CI, 0.20-0.33; P < 0.0001) for male and female F508del-CFTR homozygotes, respectively. In multivariate models, IVA positively affected Hgb in males but not females, and LUM/IVA positively affected Hgb in both sexes. CONCLUSIONS IVA and LUM/IVA use are both associated with higher Hgb levels in patients with CF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex H. Gifford
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
- Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Sonya L. Heltshe
- CFF Therapeutics Development Network Coordinating Center, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington; and
- Department of Pediatrics and
| | - Christopher H. Goss
- CFF Therapeutics Development Network Coordinating Center, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington; and
- Department of Pediatrics and
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ruan YC, Chen H, Chan HC. Ion channels in the endometrium: regulation of endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:517-29. [PMID: 24591147 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although embryo implantation is a prerequisite for human reproduction, it remains a poorly understood process. The molecular mechanisms regulating endometrial receptivity and/or embryo implantation are still largely unclear. METHODS Pubmed and Medline literature databases were searched for articles in English published up to December 2013 with relevant keywords including 'endometrium', 'Na(+), Cl(-), K(+), or Ca(2+) channels', 'ion channels', 'endometrial receptivity', 'blastocyst implantation' and 'embryo implantation'. RESULTS At the time of writing, more than 14 types of ion channels, including the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, epithelial sodium channel and various Ca(2+) and K(+) channels, had been reported to be expressed in the endometrium or cells of endometrial origin. In vitro and/or in vivo studies conducted on different species, including rodents, pigs and humans, demonstrated the involvement of various ion channels in the process of embryo implantation by regulating: (i) uterine luminal fluid volume; (ii) decidualization; and (iii) the expression of the genes associated with implantation. Importantly, abnormal ion channel expression was found to be associated with implantation failure in IVF patients. CONCLUSIONS Ion channels in the endometrium are emerging as important players in regulating endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Abnormal expression or function of ion channels in the endometrium may lead to impaired endometrial receptivity and/or implantation failure. Further investigation into the roles of endometrial ion channels may provide a better understanding of the complex process of embryo implantation and thus reveal novel targets for diagnosis and treatment of implantation failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Chun Ruan
- Sichuan University - The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| | - Hui Chen
- Sichuan University - The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| | - Hsiao Chang Chan
- Sichuan University - The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, People's Republic of China Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Patel SK, Jackson L, Warren AY, Arya P, Shaw RW, Khan RN. A role for two-pore potassium (K2P) channels in endometrial epithelial function. J Cell Mol Med 2013; 17:134-46. [PMID: 23305490 PMCID: PMC3823143 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2012.01656.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrial epithelium is pivotal to menstrual cycle progression, implantation and early pregnancy. Endometrial function is directly regulated by local factors that include pH, oxygen tension and ion concentrations to generate an environment conducive to fertilization. A superfamily of potassium channels characterized by two-pore domains (K2P) and encoded by KCNK genes is implicated in the control of the cell resting membrane potential through the generation of leak currents and modulation by various physicochemical stimuli. The aims of the study were to determine the expression and function of K2P channel subtypes in proliferative and secretory phase endometrium obtained from normo-ovulatory women and in an endometrial cancer cell line. Using immunochemical methods, real-time qRT-PCR proliferation assays and electrophysiology. Our results demonstrate mRNA for several K2P channel subtypes in human endometrium with molecular expression of TREK-1 shown to be higher in proliferative than secretory phase endometrium (P < 0.001). The K2P channel blockers methanandamide, lidocaine, zinc and curcumin had antiproliferative effects (P < 0.01) in an endometrial epithelial cancer cell line indicating a role for TASK and TREK-1 channels in proliferation. Tetraethylammonium- and 4-aminopyridine-insensitive outwards currents were inhibited at all voltages by reducing extracellular pH from 7.4 to 6.6. Higher expression of TREK-1 expression in proliferative phase endometrium may, in part, underlie linked to increased cell division. The effects of pH and a lack of effect of non-specific channel blockers of voltage-gated potassium channels imply a role for K2P channels in the regulation of human endometrial function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suraj K Patel
