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Višnić A, Barišić D, Čanadi Jurešić G, Sušanj Šepić T, Smiljan Severinski N. Identification of urine biomarkers of endometriosis-Protein mass spectrometry. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13856. [PMID: 38709906 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13856] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to a series of pathological reactions. The basis is a changed proinflammatory activated immune system, which results in more pronounced oxidative stress, disturbed function of proteolysis and cell apoptosis. These processes are crucial in the development of the disease because their dysfunctional activities cause the progression of the disease. It is believed that the proteins excreted in the urine interact with each other and promote pathological processes in endometriosis. METHODS We analyzed the urine proteome of patients and aimed to detect a potential protein biomarker for endometriosis in the urine proteome. We collected urine samples from 16 patients with endometriosis and 16 patients in the control group with functional ovarian cysts. The diagnosis for all patients was confirmed through pathohistological analysis. After the preanalytical preparation of the urine, chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) used the technology of urine proteome analysis. RESULTS The main finding was a significantly different concentration of 14 proteins in the urine samples. We recorded a considerably higher concentration of proteins that have a significant role in activating the immune system (SELL), iron metabolism (HAMP) and cell apoptosis (CHGA) in endometriosis compared to controls. Proteins having an antioxidant function (SOD1) and a role in proteolysis of the extracellular matrix (MMP-9) were significantly reduced in endometriosis compared to controls. CONCLUSION Consistent with the known pathogenesis of endometriosis, the study results complement the pathological responses that occur with disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alenka Višnić
- Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka, Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Human Reproduction and Endocrinology, Rijeka, Croatia
| | | | - Gordana Čanadi Jurešić
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Tina Sušanj Šepić
- Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka, Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Human Reproduction and Endocrinology, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Neda Smiljan Severinski
- Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka, Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Human Reproduction and Endocrinology, Rijeka, Croatia
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James DW, Quintela M, Lucini L, Alkafri NK, Healey GD, Younas K, Bunkheila A, Margarit L, Francis LW, Gonzalez D, Conlan RS. Homeobox regulator Wilms Tumour 1 is displaced by androgen receptor at cis-regulatory elements in the endometrium of PCOS patients. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1368494. [PMID: 38745948 PMCID: PMC11091321 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1368494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Decidualisation, the process whereby endometrial stromal cells undergo morphological and functional transformation in preparation for trophoblast invasion, is often disrupted in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) resulting in complications with pregnancy and/or infertility. The transcription factor Wilms tumour suppressor 1 (WT1) is a key regulator of the decidualization process, which is reduced in patients with PCOS, a complex condition characterized by increased expression of androgen receptor in endometrial cells and high presence of circulating androgens. Using genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation approaches on primary human endometrial stromal cells, we identify key genes regulated by WT1 during decidualization, including homeobox transcription factors which are important for regulating cell differentiation. Furthermore, we found that AR in PCOS patients binds to the same DNA regions as WT1 in samples from healthy endometrium, suggesting dysregulation of genes important to decidualisation pathways in PCOS endometrium due to competitive binding between WT1 and AR. Integrating RNA-seq and H3K4me3 and H3K27ac ChIP-seq metadata with our WT1/AR data, we identified a number of key genes involved in immune response and angiogenesis pathways that are dysregulated in PCOS patients. This is likely due to epigenetic alterations at distal enhancer regions allowing AR to recruit cofactors such as MAGEA11, and demonstrates the consequences of AR disruption of WT1 in PCOS endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W. James
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lisa Lucini
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Kinza Younas
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Adnan Bunkheila
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Lavinia Margarit
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, United Kingdom
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Bridgend, United Kingdom
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Tan H, Long P, Xiao H. Dissecting the shared genetic architecture between endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1359236. [PMID: 38742190 PMCID: PMC11089172 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1359236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Previous study suggested evidence for coexistence and similarities between endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but it is unclear regarding the shared genetic architecture and causality underlying the phenotypic similarities observed for endometriosis and PCOS. Methods By leveraging summary statistics from public genome-wide association studies regarding endometriosis (European-based: N=470,866) and PCOS (European-based: N=210,870), we explored the genetic correlation that shared between endometriosis and PCOS using linkage disequilibrium score regression. Shared risk SNPs were derived using PLACO (Pleiotropic analysis under composite null hypothesis) and FUMA (Functional Mapping and Annotation of Genetic Associations). The potential causal association between endometriosis and PCOS was investigated using two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). Linkage disequilibrium score for the specific expression of genes analysis (LDSC-SEG) were performed for tissue enrichment analysis. The expression profiles of the risk gene in tissues were further examined. Results A positive genetic association was observed between endometriosis and PCOS. 12 significant pleiotropic loci shared between endometriosis and PCOS were identified. Genetic associations between endometriosis and PCOS were particularly enriched in uterus, endometrium and fallopian tube. Two-sample MR analysis further indicated a potential causative effect of endometriosis on PCOS, and vice versa. Microarray and RNA-seq verified the expressions of SYNE1 and DNM3 were significantly altered in the endometrium of patients with endometriosis or PCOS compared to those of control subjects. Conclusion Our study indicates the genetic correlation and shared risk genes between PCOS and endometriosis. These findings provide insights into the potential mechanisms behind their comorbidity and the future development of therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangjing Tan
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Center of Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Panpan Long
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Center of Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Genetics, Changsha Jiangwan Maternity Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hongmei Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Center of Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Zhong J, Li J, Burton GJ, Koistinen H, Cheung KW, Ng EHY, Yao Y, Yeung WSB, Lee CL, Chiu PCN. The functional roles of protein glycosylation in human maternal-fetal crosstalk. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:81-108. [PMID: 37699855 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad024] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The establishment of maternal-fetal crosstalk is vital to a successful pregnancy. Glycosylation is a post-translational modification in which glycans (monosaccharide chains) are attached to an organic molecule. Glycans are involved in many physiological and pathological processes. Human endometrial epithelium, endometrial gland secretions, decidual immune cells, and trophoblasts are highly enriched with glycoconjugates and glycan-binding molecules important for a healthy pregnancy. Aberrant glycosylation in the placenta and uterus has been linked to repeated implantation failure and various pregnancy complications, but there is no recent review summarizing the functional roles of glycosylation at the maternal-fetal interface and their associations with pathological processes. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize recent findings on glycosylation, glycosyltransferases, and glycan-binding receptors at the maternal-fetal interface, and their involvement in regulating the biology and pathological conditions associated with endometrial receptivity, placentation and maternal-fetal immunotolerance. Current knowledge limitations and future insights into the study of glycobiology in reproduction are discussed. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted using the following keywords: glycosylation, glycosyltransferases, glycan-binding proteins, endometrium, trophoblasts, maternal-fetal immunotolerance, siglec, selectin, galectin, repeated implantation failure, early pregnancy loss, recurrent pregnancy loss, preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction. Relevant reports published between 1980 and 2023 and studies related to these reports were retrieved and reviewed. Only publications written in English were included. OUTCOMES The application of ultrasensitive mass spectrometry tools and lectin-based glycan profiling has enabled characterization of glycans present at the maternal-fetal interface and in maternal serum. The endometrial luminal epithelium is covered with highly glycosylated mucin that regulates blastocyst adhesion during implantation. In the placenta, fucose and sialic acid residues are abundantly presented on the villous membrane and are essential for proper placentation and establishment of maternal-fetal immunotolerance. Glycan-binding receptors, including selectins, sialic-acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (siglecs) and galectins, also modulate implantation, trophoblast functions and maternal-fetal immunotolerance. Aberrant glycosylation is associated with repeated implantation failure, early pregnancy loss and various pregnancy complications. The current limitation in the field is that most glycobiological research relies on association studies, with few studies revealing the specific functions of glycans. Technological advancements in analytic, synthetic and functional glycobiology have laid the groundwork for further exploration of glycans in reproductive biology under both physiological and pathological conditions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS A deep understanding of the functions of glycan structures would provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying their involvement in the physiological and pathological regulation of early pregnancy. Glycans may also potentially serve as novel early predictive markers and therapeutic targets for repeated implantation failure, pregnancy loss, and other pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangming Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianlin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
