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Huang N, Chan BP. A 3D micro-printed single cell micro-niche with asymmetric niche signals - An in vitro model for asymmetric cell division study. Biomaterials 2024; 311:122684. [PMID: 38971120 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122684] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Intricate microenvironment signals orchestrate to affect cell behavior and fate during tissue morphogenesis. However, the underlying mechanisms on how specific local niche signals influence cell behavior and fate are not fully understood, owing to the lack of in vitro platform able to precisely, quantitatively, spatially, and independently manipulate individual niche signals. Here, microarrays of protein-based 3D single cell micro-niche (3D-SCμN), with precisely engineered biophysical and biochemical niche signals, are micro-printed by a multiphoton microfabrication and micropatterning technology. Mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) is used as the model cell to study how local niche signals affect stem cell behavior and fate. By precisely engineering the internal microstructures of the 3D SCμNs, we demonstrate that the cell division direction can be controlled by the biophysical niche signals, in a cell shape-independent manner. After confining the cell division direction to a dominating axis, single mESCs are exposed to asymmetric biochemical niche signals, specifically, cell-cell adhesion molecule on one side and extracellular matrix on the other side. We demonstrate that, symmetry-breaking (asymmetric) niche signals successfully trigger cell polarity formation and bias the orientation of asymmetric cell division, the mitosis process resulting in two daughter cells with differential fates, in mESCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Huang
- Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Tissue Engineering Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, And Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Barbara Pui Chan
- Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Tissue Engineering Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, And Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
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Khan NLA, Muhandiram S, Dissanayake K, Godakumara K, Midekessa G, Andronowska A, Heath PR, Kodithuwakku S, Hart AR, Fazeli A. Effect of 3D and 2D cell culture systems on trophoblast extracellular vesicle physico-chemical characteristics and potency. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1382552. [PMID: 38835509 PMCID: PMC11148233 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1382552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The growing understanding of the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in embryo-maternal communication has sparked considerable interest in their therapeutic potential within assisted reproductive technology, particularly in enhancing implantation success. However, the major obstacle remains the large-scale production of EVs, and there is still a gap in understanding how different culture systems affect the characteristics of the EVs. In the current study, trophoblast analogue human chorionic carcinoma cell line was cultivated in both conventional monolayer culture (2D) and as spheroids in suspension culture (3D) and how the cell growth environment affects the physical, biochemical and cellular signalling properties of EVs produced by them was studied. Interestingly, the 3D system was more active in secreting EVs compared to the 2D system, while no significant differences were observed in terms of morphology, size, and classical EV protein marker expression between EVs derived from the two culture systems. There were substantial differences in the proteomic cargo profile and cellular signalling potency of EVs derived from the two culture systems. Notably, 2D EVs were more potent in inducing a cellular response in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) compared to 3D EVs. Therefore, it is essential to recognize that the biological activity of EVs depends not only on the cell of origin but also on the cellular microenvironment of the parent cell. In conclusion, caution is warranted when selecting an EV production platform, especially for assessing the functional and therapeutic potential of EVs through in vitro studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norhayati Liaqat Ali Khan
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Centre of Preclinical Science Studies, Faculty of Dentistry, University Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sg. Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Subhashini Muhandiram
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kasun Godakumara
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Getnet Midekessa
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Aneta Andronowska
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Paul R Heath
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Suranga Kodithuwakku
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Amber Rose Hart
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Guo X, Wang CC, Chung JPW, Li TC, Chen X. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), placental growth factor (PlGF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in serum from women undergoing frozen embryo transfer. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:987-997. [PMID: 35243939 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2040749] [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: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1 are three main angiogenic factors which play significant roles in embryo implantation. However, the relationship between serum expressions of VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1 and pregnancy outcomes has not been fully illustrated. In this study, serum specimens were collected precisely on day 7 after the LH surge in a natural non-conception cycle from 38 infertile patients who underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET) treatment. ELISA was used to determine the concentrations of VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1. Serum levels of VEGFA, PlGF and IGF-1 were compared between patients who conceived (n=25) and who did not (n=13). Correlation and linear regression analyses were used to investigate the correlations of serum angiogenic factors and β-hCG MoM levels in the pregnant group. The results demonstrated that no significant difference was found in serum VEGFA, PlGF or IGF-1 concentration between pregnant and non-pregnant women. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between IGF-1 concentration and β-hCG level in pregnant participants (rs = 0.490, p = 0.013). In conclusion, serum IGF-1 level correlated positively with β-hCG level in pregnant women, which may provide information on the prognostic value of IGF-1 in this group of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Jacqueline Pui Wah Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, PR China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
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Mao J, Feng Y, Zheng Y, Gao Y, Zhang L, Sun X, Wu Y, Zhu X, Ma F. GPR65 inhibits human trophoblast cell adhesion through upregulation of MYLK and downregulation of fibronectin via cAMP-ERK signaling in a low pH environment. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:238. [PMID: 37723567 PMCID: PMC10506227 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01249-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) are essential cells during the formation of the placenta, with the major function of invading the maternal decidua, anchoring the developing placenta to the uterus, remodeling uterine arteries, and regulating immune responses to prevent rejection. During early pregnancy, the decidua undergoes a hypoxic and acidic microenvironment, which has been shown to participate in tumor cell migration, invasion, growth, and angiogenesis. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which EVTs sense and respond to the acidic microenvironment, thereby executing their functions, remain poorly understood. METHODS The effects of G protein-coupled receptor 65 (GPR65) on cell adhesion and other cellular functions were tested using JAR spheroids, mouse blastocysts, and HTR-8/SVneo cells. Specifically, we employed HTR-8/SVneo cells for gene overexpression and silencing to investigate the underlying mechanism of GPR65's impact on trophoblast cell function under acidic conditions. Additionally, villus tissue samples obtained from early pregnancy loss patients were utilized to explore the potential association between GPR65 and its related signaling pathway molecules with the disease. RESULTS This study identified GPR65 expression widely in trophoblasts, with the highest level in EVTs. Importantly, optimal GPR65 levels are required for maintaining normal adhesion, migration, and invasion, whereas overexpression of GPR65 inhibits these functions by activating the cAMP-ERK signaling pathway, upregulating myosin light chain kinase (MYLK) and MYLK3 expression, and subsequently downregulating fibronectin. Consistently, elevated expression of GPR65, MYLK, and MYLK3 is observed in patients suffering from early pregnancy loss. CONCLUSIONS This work offers insights into the suppressive effects of GPR65 on EVT function under acidic conditions and highlights a putative target for therapeutic intervention in early pregnancy complications. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Mao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, Sichuan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying Feng
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Neurobiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yayun Zheng
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Neurobiology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaqiu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, Sichuan, China
| | - Linyu Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinrui Sun
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yilun Wu
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, Sichuan, China.
| | - Fang Ma
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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Expression profile of genes related to pregnancy maintenance in Dromedary Camel during the first trimester. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 251:107211. [PMID: 36990016 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
So far, few signals involved in embryo-maternal dialogue have been identified in pregnant she-camel. Our objective was to investigate expression profiles of genes relevant to uterine extracellular matrix remodeling (ITGB4, SLCO2A1, FOS, and JUN), uterine tissue vascularization, and placental formation (VEGFA, PGF, and PDGFA), embryonic growth and development (IGF1 and PTEN), plus cell death of uterine tissue (BCL2) in early pregnant versus non-pregnant she-camels. Forty genital tracts (20 pregnant and 20 non-pregnant) and blood samples were collected from abattoirs. Total RNA was extracted from uterine tissues and qRT-PCR was conducted for candidate genes. Serum concentrations of progesterone (P4) and estradiol17-β (E2) were measured. Expression of ITGB4, FOS, and PGF genes increased (P < 0.001) in the right uterine horn of pregnant versus non-pregnant she-camels. Moreover, JUN, SLCO2A1, VEGFA, and PTEN mRNAs were up-regulated (P < 0.001) in various segments of uterine tissues in pregnant groups. The PDGFA transcript was over-expressed (P < 0.001) in both uterine horns of pregnant groups. Additionally, IGF1 was higher (P < 0.001) in the right horn and the uterine body of pregnant groups, and expression of BCL2 was increased (P < 0.001) in the pregnant uterine body. Moreover, serum concentrations of P4 were higher (P < 0.001) and E2 lower (P < 0.05) in pregnant she-camels. Taken together, the fine-tuning of genes related to implantation, matrix formation, vascularization, and placental formation is highly required for successful pregnancy in she-camels.