- Academic Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Nottingham, Derby, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang S, Lin H, Kong S, Wang S, Wang H, Wang H, Armant DR. Physiological and molecular determinants of embryo implantation. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:939-80. [PMID: 23290997 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 12/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation involves the intimate interaction between an implantation-competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus, which occurs in a limited time period known as the window of implantation. Emerging evidence shows that defects originating during embryo implantation induce ripple effects with adverse consequences on later gestation events, highlighting the significance of this event for pregnancy success. Although a multitude of cellular events and molecular pathways involved in embryo-uterine crosstalk during implantation have been identified through gene expression studies and genetically engineered mouse models, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of embryo implantation is still missing. This review focuses on recent progress with particular attention to physiological and molecular determinants of blastocyst activation, uterine receptivity, blastocyst attachment and uterine decidualization. A better understanding of underlying mechanisms governing embryo implantation should generate new strategies to rectify implantation failure and improve pregnancy rates in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gholami K, Muniandy S, Salleh N. In-vivo functional study on the involvement of CFTR, SLC26A6, NHE-1 and CA isoenzymes II and XII in uterine fluid pH, volume and electrolyte regulation in rats under different sex-steroid influence. Int J Med Sci 2013; 10:1121-34. [PMID: 23869188 PMCID: PMC3714388 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.5918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Precise control of uterine fluid pH, volume and electrolytes is important for the reproductive processes. In this study, we examined the functional involvement of multiple proteins including Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator (CFTR), Cl(-)/HCO3 (-) exchanger (SLC26A6), sodium-hydrogen exchanger-1 (NHE-1) and carbonic anhydrase (CA) in the regulation of these uterine fluid parameters. METHODS Adult female WKY rats were divided into intact, non-ovariectomised at different oestrous cycle phases and ovariectomised treated with sex-steroids. Following oestrous phase identification or sex-steroid treatment, in-vivo uterine perfusion was performed with and without the presence of these inhibitors: glibenclamide, DIDS, ACTZ and EIPA. The pH, volume, Cl(-), HCO3 (-) and Na(+) concentrations of the perfusate from different groups were then analyzed. Meanwhile, the expression of CFTR, SLC26A6, NHE-1, CAII and CAXII was visualized by immunohistochemistry (IHC). RESULTS Parallel increase in the pH, volume, Cl(-), HCO3 (-) and Na(+) concentrations was observed at estrus (Es), proestrus (Ps) and following 17β-oestradiol (E) treatment, which was inhibited by glibenclamide, DIDS and ACTZ while parallel reduction in these parameters was observed at diestrus (Ds) and following progesterone (P) treatment which was inhibited by ACTZ and EIPA. CFTR and SLC26A6 expression were up-regulated under E dominance, while NHE-1 expression was up-regulated under P dominance. Meanwhile, CA isoenzymes were expressed under both E and P influence. CONCLUSION CFTR, SLC26A6 and CA were involved in mediating parallel increase in the uterine fluid volume, pH and electrolyte concentration under E while NHE and CA were involved in mediating the reduction of these parameters under P.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Gholami
- Dept of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Song Y, Wang Q, Huang W, Xiao L, Shen L, Xu W. NF κB expression increases and CFTR and MUC1 expression decreases in the endometrium of infertile patients with hydrosalpinx: a comparative study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2012; 10:86. [PMID: 23061681 PMCID: PMC3551815 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-10-86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hydrosalpinx are associated with infertility, due to reduced rates of implantation and increased abortion rates. The aims of this study were to investigate the expression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), nuclear factor kappa B (NF KappaB) and mucin-1 (MUC-1), and analyze the correlation between the expression of CFTR and NF KappaB or MUC1, in the endometrium of infertile women with and without hydrosalpinx. METHODS Thirty-one infertile women with laparoscopy-confirmed unilateral or bilateral hydrosalpinx and 20 infertile women without hydrosalpinx or pelvic inflammatory disease (control group) were recruited. Endometrial biopsy samples were collected and the expression of CFTR, NF KappaB