| | - Graham J Burton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hannu Koistinen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ka Wang Cheung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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Alvarez CA, Qian E, Glendenning LM, Reynero KM, Kukan EN, Cobb BA. Acute and chronic lung inflammation drives changes in epithelial glycans. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1167908. [PMID: 37283757 PMCID: PMC10239862 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1167908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Asthma is the most common chronic inflammatory disease and it is characterized by leukocyte infiltration and tissue remodeling, with the latter generally referring to collagen deposition and epithelial hyperplasia. Changes in hyaluronin production have also been demonstrated, while mutations in fucosyltransferases reportedly limit asthmatic inflammation. Methods Given the importance of glycans in cellular communication and to better characterize tissue glycosylation changes associated with asthma, we performed a comparative glycan analysis of normal and inflamed lungs from a selection of murine asthma models. Results We found that among other changes, the most consistent was an increase in fucose-α1,3-N-acetylglucosamine (Fuc-α1,3-GlcNAc) and fucose-α1,2-galactose (Fuc-α1,2-Gal) motifs. Increases in terminal galactose and N-glycan branching were also seen in some cases, whereas no overall change in O-GalNAc glycans was observed. Increased Muc5AC was found in acute but not chronic models, and only the more human-like triple antigen model yielded increased sulfated galactose motifs. We also found that human A549 airway epithelial cells stimulated in culture showed similar increases in Fuc-α1,2-Gal, terminal galactose (Gal), and sulfated Gal, and this matched transcriptional upregulation of the α1,2-fucosyltransferase Fut2 and the α1,3-fucosyltransferases Fut4 and Fut7. Conclusions These data suggest that airway epithelial cells directly respond to allergens by increasing glycan fucosylation, a known modification important for the recruitment of eosinophils and neutrophils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A. Alvarez
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Emily Qian
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Hathaway Brown High School, Beachwood, OH, United States
| | - Leandre M. Glendenning
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Kalob M. Reynero
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Emily N. Kukan
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Brian A. Cobb
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
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Sieg W, Kiewisz J, Podolak A, Jakiel G, Woclawek-Potocka I, Lukaszuk J, Lukaszuk K. Inflammation-Related Molecules at the Maternal-Fetal Interface during Pregnancy and in Pathologically Altered Endometrium. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:3792-3808. [PMID: 36135172 PMCID: PMC9497515 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44090260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The blastocyst expresses paternally derived alloantigens and induces inflammation during implantation. However, it is necessary for the onset of pregnancy. An abnormal response might result in a pathological course of pregnancy or pregnancy failure. On the other hand, a state of maternal immune tolerance is necessary to ensure the normal development of pregnancy by suppressing inflammatory processes. This article discusses recognized mechanisms and the significance of inflammatory processes for embryo implantation and pregnancy establishment. We would also like to present disorders involving excessive inflammatory response and their influence on events occurring during embryo implantation. The chain of correlation between the processes responsible for embryo implantation and the subsequent physiological course of pregnancy is complicated. Many of those interrelationships are still yet to be discovered. Undoubtedly, their recognition will give hope to infertile couples for the emergence of new treatments that will increase the chance of giving birth to a healthy child.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jolanta Kiewisz
- Department of Human Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-561 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Amira Podolak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- Invicta Research and Development Center, 81-740 Sopot, Poland
- The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gdansk, 01-004 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Izabela Woclawek-Potocka
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jakub Lukaszuk
- Invicta Research and Development Center, 81-740 Sopot, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Lukaszuk
- Invicta Research and Development Center, 81-740 Sopot, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
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Peripheral node addressin, a ligand for L-selectin is found in tumor cells and in high endothelial venules in endometrial cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 233:153888. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.153888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Xiang R, Chen P, Zeng Z, Liu H, Zhou J, Zhou C, Peng J, Zeng H. Transcriptomic analysis shows that surgical treatment is likely to influence the endometrial receptivity of patients with stage III/IV endometriosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:932339. [PMID: 36171908 PMCID: PMC9511704 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.932339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis negatively affects fertility, and it is a common disease in assisted reproductive practice. Surgical removal of endometriotic lesions is widely carried out to relieve symptoms and promote fertility. But it is not intensively investigated what changes in the secretory eutopic endometrium of patients with endometriosis after surgery. METHODS Eighteen patients with stage III/IV endometriosis were included in the study, and they were divided into the untreated group and the treated group (6 vs. 12). Basic clinical data were compared, and transcriptomic data of the secretory eutopic endometrium were analyzed with DESeq2, Cytoscape, ClueGO, CluePedia, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). CIBERSORT was used to calculate the relative abundance of 22 immune cells in the samples. RESULTS We determined 346 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using DESeq2. These DEGs were used to enrich seven Gene Ontology terms including three associated with immune processes and one correlated to prostaglandin using ClueGO and CluePedia. GSEA enriched 28 Gene Ontology terms in the treated group mainly associated with immune and blood pressure regulation process. Compared to the untreated group, the relative abundance of resting CD4+ memory T cells [0.218 (0.069, 0.334) vs. 0.332 (0.181, 0.429), P = 0.022] and the even less abundant memory B cells [0.001 (0.000, 0.083) vs. 0.033 (0.007, 0.057), P = 0.049] are significantly decreased in the treated group. CONCLUSION Surgical treatment of stage III/IV endometriosis influences some genes and biological processes related to endometrial receptivity, but more evidence is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Xiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peigen Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huijun Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Juan Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuanchuan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jintao Peng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jintao Peng, ; Haitao Zeng,
| | - Haitao Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jintao Peng, ; Haitao Zeng,
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Frincu F, Carp-Veliscu A, Petca A, Badiu DC, Bratila E, Cirstoiu M, Mehedintu C. Maternal-Fetal Outcomes in Women with Endometriosis and Shared Pathogenic Mechanisms. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:1258. [PMID: 34833476 PMCID: PMC8625694 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57111258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The connection between endometriosis and pregnancy outcomes is trending among the research topics. Until recently, endometriosis and its painful symptomatology were considered to be alleviated by pregnancy. However, these beliefs have shifted, as emerging literature has demonstrated the role of this condition in affecting pregnancy evolution. The underlying pathogenesis of endometriosis is still poorly understood, all the more when pregnancy complications are involved. Debatable opinions on endometriosis associated with obstetric complications exist because of the potential bias resulting from the heterogeneity of preceding evidence. This review aims to evaluate the connection between endometriosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes and their shared pathogenic mechanisms. We searched PubMed and EMBASE and focused on the studies that include placenta praevia, premature rupture of membranes, spontaneous preterm birth, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, obstetric hemorrhages (ante- and postpartum bleeding, abruptio placentae), miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, gestational diabetes mellitus, gestational cholestasis, small for gestational age, and their association with endometriosis. Not only the risks of emergence were highlighted, but also the pathogenic connections. Epigenetic alterations of some genes were found to be mirrored both in endometriosis and obstetric complications. This review issues a warning for providing increased attention to pregnant women with endometriosis and newborns as higher risks of preeclampsia, placental issues, and preterm deliveries are associated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Frincu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (F.F.); (A.P.); (E.B.); (M.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Andreea Carp-Veliscu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (F.F.); (A.P.); (E.B.); (M.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Aida Petca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (F.F.); (A.P.); (E.B.); (M.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Dumitru-Cristinel Badiu
- Department of General Surgery, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Elvira Bratila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (F.F.); (A.P.); (E.B.); (M.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Monica Cirstoiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (F.F.); (A.P.); (E.B.); (M.C.); (C.M.)
| | - Claudia Mehedintu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (F.F.); (A.P.); (E.B.); (M.C.); (C.M.)
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Ziganshina MM, Dolgushina NV, Kulikova GV, Fayzullina NM, Yarotskaya EL, Khasbiullina NR, Abdurakhmanova NF, Asaturova AV, Shchegolev AI, Dovgan AA, Sukhikh GT. Epithelial apical glycosylation changes associated with thin endometrium in women with infertility - a pilot observational study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:73. [PMID: 33992099 PMCID: PMC8122553 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00750-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low endometrial receptivity is one of the major factors affecting successful implantation in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Infertile patients with thin endometrium have a significantly lower cumulative clinical pregnancy rate than patients with normal endometrium. Molecular pathophysiology of low receptivity of thin endometrium remains understudied. We have investigated composition of glycocalyx of the apical surface of luminal and glandular epithelial cells in thin endometrium of infertile women. METHODS Thirty-two patients with tubal-peritoneal infertility undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) were included in the study. Endometrial samples were obtained in a natural menstrual cycle. Patients were divided into two groups: patients with normal endometrium (≥8 mm) and with thin endometrium (< 8 mm). Histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of paraffin-embedded endometrial samples was performed using six biotinylated lectins (UEA-I, MAL-II, SNA, VVL, ECL, Con A) and anti-LeY and MECA-79 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). RESULTS Complex glycans analysis taking into account the adjusted specificity of glycan-binding MAbs revealed 1.3 times less expression of MECA-79 glycans on the apical surface of the luminal epithelial cells of thin endometrium compared to normal endometrium; this deficiency may adversely affect implantation, since MECA-79 glycans are a ligand of L-selectin and mediate intercellular interactions. The glycans containing a type-2 unit Galβ1-4GlcNAcβ (LacNAc) but lacking sulfo-residues at 6-OH of GlcNAcβ, and binding to MECA-79 MAbs were found; they can be considered as potential markers of endometrium receptivity. Expression of the lectins-stained glycans on the apical surfaces of the luminal and glandular epithelial cells did not differ significantly. Correlation between the expression of difucosylated oligosaccharide LeY on the apical surfaces of the luminal and glandular epithelial cells was found in patients with thin endometrium and recurrent implantation failure. A similar relationship was shown for mannose-rich glycans. CONCLUSIONS Specific features of key glycans expression in epithelial compartments of thin endometrium may be essential for morphogenesis of the endometrial functional layer and explain its low receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina M Ziganshina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997.
