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Zhou F, Wang S, Lu W, Chen X, Guo S, Lu C, Zhang X, Wu J, Wang S, Long Z, He B, Zhuang T, Xu X. The Essential Role of PGF2α/PTGFR in Molding Endometrial Breakdown and Vascular Dynamics, Regulated by HIF-1α in a Mouse Menstrual-like Model. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2718-2730. [PMID: 38637474 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01526-7] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
In women of childbearing age, extensive decidualization, shedding and remodeling of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle are fundamental for successful pregnancy. The role of prostaglandins (PGs) in menstruation has long been proposed in humans, and the rate-limiting enzyme cyclooxygenase was shown to play a key role in endometrial breakdown and shedding in a mouse menstrual-like model in our previous study. However, the specific types of PGs involved and their respective roles remain unclear. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the mechanism through which PGs regulate endometrial disintegration. In this study, the microscopy was observed by HE; the protein levels of prostaglandins E1 (PGE1), prostaglandins E2 (PGE2), prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) and Prostaglandin I2 (PGI2) were detected by ELISA; the mRNA level of Pfgfr2, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor(Vegf), Angiostatin and Hypoxia inducible factor-1α (Hif1α) were examined by real-time PCR; PTGFR Receptor (PTGFR), VEGF, Angiostatin and HIF-1α protein levels were investigated by western blotting; the locations of protein were observed by Immunohistochemistry; HIF-1α binding PTGFR promoter was detected by Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and real-time PCR. We found that the concentrations of PGE1, PGE2, and PGF2α all increased significantly during this process. Furthermore, Ptgfr mRNA increased soon after Progesterone (P4) withdrawal, and PTGFR protein levels increased significantly during abundant endometrial breakdown and shedding processes. PTGFR inhibitors AL8810 significantly suppressed endometrial breakdown and shedding, promoted Angiostatin expression, and reduced VEGF-A expressions and vascular permeability. And HIF-1α and PTGFR were mainly located in the luminal/gland epithelium, vascular endothelium, and pre-decidual zone. Interestingly, HIF-1α directly bound to Ptgfr promoter. Moreover, a HIF-1α inhibitor 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME) significantly reduced PTGFR expression and suppressed endometrial breakdown which was in accord with PTGFR inhibitor's effect. Similar changes occurred in human stromal cells relevant to menstruation in vitro. Our study provides evidence that PGF2α/PTGFR plays a vital role in endometrial breakdown via vascular changes that are regulated by HIF-1α during menstruation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Zhou
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Human Sperm Bank, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Shufang Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province, China
| | - Wenhong Lu
- Human Sperm Bank, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Xihua Chen
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Shige Guo
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Cong Lu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangxu Wu
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Siyu Wang
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Zeyi Long
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Bin He
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Taifeng Zhuang
- Beijing Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal &. Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangbo Xu
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China.
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2
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Abstract
The uterine lining (endometrium) regenerates repeatedly over the life span as part of its normal physiology. Substantial portions of the endometrium are shed during childbirth (parturition) and, in some species, menstruation, but the tissue is rapidly rebuilt without scarring, rendering it a powerful model of regeneration in mammals. Nonetheless, following some assaults, including medical procedures and infections, the endometrium fails to regenerate and instead forms scars that may interfere with normal endometrial function and contribute to infertility. Thus, the endometrium provides an exceptional platform to answer a central question of regenerative medicine: Why do some systems regenerate while others scar? Here, we review our current understanding of diverse endometrial disruption events in humans, nonhuman primates, and rodents, and the associated mechanisms of regenerative success and failure. Elucidating the determinants of these disparate repair processes promises insights into fundamental mechanisms of mammalian regeneration with substantial implications for reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire J Ang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Taylor D Skokan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
| | - Kara L McKinley
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA;
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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3
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Tsolova AO, Aguilar RM, Maybin JA, Critchley HOD. Pre-clinical models to study abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). EBioMedicine 2022; 84:104238. [PMID: 36081283 PMCID: PMC9465267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) is a common debilitating condition that significantly reduces quality of life of women across the reproductive age span. AUB creates significant morbidity, medical, social, and economic problems for women, their families, workplace, and health services. Despite the profoundly negative effects of AUB on public health, advancement in understanding the pathophysiology of AUB and the discovery of novel effective therapies is slow due to lack of reliable pre-clinical models. This review discusses currently available laboratory-based pre-clinical scientific models and how they are used to study AUB. Human and animal in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models will be described along with advantages and limitations of each method.