and MUC1 were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS CFTR, NF KappaB and MUC1 mRNA and protein expression tended to increase in the secretory phase compared to the proliferative phase in both groups; however, these differences were not significantly different. The endometrium of infertile patients with hydrosalpinx had significantly higher NF KappaB mRNA and protein expression, and significantly lower CFTR and MUC1 mRNA and protein expression, compared to control infertile patients. A positive correlation was observed between CFTR and MUC1 mRNA expression (r = 0.65, P < 0.05); a negative correlation was observed between CFTR mRNA and NF KappaB mRNA expression (r = -0.59, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Increased NF KappaB expression and decreased CFTR and MUC1 expression in the endometrium of infertile patients with hydrosalpinx reinforce the involvement of a molecular mechanism in the regulation of endometrial receptivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Song
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiushi Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Xiao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Licong Shen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenming Xu
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gill M, Bartolo RC, Demmers K, Harfoot N, Fan S, Butt G. The distribution and expression of CFTR restricts electrogenic anion secretion to the ileum of the brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 214:1943-54. [PMID: 21562182 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.053371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In eutherian mammals, fluid secretion is essential for intestinal function. This is driven by electrogenic Cl(-) secretion, which involves a NaK2Cl cotransporter (NKCC1) in the enterocyte basolateral membrane and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in the apical membrane. However, in the possum ileum, NKCC1 expression is low and secretagogues stimulate electrogenic HCO(3)(-) secretion driven by a basolateral NaHCO(3) cotransporter (pNBCe1). Here we investigated whether electrogenic anion secretion occurs in possum duodenum and jejunum and determined the role of CFTR in possum intestinal anion secretion. Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and forskolin stimulated a large increase in ileal short-circuit current (I(sc)), consistent with electrogenic HCO(3)(-) secretion, but had little effect on the duodenal and jejunal I(sc). Furthermore, 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)benzoic acid (NPPB) and N-(2-naphthalenyl)-[(3,5-dibromo-2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)methylene]glycine hydrazide (GlyH101) inhibited cloned possum CFTR in cultured cells and the PGE(2)-stimulated ileal I(sc), implicating CFTR in ileal HCO(3)(-) secretion. Consistent with this, CFTR is expressed in the apical membrane of ileal crypt and lower villous cells, which also express pNBCe1 in the basolateral membrane. In contrast, duodenal and jejunal CFTR expression is low relative to the ileum. Jejunal pNBCe1 expression is also low, whereas duodenal and ileal pNBCe1 expression are comparable. All regions have low NKCC1 expression. These results indicate that cAMP-dependent electrogenic Cl(-) secretion does not occur in the possum small intestine because of the absence of CFTR and NKCC1. Furthermore, CFTR functions as the apical anion conductance associated with HCO(3)(-) secretion and its distribution limits electrogenic HCO(3)(-) secretion to the ileum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mike Gill
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yang JZ, Jiang X, Dong J, Guo J, Chen H, Tsang LL, Chung YW, Zhang X, Chan HC. Abnormally enhanced cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator-mediated apoptosis in endometrial cells contributes to impaired embryo implantation in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:2100-6, 2106.e1-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2010] [Revised: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
13
|
Plog S, Mundhenk L, Bothe MK, Klymiuk N, Gruber AD. Tissue and cellular expression patterns of porcine CFTR: similarities to and differences from human CFTR. J Histochem Cytochem 2010; 58:785-97. [PMID: 20498480 PMCID: PMC2924795 DOI: 10.1369/jhc.2010.955377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2009] [Accepted: 05/13/2010] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging porcine models of cystic fibrosis (CF) are expected to mimic the human disease more closely than current mouse models do. However, little is known of the tissue and cellular expression patterns of the porcine CF transmembrane conductance regulator (pCFTR) and possible differences from human CFTR (hCFTR). Here, the expression pattern of pCFTR was systematically established on the mRNA and protein levels. Using specific anti-pCFTR antibodies, the majority of the protein was immunohistochemically detected on paraffin-embedded sections and on cryostate sections in the apical cytosol of intestinal crypt epithelial cells, nasal, tracheal, and bronchial epithelial cells, and