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Li QH, Zhao QY, Yang WJ, Jiang AF, Ren CE, Meng YH. Beyond Immune Balance: The Pivotal Role of Decidual Regulatory T Cells in Unexplained Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:2697-2710. [PMID: 38707955 PMCID: PMC11070170 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s459263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy failures, which brings tremendous stress to women of childbearing age and seriously affects family well-being. However, the reason in about 50% of cases remains unknown and is defined as unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA). The immunological perspective in URSA has attracted widespread attention in recent years. The embryo is regarded as a semi-allogeneic graft to the mother. A successful pregnancy requires transition to an immune environment conducive to embryo survival at the maternal-fetal interface. As an important member of regulatory immunity, regulatory T (Treg) cells play a key role in regulating immune tolerance at the maternal-fetal interface. This review will focus on the phenotypic plasticity and lineage stability of Treg cells to illustrate its relationship with URSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Hui Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261021, People’s Republic of China
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiu-Yan Zhao
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-Jing Yang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ai-Fang Jiang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chun-E Ren
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-Han Meng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, People’s Republic of China
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Lyons HE, Arman BM, Robertson SA, Sharkey DJ. Immune regulatory cytokines in seminal plasma of healthy men: A scoping review and analysis of variance. Andrology 2023; 11:1245-1266. [PMID: 36891953 PMCID: PMC10947054 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13424] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Seminal plasma cytokines are associated with fertility and reproductive health, but progressing their clinical utility is hampered by absence of reference data on concentration ranges of relevant cytokines in healthy men. We employed a systematic approach to assemble current evidence on the concentrations of immune regulatory cytokines present in seminal plasma (SP) of normozoospermic and/or fertile men and evaluated the impact of different platform methodologies for cytokine quantification. EVIDENCE REVIEW A systematic literature search was performed utilising PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. Databases were searched from inception until 30th June 2022 inclusive, using combinations of keywords pertaining to seminal fluid and cytokines, and was restricted to human participants. Original data with values reported as concentration of specific cytokines in SP of men clearly defined as fertile or normozoospermic were extracted from studies written in English. RESULTS A total of 3769 publications were initially identified, of which 118 fulfilled the eligibility criteria for inclusion. A total of 51 individual cytokines are detectable in SP of healthy men. The number of studies reporting on each cytokine range from 1 to >20. The reported concentrations for many cytokines linked with fertility status, including IL6, CXCL8/IL8, and TNFA, are highly variable between published studies. This is associated with the different immunoassay methodologies utilised and may be exacerbated by a lack of validation of assays to ensure suitability for SP assessment. Due to the large variation between studies, accurate reference ranges for healthy men cannot be determined from the published data. CONCLUSIONS The concentrations of cytokines and chemokines detected in SP is inconsistent and highly variable between studies and cohorts, limiting current capacity to define reference ranges for cytokine concentrations in fertile men. The lack of standardisation in methods used to process and store SP, and variation in platforms used to evaluate cytokine abundance, are factors contributing to the observed heterogeneity. To progress the clinical utility of SP cytokine analysis will require standardisation and validation of methodologies so that reference ranges for healthy fertile men can be defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E. Lyons
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Bridget M. Arman
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sarah A. Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - David J. Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
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Moldenhauer LM, Hull ML, Foyle KL, McCormack CD, Robertson SA. Immune–Metabolic Interactions and T Cell Tolerance in Pregnancy. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 209:1426-1436. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Pregnancy depends on a state of maternal immune tolerance mediated by CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cells. Uterine Treg cells release anti-inflammatory factors, inhibit effector immunity, and support adaptation of the uterine vasculature to facilitate placental development. Insufficient Treg cells or inadequate functional competence is implicated in infertility and recurrent miscarriage, as well as pregnancy complications preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and preterm birth, which stem from placental insufficiency. In this review we address an emerging area of interest in pregnancy immunology–the significance of metabolic status in regulating the Treg cell expansion required for maternal–fetal tolerance. We describe how hyperglycemia and insulin resistance affect T cell responses to suppress generation of Treg cells, summarize data that implicate a role for altered glucose metabolism in impaired maternal–fetal tolerance, and explore the prospect of targeting dysregulated metabolism to rebalance the adaptive immune response in women experiencing reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan M. Moldenhauer