| | - Nataliya V Dolgushina
- R&D Department, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov, Trubetskaya str. 8-2, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Galina V Kulikova
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Nafisa M Fayzullina
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Ekaterina L Yarotskaya
- Department of International Cooperation, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Nailia R Khasbiullina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
| | - Nigora F Abdurakhmanova
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Aleksandra V Asaturova
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Alexander I Shchegolev
- Department of Pathology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Alina A Dovgan
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Gennady T Sukhikh
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
- First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov, Trubetskaya str. 8-2, Moscow, 119991, Russia
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11
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Velez LM, Seldin M, Motta AB. Inflammation and reproductive function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1205-1217. [PMID: 33739372 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most frequent endocrinopathies, affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age, and is characterized by the presence of ovarian cysts, oligo, or anovulation, and clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism. Metabolic abnormalities such as hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, cardiovascular complications, dyslipidemia, and obesity are frequently present in PCOS women. Several key pathogenic pathways overlap between these metabolic abnormalities, notably chronic inflammation. The observation that this mechanism was shared led to the hypothesis that a chronic inflammatory state could contribute to the pathogenesis of PCOS. Moreover, while physiological inflammation is an essential feature of reproductive events such as ovulation, menstruation, implantation, and labor at term, the establishment of chronic inflammation may be a pivotal feature of the observed reproductive dysfunctions in PCOS women. Taken together, the present work aims to review the available evidence about inflammatory mediators and related mechanisms in women with PCOS, with an emphasis on reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro M Velez
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Marcus Seldin
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Alicia B Motta
- Center of Pharmacological and Botanical Studies (CEFYBO), National Scientific and Technical Research Council, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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12
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Joshi NR, Kohan-Ghadr HR, Roqueiro DS, Yoo JY, Fru K, Hestermann E, Yuan L, Ho SM, Jeong JW, Young SL, Lessey BA, Fazleabas AT. Genetic and epigenetic changes in the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis: association with decreased endometrial αvβ3 integrin expression. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6163298. [PMID: 33693877 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
About 40% of women with infertility and 70% of women with pelvic pain suffer from endometriosis. The pregnancy rate in women undergoing IVF with low endometrial integrin αvβ3 (LEI) expression is significantly lower compared to the women with high endometrial integrin αvβ3 (HEI). Mid-secretory eutopic endometrial biopsies were obtained from healthy controls (C; n=3), and women with HEI (n=4) and LEI (n=4) and endometriosis. Changes in gene expression were assessed using human gene arrays and DNA methylation data were derived using 385 K Two-Array Promoter Arrays. Transcriptional analysis revealed that LEI and C groups clustered separately with 396 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (P<0.01: 275 up and 121 down) demonstrating that transcriptional and epigenetic changes are distinct in the LEI eutopic endometrium compared to the C and HEI group. In contrast, HEI vs C and HEI vs LEI comparisons only identified 83 and 45 DEGs, respectively. The methylation promoter array identified 1304 differentially methylated regions in the LEI vs C comparison. The overlap of gene and methylation array data identified 14 epigenetically dysregulated genes and quantitative RT-PCR analysis validated the transcriptomic findings. The analysis also revealed that aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was hypomethylated and significantly overexpressed in LEI samples compared to C. Further analysis validated that AHR transcript and protein expression are significantly (P<0.05) increased in LEI women compared to C. The increase in AHR, together with the altered methylation status of the 14 additional genes, may provide a diagnostic tool to identify the subset of women who have endometriosis-associated infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj R Joshi
- Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Jung Yoon Yoo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Karenne Fru
- Coastal Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Wilmington, NC, USA
| | | | - Lingwen Yuan
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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13
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Francis LW, Yao SN, Powell LC, Griffiths S, Berquand A, Piasecki T, Howe W, Gazze AS, Farach-Carson MC, Constantinou P, Carson D, Margarit L, Gonzalez D, Conlan RS. Highly glycosylated MUC1 mediates high affinity L-selectin binding at the human endometrial surface. J Nanobiotechnology 2021; 19:50. [PMID: 33596915 PMCID: PMC7890821 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-021-00793-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sialyl-Lewis X/L-selectin high affinity binding interactions between transmembrane O-glycosylated mucins proteins and the embryo have been implicated in implantation processes within the human reproductive system. However, the adhesive properties of these mucins at the endometrial cell surface are difficult to resolve due to known discrepancies between in vivo models and the human reproductive system and a lack of sensitivity in current in vitro models. To overcome these limitations, an in vitro model of the human endometrial epithelial was interrogated with single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) to delineate the molecular configurations of mucin proteins that mediate the high affinity L-selectin binding required for human embryo implantation. Results This study reveals that MUC1 contributes to both the intrinsic and extrinsic adhesive properties of the HEC-1 cellular surface. High expression of MUC1 on the cell surface led to a significantly increased intrinsic adhesion force (148 pN vs. 271 pN, p < 0.001), whereas this adhesion force was significantly reduced (271 pN vs. 118 pN, p < 0.001) following siRNA mediated MUC1 ablation. Whilst high expression of MUC1 displaying elevated glycosylation led to strong extrinsic (> 400 pN) L-selectin binding at the cell surface, low expression of MUC1 with reduced glycosylation resulted in significantly less (≤200 pN) binding events. Conclusions An optimal level of MUC1 together with highly glycosylated decoration of the protein is critical for high affinity L-selectin binding. This study demonstrates that MUC1 contributes to cellular adhesive properties which may function to facilitate trophoblast binding to the endometrial cell surface through the L-selectin/sialyl-Lewis x adhesion system subsequent to implantation.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis W Francis
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Seydou N Yao
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Lydia C Powell
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Sean Griffiths
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | | | - Thomas Piasecki
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - William Howe
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Andrea S Gazze
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Mary C Farach-Carson
- School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, 77054, Texas, USA
| | - Pamela Constantinou
- Department of Biosciences, Wiess School of Natural Science, Rice University, Houston, Texas, 77251, USA
| | - Daniel Carson
- Department of Biosciences, Wiess School of Natural Science, Rice University, Houston, Texas, 77251, USA
| | - Lavinia Margarit
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Princess of Wales Hospital, Bridgend, CF31 1RQ, UK
| | - Deya Gonzalez
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - R Steven Conlan
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK.