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Siriwardena D, Boroviak TE. Evolutionary divergence of embryo implantation in primates. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210256. [PMID: 36252209 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation of the conceptus into the uterus is absolutely essential for successful embryo development. In humans, our understanding of this process has remained rudimentary owing to the inaccessibility of early implantation stages. Non-human primates recapitulate many aspects of human embryo development and provide crucial insights into trophoblast development, uterine receptivity and embryo invasion. Moreover, primate species exhibit a variety of implantation strategies and differ in embryo invasion depths. This review examines conservation and divergence of the key processes required for embryo implantation in different primates and in comparison with the canonical rodent model. We discuss trophectoderm compartmentalization, endometrial remodelling and embryo adhesion and invasion. Finally, we propose that studying the mechanism controlling invasion depth between different primate species may provide new insights and treatment strategies for placentation disorders in humans. This article is part of the theme issue 'Extraembryonic tissues: exploring concepts, definitions and functions across the animal kingdom'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Siriwardena
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Thorsten E Boroviak
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.,Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
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Green CJ, Span M, Rayhanna MH, Perera M, Day ML. Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 Increases Mouse Preimplantation Embryo Cleavage Rate by Activation of IGF1R and EGFR Independent of IGF1 Signalling. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233762. [PMID: 36497022 PMCID: PMC9736160 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The viability of embryos cultured in vitro is poor compared to those that develop in vivo. The lack of maternally derived growth factors in vitro may contribute to this problem. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) is one such growth factor that has been identified in the maternal reproductive system. This study examined the role of autocrine and exogenous IGFBP3 in mouse preimplantation embryos. Embryos expressed IGFBP3 across all stages of preimplantation development, and addition of exogenous IGFBP3 to embryo culture media increased the rate of development to the 2-, 4-, 5-, and 8-cell stages. Addition of inhibitors of the IGF1 and EGF receptors prevented this IGFBP3-mediated improvement in developmental rate, but the effect was not cumulative, indicating that both receptors are transactivated downstream of IGFBP3 as part of the same signalling pathway. Acute exposure to IGFBP3 increased phosphorylation of Akt and rps6 in 4-8 cell embryos, suggesting activation of the PI3-kinase/Akt pathway downstream of the IGF1 and EGFR receptors to promote cell proliferation and survival. In conclusion, addition of IGFBP3 to embryo culture media increases early cleavage rates independent of IGF1 signalling and therefore, IGFBP3 addition to IVF culture media should be considered.
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Cao Z, Yan Q, Zhang M, Zhu Y, Liu J, Jiang Y, Zhen X, Xu M, Yue Q, Zhou J, Zhou Q, Wang X, Ding L, Sun H, Yan G. FHL1 mediates HOXA10 deacetylation via SIRT2 to enhance blastocyst-epithelial adhesion. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:461. [DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01253-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractRecurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a rather thorny problem in the clinical practice of assisted reproductive technology. Due to the complex aetiology of RIF, its pathogenesis is far from fully understood, and there is no effective treatment available. Here, We explored the regulatory mechanism of the four half-domains of LIM domain 1 (FHL1), which is significantly downregulated in the endometrium of RIF patients, in blastocyst-epithelial adhesion. Indeed, FHL1 expression was dramatically increased in normal female mid-secretory endometrial epithelial cells and was abnormally reduced in RIF patients. Furthermore, FHL1 overexpression promoted blastocyst-epithelial adhesion, and interfering with FHL1 expression in the mouse uterus significantly inhibited embryo implantation. Mechanistically, FHL1 did not regulate HOXA10 mRNA expression but increased HOXA10 protein stability and activated HOXA10, thereby promoting its regulation of downstream gene expression and the β3 integrin/FAK pathway. Meanwhile, FHL1 regulates HOXA10 function by increasing HOXA10 deacetylation through enhanced binding of HOXA10 and SIRT2. SIRT2-specific inhibitors can significantly inhibit this effect. In the endometrial epithelial cells of RIF patients, the correlation between FHL1 and HOXA10 and its downstream target genes has also been verified. Finally, our data indicated FHL1 is a regulatory molecule that promotes blastocyst-epithelial adhesion. Altogether, downstream dysfunction due to aberrant FHL1 expression is an important molecular basis for embryo implantation failure in patients with RIF and to provide new potential therapeutic targets.
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Amjadi F, Zandieh Z, Mehdizadeh M, Ajdary M, Aghamajidi A, Raoufi E, Aflatoonian R. Molecular signature of immunological mechanism behind impaired endometrial receptivity in polycystic ovarian syndrome. ARCHIVES OF ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM 2022; 66:2359-3997000000476. [PMID: 35551681 PMCID: PMC9832857 DOI: 10.20945/2359-3997000000476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective Despite the treatment of anovulation, infertility is still one of the main complications in PCOS women during reproductive age, which appears to be mainly due to impaired uterine receptivity. This study investigated the transcriptome profiles of endometrium in PCOS patients and healthy fertile individuals as the control group. Methods Total mRNA was extracted from endometrial tissues of PCOS patients (n = 12) and healthy fertile individuals (n = 10) during the luteal phase. After cDNA synthesis, PCR array was performed using Human Female Infertility RT2 Profiler PCR Array kit (Qiagen, Cat.No: PAHS-164Z) for evaluating expression of 84 genes contributing to the female infertility. Results PCR Array data analysis identified significantly greater expression of CSF, IL11, IL15, IL1r1, IL1b, TNF, LIF, TNFRSF10B, TGFβ, C3, ITGA4 (Cd49d), SPP1, and Calca in PCOS women than in controls (P < 0.05). However, the expression of LIFR, C2, CD55, CFD, CALCA, LAM1, LAMC2, MMP2, MMP7, MMP9, ESR, SELL, ITGB3, and VCAM1 was significantly lower in PCOS group than in controls (P < 0.05). The results revealed dysregulation of immune-inflammatory molecules, complement activation and downregulation of IGF-I as well as adhesion molecules in PCOS group. Conclusion The findings of this study indicated some potential causes of reduced receptivity of endometrium thus compromising the fertility in PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Akbarabadi IVF clinic, Akbarabadi Hospital, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Akbarabadi IVF clinic, Akbarabadi Hospital, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Ajdary
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azin Aghamajidi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Raoufi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics, Bioluence Biopharmaceutical Company, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran,
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Ruane PT, Garner T, Parsons L, Babbington PA, Wangsaputra I, Kimber SJ, Stevens A, Westwood M, Brison DR, Aplin JD. Trophectoderm differentiation to invasive syncytiotrophoblast is promoted by endometrial epithelial cells during human embryo implantation. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:777-792. [PMID: 35079788 PMCID: PMC9398450 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does the human embryo breach the endometrial epithelium at implantation? SUMMARY ANSWER Embryo attachment to the endometrial epithelium promotes the formation of multinuclear syncytiotrophoblast from trophectoderm, which goes on to breach the epithelial layer. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A significant proportion of natural conceptions and assisted reproduction treatments fail due to unsuccessful implantation. The trophectoderm lineage of the embryo attaches to the endometrial epithelium before breaching this barrier to implant into the endometrium. Trophectoderm-derived syncytiotrophoblast has been observed in recent in vitro cultures of peri-implantation embryos, and historical histology has shown invasive syncytiotrophoblast in embryos that have invaded beyond the epithelium, but the cell type mediating invasion of the epithelial layer at implantation is unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fresh and frozen human blastocyst-stage embryos (n = 46) or human trophoblast stem cell (TSC) spheroids were co-cultured with confluent monolayers of the Ishikawa endometrial epithelial cell line to model the epithelial phase of implantation in vitro. Systems biology approaches with published transcriptomic datasets were used to model the epithelial phase of implantation in silico. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human embryos surplus to treatment requirements were consented for research. Day 6 blastocysts were co-cultured with Ishikawa cell layers until Day 8, and human TSC spheroids modelling blastocyst trophectoderm were co-cultured with Ishikawa cell layers for 48 h. Embryo and TSC morphology was assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy, and TSC differentiation by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and ELISA. Single-cell human blastocyst transcriptomes, and bulk transcriptomes of TSC and primary human endometrial epithelium were used to model the trophectoderm-epithelium interaction in silico. Hypernetworks, pathway analysis, random forest machine learning and RNA velocity were employed to identify gene networks associated with implantation. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The majority of embryos co-cultured with Ishikawa cell layers from Day 6 to 8 breached the epithelial layer (37/46), and syncytiotrophoblast was seen in all of these. Syncytiotrophoblast was observed at the embryo-epithelium interface before breaching, and syncytiotrophoblast mediated all pioneering breaching events observed (7/7 events). Multiple independent syncytiotrophoblast regions were seen in 26/46 embryos, suggesting derivation from different regions of trophectoderm. Human TSC spheroids co-cultured with Ishikawa layers also exhibited syncytiotrophoblast formation upon invasion into the epithelium. RT-qPCR comparison of TSC spheroids in isolated culture and co-culture demonstrated epithelium-induced upregulation of syncytiotrophoblast genes CGB (P = 0.03) and SDC1 (P = 0.008), and ELISA revealed the induction of hCGβ secretion (P = 0.03). Secretory-phase primary endometrial epithelium surface transcriptomes were used to identify trophectoderm surface binding partners to model the embryo-epithelium interface. Hypernetwork analysis established a group of 25 epithelium-interacting trophectoderm genes that were highly connected to the rest of the trophectoderm transcriptome, and epithelium-coupled gene networks in cells of the polar region of the trophectoderm exhibited greater connectivity (P < 0.001) and more organized connections (P < 0.0001) than those in the mural region. Pathway analysis revealed a striking similarity with syncytiotrophoblast differentiation, as 4/6 most highly activated pathways upon TSC-syncytiotrophoblast differentiation (false discovery rate (FDR < 0.026)) were represented in the most enriched pathways of epithelium-coupled gene networks in both polar and mural trophectoderm (FDR < 0.001). Random forest machine learning also showed that 80% of the endometrial epithelium-interacting trophectoderm genes identified in the hypernetwork could be quantified as classifiers of TSC-syncytiotrophoblast differentiation. This multi-model approach suggests that invasive syncytiotrophoblast formation from both polar and mural trophectoderm is promoted by attachment to the endometrial epithelium to enable embryonic invasion. LARGE SCALE DATA No omics datasets were generated in this study, and those used from previously published studies are cited. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION In vitro and in silico models may not recapitulate the dynamic embryo-endometrial interactions that occur in vivo. The influence of other cellular compartments in the endometrium, including decidual stromal cells and leukocytes, was not represented in these models. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Understanding the mechanism of human embryo breaching of the epithelium and the gene networks involved is crucial to improve implantation success rates after assisted reproduction. Moreover, early trophoblast lineages arising at the epithelial phase of implantation form the blueprint for the placenta and thus underpin foetal growth trajectories, pregnancy health and offspring health. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by grants from Wellbeing of Women, Diabetes UK, the NIHR Local Comprehensive Research Network and Manchester Clinical Research Facility, and the Department of Health Scientist Practitioner Training Scheme. None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Ruane
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK,Correspondence address. Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1476-1666
| | - Terence Garner
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Lydia Parsons
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Phoebe A Babbington
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Ivan Wangsaputra
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Adam Stevens
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - John D Aplin
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
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11
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Wang J, Yu X, Peng H, Lu Y, Li S, Shi Q, Liu J, Dong H, Katanaev V, Jia L. Embedding similarities between embryos and circulating tumor cells: fundamentals of abortifacients used for cancer metastasis chemoprevention. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:300. [PMID: 34556175 PMCID: PMC8461875 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02104-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background The global epidemiological studies reported lower cancer risk after long-term use of contraceptives. Our systematic studies demonstrated that abortifacients are effective in preventing cancer metastases induced by circulating tumor cells (CTCs). However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which abortifacients prevent CTC-based cancer metastases are almost unknown. The present studies were designed to interdisciplinarily explore similarities and differences between embryo implantation and cancer cell adhesion/invasion. Methods Biomarker expressions on the seeding embryo JEG-3 and cancer MCF-7 cells, as well as embedding uterine endometrial RL95-2 and vascular endothelial HUVECs cells were examined and compared before and after treatments with 17β-estradiol plus progesterone and abortifacients. Effects of oral metapristone and mifepristone on embryo implantation in normal female mice and adhesion/invasion of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in BALB/C female mice were examined. Results Both embryo JEG-3 and cancer MCF-7 cells expressed high sLex, CD47, CAMs, while both endometrial RL95-2 and endothelial HUVECs exhibited high integrins and ICAM-1. Near physiological concentrations of 17β-estradiol plus progesterone promoted migration and invasion of JEG-3 and MCF-7 cells via upregulating integrins and MMPs. Whereas, mifepristone and metapristone significantly inhibited migration and invasion of JEG-3 and MCF-7 cells, and inhibited JEG-3 and MCF-7 adhesion to matrigel, RL95-2 cells and HUVECs, respectively. The inhibitions were realized by downregulating sLex, MMPs in JEG-3 and MCF-7 cells, and downregulating integrins in RL95-2 cells and HUVECs, respectively. Mifepristone and metapristone significantly inhibited both embryo implantation and cancer cell metastasis in mice. Conclusions The similarities between the two systems provide fundamentals for abortifacients to intervene CTC adhesion/invasion to the distant metastatic organs. The present studies offer the rationale to repurpose abortifacients for safe and effective cancer metastasis chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, 350108, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaobo Yu
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, College of Chemistry; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, Fuzhou University, 350108, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Huayi Peng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Inspection and Quarantine Technology Research/ Technology Center of Fuzhou Customs, 350108, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yusheng Lu
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, 350108, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shuhui Li
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, College of Chemistry; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, Fuzhou University, 350108, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Qing Shi
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, College of Chemistry; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, Fuzhou University, 350108, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jian Liu
- Cancer Metastasis Alert and Prevention Center, College of Chemistry; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Metastasis Chemoprevention and Chemotherapy, Fuzhou University, 350108, Fuzhou, P.R. China
| | - Haiyan Dong
- Fujian Key Laboratory for Translational Research in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases Institute for Translational Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, 350108, Fuzhou, China
| | - Vladimir Katanaev
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, 350108, Fuzhou, China.,Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lee Jia
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, 350108, Fuzhou, China.