- *Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; and
| | - M. Louise Hull
- *Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; and
| | - Kerrie L. Foyle
- *Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; and
| | - Catherine D. McCormack
- *Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; and
- †Women’s and Children’s Hospital, North Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sarah A. Robertson
- *Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; and
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Robertson SA, Moldenhauer LM, Green ES, Care AS, Hull ML. Immune determinants of endometrial receptivity: a biological perspective. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1107-1120. [PMID: 35618356 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells are essential for endometrial receptivity to embryo implantation and early placental development. They exert tissue-remodeling and immune regulatory roles-acting to promote epithelial attachment competence, regulate the differentiation of decidual cells, remodel the uterine vasculature, control and resolve inflammatory activation, and suppress destructive immunity to paternally inherited alloantigens. From a biological perspective, the endometrial immune response exerts a form of "quality control"-it promotes implantation success when conditions are favorable but constrains receptivity when physiological circumstances are not ideal. Women with recurrent implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage may exhibit altered numbers or disturbed function of certain uterine immune cell populations-most notably uterine natural killer cells and regulatory T cells. Preclinical and animal studies indicate that deficiencies or aberrant activation states in these cells can be causal in the pathophysiological mechanisms of infertility. Immune cells are, therefore, targets for diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic intervention. However, current diagnostic tests are overly simplistic and have limited clinical utility. To be more informative, they need to account for the full complexity and reflect the range of perturbations that can occur in uterine immune cell phenotypes and networks. Moreover, safe and effective interventions to modulate these cells are in their infancy, and personalized approaches matched to specific diagnostic criteria will be needed. Here we summarize current biological understanding and identify knowledge gaps to be resolved before the promise of therapies to target the uterine immune response can be fully realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Lachlan M Moldenhauer
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ella S Green
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alison S Care
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - M Louise Hull
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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5
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Paira DA, Silvera-Ruiz S, Tissera A, Molina RI, Olmedo JJ, Rivero VE, Motrich RD. Interferon γ, IL-17, and IL-1β impair sperm motility and viability and induce sperm apoptosis. Cytokine 2022; 152:155834. [PMID: 35217429 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.155834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Urogenital inflammation is a known cause of male infertility. Increased levels of inflammatory cytokines, leukocyte counts and oxidative stress are highly detrimental for sperm quality thus compromising male fertility. Although cytokines affect sperm by recruiting and activating leukocytes consequently inducing tissue inflammation and oxidative stress, scarce to absent data have been reported about the putative direct effects of inflammatory cytokines on spermatozoa. Herein, we analyzed whether IFNγ, IL-17A, IL-1β, and IL-8 can alter human sperm motility and viability per se. Fractions of viable and motile spermatozoa from normospermic healthy donors were in vitro incubated with recombinant human IFNγ, IL-17A, IL-1β or IL-8 and sperm ROS production, motility, viability and apoptosis were analyzed. Sperm exposed to different concentrations of IFNγ, IL-17A and IL-1β, or a combination of them, for either 1 or 3 h showed significantly increased levels of mitochondrial ROS production and reduced motility and viability with respect to sperm incubated with vehicle. Moreover, the exposure to IFNγ, IL-17A and IL-1β resulted in significantly higher levels of early and/or late apoptotic and/or necrotic spermatozoa. Interestingly, no significant differences in sperm motility, viability and apoptosis were observed in sperm incubated with the concentrations of IL-8 analyzed, for either 1 or 3 h, with respect to sperm incubated with vehicle. In conclusion, our results indicate that IFNγ, IL-17A and IL-1β per se impair sperm motility and decreases viability by triggering increased mitochondrial ROS production and inducing sperm apoptosis. Our results suggest that screening inflammatory cytokines in semen would be an additional helpful tool for the diagnostic workup of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Andrea Paira
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Silene Silvera-Ruiz
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Andrea Tissera
- Laboratorio de Andrología y Reproducción (LAR), Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - José Javier Olmedo
- Fundación Urológica Córdoba para la Docencia e Investigación Médica (FUCDIM), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Virginia Elena Rivero
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ruben Dario Motrich
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
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du Fossé NA, Lashley EELO, Anholts JDH, van Beelen E, le Cessie S, van Lith JMM, Eikmans M, van der Hoorn MLP. Impaired immunomodulatory effects of seminal plasma may play a role in unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss: results of an in vitro study. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 151:103500. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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7