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14
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Le Berre M, Gerlach JQ, Loughrey C, Creavin A, Pluta K, Gallagher M, Carrington SD, Joshi L, Kilcoyne M. Examination of oestrus-dependent alterations of bovine cervico-vaginal mucus glycosylation for potential as optimum fertilisation indicators. Mol Omics 2021; 17:338-346. [PMID: 33720233 DOI: 10.1039/d0mo00193g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Oestrus is the period in the sexual cycle of female mammals where they become most receptive to mating and are most fertile. Efficient detection of oestrus is a key component in successful reproductive livestock management programmes. Oestrus detection in cattle is most often performed by visual observation, such as mounting behaviour and standing heat, to facilitate more successful prediction of optimal time points for artificial insemination. This time-consuming method requires a skilled, diligent observer. Biological measurements using easily accessible biomolecules in the cervico-vaginal mucus could provide an alternative strategy to physical methods of oestrus detection, providing an inexpensive means of rapidly and accurately assessing the onset of oestrus. In this study, glycosylation changes in cervico-vaginal mucus from three heifers following oestrus induction were investigated as a proof of concept to assess whether potential glycosylation-based trends could be useful for oestrus stage indication. Mucus collected at different time points following oestrus induction was immobilised in a microarray format and its glycosylation interrogated with a panel of fluorescently labelled lectins, carbohydrate-binding proteins with different specificities. Individual animal-specific glycosylation patterns were observed, however each pattern followed a similar trend around oestrus. This unique oestrus-associated glycosylation was identified by a combination of relative binding of the lectins SNA-I and WFA for each animal. This alteration in cervico-vaginal mucus glycosylation could potentially be exploited in future to more accurately identify optimal fertilisation intervention points compared to visual signs. More effective oestrus biomarkers will lead to more successful livestock reproductive programmes, decreasing costs and animal stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Le Berre
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Jared Q Gerlach
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Catherine Loughrey
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Aileen Creavin
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Katarzyna Pluta
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Gallagher
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephen D Carrington
- Veterinary Sciences Centre, UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lokesh Joshi
- Glycoscience Group, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Michelle Kilcoyne
- Advanced Glycoscience Research Cluster, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland. and Carbohydrate Signalling Group, Discipline of Microbiology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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15
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Palomba S, Piltonen TT, Giudice LC. Endometrial function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a comprehensive review. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:584-618. [PMID: 33302299 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. An endometrial component has been suggested to contribute to subfertility and poor reproductive outcomes in affected women. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this review was to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to support that endometrial function is altered in women with PCOS, whether clinical features of PCOS affect the endometrium, and whether there are evidence-based interventions to improve endometrial dysfunction in PCOS women. SEARCH METHODS An extensive literature search was performed from 1970 up to July 2020 using PubMed and Web of Science without language restriction. The search included all titles and abstracts assessing a relationship between PCOS and endometrial function, the role played by clinical and biochemical/hormonal factors related to PCOS and endometrial function, and the potential interventions aimed to improve endometrial function in women with PCOS. All published papers were included if considered relevant. Studies having a specific topic/hypothesis regarding endometrial cancer/hyperplasia in women with PCOS were excluded from the analysis. OUTCOMES Experimental and clinical data suggest that the endometrium differs in women with PCOS when compared to healthy controls. Clinical characteristics related to the syndrome, alone and/or in combination, may contribute to dysregulation of endometrial expression of sex hormone receptors and co-receptors, increase endometrial insulin-resistance with impaired glucose transport and utilization, and result in chronic low-grade inflammation, immune dysfunction, altered uterine vascularity, abnormal endometrial gene expression and cellular abnormalities in women with PCOS. Among several interventions to improve endometrial function in women with PCOS, to date, only lifestyle modification, metformin and bariatric surgery have the highest scientific evidence for clinical benefit. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Endometrial dysfunction and abnormal trophoblast invasion and placentation in PCOS women can predispose to miscarriage and pregnancy complications. Thus, patients and their health care providers should advise about these risks. Although currently no intervention can be universally recommended to reverse endometrial dysfunction in PCOS women, lifestyle modifications and metformin may improve underlying endometrial dysfunction and pregnancy outcomes in obese and/or insulin resistant patients. Bariatric surgery has shown its efficacy in severely obese PCOS patients, but a careful evaluation of the benefit/risk ratio is warranted. Large scale randomized controlled clinical trials should address these possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Palomba
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Terhi T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PEDEGO Research Unit, Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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16
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Paravati R, De Mello N, Onyido EK, Francis LW, Brüsehafer K, Younas K, Spencer-Harty S, Conlan RS, Gonzalez D, Margarit L. Differential regulation of osteopontin and CD44 correlates with infertility status in PCOS patients. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:1713-1725. [PMID: 33047155 PMCID: PMC7679339 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01985-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial receptivity is mediated by adhesion molecules at the endometrium-trophoblast interface where osteopontin (OPN) and CD44 form a protein complex that plays an important role in embryo recognition. Here, we undertook a prospective study investigating the expression and regulation of OPN and CD44 in 50 fertile and 31 infertile ovulatory polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients in the proliferative and secretory phases of the natural menstrual cycle and in 12 infertile anovulatory PCOS patients. Endometrial biopsies and blood samples were evaluated for expression of OPN and CD44 using RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and ELISA analysis to determine circulating levels of OPN, CD44, TNF-α, IFN-γ and OPN and CD44 levels in biopsy media. Our findings highlighted an increased level of circulating OPN and CD44 in serum from infertile patients that inversely correlated with expression levels in endometrial tissue and positively correlated with levels secreted into biopsy media. OPN and CD44 levels positively correlated to each other in serum and media from fertile and PCOS patients, as well as to circulating TNF-α and IFN-γ. In vitro analysis revealed that hormone treatment induced recruitment of ERα to the OPN and CD44 promoters with a concomitant increase in the expression of these genes. In infertile patients, inflammatory cytokines led to recruitment of NF-κB and STAT1 proteins to the OPN and CD44 promoters, resulting in their overexpression. These observations suggest that the endometrial epithelial OPN-CD44 adhesion complex is deficient in ovulatory PCOS patients and displays an altered stoichiometry in anovulatory patients, which in both cases may perturb apposition. This, together with elevated circulating and local secreted levels of these proteins, may hinder endometrium-trophoblast interactions by saturating OPN and CD44 receptors on the surface of the blastocyst, thereby contributing to the infertility associated with ovulating PCOS patients. KEY MESSAGES: • Endometrial epithelial OPN-CD44 adhesion complex levels are deficient in ovulatory PCOS patients contributing to the endometrial infertility associated with ovulating PCOS patients. • Circulating levels of OPN, CD44 and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ are altered in infertile PCOS patients. • Increased levels of both OPN and CD44 in biopsy media and serum inversely correlate with endometrial expression of these markers in endometrial tissue. • In infertile PCOS patients, high levels of oestrogens and inflammatory cytokines stimulate the recruitment of transcription factors to the OPN and CD44 promoters to enhance gene transcription. • Our study identifies a novel crosstalk between the CD44-OPN adhesion complex, ERα, STAT1 and NF-κB pathways modulating endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Paravati
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - N De Mello
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - E K Onyido
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - L W Francis
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - K Brüsehafer
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - K Younas
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Obstetrics Gynaecology Department, Singleton Hospital, Sketty Lane, Swansea, SA2 8QA, UK
| | - S Spencer-Harty
- Swansea Bay University Health Board, Cellular Pathology Department, Singleton Hospital, Sketty Lane, Swansea, SA2 8QA, UK
| | - R S Conlan
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - D Gonzalez
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Lavinia Margarit
- Reproductive Biology and Gynaecological Oncology Group, Institute for Life Science 2, School of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK.
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Obstetrics Gynaecology Department, Princess of Wales Hospital, Coity Road, Bridgend, CF31 1RQ, UK.