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Jain V, Chodankar RR, Maybin JA, Critchley HOD. Uterine bleeding: how understanding endometrial physiology underpins menstrual health. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:290-308. [PMID: 35136207 PMCID: PMC9098793 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00629-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Menstruation is a physiological process that is typically uncomplicated. However, up to one third of women globally will be affected by abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) at some point in their reproductive years. Menstruation (that is, endometrial shedding) is a fine balance between proliferation, decidualization, inflammation, hypoxia, apoptosis, haemostasis, vasoconstriction and, finally, repair and regeneration. An imbalance in any one of these processes can lead to the abnormal endometrial phenotype of AUB. Poor menstrual health has a negative impact on a person's physical, mental, social, emotional and financial well-being. On a global scale, iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia are closely linked with AUB, and are often under-reported and under-recognized. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics have produced standardized terminology and a classification system for the causes of AUB. This standardization will facilitate future research endeavours, diagnosis and clinical management. In a field where no new medications have been developed for over 20 years, emerging technologies are paving the way for a deeper understanding of the biology of the endometrium in health and disease, as well as opening up novel diagnostic and management avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Jain
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Rohan R Chodankar
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Kirkwood PM, Shaw IW, Saunders PTK. Mechanisms of Scarless Repair at Time of Menstruation: Insights From Mouse Models. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:801843. [PMID: 36304046 PMCID: PMC9580659 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.801843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a remarkable tissue which may experience up to 400 cycles of hormone-driven proliferation, differentiation and breakdown during a woman's reproductive lifetime. During menstruation, when the luminal portion of tissue breaks down, it resembles a bloody wound with piecemeal shedding, exposure of underlying stroma and a strong inflammatory reaction. In the absence of pathology within a few days the integrity of the tissue is restored without formation of a scar and the endometrium is able to respond appropriately to subsequent endocrine signals in preparation for establishment of pregnancy if fertilization occurs. Understanding mechanisms regulating scarless repair of the endometrium is important both for design of therapies which can treat conditions where this is aberrant (heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, Asherman's syndrome) as well as to provide new information that might allow us to reduce fibrosis and scar formation in other tissues. Menstruation only occurs naturally in species that exhibit spontaneous stromal cell decidualization during the fertile cycle such as primates (including women) and the Spiny mouse. To take advantage of genetic models and detailed time course analysis, mouse models of endometrial shedding/repair involving hormonal manipulation, artificial induction of decidualization and hormone withdrawal have been developed and refined. These models are useful in modeling dynamic changes across the time course of repair and have recapitulated key features of endometrial repair in women including local hypoxia and immune cell recruitment. In this review we will consider the evidence that scarless repair of endometrial tissue involves changes in stromal cell function including mesenchyme to epithelial transition, epithelial cell proliferation and multiple populations of immune cells. Processes contributing to endometrial fibrosis (Asherman's syndrome) as well as scarless repair of other tissues including skin and oral mucosa are compared to that of menstrual repair.