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12
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Forced Suppression of let-7a-5p in Mouse Blastocysts Improves Implantation Rate. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1730-1737. [PMID: 34254278 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00659-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation requires appropriate communication between the blastocyst and endometrium. Recurrent implantation failure is an essential component of assisted reproductive technology. Also, miRNA-mediated gene expression impacts the implantation process, and the downregulation of some miRs, such as mmu-let-7a, improves this process. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of let-7a forced suppression on the mouse implantation rate. In total, 100 adult female mice and 10 adult male mice were included (Strain CD-1). We analysed the expression of let-7a and its potential mRNAs targets (Igf1, Il1a, Itgb3 and Tgfb1) in control, sham and antagomir-treated blastocysts using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). The control and treated blastocysts were transferred to the 20 pseudopregnant mice so that the effect of let-7a suppression on the rate of implantation could be determined. The expression level of let-7a in the treatment group was significantly downregulated (P=0.001) In contrast, no significant expression changes were observed for let-7a or mRNAs targets when the sham and control groups were compared (P>0.05). In comparison to the controls, the antagomir-treated group exhibited significantly upregulated expression levels of Igf1 (0.0167), Itgb3 (0.045) and Tgfb1 (0.0115). Additionally, the implantation rate was significantly higher in the treatment group (78%) than the control group (61%) (P=0.0098). We found that forced suppression of mmu-let-7a-5p through successful transfection of Anti-miR leads to upregulation of downstream genes, Igf1, Itgb3 and Tgfb1, which directly involved in the trophoblast-endometrium attachment and improve the implantation rate.
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13
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Crosby DA, Glover LE, Brennan EP, Kelly P, Cormican P, Moran B, Giangrazi F, Downey P, Mooney EE, Loftus BJ, McAuliffe FM, Wingfield M, O'Farrelly C, Brennan DJ. Dysregulation of the interleukin-17A pathway in endometrial tissue from women with unexplained infertility affects pregnancy outcome following assisted reproductive treatment. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:1875-1888. [PMID: 32614049 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which transcriptomic alterations in mid-luteal endometrial scratch biopsies, taken prior to the assisted reproductive treatment (ART) treatment cycle are associated with unsuccessful pregnancy? SUMMARY ANSWER Dysregulated interleukin-17 (IL-17) pathway components are demonstrated in women who fail to become pregnant after ART. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Implantation failure is now recognised as a critical factor in unexplained infertility and may be an important component of failed ART. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Using a prospective longitudinal study design, 29 nulliparous women with unexplained infertility undergoing ART were recruited between October 2016 and February 2018. Mid-luteal stage endometrium and matched serum samples were collected, and patients underwent a single embryo transfer in the subsequent cycle. RNA-seq analysis of endometrial biopsies was performed on the discovery cohort (n = 20). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Gene set enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was performed. Endometrium and serum were then prepared for IL-17A analysis by ELISA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE There were 204 differentially expressed protein-coding genes identified in tissue from women who became pregnant (n = 9) compared with tissue from women who failed to become pregnant (n = 11) (false discovery rate; P < 0.05). Of the 204 DEGs, 166 were decreased while 38 were increased in the pregnant compared to the non-pregnant groups. Gene set enrichment analysis of the DEGs identified an over-representation of IL-17 and Pl3K-Akt signalling pathways. All the DEGs within the IL-17 signalling pathway (MMP3, MMP1, IL1β, LCN2, S100A9 and FOSL1) demonstrated decreased expression in the pregnant group. Serum IL-17 protein levels were increased in the non-pregnant discovery cohort (n = 11) and these findings were confirmed a validation cohort (n = 9). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Limitations of our study include the cohort size and the lack of aneuploidy data for the embryos; however, all embryos transferred were single good or top-quality blastocysts. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings demonstrate dysregulated IL-17 pathway components in women who fail to become pregnant after ART. Elevated serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-17 may predict failure of ART in women with unexplained infertility. Future trials of anti-IL-17 therapies in this cohort warrant further investigation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Funding from the UCD Wellcome Institutional Strategic Support Fund, which was financed jointly by University College Dublin and the SFI-HRB-Wellcome Biomedical Research Partnership (ref 204844/Z/16/Z), is acknowledged. The authors have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NA.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Crosby
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Merrion Fertility Clinic, Dublin, D2, Ireland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, D2, Ireland
| | - L E Glover
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Merrion Fertility Clinic, Dublin, D2, Ireland
| | - E P Brennan
- UCD Diabetes Complications Research Centre, UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D4, Ireland
| | - P Kelly
- Comparative Immunology Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D2, Ireland.,School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, D2, Ireland
| | - P Cormican
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, County Meath, Ireland
| | - B Moran
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, D4, Ireland
| | - F Giangrazi
- Comparative Immunology Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D2, Ireland
| | - P Downey
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, D2, Ireland
| | - E E Mooney
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, D2, Ireland
| | - B J Loftus
- School of Medicine, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D4, Ireland
| | - F M McAuliffe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, D2, Ireland.,UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D4, Ireland
| | - M Wingfield
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Merrion Fertility Clinic, Dublin, D2, Ireland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, D2, Ireland.,School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, D2, Ireland.,UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D4, Ireland
| | - C O'Farrelly
- Comparative Immunology Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, D2, Ireland.,School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, D2, Ireland
| | - D J Brennan
- Cancer Biology and Therapeutics Laboratory, UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, D4, Ireland.,Systems Biology Ireland, UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, D4, Ireland
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14
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Xiang M, Chen S, Zhang X, Ma Y. Placental diseases associated with assisted reproductive technology. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100505. [PMID: 33862590 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The placenta develops from the outer trophoblastic layer following the differentiation of the fertilized ovum and is therefore more susceptible to epigenetic regulatory changes caused by environmental interventions and influences during assisted reproductive technology. Furthermore, the placenta regulates the development of the fetal heart, brain, kidneys, bones, and other tissues and organs [1]. Placental dysplasia leads to poor perinatal outcomes as well as long-term health risks later in life, including neurodevelopmental disorders, tumors, and adult metabolic syndrome [2,3]. In view of the decisive role of the placenta during intrauterine fetal development, Graham J. Burton, an expert in placentology from the University of Cambridge, formally proposed the theory of "placenta-derived chronic diseases" in 2018 based on embryonic-derived diseases [4]. In this review, we summarized the changes in placental morphology and structure, growth dynamics, imprinted and non-imprinted genes, and other aspects attributable to assisted reproduction technology. Our review provides a theoretical basis for further research on placental changes caused by assisted reproductive technology that are most strongly associated with an increased risk of neonatal long-term diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Xiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China.