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OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:435-454. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Skerrett-Byrne DA, Nixon B, Bromfield EG, Breen J, Trigg NA, Stanger SJ, Bernstein IR, Anderson AL, Lord T, Aitken RJ, Roman SD, Robertson SA, Schjenken JE. Transcriptomic analysis of the seminal vesicle response to the reproductive toxicant acrylamide. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:728. [PMID: 34625024 PMCID: PMC8499523 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07951-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The seminal vesicles synthesise bioactive factors that support gamete function, modulate the female reproductive tract to promote implantation, and influence developmental programming of offspring phenotype. Despite the significance of the seminal vesicles in reproduction, their biology remains poorly defined. Here, to advance understanding of seminal vesicle biology, we analyse the mouse seminal vesicle transcriptome under normal physiological conditions and in response to acute exposure to the reproductive toxicant acrylamide. Mice were administered acrylamide (25 mg/kg bw/day) or vehicle control daily for five consecutive days prior to collecting seminal vesicle tissue 72 h following the final injection. RESULTS A total of 15,304 genes were identified in the seminal vesicles with those encoding secreted proteins amongst the most abundant. In addition to reproductive hormone pathways, functional annotation of the seminal vesicle transcriptome identified cell proliferation, protein synthesis, and cellular death and survival pathways as prominent biological processes. Administration of acrylamide elicited 70 differentially regulated (fold-change ≥1.5 or ≤ 0.67) genes, several of which were orthogonally validated using quantitative PCR. Pathways that initiate gene and protein synthesis to promote cellular survival were prominent amongst the dysregulated pathways. Inflammation was also a key transcriptomic response to acrylamide, with the cytokine, Colony stimulating factor 2 (Csf2) identified as a top-ranked upstream driver and inflammatory mediator associated with recovery of homeostasis. Early growth response (Egr1), C-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (Ccl8), and Collagen, type V, alpha 1 (Col5a1) were also identified amongst the dysregulated genes. Additionally, acrylamide treatment led to subtle changes in the expression of genes that encode proteins secreted by the seminal vesicle, including the complement regulator, Complement factor b (Cfb). CONCLUSIONS These data add to emerging evidence demonstrating that the seminal vesicles, like other male reproductive tract tissues, are sensitive to environmental insults, and respond in a manner with potential to exert impact on fetal development and later offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - James Breen
- The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia.,South Australian Genomics Centre (SAGC), South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.,Computational & Systems Biology Program, Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health & Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - Natalie A Trigg
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Simone J Stanger
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Ilana R Bernstein
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Amanda L Anderson
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Shaun D Roman
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - John E Schjenken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia. .,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
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du Fossé NA, Lashley EELO, van Beelen E, Meuleman T, le Cessie S, van Lith JMM, Eikmans M, van der Hoorn MLP. Identification of distinct seminal plasma cytokine profiles associated with male age and lifestyle characteristics in unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 147:103349. [PMID: 34246867 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seminal plasma contains a wide range of cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. Part of these signalling molecules assist in inducing a state of active maternal immune tolerance towards the fetus. Disbalances in seminal plasma content may contribute to pregnancy loss. This study investigated cytokine expression profiles in seminal plasma of male partners of couples with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and the association with clinical and lifestyle characteristics, including smoking, alcohol consumption and body mass index (BMI). METHODS In the seminal plasma of 52 men who visited a specialised RPL clinic the levels of 25 pre-selected cytokines, chemokines and growth factors were measured by Bio-Plex assay or ELISA. Two-way hierarchical cluster analysis was performed. Identified patient clusters were compared on clinical and lifestyle characteristics. RESULTS Two distinct cytokine expression profiles in the seminal plasma were revealed by cluster analysis. Patient cluster I showed relatively higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, IL-18 and TNF-α, compared to Patient cluster II. Men belonging to Patient cluster I were significantly older and had significantly more lifestyle risk factors compared to men in Patient cluster II. CONCLUSION Cluster analysis suggested the existence of a less favourable pro-inflammatory cytokine expression profile, being present in part of men affected by RPL and associated with advanced male age and lifestyle risk factors. These findings may serve as a starting point for further research into underlying mechanisms and ultimately lead to novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for couples with RPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A du Fossé
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - E E L O Lashley
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E van Beelen
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - T Meuleman
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - S le Cessie
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - J M M van Lith
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - M Eikmans