other select, mostly glandular epithelial cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy with co-localization of the Golgi marker 58K localized the protein in the cytosol between the Golgi apparatus and the apical cell membrane with occasional punctate or diffuse staining of the apical membrane. The tissue and cellular distribution patterns were confirmed by RT-PCR from whole tissue lysates or select cells after laser capture microdissection. Thus, expression of pCFTR was found to largely resemble that of hCFTR except for the kidney, brain, and cutaneous glands, which lack expression in pigs. Species-specific differences between pCFTR and hCFTR may become relevant for future interpretations of the CF phenotype in pig models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Plog
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang X, Bocca S, Franchi A, Anderson S, Kaur M, Bajic VB, Oehninger S. Do GnRH analogues directly affect human endometrial epithelial cell gene expression? Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 16:347-60. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
15
|
Guo Y, Su M, Su M, McNutt MA, Gu J. Expression and distribution of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator in neurons of the spinal cord. J Neurosci Res 2010; 87:3611-9. [PMID: 19533735 PMCID: PMC7167064 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.22154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
To verify the hypothesis that cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is expressed in neurons of the human spinal cord, we investigated the presence and distribution of CFTR protein and mRNA in different segments of the human spinal cord obtained from autopsies. The techniques employed included reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) to detect CFTR gene expression, in situ hybridization to detect mRNA distribution, and immunohistochemistry to detect protein distribution. The specificity of these experiments was established with extensive controls. We found widespread and abundant expression of CFTR in neurons of the human spinal cord. CFTR protein and mRNA are localized to the cytoplasm of neurons in all segments of the spinal cord but not to glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)‐positive cells. CFTR is a very important molecule, acting as a chloride channel and regulating many physiological functions, including salt transport, fluid flow, and intracellular ion concentrations. Its mutation causes cystic fibrosis. Our finding of abundant CFTR in the spinal cord suggests that this molecule may be significant in the normal function and pathology of the spinal cord. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Guo
- Department of Pathology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Demmers KJ, Carter D, Fan S, Mao P, Maqbool NJ, McLeod BJ, Bartolo R, Butt AG. Molecular and functional characterization of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator from the Australian common brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula. J Comp Physiol B 2009; 180:545-61. [PMID: 20012660 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-009-0433-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2009] [Revised: 11/14/2009] [Accepted: 11/19/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Unlike eutherian mammals, the colon of the Australian common brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, a metatherian mammal, is incapable of electrogenic Cl(-) secretion and has elevated levels of electrogenic Na(+) absorption, while the ileum secretes HCO (3) (-) rather than Cl(-). In eutherian mammals, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is essential for both Cl(-) and HCO (3) (-) secretion and the regulation of Na(+) absorption. Therefore, we have sequenced possum (p)CFTR, described its distribution and characterized the properties of cloned pCFTR expressed in Fischer rat thyroid (FRT) cells. pCFTR (GenBank accession No. AY916796) has a 1,478 amino acid open reading frame, which has >90% identity with CFTR from other marsupials and >80% identity with non-rodent eutherian mammals. In pCFTR, there is a high level of conservation of the transmembrane and nucleotide binding domains although, with the exception of other marsupials, there is considerable divergence from other species in the R domain. FRT cells transfected with pCFTR express mature CFTR protein which functions as a small Cl(-) channel activated by cAMP-dependent phosphorylation. In whole-cell recordings it has a linear, time and voltage-independent conductance, with a selectivity sequence P(Br) > P(Cl) > P(I) > P(HCO)(3) >> P(Gluconate). pCFTR transcript is present in a range of epithelia, including the ileum and the colon. The presence of pCFTR in the ileum and its measured HCO (3) (-) permeability suggest that it may be involved in ileal HCO (3) (-) secretion. Why the possum colon does not secrete Cl(-) and has elevated electrogenic Na(+) absorption, despite the apparent expression of CFTR, remains to be determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K J Demmers