| | - Shuqiang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
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15
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Peng J, Li X, Zhang Y, Hu J, Shang Y, Yin Y, Xiao Z. Par3/integrin β1 regulates embryo adhesion via changing endometrial luminal epithelium polarity†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1228-1238. [PMID: 33675651 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective is to investigate the pathophysiological significance of Par3 and integrin β1 with regard to the functionality of the endometrial luminal epithelium (LE). Design: laboratory study; setting: university research laboratory. Analysis involved endometrial aspirates and endometrial adenocarcinoma cells (HEC-1A) and endometrial carcinoma cells (RL95-2). We first examined the expression and localization of Par3 and integrin β1 in HEC-1A cells and RL95-2 cells. Then we knocked down Par3 and integrin β1 in HEC-1A cells and RL95-2 cells, respectively, and found that Par3/integrin β1 affected embryo adhesion by regulating the intercellular tight junctions' (TJs') structure and thus the polarity of the endometrial LE. These findings were also confirmed in the endometrium specimens from human and mice. The main outcome measures were the expression and localization of Par3 and integrin β1 in the endometrial epithelial cell lines and endometrium specimens and the regulations of Par3 and integrin β1 on TJs, polarity, and embryo adhesion. Following the knockdown of Par3 in HEC-1A cells, there was a reduction in the complexity of the TJs and cell polarity, and the adhered blastocysts number was significantly increased. However, the reduction of integrin β1 in RL95-2 cells resulted in effects that directly opposed those following the knockdown of Par3 in HEC-1A cells. Estrogen and progesterone reduced the expression of Par3 and promoted the expression of integrin β1 in HEC-1A cells. Par3/integrin β1 regulates embryo adhesion by regulating intercellular TJs' structure and polarity of endometrial LE under the action of ovarian hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Peng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoling Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jian Hu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yunjie Shang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yuchen Yin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhuoni Xiao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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16
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Ojosnegros S, Seriola A, Godeau AL, Veiga A. Embryo implantation in the laboratory: an update on current techniques. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:501-530. [PMID: 33410481 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The embryo implantation process is crucial for the correct establishment and progress of pregnancy. During implantation, the blastocyst trophectoderm cells attach to the epithelium of the endometrium, triggering intense cell-to-cell crosstalk that leads to trophoblast outgrowth, invasion of the endometrial tissue, and formation of the placenta. However, this process, which is vital for embryo and foetal development in utero, is still elusive to experimentation because of its inaccessibility. Experimental implantation is cumbersome and impractical in adult animal models and is inconceivable in humans. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A number of custom experimental solutions have been proposed to recreate different stages of the implantation process in vitro, by combining a human embryo (or a human embryo surrogate) and endometrial cells (or a surrogate for the endometrial tissue). In vitro models allow rapid high-throughput interrogation of embryos and cells, and efficient screening of molecules, such as cytokines, drugs, or transcription factors, that control embryo implantation and the receptivity of the endometrium. However, the broad selection of available in vitro systems makes it complicated to decide which system best fits the needs of a specific experiment or scientific question. To orient the reader, this review will explore the experimental options proposed in the literature, and classify them into amenable categories based on the embryo/cell pairs employed.The goal is to give an overview of the tools available to study the complex process of human embryo implantation, and explain the differences between them, including the advantages and disadvantages of each system. SEARCH METHODS We performed a comprehensive review of the literature to come up with different categories that mimic the different stages of embryo implantation in vitro, ranging from initial blastocyst apposition to later stages of trophoblast invasion or gastrulation. We will also review recent breakthrough advances on stem cells and organoids, assembling embryo-like structures and endometrial tissues. OUTCOMES We highlight the most relevant systems and describe the most significant experiments. We focus on in vitro systems that have contributed to the study of human reproduction by discovering molecules that control implantation, including hormones, signalling molecules, transcription factors and cytokines. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The momentum of this field is growing thanks to the use of stem cells to build embryo-like structures and endometrial tissues, and the use of bioengineering to extend the life of embryos in culture. We propose to merge bioengineering methods derived from the fields of stem cells and reproduction to develop new systems covering a wider window of the implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Ojosnegros
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Seriola
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amélie L Godeau
- Bioengineering in Reproductive Health, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Veiga
- B arcelona Stem Cell Bank, Regenerative Medicine Programme, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), Hospital Duran i Reynals, Barcelona, Spain.,Reproductive Medicine Service, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Luo Y, Cui C, Han X, Wang Q, Zhang C. The role of miRNAs in polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:289-304. [PMID: 33405004 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-02019-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This review aims to summarize the key findings of several miRNAs and their roles in polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance, characterize the disease pathogenesis, and establish a new theoretical basis for diagnosing, treating, and preventing polycystic ovary syndrome. METHODS Relevant scientific literature was covered from 1992 to 2020 by searching the PubMed database with search terms: insulin/insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome, microRNAs, and metabolic diseases. References of relevant studies were cross-checked. RESULTS The related miRNAs (including differentially expressed miRNAs) and their roles in pathogenesis, and possible therapeutic targets and pathways, are discussed, highlighting controversies and offering thoughts for future directions. CONCLUSION We found abundant evidence on the role of differentially expressed miRNAs with its related phenotypes in PCOS. Considering the essential role of insulin resistance in the pathogenesis of PCOS, the alterations of associated miRNAs need more research attention. We speculate that race/ethnicity or PCOS phenotype and differences in methodological differences might lead to inconsistencies in research findings; thus, several miRNA profiles need to be investigated further to qualify for the potential therapeutic targets for PCOS-IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingliu Luo
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenchen Cui
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan Province, People's Republic of China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Han
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Wang
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan Province, People's Republic of China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan Province, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Park HK, Park SH, Lee M, Kim GR, Park M, Yang SC, Kim YS, Lim HJ, Kim HR, Song H. Secretory phospholipase A2-X (Pla2g10) is a novel progesterone receptor target gene exclusively induced in uterine luminal epithelium for uterine receptivity in mice. Cell Biosci 2020; 10:132. [PMID: 33292460 PMCID: PMC7678068 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00495-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberration of estrogen (E2) and/or progesterone (P4) signaling pathways affects expression of their target genes, which may lead to failure of embryo implantation and following pregnancy. Although many target genes of progesterone receptors (PRs) have been identified in uterine stroma, only a few PR targets have been reported in the epithelium. Secretory phospholipase A2-(PLA2)-X, a member of the PLA2 family that releases arachidonic acids for the synthesis of prostaglandins that are important for embryo implantation, is dysregulated in the endometrium of patients suffering from repeated implantation failure. However, it is not clear whether sPLA2-X is directly regulated by ovarian steroid hormones for embryo implantation in the uterus. RESULT P4 induced the Pla2g10 encoding of secretory PLA2-X in the apical region of uterine LE of ovariectomized mice via PR in both time- and dose-dependent manners, whereas E2 significantly inhibited it. This finding is consistent with the higher expression of Pla2g10 at the diestrus stage, when P4 is elevated during the estrous cycle, and at P4-treated delayed implantation. The level of Pla2g10 on day 4 of pregnancy (day 4) was dramatically decreased on day 5, when PRs are absent in the LE. Luciferase assays of mutagenesis in uterine epithelial cells demonstrated that four putative PR response elements in a Pla2g10 promoter region are transcriptionally active for Pla2g10. Intrauterine delivery of small interfering RNA for Pla2g10 on day 3 significantly reduced the number of implantation sites, reinforcing the critical function(s) of Pla2g10 for uterine receptivity in mice. CONCLUSIONS Pla2g10 is a novel PR target gene whose expression is exclusively localized in the apical region of the uterine LE for uterine receptivity for embryo implantation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Kyoung Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Collage of Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University, Incheon, 21565, Republic of Korea
| | - So Hee Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Miji Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeong Ryeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Mira Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Chel Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon Sun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjung J Lim
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Ryun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea.
| | - Haengseok Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam-si, 13488, Republic of Korea.
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Zamfirescu RC, Day ML, Morris MB. mTORC1/2 signaling is downregulated by amino acid-free culture of mouse preimplantation embryos and is only partially restored by amino acid readdition. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 320:C30-C44. [PMID: 33052068 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00385.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Development of the mammalian preimplantation embryo is influenced by autocrine/paracrine factors and the availability of nutrients. Deficiencies of these during in vitro culture reduce the success of assisted reproductive technologies. The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway integrates external and internal signals, including those by amino acids (AAs), to promote normal preimplantation development. For this reason, AAs are often included in embryo culture media. In this study, we examined how withdrawal and addition of AAs to culture media modulate mTORC1 pathway activity compared with its activity in mouse embryos developed in vivo. Phosphorylation of signaling components downstream of mTORC1, namely, p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K), ribosomal protein S6, and 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), and that of protein kinase B (Akt), which lies upstream of mTORC1, changed significantly across stages of embryos developed in vivo. For freshly isolated blastocysts placed in vitro, the absence of AAs in the culture medium, even for a few hours, decreased mTORC1 signaling, which could only be partially restored by their addition. Long-term culture of early embryos to blastocysts in the absence of AAs decreased mTORC1 signaling to a greater extent and again this could only be partially restored by their inclusion. This failure to fully restore is probably due to decreased phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTORC2 signaling in culture, as indicated by decreased P-AktS473. mTORC2 lies upstream of mTORC1 and is insensitive to AAs, and its reduced activity probably results from loss of maternal/autocrine factors. These data highlight reduced mTORC1/2 signaling activity correlating with compromised development in vitro and show that the addition of AAs can only partially offset these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu C Zamfirescu
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Margot L Day
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael B Morris
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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Ban Z, Knöspel F, Schneider MR. Shedding light into the black box: Advances in in vitro systems for studying implantation. Dev Biol 2020; 463:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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21
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The effect of platelet-rich plasma on the achievement of pregnancy during frozen embryo transfer in women with a history of failed implantation. Heliyon 2020; 6:e03577. [PMID: 32195397 PMCID: PMC7075971 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on the rate of implantation and pregnancy in women with repeated failed implantation during frozen embryo transfer. Methods This study was conducted on 50 infertile women candidates (who were referred to the Infertility Treatment Center of Besat Hospital in Sanandaj) with a history of failed implantation for the purpose of frozen embryo transfer. The participants were randomly divided into two groups (n = 25). In the first group (control), the intrauterine infusion of 0.5 ml of Ringer serum was done 48 h before embryo transfer. In the second group (treatment), the intrauterine infusion of 0.5 ml of PRP was performed 48 h before embryo transfer. Results In this study, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the rate of chemical and clinical pregnancy. The rate of chemical pregnancy was 28% in the treatment group and 36% in the control group, while the rate of clinical pregnancy was 28% in the treatment group and 24% in the control group. Conclusion The intrauterine infusion of PRP before frozen embryo transfer in infertile women with a history of failed implantation will not make any significant effect on the result of pregnancy.