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17
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Aghahoseini M, Alyasin A, Rashidi S, Samaei-Nouroozi A, Saeidi H, Shabani-Nashtaei M. The efficacy of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) agonist before frozen embryo transfer in improving pregnancy outcome and decreasing miscarriage rate in hyperandrogenic polycystic ovary syndrome women: a randomized clinical trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 72:212-218. [PMID: 32677772 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.20.04467-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hyper androgenic status is a major complication of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) that deteriorates endometrial function and increases miscarriage rate. This study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of GnRH agonist before frozen-thawed embryo transfer in improving pregnancy outcome in infertile women with PCOS. METHODS This single-blind, randomized controlled trial was performed at Dr Shariati hospital and Omid Fertility Clinic in Tehran, Iran. In the study were included 178 PCOS women. Patients were then divided into two groups of control and intervention. All women received the standard treatment for the preparation of the endometrial using estradiol valerate at dose of 6-8 mg/day. The intervention group also received diphereline, as GnRH agonist, at two doses, 8 weeks before starting the endometrial preparation. RESULTS Chemical pregnancy in intervention group was 47.7% compared to 35.6% in the control group, revealing no significant difference between two groups. No statistically significant difference was observed between two groups concerning clinical pregnancy rate (43.2% vs. 27.3%). However, rate of ongoing pregnancy was 42.0% in intervention group but 18.0% in the control group, suggesting a significant difference (P=0.001). The rate of miscarriage in the intervention group was 2.6% and in the control group was 33.3%, which was significantly lower (P=0.001). CONCLUSIONS It can be concluded that endometrial preparation using GnRH improves ongoing pregnancy and decreases miscarriage rate. It seems that reduction of androgen level in PCOS patients affects the endometrium and improves the receptivity and implantation of the embryo, resulting in better pregnancy outcomes by reducing the miscarriage rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Aghahoseini
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Alyasin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Rashidi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran - .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Imam Reza Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Science, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Atefeh Samaei-Nouroozi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hojatollah Saeidi
- Department of Biology and Embryology, Omid Fertility Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shabani-Nashtaei
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Mehdinejadiani S, Amidi F, Mehdizadeh M, Barati M, Pazhohan A, Alyasin A, Mehdinejadiani K, Sobhani A. Effects of letrozole and clomiphene citrate on Wnt signaling pathway in endometrium of polycystic ovarian syndrome and healthy women†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:641-648. [PMID: 30184105 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. In addition to anovulation, endometrial dysfunction can reduce fertility in PCOS. The cyclical changes of endometrium are controlled by estrogen and progesterone via modulating the Wnt/B-catenin pathway. Clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole are used to induce ovulation; unlike letrozole, there is a discrepancy between ovulation and pregnancy rates in CC-treated cycles. Because of the anti-estrogenic effects of CC on endometrium, we compared the expression of the key molecules of the Wnt/B-catenin pathway in the endometrium of women taking CC and letrozole. This study included PCOS and healthy women divided into the groups stimulated with letrozole (5 mg) or CC (100 mg) as well as NO-treatment groups. The endometrial thickness and hormonal profile were measured on day 12 of the menses. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot, we evaluated mRNA and protein expression of B-catenin, glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3B), dickkopf Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor 1 (DKK1), and estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) in the endometrial samples. Significantly, the mean serum estrogen and progesterone were lower and higher, respectively, in letrozole than CC groups. The endometrial thickness was significantly reduced in CC. The proteins expression of active B-catenin, inactive GSK3B, and ESR1 were significantly decreased in CC-treated groups. The mRNA and protein assessment of DKK1 showed significantly higher expression in CC. Our results indicate that letrozole can provide an acceptable activation of the Wnt/B-catenin pathway, resulting in adequate proliferation of endometrium in the women receiving letrozole compared to CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayesteh Mehdinejadiani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Endocrinology and Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Barati
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azar Pazhohan
- Department of Midwifery, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran.,Infertility center of Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, East Azarbaijan, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ashraf Alyasin
- Department of Endocrinology and Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kobra Mehdinejadiani
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aligholi Sobhani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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19
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Mehdinejadiani S, Amidi F, Mehdizadeh M, Barati M, Safdarian L, Aflatoonian R, Alyasin A, Aghahosseini M, Pazhohan A, Hayat P, Mohammadzadeh Kazorgah F, Sobhani A. The effects of letrozole and clomiphene citrate on ligands expression of Wnt3, Wnt7a, and Wnt8b in proliferative endometrium of women with Polycystic ovarian syndrome. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:775-780. [PMID: 29510649 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2018.1446934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrinologic disorder in women of reproductive age characterized by polycystic ovaries, oligo/anovulation, and hyperandrogenism. Not only anovulation but also endometrial dysfunction can reduce fertility in PCOS patients. Wnt pathway is responsible for endometrial proliferation which be strongly regulated by estradiol. To determine the effects of clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole, we measured the expression of some main ligands of Wnt/β-catenin signaling including Wnt7a, Wnt3, and Wnt8b in the endometrial samples taken from PCOS women on day 12 of the menses who received 100 mg CC or 5 mg letrozole as well as from women without treatment. Significantly, the mean estrogen and progesterone concentration were lower and higher, respectively, in letrozole than CC. The mean endometrial thickness (ET) was significantly greater in letrozole compared to CC. Assessment of the mRNA and protein expression of Wnt7a, Wnt3, and Wnt8b showed significantly lower expression in CC than the letrozole and control groups. Collectively, letrozole provided a better molecular response in the endometrium of PCOS patients during the proliferative phase, similar to natural cycles, compared to CC. CC decreased the ligands expression of Wnt3, Wnt7a, and Wnt8b, resulting in endometrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayesteh Mehdinejadiani
- a Department of Anatomy , School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
- b Cellular and Molecular Research Center , Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- a Department of Anatomy , School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
- c Department of Endocrinology and Infertility , Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- d Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine , Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Mahmood Barati
- e Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine , Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Leili Safdarian
- c Department of Endocrinology and Infertility , Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- f Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center , Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR , Tehran , Iran
| | - Ashraf Alyasin
- c Department of Endocrinology and Infertility , Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Marzieh Aghahosseini
- c Department of Endocrinology and Infertility , Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Azar Pazhohan
- g Department of Midwifery, Urmia Branch , Islamic Azad University , Urmia , Iran
| | - Parisa Hayat
- b Cellular and Molecular Research Center , Iran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | | | - Aligholi Sobhani
- a Department of Anatomy , School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
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Endometrial L-selectin ligand is downregulated in the mid-secretory phase during the menstrual cycle in women with adenomyosis. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 57:507-516. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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21
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Lai TH, Chang FW, Lin JJ, Ling QD. Gene expression of human endometrial L-selectin ligand in relation to the phases of the natural menstrual cycle. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1443. [PMID: 29362381 PMCID: PMC5780486 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19911-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigates peptide components of L-selectin ligand (LSL) and their gene expressions in human endometrium during the natural menstrual cycle. We recruited 41 endometrial samples from reproductive-aged women with leiomyoma and undergoing hysterectomy and 11 endometrial samples from menopausal women as controls. Immunohistochemistry revealed strong MECA-79 expression from the early through the mid-secretory phase and low expression in menopausal endometrium. Five peptide components of LSL were detected in reproductive and menopausal endometrium by one-step quantitative RT-PCR: podocalyxin, endomucin, nepmucin, GlyCAM-1, and CD34. Endomucin differed significantly between the proliferative and early-secretory phases. CHST2 and CHST4 genes (which are involved in the generation of LSL epitopes) were expressed without significant differences among phases. The gene expression of progesterone receptor decreased from the proliferative to the late-secretory phase, and the difference was significant. However, estrogen receptor α expression showed stability among phases. The significant expression of endomucin between the proliferative and early-secretory phases might play a vital role in endometrial receptivity. Further studies are needed to investigate the factors that regulate the expression of endomucin and other LSL peptide components in different phases of the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Hsuan Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, 10693, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, 24205, Taiwan
- Institute of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, National Central University, Taoyuan City, 32001, Taiwan
| | - Fung-Wei Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, 11490, Taiwan
| | - Jun-Jie Lin
- Institute of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, National Central University, Taoyuan City, 32001, Taiwan
- Cathay Medical Research Institute, Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City, 22174, Taiwan
| | - Qing-Dong Ling
- Institute of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, National Central University, Taoyuan City, 32001, Taiwan.
- Cathay Medical Research Institute, Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City, 22174, Taiwan.
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22
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Lessey BA, Kim JJ. Endometrial receptivity in the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis: it is affected, and let me show you why. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:19-27. [PMID: 28602477 PMCID: PMC5629018 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endometrium maintains complex controls on proliferation and apoptosis as part of repetitive menstrual cycles that prepare the endometrium for the window of implantation and pregnancy. The reliance on inflammatory mechanisms for both implantation and menstruation creates the opportunity in the setting of endometriosis for establishment of chronic inflammation that is disruptive to endometrial receptivity, causing both infertility and abnormal bleeding. Clinically, there can be little doubt that the endometrium of women with endometriosis is less receptive to embryo implantation, and strong evidence exists to suggest that endometrial changes are associated with decreased cycle fecundity as a result of this disease. Here we provide unifying concepts regarding those changes and how they are coordinated to promote progesterone resistance and estrogen dominance through aberrant cell signaling pathways and reduced expression of key homeostatic proteins in eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce A Lessey
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Greenville Health System, Greenville, South Carolina.