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Bellofiore N, McKenna J, Ellery S, Temple-Smith P. The Spiny Mouse—A Menstruating Rodent to Build a Bridge From Bench to Bedside. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:784578. [PMID: 36303981 PMCID: PMC9580678 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.784578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Menstruation, the cyclical breakdown of the uterine lining, is arguably one of evolution's most mysterious reproductive strategies. The complexity and rarity of menstruation within the animal kingdom is undoubtedly a leading contributor to our current lack of understanding about menstrual function and disorders. In particular, the molecular and environmental mechanisms that drive menstrual and fertility dysregulation remain ambiguous, owing to the restricted opportunities to study menstruation and model menstrual disorders in species outside the primates. The recent discovery of naturally occurring menstruation in the Egyptian spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) offers a new laboratory model with significant benefits for prospective research in women's health. This review summarises current knowledge of spiny mouse menstruation, with an emphasis on spiral artery formation, inflammation and endocrinology. We offer a new perspective on cycle variation in menstrual bleeding between individual animals, and propose that this is indicative of fertility success. We discuss how we can harness our knowledge of the unique physiology of the spiny mouse to better understand vascular remodelling and its implications for successful implantation, placentation, and foetal development. Our research suggests that the spiny mouse has the potential as a translational research model to bridge the gap between bench to bedside and provide improved reproductive health outcomes for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Bellofiore
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Nadia Bellofiore
| | - Jarrod McKenna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Stacey Ellery
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Temple-Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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7
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Liu T, Shi F, Ying Y, Chen Q, Tang Z, Lin H. Mouse model of menstruation: An indispensable tool to investigate the mechanisms of menstruation and gynaecological diseases (Review). Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:4463-4474. [PMID: 33174022 PMCID: PMC7646730 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal menstruation may result in several pathological alterations and gynaecological diseases, including endometriosis, menstrual pain and miscarriage. However, the pathogenesis of menstruation remains unclear due to the limited number of animal models available to study the menstrual cycle. In recent years, an effective, reproducible, and highly adaptive mouse model to study menstruation has been developed. In this model, progesterone and oestrogen were administered in cycles following the removal of ovaries. Subsequently, endometrial decidualisation was induced using sesame oil, followed by withdrawal of progesterone administration. Vaginal bleeding in mice is similar to that in humans. Therefore, the use of mice as a model organism to study the mechanism of menstruation and gynaecological diseases may prove to be an important breakthrough. The present review is focussed ond the development and applications of a mouse model of menstruation. Furthermore, various studies have been described to improve this model and the research findings that may aid in the treatment of menstrual disorders in women are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Fuli Shi
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Ying Ying
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Qiongfeng Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhimin Tang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Hui Lin
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Nanchang University Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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8
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Critchley HOD, Maybin JA, Armstrong GM, Williams ARW. Physiology of the Endometrium and Regulation of Menstruation. Physiol Rev 2020; 100:1149-1179. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00031.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological functions of the uterine endometrium (uterine lining) are preparation for implantation, maintenance of pregnancy if implantation occurs, and menstruation in the absence of pregnancy. The endometrium thus plays a pivotal role in reproduction and continuation of our species. Menstruation is a steroid-regulated event, and there are alternatives for a progesterone-primed endometrium, i.e., pregnancy or menstruation. Progesterone withdrawal is the trigger for menstruation. The menstruating endometrium is a physiological example of an injured or “wounded” surface that is required to rapidly repair each month. The physiological events of menstruation and endometrial repair provide an accessible in vivo human model of inflammation and tissue repair. Progress in our understanding of endometrial pathophysiology has been facilitated by modern cellular and molecular discovery tools, along with animal models of simulated menses. Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), including heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), imposes a massive burden on society, affecting one in four women of reproductive age. Understanding structural and nonstructural causes underpinning AUB is essential to optimize and provide precision in patient management. This is facilitated by careful classification of causes of bleeding. We highlight the crucial need for understanding mechanisms underpinning menstruation and its aberrations. The endometrium is a prime target tissue for selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs). This class of compounds has therapeutic potential for the clinical unmet need of HMB. SPRMs reduce menstrual bleeding by mechanisms still largely unknown. Human menstruation remains a taboo topic, and many questions concerning endometrial physiology that pertain to menstrual bleeding are yet to be answered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary O. D. Critchley
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline A. Maybin
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Gregory M. Armstrong
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair R. W. Williams
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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9