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22
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Ruane PT, Buck CJ, Babbington PA, Aboussahoud W, Berneau SC, Westwood M, Kimber SJ, Aplin JD, Brison DR. The effects of hyaluronate-containing medium on human embryo attachment to endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoz033. [PMID: 32128453 PMCID: PMC7047226 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoz033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does embryo transfer medium containing hyaluronate (HA) promote the attachment phase of human embryo implantation? SUMMARY ANSWER HA-containing medium does not promote human blastocyst attachment to endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryo transfer media containing high concentrations of HA are being used to increase implantation and live birth rates in IVF treatment, although the mechanism of action is unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Expression of HA-interacting genes in frozen-thawed oocytes/embryos was assessed by microarray analysis (n = 21). Fresh and frozen human blastocysts (n = 98) were co-cultured with human endometrial epithelial Ishikawa cell layers. Blastocyst attachment and the effects of a widely used HA-containing medium were measured. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human embryos surplus to treatment requirements were donated with informed consent from several ART centres. Blastocyst-stage embryos were transferred at day 6 to confluent Ishikawa cell layers; some blastocysts were artificially hatched. Blastocyst attachment was monitored from 1 to 48 h, and the effects of blastocyst pre-treatment for 10 min with HA-containing medium were determined. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Human embryos expressed the HA receptor genes CD44 and HMMR, hyaluronan synthase genes HAS1–3, and hyaluronidase genes HYAL1–3, at all stages of preimplantation development. Attachment of partially hatched blastocysts to Ishikawa cells at 24 and 48 h was related to trophectoderm grade (P = 0.0004 and 0.007, respectively, n = 34). Blastocysts of varying clinical grades that had been artificially hatched were all attached within 48 h (n = 21). Treatment of artificially hatched blastocysts with HA-containing medium did not significantly affect attachment at early (1–6 h) or late (24 and 48 h) time points, compared with control blastocysts (n = 43). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Using an adenocarcinoma-derived cell line to model embryo-endometrium attachment may not fully recapitulate in vivo interactions. The high levels of blastocyst attachment seen with this in vitro model may limit the sensitivity with which the effects of HA can be observed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Morphological trophectoderm grade can be correlated with blastocyst attachment in vitro. HA-containing medium may increase pregnancy rates by mechanisms other than promoting blastocyst attachment to endometrium. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by a grant from the Wellbeing of Women, the NIHR Local Comprehensive Research Network and NIHR Manchester Clinical Research Facility, the Department of Health Scientist Practitioner Training Scheme, and the Ministry of Higher Education, The State of Libya. None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Ruane
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL UK
| | - Chelsea J Buck
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Phoebe A Babbington
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Wedad Aboussahoud
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL UK
| | - Stéphane C Berneau
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL UK
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL UK
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Michael Smith Building, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.,Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL UK.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
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Shukla V, Kaushal JB, Kumar R, Popli P, Agnihotri PK, Mitra K, Dwivedi A. Microtubule depolymerization attenuates WNT4/CaMKIIα signaling in mouse uterus and leads to implantation failure. Reproduction 2019; 158:47-59. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Microtubule (MT) dynamics plays a crucial role in fertilization and early embryonic development; however its involvement in uterus during embryo implantation remains unclear. Herein, we report the effect of microtubule depolymerization during embryo implantation in BALB/c mice. Intrauterine treatment with depolymerizing agent nocodazole at pre-implantation phase (D4, 07:00 h) in mice resulted into mitigation in receptivity markers viz. LIF, HoxA10, Integrin-β3, IHH, WNT4 and led to pregnancy failure. MT depolymerization in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) also inhibited the blastocyst attachment and the adhesion. The decreased expression of MT polymerization-related proteins TPPP and α/β-tubulin in luminal and glandular epithelial cells along with the alteration in morphology of pinopodes in the luminal epithelium was observed in nocodazole receiving uteri. Nocodazole treatment also led to increased intracellular Ca+2levels in EECs, which indicated that altered Ca+2homeostasis might be responsible for implantation failure. Microtubule depolymerization inhibited WNT4 and Fz-2 interaction, thereby suppressing the downstream WNT4/CaMKIIα signaling cascades calmodulin and calcineurin which led to attenuation of NF-κB transcriptional promoter activity in EECs. MT depolymerization or CaMKIIα knockdown inhibited the transcription factor NFAT and NF-κB expression along with reduced secretion of prostaglandins PGE2 and PGF2α in mouse EECs. Overall, MT depolymerization impaired the WNT4/CaMKIIα signaling and suppressed the secretion of PGE2 and PGF2α in EECs which may be responsible for implantation failure in mice.