| | - J Julie Kim
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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Chen X, Zhang S, Cheng Z, Cooke JS, Werling D, Wathes DC, Pollott GE. Polymorphisms in the selectin gene cluster are associated with fertility and survival time in a population of Holstein Friesian cows. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175555. [PMID: 28419109 PMCID: PMC5395145 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Selectins are adhesion molecules, which mediate attachment between leucocytes and endothelium. They aid extravasation of leucocytes from blood into inflamed tissue during the mammary gland’s response to infection. Selectins are also involved in attachment of the conceptus to the endometrium and subsequent placental development. Poor fertility and udder health are major causes for culling dairy cows. The three identified bovine selectin genes SELP, SELL and SELE are located in a gene cluster. SELP is the most polymorphic of these genes. Several SNP in SELP and SELE are associated with human vascular disease, while SELP SNP rs6127 has been associated with recurrent pregnancy loss in women. This study describes the results of a gene association study for SNP in SELP (n = 5), SELL (n = 2) and SELE (n = 1) with fertility, milk production and longevity traits in a population of 337 Holstein Friesian dairy cows. Blood samples for PCR-RFLP were collected at 6 months of age and animals were monitored until either culling or 2,340 days from birth. Three SNP in SELPEx4-6 formed a haplotype block containing a Glu/Ala substitution at rs42312260. This region was associated with poor fertility and reduced survival times. SELPEx8 (rs378218397) coded for a Val475Met variant locus in the linking region between consensus repeats 4 and 5, which may influence glycosylation. The synonymous SNP rs110045112 in SELEEx14 deviated from Hardy Weinberg equilibrium. For both this SNP and rs378218397 there were too few AA homozygotes present in the population and AG heterozygotes had significantly worse fertility than GG homozygotes. Small changes in milk production associated with some SNP could not account for the reduced fertility and only SELPEx6 showed any association with somatic cell count. These results suggest that polymorphisms in SELP and SELE are associated with the likelihood of successful pregnancy, potentially through compromised implantation and placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Shujun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Zhangrui Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica S. Cooke
- Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Dirk Werling
- Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - D. Claire Wathes
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Geoffrey E. Pollott
- Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
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Bovine P-selectin mediates leukocyte adhesion and is highly polymorphic in dairy breeds. Res Vet Sci 2016; 108:85-92. [PMID: 27663375 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Bovine P-selectin (SELP) mediates leukocyte rolling and primes leukocyte adhesion to endothelium, both essential for leukocyte recruitment to an infection site. We investigated SELP-mediated adhesion between bovine peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) and cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells pre-activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We examined gene polymorphism for bovine selectins SELP, l-selectin (SELL) and E-selectin (SELE) and compared their SNP frequency between five dairy breeds (Holstein, Friesian, Jersey, Ayrshire and Brown Swiss). LPS treatment caused a rapid (10min) and slower (4h) enhancement of PBL adhesion (P<0.01). Antibody blocking of SELP inhibited LPS induced cell adhesion. SELP was highly polymorphic, with 9 of the 13 SNPs in its exons, whereas only three synonymous SNPs in SELL and one in SELE. The resulting amino acid changes for the three missense SELP SNP were located in the lectin domain and in two consensus repeat (CR) regions, CR2 and CR5. The Val475Met variant locus in the CR4 and CR5 linking region was very close to a predicted N-acetyl-d-glucosamine glycosylation site, which is likely to influence SELP function. The AA genotype was under-represented, only being found in 1% of 373 heifers genotyped from the 5 breeds (P=0.056), suggesting that AA homozygous animals carrying the Val475Met substitution for SELP may have compromised development. Our study thus confirmed that SELP mediates the attachment of PBL to endothelium and provides novel evidence that its high polymorphism is likely to affect biological function. This may potentially influence leukocyte migration and fertility, both key to successful performance in dairy cows.
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Subramani E, Madogwe E, Ray CD, Dutta SK, Chakravarty B, Bordignon V, Duggavathi R, Chaudhury K. Dysregulated leukemia inhibitory factor and its receptor regulated signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 pathway: a possible cause for repeated implantation failure in women with dormant genital tuberculosis? Fertil Steril 2016; 105:1076-1084.e5. [PMID: 26776907 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the influence of dormant Mycobacterium tuberculosis on the expression of various endometrial receptivity markers and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF)-signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway. Expression of endometrial receptivity markers and LIF-STAT3 signaling in in vitro decidualized human endometrial stromal cells (hESC) treated with 65 kDa mycobacterial heat shock protein (HSP65) is also explored. DESIGN A prospective study. SETTING Tertiary care hospital and reproductive health research unit. PATIENT(S) Endometrial tissue samples were collected from 38 women who tested positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and 30 normal women with proven fertility undergoing sterilization. In vitro decidualization of hESC was performed. INTERVENTION(S) Endometrial biopsies collected from all women during implantation window and treatment of hESC with HSP65. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Measurement of various endometrial receptivity markers including αvβ3 integrin, E-cadherin, MECA-79, mucin-1, and pinopodes and LIF/LIFR-STAT3 signaling molecules expressed in the endometrium of women with dormant genital tuberculosis (GTB) during implantation window and measured also in HSP65-treated hESC. RESULT(S) Significantly reduced levels of endometrial receptivity markers LIF, LIFR, and pSTAT3 were observed in endometrium of women with dormant GTB as compared with controls. A similar trend was observed under in vitro conditions with decreased level of phosphorylated STAT3 in HSP65-treated hESC. However, no change in the expression of endometrial receptivity markers under in vitro conditions was observed. CONCLUSION(S) Our findings suggest that endometrium of women with dormant GTB is associated with poor receptivity, as evidenced by reduced receptivity markers and aberrant LIF-STAT3 signaling. In vitro treatment of hESC with HSP65 also confirms compromised endometrial decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elavarasan Subramani
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India; Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ejimedo Madogwe
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chaitali Datta Ray
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and Research and SSKM Hospital, Kolkata, India
| | - Subir Kumar Dutta
- Department of Pathology, Scientific Clinical Research Laboratory, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Vilceu Bordignon
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Raj Duggavathi
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Koel Chaudhury
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India.
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26
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Bai R, Kusama K, Sakurai T, Bai H, Wang C, Zhang J, Kuse M, Ideta A, Aoyagi Y, Okuda K, Imakawa K. The Role of Endometrial Selectins and Their Ligands on Bovine Conceptus Attachment to the Uterine Epithelium During Peri-Implantation Period1. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:46. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.128652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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27
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Baracat MCP, Serafini PC, Simões RDS, Maciel GAR, Soares JM, Baracat EC. Systematic review of cell adhesion molecules and estrogen receptor expression in the endometrium of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2014; 129:1-4. [PMID: 25554522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2014.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Revised: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) could be related to many mechanisms including endometrial factors. OBJECTIVES To review cell adhesion molecule and estrogen receptor expression in the endometrium. SEARCH STRATEGY A systematic review was performed of the Medline and Cochrane databases for papers published in any language between 2004 and 2014. The search term was "'polycystic ovary syndrome' OR 'Stein Leventhal syndrome' OR 'anovulation' AND 'endometrium' OR 'endometria.'" SELECTION CRITERIA Research studies on endometrial cell adhesion molecules and estrogen receptor expression among women with PCOS diagnosed according to the Rotterdam criteria were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were extracted from identified studies and the quality of assessment was analyzed. MAIN RESULTS Six studies were included. Data were controversial with respect to MUC1 and αVβ3 integrin expression with significantly higher and lower levels, respectively, in women with PCOS. Estrogen receptor expression was enhanced among patients with PCOS as compared with healthy women. CONCLUSIONS Endometrial factors influence embryo receptivity as indicated by the molecular mediators identified in the studies, including cell adhesion molecules and the estrogen receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cândida P Baracat
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo C Serafini
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Dos S Simões
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo A R Maciel
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José M Soares
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Edmund C Baracat
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia do Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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28
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Gnainsky Y, Granot I, Aldo P, Barash A, Or Y, Mor G, Dekel N. Biopsy-induced inflammatory conditions improve endometrial receptivity: the mechanism of action. Reproduction 2014; 149:75-85. [PMID: 25349438 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A decade ago, we first reported that endometrial biopsy significantly improves the success of pregnancy in IVF patients with recurrent implantation failure, an observation that was later confirmed by others. Recently, we have demonstrated that this treatment elevated the levels of endometrial pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased the abundance of macrophages (Mac) and dendritic cells (DCs). We therefore hypothesised that the biopsy-related successful pregnancy is secondary to an inflammatory response, and aimed at deciphering its mechanism of action. Supporting our hypothesis, we found that the pro-inflammatory TNFα stimulated primary endometrial stromal cells to express cytokines that attracted monocytes and induced their differentiation into DCs. These monocyte-derived DCs stimulated endometrial epithelial cells to express the adhesive molecule SPP1 (osteopontin (OPN)) and its receptors ITGB3 and CD44, whereas MUC16, which interferes with adhesion, was downregulated. Other implantation-associated genes, such as CHST2, CCL4 (MIP1B) and GROA, were upregulated by monocyte-derived Mac. These findings suggest that uterine receptivity is mediated by the expression of molecules associated with inflammation. Such an inflammatory milieu is not generated in some IVF patients with recurrent implantation failure in the absence of local injury provoked by the biopsy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Gnainsky
- Department of Biological RegulationThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, IsraelIVF UnitDepartment of Obstetric, and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, IsraelDepartment of ObstetricGynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - I Granot
- Department of Biological RegulationThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, IsraelIVF UnitDepartment of Obstetric, and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, IsraelDepartment of ObstetricGynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - P Aldo
- Department of Biological RegulationThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, IsraelIVF UnitDepartment of Obstetric, and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, IsraelDepartment of ObstetricGynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - A Barash