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Bellofiore N, Cousins F, Temple-Smith P, Dickinson H, Evans J. A missing piece: the spiny mouse and the puzzle of menstruating species. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R25-R41. [PMID: 29789322 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We recently discovered the first known menstruating rodent. With the exception of four bats and the elephant shrew, the common spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) is the only species outside the primate order to exhibit menses. There are few widely accepted theories on why menstruation developed as the preferred reproductive strategy of these select mammals, all of which reference the evolution of spontaneous decidualisation prior to menstrual shedding. Though menstruating species share several reproductive traits, there has been no identifiable feature unique to menstruating species. Such a feature might suggest why spontaneous decidualisation, and thus menstruation, evolved in these species. We propose that a ≥3-fold increase in progesterone during the luteal phase of the reproductive cycle is a unique characteristic linking menstruating species. We discuss spontaneous decidualisation as a consequence of high progesterone, and the potential role of prolactin in screening for defective embryos in these species to aid in minimising implantation of abnormal embryos. We further explore the possible impact of nutrition in selecting species to undergo spontaneous decidualisation and subsequent menstruation. We summarise the current knowledge of menstruation, discuss current pre-clinical models of menstruation and how the spiny mouse may benefit advancing our understanding of this rare biological phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Bellofiore
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Fiona Cousins
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | | | - Hayley Dickinson
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jemma Evans
- Centre for Reproductive HealthHudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
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De Clercq K, Van den Eynde C, Hennes A, Van Bree R, Voets T, Vriens J. The functional expression of transient receptor potential channels in the mouse endometrium. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:615-630. [PMID: 28077439 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does mouse endometrial epithelial cells and stromal cells have a similar transient receptor potential (TRP)-channel expression profile and to that found in the human endometrium? SUMMARY ANSWER Mouse endometrial epithelial and stromal cells have a distinct TRP channel expression profile analogous to what has been found in human endometrium, and hence suggests the mouse a good model to investigate the role of TRP channels in reproduction. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY An optimal intercellular communication between epithelial and stromal endometrial cells is crucial for successful reproduction. Members of the TRP family were recently described in the human endometrial stroma; however their functional expression in murine endometrium remains unspecified. Furthermore, epithelial and stromal cells have distinct functions in the reproductive process, implying the possibility for a different expression profile. However, knowledge about the functional expression pattern of TRP channels in either epithelial or stromal cells is not available. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In this study, the expression pattern of TRP channels in the murine (C57BL/6 J strain) endometrium was investigated and compared to the human expression pattern. Therefore, expression was examined in uterine tissue isolated during the natural estrous cycle (n = 16) or during an induced menstrual cycle using the menstruating mouse model (n = 28). Next, the functional expression of TRP channels was assessed separately in endometrial epithelial and stromal cell populations. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Quantitative RT-PCR was used to evaluate the relative mRNA expression of TRP channels in murine uterine tissue and cells. To further assess the functional expression in epithelial or stromal cells, primary endometrial cell cultures and Fura2-based calcium-microfluorimetry experiments were performed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The expression pattern of TRP channels during the natural estrous cycle or the induced menstrual cycle is analog to what has been shown in human samples. Furthermore, a very distinct expression pattern was observed in epithelial cells compared to stromal cells. Expression of TRPV4, TRPV6 and TRPM6 was significantly higher in epithelial cells whereas TRPV2, TRPC1/4 and TRPC6 were almost exclusively expressed in stromal cells. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although relevant mRNA levels are detected for TRPV6 and TRPM6, and TRPM4, lack of selective, available pharmacology restricted functional analysis of these ion channels. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Successful reproduction, and more specifically embryo implantation, is a dynamic developmental process that integrates many signaling molecules into a precisely orchestrated program. Here, we describe the expression pattern of TRP channels in mouse endometrium that is similar to human tissue and their restricted functionality in either stromal cells or epithelial cells, suggesting a role in the epithelial-stromal crosstalk. These results will be very helpful to identify key players involved in the signaling cascades required for successful embryo implantation. In addition, these results illustrate that mouse endometrium is a valid representative for human endometrium to investigate TRP channels in the field of reproduction. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The Research Foundation-Flanders (G.0856.13 N to J.V.); the Research Council of the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (OT/13/113 to J.V. and PF-TRPLe to T.V.); the Planckaert-De Waele fund (to J.V.); Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek Belgium (to K.D.C. and A.H.). None of the authors have a conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrien De Clercq
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Experimental Gynaecology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Van den Eynde
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Experimental Gynaecology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Aurélie Hennes
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Experimental Gynaecology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rieta Van Bree
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Experimental Gynaecology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomas Voets
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research and TRP Research Platform Leuven (TRPLe), KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 802, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joris Vriens