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24
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Berneau SC, Ruane PT, Brison DR, Kimber SJ, Westwood M, Aplin JD. Characterisation of Osteopontin in an In Vitro Model of Embryo Implantation. Cells 2019; 8:E432. [PMID: 31075896 PMCID: PMC6562724 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
At the onset of pregnancy, embryo implantation is initiated by interactions between the endometrial epithelium and the outer trophectoderm cells of the blastocyst. Osteopontin (OPN) is expressed in the endometrium and is implicated in attachment and signalling roles at the embryo-epithelium interface. We have characterised OPN in the human endometrial epithelial Ishikawa cell line using three different monoclonal antibodies, revealing at least nine distinct molecular weight forms and a novel secretory pathway localisation in the apical domain induced by cell organisation into a confluent epithelial layer. Mouse blastocysts co-cultured with Ishikawa cell layers served to model embryo apposition, attachment and initial invasion at implantation. Exogenous OPN attenuated initial, weak embryo attachment to Ishikawa cells but did not affect the attainment of stable attachment. Notably, exogenous OPN inhibited embryonic invasion of the underlying cell layer, and this corresponded with altered expression of transcription factors associated with differentiation from trophectoderm (Gata2) to invasive trophoblast giant cells (Hand1). These data demonstrate the complexity of endometrial OPN forms and suggest that OPN regulates embryonic invasion at implantation by signalling to the trophectoderm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane C Berneau
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre and Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
| | - Peter T Ruane
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre and Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre and Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre and Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
| | - John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre and Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
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25
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Nazari L, Salehpour S, Hosseini MS, Hashemi Moghanjoughi P. The effects of autologous platelet-rich plasma in repeated implantation failure: a randomized controlled trial. HUM FERTIL 2019; 23:209-213. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2019.1569268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nazari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saghar Salehpour
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sadat Hosseini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Hashemi Moghanjoughi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Cyclopamine, an Antagonist of Hedgehog (Hh) Signaling Pathway, Reduces the Hatching Rate of Parthenogenetic Murine Embryos. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL REPRODUCTION AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.12750/jet.2018.33.4.237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Yu M, Cui X, Wang H, Liu J, Qin H, Liu S, Yan Q. FUT8 drives the proliferation and invasion of trophoblastic cells via IGF-1/IGF-1R signaling pathway. Placenta 2018; 75:45-53. [PMID: 30712666 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2018.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Trophoblast proliferation and invasion are essential for embryo implantation and placentation. Protein glycosylation is one of the most common and vital post-translational modifications, regulates protein physical and biochemical properties. FUT8 is the only known fucosyltransferase responsible for catalyzing α1,6-fucosylation in mammals, and α1,6-fucosylated glycoproteins are found to participate in various physiopathological processes. However, whether FUT8/α1,6-fucosylation modulates the functions of trophoblastic cells remains elusive. METHODS FUT8 in human placenta villi during 6-8 gestational weeks and trophoblastic cells were detected by Western blot and immunofluorescent staining. α1,6-fucosylation in tissues or cells were measured by Lectin LCA (Lens culinaris) fluorescent staining and Lectin blot. FUT8 expression was down-regulated by siRNA transfection in JAR and JEG-3 cells, and cell viability, motility and invasiveness ability were detected by the functional experiments. α1,6-fucosylation of insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R) was examined by immunoprecipitation, and the amount of phosphorylated IGF-1R was detected in FUT8 down-regulated JAR cells. RESULTS Human placenta villi and trophoblastic cells expressed FUT8/α1,6-fucosylation. Knockdown FUT8 by siRNA transfection suppressed the proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration and invasion of JAR and JEG-3 cells. Furthermore, we found that FUT8 modified the α1,6-fucosylation of IGF-1R, and regulated IGF-1 dependent activation of IGF-1R, MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways in JAR cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results implicate a critical role for FUT8 in maintaining the normal functions of trophoblastic cells, suggesting manipulating FUT8 may be an effective approach in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyuan Cui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianwei Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian, People's Republic of China
| | - Huamin Qin
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116011, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qiu Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian, People's Republic of China.
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Kumari S, Vermeulen S, van der Veer B, Carlier A, de Boer J, Subramanyam D. Shaping Cell Fate: Influence of Topographical Substratum Properties on Embryonic Stem Cells. TISSUE ENGINEERING. PART B, REVIEWS 2018; 24:255-266. [PMID: 29455619 PMCID: PMC7116060 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2017.0468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Development of multicellular organisms is a highly orchestrated process, with cells responding to factors and features present in the extracellular milieu. Changes in the surrounding environment help decide the fate of cells at various stages of development. This review highlights recent research that details the effects of mechanical properties of the surrounding environment and extracellular matrix and the underlying molecular mechanisms that regulate the behavior of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). In this study, we review the role of mechanical properties during embryogenesis and discuss the effect of engineered microtopographies on ESC pluripotency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarita Kumari
- National Center for Cell Science, SP Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Steven Vermeulen
- Laboratory for Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ben van der Veer
- Laboratory for Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Aurélie Carlier
- Laboratory for Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan de Boer
- Laboratory for Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Shukla V, Popli P, Kaushal JB, Gupta K, Dwivedi A. Uterine TPPP3 plays important role in embryo implantation via modulation of β-catenin†. Biol Reprod 2018; 99:982-999. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Shukla
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
| | - Pooja Popli
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
| | - Jyoti Bala Kaushal
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
| | - Kanchan Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
| | - Anila Dwivedi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow-226031, UP, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-CDRI Campus, Lucknow, India
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Di Pietro C, Caruso S, Battaglia R, Iraci Sareri M, La Ferlita A, Strino F, Bonaventura G, Di Mauro M, Barcellona ML, Perciavalle V, Purrello M, Cianci A. MiR-27a-3p and miR-124-3p, upregulated in endometrium and serum from women affected by Chronic Endometritis, are new potential molecular markers of endometrial receptivity. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e12858. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Di Pietro
- Biology and Genetics Section; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Salvatore Caruso
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Rosalia Battaglia
- Biology and Genetics Section; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Marco Iraci Sareri
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Alessandro La Ferlita
- Biology and Genetics Section; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Fabrizio Strino
- Biology and Genetics Section; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Gabriele Bonaventura
- Biochemistry Section; Department of Pharmaceutical Science; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Maurizio Di Mauro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Barcellona
- Biochemistry Section; Department of Pharmaceutical Science; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Vincenzo Perciavalle
- Physiology Section; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Michele Purrello
- Biology and Genetics Section; Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Antonio Cianci
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties; University of Catania; Catania Italy
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31
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Raheem KA. Cytokines, growth factors and macromolecules as mediators of implantation in mammalian species. Int J Vet Sci Med 2017; 6:S6-S14. [PMID: 30761315 PMCID: PMC6161864 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijvsm.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation is one of the most critical steps in mammalian reproduction and implantation failure constitutes a major cause of infertility in both animals and humans. The mechanism of implantation is exclusively under the control of ovarian steroids progesterone and oestrogen whose actions are mediated in a complex phenomenon that involves a number of cytokines and growth factors. According to a plethora of literature on implantation in mammalian species, prominent of these cytokines and growth factor playing crucial roles in implantation include integrin, osteopontin, integrin, insulin-like growth factor and leukaemia inhibitory factor. Others are cluster domain 44, hyaluronan system and many non-adhesive molecules such as glycoprotein mucin 1. In this review, the specific roles played by these molecules are expatiated. Generally, they function as adhesive molecules that facilitate attachment of ligands/proteins on the trophectoderm to their respective receptors on endometrial luminal epithelia or vice versa. Sometimes, they also function as signalling molecules that enhance communication between implanting blastocyst and receptive endometrium. This is of particular importance in embryo culture and embryo transfer where in vitro derived blastocyst unlike the in vivo condition, is not exposed to these substances and hence, their absence may be partly responsible for the low implantation rate observed in the surrogate. Appreciation of the roles played by these cytokines, growth factors and molecules as revealed in this review will spur further research on these topics, facilitate their inclusion in embryo culture media (if positively required) and are considered as vital aspect while developing strategies to improve fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabir A Raheem
- Dept. of Theriogenology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria
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Ruane PT, Berneau SC, Koeck R, Watts J, Kimber SJ, Brison DR, Westwood M, Aplin JD. Apposition to endometrial epithelial cells activates mouse blastocysts for implantation. Mol Hum Reprod 2017; 23:617-627. [PMID: 28911212 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How do interactions between blastocyst-stage embryos and endometrial epithelial cells regulate the early stages of implantation in an in vitro model? SUMMARY ANSWER Mouse blastocyst apposition with human endometrial epithelial cells initiates trophectoderm differentiation to trophoblast, which goes on to breach the endometrial epithelium. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In vitro models using mouse blastocysts and human endometrial cell lines have proven invaluable in the molecular characterisation of embryo attachment to endometrial epithelium at the onset of implantation. Genes involved in embryonic breaching of the endometrial epithelium have not been investigated in such in vitro models. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study used an established in vitro model of implantation to examine cellular and molecular interactions during blastocyst attachment to endometrial epithelial cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Mouse blastocysts developed from embryonic day (E) 1.5 in vitro were hatched and co-cultured with confluent human endometrial adenocarcinoma-derived Ishikawa cells in serum-free medium. A scale of attachment stability based on blastocyst oscillation upon agitation was devised. Blastocysts were monitored for 48 h to establish the kinetics of implantation, and optical sectioning using fluorescence microscopy revealed attachment and invasion interfaces. Quantitative PCR was used to determine blastocyst gene expression. Data from a total of 680 mouse blastocysts are reported, with 3-6 experimental replicates. T-test and ANOVA analyses established statistical significance at P < 0.05, P < 0.01 and P < 0.001. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Hatched E4.5 mouse blastocysts exhibited weak attachment to confluent Ishikawa cells over the first 24 h of co-culture, with intermediate and stable attachment occurring from 28 h (E5.5 + 4 h) in a hormone-independent manner. Attached embryos fixed after 48 h (E6.5) frequently exhibited outgrowths, characterised morphologically and with antibody markers as trophoblast giant cells (TGCs), which had breached the Ishikawa cell layer. Beginning co-culture at E5.5 also resulted in intermediate and stable attachment from E5.5 + 4 h; however, these embryos did not go on to breach the Ishikawa cell layer, even when co-culture was extended to E7.5 (P < 0.01). Blastocysts cultured from E4.5 in permeable transwell inserts above Ishikawa cells before transfer to direct co-culture at E5.5 went on to attach but failed to breach the Ishikawa cell layer by E6.5 (P < 0.01). Gene expression analysis at E5.5 demonstrated that direct co-culture with Ishikawa cells from E4.5 resulted in downregulation of trophectoderm transcription factors Cdx2 (P < 0.05) and Gata3 (P < 0.05) and upregulation of the TGC transcription factor Hand1 (P < 0.05). Co-culture with non-endometrial human fibroblasts did not alter the expression of these genes. LARGE SCALE DATA None. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The in vitro model used here combines human carcinoma-derived endometrial cells with mouse embryos, in which the cellular interactions observed may not fully recapitulate those in vivo. The data gleaned from such models can be regarded as hypothesis-generating, and research is now needed to develop more sophisticated models of human implantation combining multiple primary endometrial cell types with surrogate and real human embryos. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study implicates blastocyst apposition to endometrial epithelial cells as a critical step in trophoblast differentiation required for implantation. Understanding this maternal regulation of the embryonic developmental programme may lead to novel treatments for infertility. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by funds from the charities Wellbeing of Women (RG1442) and Diabetes UK (15/0005207), and studentship support for SCB from the Anatomical Society. No conflict of interest is declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Ruane
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Stéphane C Berneau
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Rebekka Koeck
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Jessica Watts
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
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Kumar V, Soni UK, Maurya VK, Singh K, Jha RK. Integrin beta8 (ITGB8) activates VAV-RAC1 signaling via FAK in the acquisition of endometrial epithelial cell receptivity for blastocyst implantation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1885. [PMID: 28507287 PMCID: PMC5432530 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01764-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrin beta8 (ITGB8) is involved in the endometrial receptivity. The blastocyst first interacts with the luminal endometrial epithelial cells during its implantation; therefore, we have investigated the signaling of ITGB8 via FAK and VAV-RAC1 in the endometrial epithelial cells. Integrin beta8 was found elevated in epithelial cells at late-pre-receptive (day4, 1600 h) and receptive (day5, 0500 h) stages of endometrial receptivity period in the mouse. Integrins downstream molecule FAK has demonstrated an increased expression and phosphorylation (Y397) in the endometrium as well as in the isolated endometrial epithelial cells during receptive and post-receptive stages. Integrin beta8 can functionally interact with FAK, VAV and RAC1 as the levels of phosphorylated-FAK, and VAV along with the RAC-GTP form was reduced after ITGB8 knockdown in the endometrial epithelial cells and uterus. Further, VAV and RAC1 were seen poorly active in the absence of FAK activity, suggesting a crosstalk of ITGB8 and FAK for VAV and RAC1 activation in the endometrial epithelial cells. Silencing of ITGB8 expression and inhibition of FAK activity in the Ishikawa cells rendered poor attachment of JAr spheroids. In conclusion, ITGB8 activates VAV-RAC1 signaling axis via FAK to facilitate the endometrial epithelial cell receptivity for the attachment of blastocyst.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector-10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow, 226031, U.P., India
| | - Upendra Kumar Soni
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector-10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow, 226031, U.P., India
| | - Vineet Kumar Maurya
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector-10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow, 226031, U.P., India
| | - Kiran Singh
- Department of Molecular & Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, UP, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Jha
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector-10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow, 226031, U.P., India.
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Nazari L, Salehpour S, Hoseini S, Zadehmodarres S. Effects of autologous platelet-rich plasma on implantation and pregnancy in repeated implantation failure: A pilot study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2016. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.14.10.625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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35
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Ueno S, Ezoe K, Yabuuchi A, Uchiyama K, Okimura T, Okuno T, Kobayashi T, Kato K. Complete zona pellucida removal from vitrified-warmed human blastocysts facilitates earlier in-vitro attachment and outgrowth. Reprod Biomed Online 2016; 33:140-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2016.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 05/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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36
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Paterson N, Sharma AM, Maxwell C, Greenblatt EM. Obesity-related health status is a better predictor of pregnancy with fertility treatment than body mass index: a prospective study. Clin Obes 2016; 6:243-8. [PMID: 27242175 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed whether an obesity-related health status instrument (Edmonton obesity scoring system - EOSS) or body mass index (BMI) better predicted pregnancy rates in overweight women undergoing fertility treatments. A prospective cohort study was conducted on patients with a BMI ≥ 25 kg m(-2) undergoing a fertility treatment cycle (ovulation induction, superovulation, or in vitro fertilization). Obesity-related health status including blood pressure, blood work, health history, and functional assessment were assessed. A total of 101 patients were included in the study with an average age of 36.3 ± 4.2 years and a mean BMI of 31.8 ± 5.2 kg m(-2) . EOSS was found to be statistically predictive of pregnancy rate/cycle (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.27-0.94; P = 0.03), whereas BMI was not (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.86-1.05). A similar trend was seen for clinical pregnancy rate/cycle started. However, the association between clinical pregnancy rates and EOSS or BMI did not reach statistical significance (OR 0.53, P = 0.06 and OR 0.98, P = 0.62 respectively). Our results demonstrated that EOSS better predicted pregnancy rates after fertility treatments than BMI. In fact, for every EOSS stage increased by one unit, the odds of pregnancy were approximately halved. A multi-centre study powered for live birth is warranted to establish effective pre-fertility management of overweight women.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Paterson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - A M Sharma
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - C Maxwell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - E M Greenblatt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Yu L, Hu R, Sullivan C, Swanson RJ, Oehninger S, Sun YP, Bocca S. MFGE8 regulates TGF-β-induced epithelial mesenchymal transition in endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. Reproduction 2016; 152:225-33. [PMID: 27340235 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the role of milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor-factor 8 (MFGE8) in TGF-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of endometrial epithelial cells. These were in vitro studies using human endometrial epithelial cells and mouse blastocysts. We investigated the ability of TGF-β to induce EMT in endometrial epithelial cells (HEC-1A) by assessment of cytological phenotype (by light and atomic force microscopy), changes in expression of the markers of cell adhesion/differentiation E- and N-cadherin, and of the transcription factor Snail (by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting), and competence to support embryo attachment in a mouse blastocyst outgrowth assay. We also studied the effects of E-cadherin expression in cells transfected by retroviral shRNA vectors specifically silencing MFGE8. Results demonstrated that TGF-β induced EMT as demonstrated by phenotypic cell changes, by a switch of cadherin expression as well as by upregulation of the expression of the mesenchymal markers Snail and Vimentin. Upon MFGE8 knockdown, these processes were interfered with, suggesting that MFGE8 and TGF-β together may participate in regulation of EMT. This study demonstrated for the first time that endometrial MFGE8 modulates TGF-β-induced EMT in human endometrium cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yu
- The Jones Institute for Reproductive MedicineDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA Reproductive Medical CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Rong Hu
- Reproductive Medicine CenterKey Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Claretta Sullivan
- Department of SurgeryEastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - R James Swanson
- Department of Biological SciencesOld Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Sergio Oehninger
- The Jones Institute for Reproductive MedicineDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Reproductive Medical CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Silvina Bocca
- The Jones Institute for Reproductive MedicineDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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