- AgResearch, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Private Bag 50034, Mosgiel 9024, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Patrat C, Serres C. La capacitation in vivo : influence de l’environnement féminin. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 37:536-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2009.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2009] [Accepted: 04/09/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
18
|
Jin L, Tang R. Expression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator in rat ovary. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 28:584-7. [PMID: 18846344 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-008-0521-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2006] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The protein expression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a cAMP-activated Cl(-) channel, in ovarian stimulated premature female rat ovary during a cycle of follicle development and corpus luteum formation was investigated. Animals were injected with 10 U pregnant Mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and subsequently 10 U hCG 48 h later. Time-dependent immunohistochemistry and Western blotting experiments were performed before and 24, 48, 72 h after hCG treatment. The immunohistochemistry revealed that administration of PMSG stimulated the CFTR expression in thecal cell layer and granulosa cell layer of mature follicles 48 h post injection, coincident with the PMSG-induced peak in follicular estradiol. However, the expression of CFTR in the granulose lutein cell layer and thecal lutein cell layer was time-dependently reduced following hCG injection, in accordance with the gradually increased progestogen level during luteum corpus formation. Western blotting analysis demonstrated that rat ovarian tissue expressed the special CFTR band at 170 kD. It is concluded that cAMP-dependent Cl(-) channels are involved in regulation of follicle development and luteum formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hodges CA, Palmert MR, Drumm ML. Infertility in females with cystic fibrosis is multifactorial: evidence from mouse models. Endocrinology 2008; 149:2790-7. [PMID: 18325992 PMCID: PMC2408809 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is commonly associated with cystic fibrosis (CF). Although infertility in men with CF has been thoroughly investigated, the infertility observed in women with CF has not been well studied. To investigate female infertility associated with CF, we used two independently derived mouse models of CF. Both of these models displayed decreased fertility characterized by a reduction in litter number and litter size. Our findings suggest that much of the reduced fertility in these mice originates from decreased fertilization due to inadequate sperm transport within the female reproductive tract. However, our data indicate that additional reproductive phenotypes in the CF female mice also contribute to the reduced fertility including small ovarian and uterine size, aberrant estrous cycles, and decreased oocyte ovulation rates. These data, along with previous work demonstrating that the gene mutated in CF, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), is normally expressed in tissues vital to reproduction, raises the possibility that CFTR may have a direct effect on fertility. If so, CFTR may also play an important role in normal female fertility within the general population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Craig A Hodges
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve School of Medicine and Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dassen H, Punyadeera C, Kamps R, Klomp J, Dunselman G, Dijcks F, de Goeij A, Ederveen A, Groothuis P. Progesterone regulation of implantation-related genes: new insights into the role of oestrogen. Cell Mol Life Sci 2007; 64:1009-32. [PMID: 17404688 PMCID: PMC2778656 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-007-6553-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Genomic profiling was performed on explants of late proliferative phase human endometrium after 24-h treatment with progesterone (P) or oestradiol and progesterone (17β-E2+P) and on explants of menstrual phase endometrium treated with 17β-E2+P. Gene expression was validated with real-time PCR in the samples used for the arrays, in endometrium collected from early and mid-secretory phase endometrium, and in additional experiments performed on new samples collected in the menstrual and late proliferative phase. The results show that late proliferative phase human endometrium is more responsive to progestins than menstrual phase endometrium, that the expression of several genes associated with embryo implantation (i.e. thrombomodulin, monoamine oxidase A, SPARC-like 1) can be induced by P in vitro, and that genes that are fully dependent on the continuous presence of 17β-E2 during P exposure can be distinguished from those that are P-dependent to a lesser extent. Therefore, 17β-E2 selectively primes implantation-related genes for the effects of P.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H. Dassen