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - M L P van der Hoorn
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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10
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Helli B, Kavianpour M, Ghaedi E, Dadfar M, Haghighian HK. Probiotic effects on sperm parameters, oxidative stress index, inflammatory factors and sex hormones in infertile men. HUM FERTIL 2020; 25:499-507. [PMID: 32985280 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2020.1824080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Decreased sperm motility is one of the main causes of male infertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation on semen quality, seminal oxidative stress biomarkers, inflammatory factors and reproductive hormones. In this randomised, double-blind controlled clinical trial, 52 men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia attending a urology clinic, were randomly assigned to either an intervention or placebo (n = 26) group. This investigation was registered by the identification code of IRCT20141025019669N7 in the clinical trials registry of Iran. The Intervention group took 500 mg of Probiotics daily and the placebo group took a daily placebo for 10 weeks. Semen parameters, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, inflammatory factors and reproductive hormones were measured at baseline and at the end of the study. After the intervention, ejaculate volume, number, concentration and the percentage of motile sperm, total antioxidant capacity of plasma significantly increased and the concentration of plasma malondialdehyde and inflammatory markers significantly decreased in the intervention group. Probiotic supplementation in infertile men lead to a significant increase in sperm concentration and motility and a significant reduction in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. Therefore, oral intake of probiotics has the potential to be one of the ways to deal with oxidative damage of sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijan Helli
- Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Maria Kavianpour
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Ghaedi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Dadfar
- Department of Urology, Imam Khomeini Hospital, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur, University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Hossein Khadem Haghighian
- Department of Nutrition, School of Health, Qazvin University of Medical Science, Qazvin, Iran.,Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Measurable Cytokine Concentrations in Pig Seminal Plasma Are Modified by Semen Handling and Storage. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9090276. [PMID: 32906591 PMCID: PMC7565580 DOI: 10.3390/biology9090276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sample handling and storing are critical steps for the reliable measurement of circulating biomolecules in biological fluids. This study evaluates how cytokine measurements in pig seminal plasma (SP) vary depending on semen handling and SP storage. Thirteen cytokines (GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-1ra, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18 and TNFα) were measured using Luminex xMAP® technology in individual seminal plasma (SP) samples (n = 62) from healthy breeding boars. Three separate experiments explored the delay (2 h and 24 h) in SP collection after ejaculation (Experiment 1) and SP storage, either short-term (5 °C, −20 °C and −80 °C for 72 h, Experiment 2) or long-term (at −20 °C and −80 °C for two months, Experiment 3), before analysis. Levels in fresh SP-samples were used as baseline control values. Delays in SP harvesting of up to 24 h did not substantially impact SP cytokine measurements. Some cytokines showed instability in stored SP samples, mainly in long-term storage. Ideally, cytokines in pig SP should be measured in fresh samples harvested within 24 h after ejaculation. If storage of SP is imperative, storage conditions should be adjusted for each cytokine.
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12
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Padilla L, Lucas X, Parrilla I, Perez-Patiño C, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Roca J, Barranco I. Period of Boar Ejaculate Collection Contributes to the Yearly Intra-Male Variability of Seminal Plasma Cytokines. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9050105. [PMID: 32443675 PMCID: PMC7285058 DOI: 10.3390/biology9050105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The concentrations of cytokines in seminal plasma (SP) fluctuate over time in healthy males, weakening their practical usefulness as diagnostic tools. This study evaluated the relevance of intra-male variability in SP cytokines and to what extent the period of the year when ejaculate is collected contributes to such variability. Thirteen cytokines (GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-1ra, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18, and TNFα) were measured using the Luminex xMAP® technology for 180 SP samples of ejaculate collected over a year from nine healthy and fertile boars. The SP samples were grouped into two annual periods according to decreasing or increasing daylight and ambient temperature. Intra-male variability was higher than inter-male variability for all cytokines. All SP cytokines showed concentration differences between the two periods of the year, showing the highest concentration during the increasing daylength/temperature period, irrespective of the male. Similarly, some cytokines showed differences between daylength/temperature periods when focusing on their total amount in the ejaculate. No strong relationship (explaining more than 50% of the total variance) was found between annual fluctuations in SP-cytokine levels and semen parameters. In conclusion, the period of the year during which ejaculates were collected helps explain the intra-male variability of SP-cytokine levels in breeding boars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Padilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.P.); (X.L.); (I.P.); (C.P.-P.); (I.B.)
- IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Xiomara Lucas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.P.); (X.L.); (I.P.); (C.P.-P.); (I.B.)
- IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.P.); (X.L.); (I.P.); (C.P.-P.); (I.B.)
- IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Cristina Perez-Patiño
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.P.); (X.L.); (I.P.); (C.P.-P.); (I.B.)
- IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.P.); (X.L.); (I.P.); (C.P.-P.); (I.B.)
- IMIB-Arrixaca, Regional Campus of International Excellence, Campus Mare Nostrum, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-868-884-735
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.P.); (X.L.); (I.P.); (C.P.-P.); (I.B.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
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13
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Abstract
Seminal fluid is often assumed to have just one function in mammalian reproduction, delivering sperm to fertilize oocytes. But seminal fluid also transmits signaling agents that interact with female reproductive tissues to facilitate conception and .pregnancy. Upon seminal fluid contact, female tissues initiate a controlled inflammatory response that affects several aspects of reproductive function to ultimately maximize the chances of a male producing healthy offspring. This effect is best characterized in mice, where the female response involves several steps. Initially, seminal fluid factors cause leukocytes to infiltrate the female reproductive tract, and to selectively target and eliminate excess sperm. Other signals stimulate ovulation, induce an altered transcriptional program in female tract tissues that modulates embryo developmental programming, and initiate immune adaptations to promote receptivity to implantation and placental development. A key result is expansion of the pool of regulatory T cells that assist implantation by suppressing inflammation, mediating tolerance to male transplantation antigens, and promoting uterine vascular adaptation and placental development. Principal signaling agents in seminal fluid include prostaglandins and transforming growth factor-β. The balance of male signals affects the nature of the female response, providing a mechanism of ‟cryptic female choiceˮ that influences female reproductive investment. Male-female seminal fluid signaling is evident in all mammalian species investigated including human, and effects of seminal fluid in invertebrates indicate evolutionarily conserved mechanisms. Understanding the female response to seminal fluid will shed new light on infertility and pregnancy disorders and is critical to defining how events at conception influence offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E Schjenken
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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14
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Nilsson LL, Hornstrup MB, Perin TL, Lindhard A, Funck T, Bjerrum PJ, Mule HT, Scheike T, Nielsen HS, Hviid TVF. Soluble HLA-G and TGF-β in couples attending assisted reproduction - A possible role of TGF-β isoforms in semen? J Reprod Immunol 2019; 137:102857. [PMID: 31837543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2019.102857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Soluble isoforms of the non-classical Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-G as well as Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β is expressed in seminal plasma possibly influencing the pregnancy potential. We wanted to examine the association of seminal plasma sHLA-G, TGF-β1, TGF-β2 and TGFβ3 with pregnancy success in a cohort of 127 couples and 4 single women attending fertility treatment with the use of assisted reproduction technologies (ART). Soluble HLA-G, TGF-β1, TGF-β2 and TGF-β3 in seminal plasma did not fluctuate significantly over time. We did not find any impact of seminal plasma sHLA-G, TGF-β1, TGF-β2 and TGF-β3 on time-to-pregnancy measured as number of treatment cycles. There was a significant association between concentrations of seminal plasma sHLA-G and HLA-G variations in the 3'untranslated region (3'UTR) of the HLA-G gene, supporting and extending previous findings. Furthermore, by comparing seminal plasma concentrations of sHLA-G, TGF-β1, TGF-β2 and TGF-β3 in male subjects with reduced semen quality, male subjects with normal semen quality, and sperm donors, we found that TGF-β2 was significantly lower, and TGF-β3 was significantly higher, in seminal plasma from sperm donors. These findings suggest that TGF-β isoforms may influence semen quality and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Lynge Nilsson
- Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry, The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Micha B Hornstrup
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Trine L Perin
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Anette Lindhard
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Tina Funck
- Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry, The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Poul J Bjerrum
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Holbæk Hospital, Region Zealand, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas Scheike
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henriette Svarre Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Thomas Vauvert F Hviid
- Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry, The ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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15