- Department of Biological RegulationThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, IsraelIVF UnitDepartment of Obstetric, and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, IsraelDepartment of ObstetricGynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Y Or
- Department of Biological RegulationThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, IsraelIVF UnitDepartment of Obstetric, and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, IsraelDepartment of ObstetricGynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - G Mor
- Department of Biological RegulationThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, IsraelIVF UnitDepartment of Obstetric, and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, IsraelDepartment of ObstetricGynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - N Dekel
- Department of Biological RegulationThe Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, IsraelIVF UnitDepartment of Obstetric, and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, IsraelDepartment of ObstetricGynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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29
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Li S, Wang Y, Zhang J. L-selectin ligands expression in human fallopian tube epithelia of tubal pregnancies. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:133. [PMID: 24829027 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.113654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the expression of L-selectin ligands in tubal epithelia during tubal ectopic pregnancy. Sixteen fallopian tube samples from ectopic pregnancies and four normal control fallopian tubes from women undergoing sterilization were obtained for the study. Oviduct tissues from ectopic pregnancies were separated into implantation sites and matched nonimplantation sites. Expression of L-selectin ligands was evaluated by immunohistochemistry with antibodies against HECA-452 and MECA-79 and by real-time PCR. Immunoreactivity levels against HECA-452 and MECA-79 were significantly higher at the implantation site than at the paired nonimplantation site or at the normal oviducts. Moreover, compared with MECA-79 staining, stronger HECA-452 staining was observed in the implantation and nonimplantation groups. HECA-452 histologic scores at implantation sites correlated with serum human chorionic gonadotropin levels. Increased expression of L-selectin ligands may be involved in the implantation process in tubal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangdi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated First People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated First People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiarong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated First People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
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30
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Goode D, Aravantinou M, Jarl S, Truong R, Derby N, Guerra-Perez N, Kenney J, Blanchard J, Gettie A, Robbiani M, Martinelli E. Sex hormones selectively impact the endocervical mucosal microenvironment: implications for HIV transmission. PLoS One 2014; 9:e97767. [PMID: 24830732 PMCID: PMC4022654 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0097767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies suggest that progesterone and estrogens may affect HIV transmission in different, possibly opposing ways. Nonetheless, a direct comparison of their effects on the mucosal immune system has never been done. We hypothesize that sex hormones might impact the availability of cells and immune factors important in early stages of mucosal transmission, and, in doing so influence the risk of HIV acquisition. To test this hypothesis, we employed 15 ovarectomized rhesus macaques: 5 were treated with Depot Medroxy Progesterone Acetate (DMPA), 6 with 17-β estradiol (E2) and 4 were left untreated. All animals were euthanized 5 weeks after the initiation of hormone treatment, a time post-DMPA injection associated with high susceptibility to SIV infection. We found that DMPA-treated macaques exhibited higher expression of integrin α4β7 (α4β7) on CD4+ T cells, the gut homing receptor and a marker of cells highly susceptible to HIV, in the endocervix than did the E2-treated animals. In contrast, the frequency of CCR5+ CD4+ T cells in DMPA-treated macaques was higher than in the E2-treated group in vaginal tissue, but lower in endocervix. α4β7 expression on dendritic cells (DCs) was higher in the DMPA-treated group in the endocervical tissue, but lower in vaginal tissue and on blood DCs compared with the E2-treated animals. Soluble MAdCAM-1, the α4β7 ligand, was present in the vaginal fluids of the control and E2-treated groups, but absent in the fluids from DMPA-treated animals. Both hormones modulated the expression and release of inflammatory factors and modified the distribution of sialomucins in the endocervix. In summary, we found that sex hormones profoundly impact mucosal immune factors that are directly implicated in HIV transmission. The effect is particularly significant in the endocervix. This may increase our understanding of the potential hormone-driven modulation of HIV susceptibility and potentially guide contraceptive policies in high-risk settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Goode
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Meropi Aravantinou
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Sebastian Jarl
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Rosaline Truong
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Nina Derby
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Natalia Guerra-Perez
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jessica Kenney
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - James Blanchard
- Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University Sciences Center, Covington, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Agegnehu Gettie
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Melissa Robbiani
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Elena Martinelli
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, United States of America
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Mokhtar HM, Giribabu N, Muniandy S, Salleh N. Testosterone decreases the expression of endometrial pinopode and L-selectin ligand (MECA-79) in adult female rats during uterine receptivity period. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2014; 7:1967-1976. [PMID: 24966906 PMCID: PMC4069972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Pinopode, a progesterone-dependent endometrial projection which appears during uterine receptivity period, participates in blastocyst implantation. Blastocyst loosely attaches to pinopode via L-selectin ligand (MECA-79). We hypothesized that pinopode and MECA-79 expressions were affected by testosterone. Therefore, the effect of testosterone on pinopode and MECA-79 expressions during uterine receptivity period were investigated. METHODS Ovariectomized adult female rats received 8 days sex-steroid replacement intended to mimic hormonal changes in early pregnancy with day 6 to 8 represents uterine receptivity period. Testosterone (1 mg/kg/day) was injected together with flutamide or finasteride during the period of uterine receptivity. At the end of treatment, rats were sacrificed and uteri were removed. The existence of pinopodes in the endometrium was visualized by electron microscopy and uterine expression and distribution of MECA-79 protein were examined by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) respectively. RESULTS Abundant pinopodes and MECA-79 expressions were observed in rats received normal steroid replacement regime. Administration of testosterone during uterine receptivity period reduced pinopodes and MECA-79 expressions, which were antagonized by flutamide and not finasteride. CONCLUSIONS The decrease in uterine pinopodes and MECA-79 expressions during uterine receptivity period by testosterone may cause failure of blastocyst to implant in conditions associated with high level of this hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmy Mohd Mokhtar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya50603 Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nelli Giribabu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya50603 Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sekaran Muniandy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya50603 Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Naguib Salleh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya50603 Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Yucha RW, Jost M, Rothstein D, Robertson N, Marcolongo MS. Quantifying the biomechanics of conception: L-selectin-mediated blastocyst implantation mechanics with engineered "trophospheres". Tissue Eng Part A 2013; 20:189-96. [PMID: 23927766 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2013.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An estimated 12% of women in the United States suffer from some form of infertility. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most common treatment for infertility encompassing over 99% of all assisted reproductive technologies. However, IVF has a low success rate. Live birth rates using IVF can range from 40% in women younger than 35 years to 4% in women older than 42 years. Costs for a successful IVF outcome can be upward of $61,000. The low success rate of IVF has been attributed to the inability of the blastocyst to implant to the uterus. Blastocyst implantation is initiated by L-selectin expressing cells, trophoblasts, binding to L-selectin ligands, primarily sialyl Lewis X (sLeX), on the uterine surface endometrium. Legal and ethical considerations have limited the research on human subjects and tissues, whereas animal models are costly or do not properly mimic human implantation biochemistry. In this work, we describe a cellular model system for quantifying L-selectin adhesion mechanics. L-selectin expression was confirmed in Jeg-3, JAR, and BeWo cell lines, with only Jeg-3 cells exhibiting surface expression. Jeg-3 cells were cultured into three-dimensional spheres, termed "trophospheres," as a mimic to human blastocysts. Detachment assays using a custom-built parallel plate flow chamber show that trophospheres detach from sLeX functionalized slides with 2.75 × 10(-3) dyn of force and 7.5 × 10(-5) dyn-cm of torque. This work marks the first time a three-dimensional cell model has been utilized for quantifying L-selectin binding mechanics related to blastocyst implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W Yucha
- 1 School of Biomedical Engineering, Drexel University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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33
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Check JH, Cohen R. The role of progesterone and the progesterone receptor in human reproduction and cancer. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2013; 8:469-484. [PMID: 30754194 DOI: 10.1586/17446651.2013.827380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Insufficient progesterone, effect possibly more on immune factors rather than adequate endometrial development, can be an easy remedial cause of infertility by simply supplementing the luteal phase with either vaginal or intramuscular or oral (dydrogesterone) progesterone. Progesterone will also help to reduce miscarriage rates when follicle maturing drugs are used for those with regular menses but follicular maturation defects, or women with recurrent miscarriages. One mechanism of action seems to be related to production of an immunomodulatory protein, the progesterone-induced blocking factor either in the cytoplasm or in the circulation. PIBF inhibits cytotoxicity of natural killer cells. Cancer cells may 'borrow' the same mechanism to escape NK cell immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome H Check
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Camden, NJ, USA
| | - Rachael Cohen
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Hong L, Hou C, Li X, Li C, Yu M. Expression Pattern of CD34 at the Maternal-Foetal Interface During Pregnancy in Pigs. Reprod Domest Anim 2013; 48:762-7. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2012] [Accepted: 01/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L Hong
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology; Huazhong (Central China) Agricultural University; Wuhan; Hubei; China
| | - C Hou
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology; Huazhong (Central China) Agricultural University; Wuhan; Hubei; China
| | - X Li
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology; Huazhong (Central China) Agricultural University; Wuhan; Hubei; China
| | - C Li
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology; Huazhong (Central China) Agricultural University; Wuhan; Hubei; China
| | - M Yu
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology; Huazhong (Central China) Agricultural University; Wuhan; Hubei; China
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35
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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.