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Experimental Gynaecology, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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11
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Peterse D, Clercq KD, Goossens C, Binda MM, F. O. D, Saunders P, Vriens J, Fassbender A, D’Hooghe TM. Optimization of Endometrial Decidualization in the Menstruating Mouse Model for Preclinical Endometriosis Research. Reprod Sci 2018; 25:1577-1588. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118756744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniëlle Peterse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katrien De Clercq
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chloë Goossens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M. Mercedes Binda
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dorien F. O.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philippa Saunders
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Joris Vriens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amelie Fassbender
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomas M. D’Hooghe
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Research and Development, Merck, Darmstadt, Germany
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12
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Abstract
Historically, the evolutionary origins of menstruation have been based on two theories: the ability to eliminate infectious agents carried to the uterus with spermatozoa and the comparative conservation of energy with menstruation compared to its absence. In the menstruating species, more recent theories have identified spontaneous decidualization as the key adaptive mechanism. Spontaneous decidualization is seen as a mechanism to provide the mother with protection from the invasive characteristics of the embryo. Physiologically, menstruation involves complex interactions of inflammation and vascular mechanisms to stabilize the endometrium and allow a regulated loss of endometrial tissues and blood. A variety of human illnesses can be better understood as vulnerabilities associated with these evolutionary developments, including recurrent pregnancy loss, placenta accreta, ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis, adenomyosis, dysmenorrhea, and chronic pelvic pain. While the evolutionary aspects of these diseases indicate why such illnesses can occur, in some instances, they also provide a basis for treatment, prevention and future research direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Jarrell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Calgary, 1403 29th St NW, Calgary, T2N 2T9, AB, Canada.
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13
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Gelatin Binding Proteins in Reproductive Physiology. Indian J Microbiol 2016; 56:383-393. [PMID: 27784933 DOI: 10.1007/s12088-016-0618-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to advance the assisted reproductive technologies used in animals and human beings, it is important to accumulate basic informations about underlying molecular mechanisms that shape the biological processes of reproduction. From within seminal plasma, proteins perform a wide variety of distinct functions that regulate major reproductive events such as fertilization. The ability of such proteins to bind and interact with different antagonistic ions and biomolecules such as polysaccharides, lipids, and other proteins present in the male and female reproductive tract define these capabilities. Over the last two decades, extensive work has been undertaken in an attempt to define the role of seminal plasma proteins, of which, Gelatin binding proteins (GBPs) represent a large family. GBPs comprise of known group of Bovine seminal plasma (BSP) protein family, matrix metallo proteinases (MMP 2 and MMP 9) and fibronectin, which have been widely studied. The presence of a type II repeat is a characteristic feature of GBPs, which is similar in structure to the fibronectin type II domain (fn2), which has ability to bind multiple ligands including gelatin, glycosaminoglycans, choline phospholipids, and lipoproteins. Two fn2 domains are present within the BSP protein family, while, three fn2 domains are found in gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP9), and ELSPBP1 (Epididymosomes Transfer Epididymal Sperm Binding Protein 1) contains four long fn2 domains. For the most part BSP proteins are exclusively expressed in seminal vesicles although mBSPH1, mBSPH2 and hBSPH1 are all expressed in the epididymis. The expression of gelatinases has been demonstrated in several organs and tissues such as the prostate, testis, epididymis, ovary, human placenta, cervix and endometrial wall. This review intends to bring current updates on the role of GBPs in reproductive physiology to light, which may act as basis for future studies on GBPs.
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Zhang GH, Cui LJ, Li AY, Zhang JP, Liu Y, Zhao JS, Xu XB, He B, Wang JD, Chu L, Li YF. Endometrial breakdown with sustained progesterone release involves NF-κB-mediated functional progesterone withdrawal in a mouse implant model. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:780-791. [PMID: 27500900 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Irregular uterine bleeding is a major side effect of long-acting progestogen-only contraceptives in women, and is the primary reason women discontinue their use. In this study, a mouse model of endometrial breakdown was established using a subcutaneous progesterone implant to understand how irregular bleeding begins. Although progestogens sustained decidualization, endometrial breakdown was still observed in this model. We, therefore, hypothesized that endometrial breakdown might involve functional progesterone withdrawal. Using co-immunoprecipitation assays, we observed the constitutive activation of nuclear factor kappa-b (NF-κB) p65 and its interaction with the progesterone receptor (PGR); moreover, transcriptional activity of the PGR was also repressed by NF-κB activity in primary mouse and human decidual stromal cells that mimic progesterone maintenance. Yet the ratio of PGR-B to PGR-A was not increased in the mouse model. In vivo comparison of endometrial breakdown induced by progesterone withdrawal to that seen during sustained progesterone exposure, in the presence of NF-κB inhibitors, revealed that NF-κB-mediated functional progesterone withdrawal is involved in endometrial breakdown in this implant model. These data prompt further studies to determine the homology of this functional progesterone withdrawal mechanism in human endometrium. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 780-791, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Hong Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China.