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Sharkey DJ, Glynn DJ, Schjenken JE, Tremellen KP, Robertson SA. Interferon-gamma inhibits seminal plasma induction of colony-stimulating factor 2 in mouse and human reproductive tract epithelial cells. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:514-526. [PMID: 29596569 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Seminal fluid interacts with the female reproductive tract to initiate a permissive immune response that facilitates embryo implantation and pregnancy success. The immune-regulatory cytokine interferon-γ (IFNG), which can be elevated in seminal plasma, is associated with reduced fertility. Here, we investigated how IFNG influences the female immune response to seminal fluid. In human Ect1 cervical epithelial cells, IFNG added at physiologically relevant concentrations substantially impaired seminal plasma-induced synthesis of key cytokines colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2) and interleukin-6 (IL6). Seminal fluid-induced CSF2 synthesis was also suppressed in the uterus of mice in vivo, when IFNG was delivered transcervically 12 h after mating. Transforming growth factor B1 (TGFB1) is the major seminal fluid signaling factor which elicits CSF2 induction, and IFNG exhibited potent dose-dependent suppression of CSF2 synthesis induced by TGFB1 in murine uterine epithelial cells in vitro. Similarly, IFNG suppressed TGFB1-mediated CSF2 induction in Ect1 cells and human primary cervical epithelial cells; however, IL6 regulation by IFNG was independent of TGFB1. Quantitative PCR confirmed that CSF2 regulation by IFNG in Ect1 cells occurs at the gene transcription level, secondary to IFNG suppression of TGFBR2 encoding TGFB receptor 2. Conversely, TGFB1 suppressed IFNG receptor 1 and 2 genes IFNGR1 and IFNGR2. These data identify IFNG as a potent inhibitor of the TGFB-mediated seminal fluid interaction with relevant reproductive tract epithelia in mice and human. These findings raise the prospect that IFNG in the male partner's seminal fluid impairs immune adaptation for pregnancy following coitus in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Danielle J Glynn
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - John E Schjenken
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kelton P Tremellen
- Repromed Pty Ltd, Dulwich, South Australia, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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16
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Schumacher A, Sharkey DJ, Robertson SA, Zenclussen AC. Immune Cells at the Fetomaternal Interface: How the Microenvironment Modulates Immune Cells To Foster Fetal Development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 201:325-334. [PMID: 29987001 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells adapt their phenotypic and functional characteristics in response to the tissue microenvironment within which they traffic and reside. The fetomaternal interface, consisting of placental trophoblasts and the maternal decidua, is a highly specialized tissue with a unique and time-limited function: to nourish and support development of the semiallogeneic fetus and protect it from inflammatory or immune-mediated injury. It is therefore important to understand how immune cells within these tissues are educated and adapt to fulfill their biological functions. This review article focuses on the local regulatory mechanisms ensuring that both innate and adaptive immune cells appropriately support the early events of implantation and placental development through direct involvement in promoting immune tolerance of fetal alloantigens, suppressing inflammation, and remodeling of maternal uterine vessels to facilitate optimal placental function and fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany; and
| | - David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Ana C Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg 39108, Germany; and
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17
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Robertson SA, Green ES, Care AS, Moldenhauer LM, Prins JR, Hull ML, Barry SC, Dekker G. Therapeutic Potential of Regulatory T Cells in Preeclampsia-Opportunities and Challenges. Front Immunol 2019; 10:478. [PMID: 30984163 PMCID: PMC6448013 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a central feature and is implicated as a causal factor in preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Inflammatory mediators and leukocytes, which are elevated in peripheral blood and gestational tissues, contribute to the uterine vascular anomalies and compromised placental function that characterize particularly the severe, early onset form of disease. Regulatory T (Treg) cells are central mediators of pregnancy tolerance and direct other immune cells to counteract inflammation and promote robust placentation. Treg cells are commonly perturbed in preeclampsia, and there is evidence Treg cell insufficiency predates onset of symptoms. A causal role is implied by mouse studies showing sufficient numbers of functionally competent Treg cells must be present in the uterus from conception, to support maternal vascular adaptation and prevent later placental inflammatory pathology. Treg cells may therefore provide a tractable target for both preventative strategies and treatment interventions in preeclampsia. Steps to boost Treg cell activity require investigation and could be incorporated into pregnancy planning and preconception care. Pharmacological interventions developed to target Treg cells in autoimmune conditions warrant consideration for evaluation, utilizing rigorous clinical trial methodology, and ensuring safety is paramount. Emerging cell therapy tools involving in vitro Treg cell generation and/or expansion may in time become relevant. The success of preventative and therapeutic approaches will depend on resolving several challenges including developing informative diagnostic tests for Treg cell activity applicable before conception or during early pregnancy, selection of relevant patient subgroups, and identification of appropriate windows of gestation for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ella S. Green