- Research Institute GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - C. Punyadeera
- Research Institute GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Philips Research, High Tech Campus 11, Room 1.1.40, 5656 AE Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - R. Kamps
- Research Institute GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - J. Klomp
- Department of Pharmacology, Organon N.V., Oss, The Netherlands
| | - G. Dunselman
- Research Institute GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Maastricht/Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - F. Dijcks
- Department of Pharmacology, Organon N.V., Oss, The Netherlands
| | - A. de Goeij
- Research Institute GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - A. Ederveen
- Department of Pharmacology, Organon N.V., Oss, The Netherlands
| | - P. Groothuis
- Research Institute GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Maastricht/Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chan HC, Shi QX, Zhou CX, Wang XF, Xu WM, Chen WY, Chen AJ, Ni Y, Yuan YY. Critical role of CFTR in uterine bicarbonate secretion and the fertilizing capacity of sperm. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2006; 250:106-13. [PMID: 16414184 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2005.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a cAMP-activated Cl- channel expressed in a wide variety of epithelial cells, mutations of which are responsible for hallmark defective Cl- and HCO3- secretion seen in cystic fibrosis (CF). However, the physiological role of CFTR in reproductive tracts is far from understood although infertility has been observed in CF patients of both sexes. Previously we have demonstrated the expression of CFTR in the female reproductive tract and the involvement of CFTR in mediating anion secretion by the endometrium. Our recent results show that endometrial epithelial cells possess a cAMP-activated HCO3- transport mechanism, which could be impaired with channel blockers known to block CFTR or antisense against CFTR. Co-culture of sperm with CFTR antisense-treated endometrial cells or HCO3- secretion-defective CF epithelial cells resulted in reduced sperm capacitation and egg-fertilizing ability. Addition of HCO3- to the culture media and transfection of wild-type CFTR into CF cells rescued the fertilizing capacity of sperm. Immunostaining and Western blot revealed that CFTR is expressed in rodent sperm and intracellular measurement of pH during sperm capacitation indicated that the entry of HCO3- into sperm could be inhibited by CFTR inhibitor. These results are consistent with a critical role of CFTR in controlling uterine HCO3- secretion and sperm fertilizing capacity, suggesting that CFTR may be a potential target for post-meiotic regulation of fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao Chang Chan
- Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Physiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 410, Basic Medical Sciences Building, Shatin, Hong Kong.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Piccoli R, Di Spiezio Sardo A, Insabato L, Acunzo G, Guida M, Nappi C. Endocervical metaplasia of the endometrium in a patient with cystic fibrosis: a case report. Fertil Steril 2006; 85:750.e13-750.e16. [PMID: 16500350 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.07.1336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2005] [Revised: 07/22/2005] [Accepted: 07/22/2005] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the case of an infertile female patient with cystic fibrosis who was diagnosed with endocervical metaplasia of the endometrium at diagnostic hysteroscopy and successfully treated with an oral estroprogestinic formulation. DESIGN Case report. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) A 27-year-old infertile female patient with cystic fibrosis. INTERVENTION(S) Hysteroscopy with multiple random biopsies was performed at the time of the first visit and after a 10-month cycle with an oral estroprogestinic formulation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Hysteroscopic evaluation with target biopsy; histological examinations of endometrial specimens. RESULT(S) Our patient benefited from a 10-month cycle with an oral estroprogestinic formulation. At the control visit we noticed a significant improvement in the hysteroscopic appearance of her endometrium, and the histological examination confirmed the complete reversion of the metaplastic alterations previously observed. CONCLUSION(S) The present report suggests a novel histological alteration possibly involved in affecting fertility in women with cystic fibrosis. In addition, the positive response to the estroprogestinic treatment observed in our patient poses new questions regarding the relationship between ovarian hormones and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein regulation, offering interesting perspectives for a hormonal therapy in the treatment of subfertility in women with cystic fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Piccoli
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Pathophysiology of Human Reproduction, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|