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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
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36
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Nejatbakhsh R, Kabir-Salmani M, Dimitriadis E, Hosseini A, Taheripanah R, Sadeghi Y, Akimoto Y, Iwashita M. Subcellular localization of L-selectin ligand in the endometrium implies a novel function for pinopodes in endometrial receptivity. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2012; 10:46. [PMID: 22703988 PMCID: PMC3443035 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-10-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apical surfaces of human endometrial epithelium and endothelium are key elements for the initiation of molecular interactions to capture the blastocyst or leukocyte, respectively. The L-selectin adhesion system has been strongly proposed to play an important role in the initial steps of trophoblast adhesion and promotion of integrin-dependent processes, ultimately culminating in the establishment of the embryo-maternal interface. On the basis of these facts, we hypothesized a novel role for pinopodes as the first embryo-fetal contact sites to contain the highest subcellular expression of L-selectin ligand suggesting its role in early adhesion as predicted. Thus, the objective of this study was therefore to determine the subcellular pattern of distribution of the L-selectin ligand (MECA-79) in human endometrial apical membrane region during the window of implantation. METHODS Endometrial biopsies of secretory phases from fertile females ranging in age between 25 and 42 years were studied using several approaches, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), immunostaining for light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunoblotting as well as statistical analysis of the area-related numerical densities of immunoreactive MECA-79-bound nanogolds to detect the expression pattern and the subcellular distribution pattern of L-selectin ligand (MECA-79) in human endometrium during the window of implantation. RESULTS The endometrial biopsies were scored according the dating criteria of Noyes et al. by an experienced histologist. The SEM images of the midluteal phase specimens revealed that fully developed pinopodes were abundant in our samples. HRP-immunostaining and immunofluorescent staining as well as immunoblotting revealed that MECA-79 was expressed in the midluteal phase specimens. The results of immunogold TEM illustrated the expression of MECA-79 in human pinopodes in the midluteal phase and a higher area-relate numerical density in pinopodes compared to that of the uterodome-free areas. CONCLUSIONS This is the first demonstration of the subcellular localization of MECA-79 in the human pinopodes which may indicate a novel role for pinopodes to be capable of shear-stress-dependent tethering-type adhesion in the initial phases of human embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Nejatbakhsh
- Biology and Anatomy Department, Medical School, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Kabir-Salmani
- Molecular Genetics Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Medical School of Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eva Dimitriadis
- Embryo Implantation Laboratory, Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ahmad Hosseini
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Medical School of Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Robabeh Taheripanah
- Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Sadeghi
- Biology and Anatomy Department, Medical School, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yoshihiro Akimoto
- Department of Anatomy, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsutoshi Iwashita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Shang K, Jia X, Qiao J, Kang J, Guan Y. Endometrial abnormality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Reprod Sci 2012; 19:674-83. [PMID: 22534323 DOI: 10.1177/1933719111430993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy associated with infertility and metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age. Although the clinical and biochemical features are heterogeneous with individuals, the most widely accepted clinical characteristics of PCOS are oligo- or anovulation combined with hyperandrogenism. With the higher rate of implantation failure after induction of ovulation or higher risk of spontaneous miscarriage after pregnancy, the reduced fertility is apparently attributed not only to anovulation but also to endometrial dysfunction in patients with PCOS. Here we review the features of the endometrial abnormalities in women with PCOS. The ability to improve the endometrial functions is of potential therapeutic targets to increase reproductive outcome of women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kewei Shang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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38
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Gonzalez D, Thackeray H, Lewis PD, Mantani A, Brook N, Ahuja K, Margara R, Joels L, White JO, Conlan RS. Loss of WT1 expression in the endometrium of infertile PCOS patients: a hyperandrogenic effect? J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012; 97:957-66. [PMID: 22238403 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2011-2366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT In fertile patients the endometrial Wilms tumor suppressor gene (WT1) is expressed during the window of implantation. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients suffer from hyperandrogenemia and infertility and have elevated endometrial androgen receptor (AR) expression. WT1 is known to be down-regulated by AR. Therefore, the expression of WT1 and its targets may be altered in PCOS endometrium. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to assess the expression and regulation of WT1 and selected downstream targets in secretory endometrium from ovulatory PCOS (ovPCOS) and fertile women. DESIGN AND PATIENTS Endometrial samples were obtained from 25 ovPCOS and 25 fertile patients. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Endometrial expression of WT1 and selected downstream targets were assessed by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. The androgen effect on WT1 expression was determined in vitro by immunoblots and RT-PCR. The expression of WT1 and its targets was quantified in fertile and ovPCOS stromal cells in the presence of androgens by RT-PCR. Caspase-3/7 activity was measured to evaluate sensitivity to drug-induced apoptosis. RESULTS WT1 expression was down-regulated in secretory-phase ovPCOS endometrium. Stromal expression of Bcl-2 and p27 was higher, and epidermal growth factor receptor was lower in ovPCOS than in fertile patients. Endometrial stromal expression of WT1, Bcl-2, Bcl-2-associated X protein, and β-catenin was regulated by androgens. Apoptosis levels were reduced in ovPCOS samples and androgen-treated fertile samples. CONCLUSION WT1 expression is down-regulated in ovPCOS endometrium during the window of implantation. Androgens regulate the expression of WT1 and its targets during endometrial decidualization. The altered balance between WT1 and AR in the endometrium of PCOS patients may jeopardize the success of decidualization and endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Gonzalez
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University, College of Medicine, and Singleton Hospital, Swansea SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide a focused review of the scientific literature pertaining to endometrial receptivity. DESIGN Review of the literature and appraisal of relevant articles. SETTING Academic teaching hospital. PATIENT(S) Women with infertility. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Critical review of the literature. RESULT(S) Although a consensus has been achieved regarding the existence of a temporally defined period during which embryo attachment and invasion can occur (called the "window of implantation"), reliable methods to assess "receptivity" have not been established or adequately validated. In women with certain gynecologic disorders, including endometriosis, tubal disease, and polycystic ovary syndrome, endometrial receptivity seems to be compromised, leading to infertility and pregnancy loss. The establishment of reliable biomarkers for the detection of defects in endometrial receptivity has been a long-sought goal that remains an elusive target. The validation of endometrial biomarkers will require properly designed and implemented studies based on the recognition that endometrial receptivity defects are not equally distributed in women with endometriosis or these other conditions. CONCLUSION(S) Rapidly advancing technologies are bringing new biomarkers to the clinical arena that promise to further reveal the complexities of the implantation process.
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Matsuzaki S, Darcha C, Maleysson E, Canis M, Mage G. Impaired down-regulation of E-cadherin and beta-catenin protein expression in endometrial epithelial cells in the mid-secretory endometrium of infertile patients with endometriosis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010; 95:3437-45. [PMID: 20410224 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-2713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Only a few, small, human studies on E-cadherin and beta-catenin expression in normal cycling human endometrium have been reported. It remains unclear whether expression of these molecules might be altered in the endometrium of infertile patients with endometriosis. OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to investigate E-cadherin and beta-catenin expression in the endometrium of infertile patients with endometriosis, those with uterine fibromas, and patients with unexplained infertility. DESIGN Expression levels of E-cadherin and beta-catenin mRNA and/or protein in the endometrium of infertile patients with endometriosis (n = 151), those with uterine fibromas (n = 41), patients with unexplained infertility (n = 9), as well as healthy fertile controls (n = 57) were measured. This study utilized laser capture microdissection, real-time RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS No significant differences in E-cadherin or beta-catenin mRNA expression in microdissected epithelial cells were observed among the different groups throughout the menstrual cycle. However, very low or no protein expression of E-cadherin, total beta-catenin, or dephosphorylated beta-catenin in luminal and glandular epithelial cells was detected in the mid-secretory endometrium of healthy fertile controls. E-cadherin, total beta-catenin, and dephosphorylated beta-catenin protein expression in the mid-secretory endometrium of infertile patients with endometriosis or unexplained infertility was significantly higher compared to that of healthy fertile controls in both luminal and glandular epithelial cells. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that impaired down-regulation of E-cadherin and beta-catenin protein expression, along with Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway activation during the window of implantation, might be one of the potential molecular mechanisms of infertility in patients with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachiko Matsuzaki
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Polyclinique- Hôtel-Dieu, Gynécologie Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Clermont-Ferrand, Boulevard Léon Malfreyt, 63058 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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