| | - Li-Jing Cui
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China
| | - Ai-Ying Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Ping Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China
| | - Yu Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China
| | - Jing-Shan Zhao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China
| | - Xiang-Bo Xu
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Bin He
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Jie-Dong Wang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Li Chu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China
| | - Yun-Feng Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, P. R. China
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Paiva P, Lockhart MG, Girling JE, Olshansky M, Woodrow N, Marino JL, Hickey M, Rogers PAW. Identification of genes differentially expressed in menstrual breakdown and repair. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:898-912. [PMID: 27609758 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the changing molecular profile of the endometrium during menstruation correlate with the histological profile of menstruation. SUMMARY ANSWER We identified several genes not previously associated with menstruation; on Day 2 of menstruation (early-menstruation), processes related to inflammation are predominantly up-regulated and on Day 4 (late-menstruation), the endometrium is predominantly repairing and regenerating. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Menstruation is induced by progesterone withdrawal at the end of the menstrual cycle and involves endometrial tissue breakdown, regeneration and repair. Perturbations in the regulation of menstruation may result in menstrual disorders including abnormal uterine bleeding. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE DURATION Endometrial samples were collected by Pipelle biopsy on Days 2 (n = 9), 3 (n = 9) or 4 (n = 6) of menstruation. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS RNA was extracted from endometrial biopsies and analysed by genome wide expression Illumina Sentrix Human HT12 arrays. Data were analysed using 'Remove Unwanted Variation-inverse (RUV-inv)'. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) and the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) v6.7 were used to identify canonical pathways, upstream regulators and functional gene clusters enriched between Days 2, 3 and 4 of menstruation. Selected individual genes were validated by quantitative PCR. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Overall, 1753 genes were differentially expressed in one or more comparisons. Significant canonical pathways, gene clusters and upstream regulators enriched during menstrual bleeding included those associated with immune cell trafficking, inflammation, cell cycle regulation, extracellular remodelling and the complement and coagulation cascade. We provide the first evidence for a role for glutathione-mediated detoxification (glutathione-S-transferase mu 1 and 2; GSTM1 and GSTM2) during menstruation. The largest number of differentially expressed genes was between Days 2 and 4 of menstruation (n = 1176). We identified several genes not previously associated with menstruation including lipopolysaccharide binding protein, serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade B (ovalbumin), member 3 (SERPINB3) and -4 (SERPINB4), interleukin-17C (IL17C), V-set domain containing T-cell activation inhibitor 1 (VTCN1), proliferating cell nuclear antigen factor (KIAA0101/PAF), trefoil factor 3 (TFF3), laminin alpha 2 (LAMA2) and serine peptidase inhibitor, Kazal type 1 (SPINK1). Genes related to inflammatory processes were up-regulated on Day 2 (early-menstruation), and those associated with endometrial repair and regeneration were up-regulated on Day 4 (late-menstruation). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Participants presented with a variety of endometrial pathologies related to bleeding status and other menstrual characteristics. These variations may also have influenced the menstrual process. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The temporal molecular profile of menstruation presented in this study identifies a number of genes not previously associated with the menstrual process. Our findings provide valuable insight into the menstrual process and may present novel targets for therapeutic intervention in cases of endometrial dysfunction. LARGE SCALE DATA All microarray data have been deposited in the public data repository Gene Expression Omnibus (GSE86003). STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS Funding for this work was provided by a National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC) Project Grant APP1008553 to M.H., P.R. and J.G. M.H. is supported by an NHMRC Practitioner Fellowship. P.P. is supported by a NHMRC Early Career Fellowship. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Premila Paiva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Cnr Flemington Rd and Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Michelle G Lockhart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Cnr Flemington Rd and Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Cnr Flemington Rd and Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Moshe Olshansky
- Bioinformatics Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.,Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Wellington Road and Blackburn Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Nicole Woodrow
- Pauline Gandel Imaging Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, 20 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Marino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Cnr Flemington Rd and Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Martha Hickey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Cnr Flemington Rd and Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Peter A W Rogers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Cnr Flemington Rd and Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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16
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Maybin JA, Critchley HOD. Menstrual physiology: implications for endometrial pathology and beyond. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:748-61. [PMID: 26253932 PMCID: PMC4594618 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Each month the endometrium becomes inflamed, and the luminal portion is shed during menstruation. The subsequent repair is remarkable, allowing implantation to occur if fertilization takes place. Aberrations in menstrual physiology can lead to common gynaecological conditions, such as heavy or prolonged bleeding. Increased knowledge of the processes involved in menstrual physiology may also have translational benefits at other tissue sites. METHODS Pubmed and Cochrane databases were searched for all original and review articles published in English until April 2015. Search terms included ‘endometrium’, ‘menstruation’, ‘endometrial repair’, ‘endometrial regeneration’ ‘angiogenesis’, ‘inflammation’ and ‘heavy menstrual bleeding’ or ‘menorrhagia’. RESULTS Menstruation occurs naturally in very few species. Human menstruation is thought to occur as a consequence of preimplantation decidualization, conferring embryo selectivity and the ability to adapt to optimize function. We highlight how current and future study of endometrial inflammation, vascular changes and repair/regeneration will allow us to identify new therapeutic targets for common gynaecological disorders. In addition, we describe how increased knowledge of this endometrial physiology will have many translational applications at other tissue sites. We highlight the clinical applications of what we know, the key questions that remain and the scientific and medical possibilities for the future. CONCLUSIONS The study of menstruation, in both normal and abnormal scenarios, is essential for the production of novel, acceptable medical treatments for common gynaecological complaints. Furthermore, collaboration and communication with specialists in other fields could significantly advance the therapeutic potential of this dynamic tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline A Maybin
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Hilary O D Critchley
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Chen X, Liu J, He B, Li Y, Liu S, Wu B, Wang S, Zhang S, Xu X, Wang J. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulation by hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1A) starts and peaks during endometrial breakdown, not repair, in a mouse menstrual-like model. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2160-70. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
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18
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Wu B, Chen X, He B, Liu S, Li Y, Wang Q, Gao H, Wang S, Liu J, Zhang S, Xu X, Wang J. ROS are critical for endometrial breakdown via NF-κB-COX-2 signaling in a female mouse menstrual-like model. Endocrinology 2014; 155:3638-48. [PMID: 24926822 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone withdrawal triggers endometrial breakdown and shedding during menstruation. Menstruation results from inflammatory responses; however, the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in menstruation remains unclear. In this study, we explored the role of ROS in endometrial breakdown and shedding. We found that ROS levels were significantly increased before endometrial breakdown in a mouse menstrual-like model. Vaginal smear inspection, morphology of uterine horns, and endometrial histology examination showed that a broad range of ROS scavengers significantly inhibited endometrial breakdown in this model. Furthermore, Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis showed that the intracellular translocation of p50 and p65 from the cytoplasm into the nucleus was blocked by ROS scavengers and real-time PCR showed that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) mRNA expression was decreased by ROS scavengers. Similar changes also occurred in human stromal cells in vitro. Furthermore, Western blotting and real-time PCR showed that one ROS, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), promoted translocation of p50 and p65 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus and increased COX-2 mRNA expression along with progesterone maintenance. The nuclear factor κB inhibitor MG132 reduced the occurrence of these changes in human stromal cells in vitro. Viewed as a whole, our results provide evidence that certain ROS are important for endometrial breakdown and shedding in a mouse menstrual-like model and function at least partially via nuclear factor-κB/COX-2 signaling. Similar changes observed in human stromal cells could also implicate ROS as important mediators of human menstruation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wu
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory (B.W., X.C., B.H., S.W., J.L., S.Z., X.X., J.W.), National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China; Graduate School (B.W., S.W., J.L., J.W.), Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China; School of Pre-clinical Sciences (S.L.), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, People's Republic of China; Basic Medical College (Y.L.), Hebei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050091, People's Republic of China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics (Q.W.), Zunyi Medical College, 563003 Zunyi, People's Republic of China; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (H.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
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Cousins FL, Murray A, Esnal A, Gibson DA, Critchley HOD, Saunders PTK. Evidence from a mouse model that epithelial cell migration and mesenchymal-epithelial transition contribute to rapid restoration of uterine tissue integrity during menstruation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e86378. [PMID: 24466063 PMCID: PMC3899239 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0086378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In women dynamic changes in uterine tissue architecture occur during each menstrual cycle. Menses, characterised by the shedding of the upper functional layer of the endometrium, is the culmination of a cascade of irreversible changes in tissue function including stromal decidualisation, inflammation and production of degradative enzymes. The molecular mechanisms that contribute to the rapid restoration of tissue homeostasis at time of menses are poorly understood. METHODOLOGY A modified mouse model of menses was developed to focus on the events occurring within the uterine lining during endometrial shedding/repair. Decidualisation, vaginal bleeding, tissue architecture and cell proliferation were evaluated at 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after progesterone (P4) withdrawal; mice received a single injection of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) 90 mins before culling. Expression of genes implicated in the regulation of mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) was determined using a RT2 PCR profiler array, qRTPCR and bioinformatic analysis. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Mice exhibited vaginal bleeding between 4 and 12 hours after P4 withdrawal, concomitant with detachment of the decidualised cell mass from the basal portion of the endometrial lining. Immunostaining for BrdU and pan cytokeratin revealed evidence of epithelial cell proliferation and migration. Cells that appeared to be in transition from a mesenchymal to an epithelial cell identity were identified within the stromal compartment. Analysis of mRNAs encoding genes expressed exclusively in the epithelial or stromal compartments, or implicated in MET, revealed dynamic changes in expression, consistent with a role for reprogramming of mesenchymal cells so that they could contribute to re-epithelialisation. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE These studies have provided novel insights into the cellular processes that contribute to re-epithelialisation post-menses implicating both epithelial cell migration and mesenchymal cell differentiation in restoration of an intact epithelial cell layer. These insights may inform development of new therapies to induce rapid healing in the endometrium and other tissues and offer hope to women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Murray
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Arantza Esnal
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas A. Gibson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Hilary O. D. Critchley
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa T. K. Saunders
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Xu X, Chen X, Li Y, Cao H, Shi C, Guan S, Zhang S, He B, Wang J. Cyclooxygenase-2 regulated by the nuclear factor-κB pathway plays an important role in endometrial breakdown in a female mouse menstrual-like model. Endocrinology 2013; 154:2900-11. [PMID: 23720426 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The role of prostaglandins (PGs) in menstruation has long been proposed. Although evidence from studies on human and nonhuman primates supports the involvement of PGs in menstruation, whether PGs play an obligatory role in the process remains unclear. Although cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors have been used in the treatment of irregular uterine bleeding, the mechanism involved has not been elucidated. In this study, we used a recently established mouse menstrual-like model for investigating the role of COX in endometrial breakdown and its regulation. Administration of the nonspecific COX inhibitor indomethacin and the COX-2 selective inhibitor DuP-697 led to inhibition of the menstrual-like process. Furthermore, immunostaining analysis showed that the nuclear factor (NF)κB proteins P50, P65, and COX-2 colocalized in the outer decidual stroma at 12 to 16 hours after progesterone withdrawal. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that NFκB binding to the Cox-2 promoter increased at 12 hours after progesterone withdrawal in vivo, and real-time PCR analysis showed that the NFκB inhibitors pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate and MG-132 inhibited Cox-2 mRNA expression in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Furthermore, COX-2 and NFκB inhibitors similarly reduced endometrial breakdown, suggesting that NFκB/COX-2-derived PGs play a critical role in this process. In addition, the CD45(+) leukocyte numbers were sharply reduced following indomethacin (COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor), DuP-697 (COX-2 inhibitor), and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (NFκB inhibitor) treatment. Collectively, these data indicate that NFκB/COX-2-induced PGs regulate leukocyte influx, leading to endometrial breakdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangbo Xu
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, People’s Republic of China
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