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alison S. Care
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Lachlan M. Moldenhauer
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - M. Louise Hull
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Simon C. Barry
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Gustaaf Dekker
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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18
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Borges M, Magalhães Silva T, Brito C, Teixeira N, Roberts CW. How does toxoplasmosis affect the maternal-foetal immune interface and pregnancy? Parasite Immunol 2018; 41:e12606. [PMID: 30471137 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite which, depending on the geographical location, can infect between 10% and 90% of humans. Infection during pregnancy may result in congenital toxoplasmosis. The effects on the foetus vary depending on the stage of gestation in which primary maternal infection arises. A large body of research has focused on understanding immune response to toxoplasmosis, although few studies have addressed how it is affected by pregnancy or the pathological consequences of infection at the maternal-foetal interface. There is a lack of knowledge about how maternal immune cells, specifically macrophages, are modulated during infection and the resulting consequences for parasite control and pathology. Herein, we discuss the potential of T. gondii infection to affect the maternal-foetal interface and the potential of pregnancy to disrupt maternal immunity to T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Borges
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Tânia Magalhães Silva
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carina Brito
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Craig W Roberts
- Strathclyde Institute for Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
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19
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Robertson SA, Care AS, Moldenhauer LM. Regulatory T cells in embryo implantation and the immune response to pregnancy. J Clin Invest 2018; 128:4224-4235. [PMID: 30272581 DOI: 10.1172/jci122182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
At implantation, the embryo expresses paternally derived alloantigens and evokes inflammation that can threaten reproductive success. To ensure a robust placenta and sustainable pregnancy, an active state of maternal immune tolerance mediated by CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) is essential. Tregs operate to inhibit effector immunity, contain inflammation, and support maternal vascular adaptations, thereby facilitating trophoblast invasion and placental access to the maternal blood supply. Insufficient Treg numbers or inadequate functional competence are implicated in idiopathic infertility and recurrent miscarriage as well as later-onset pregnancy complications stemming from placental insufficiency, including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. In this Review, we summarize the mechanisms acting in the conception environment to drive the Treg response and discuss prospects for targeting the T cell compartment to alleviate immune-based reproductive disorders.
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20
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Latifi Z, Fattahi A, Hamdi K, Ghasemzadeh A, Karimi P, Nejabati HR, Novin MG, Roshangar L, Nouri M. Wnt Signaling Pathway in Uterus of Normal and Seminal Vesicle Excised Mated Mice during Pre-implantation Window. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2018; 78:412-422. [PMID: 29720747 PMCID: PMC5925692 DOI: 10.1055/a-0589-1513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction
The importance of seminal vesicle secretion and uterine Wnt signaling for uterus preparation and embryo implantation has been described.
Materials and Methods
In this study, we evaluated the gene expression of Wnt ligands (Wnt4 and Wnt5a) and their corresponding receptors (Fzd2 and Fzd6) using qRT-PCR and active β-catenin protein levels using western blotting in the uterine tissue of female mice mated with intact and seminal vesicle-excised (SVX) males during the pre-implantation window. We evaluated the association between these factors and implantation rates and embryo spacing.
Results
mRNA expression of Wnt4 and Wnt5a and active β-catenin protein levels decreased from Day 1 to Day 4, but reached a peak on the fifth day of pregnancy. Fzd2 also reached its highest level on Day 5. Fzd6 expression showed a decreasing trend towards the day of implantation. Lack of seminal vesicle secretion decreased Wnt4 and Wnt5a expression on Days 1 and 5 and β-catenin levels on Day 5. There were almost no significant differences in expression levels of the Fzd2 and Fzd6 receptors between groups. There were positive and negative correlations, respectively, between implantation rates and embryo spacing and Wnt4, Wnt5a and active β-catenin in the control group, but such correlations were not observed in the SVX-mated mice.
Conclusions
Significant changes occurred in the expression of several Wnt signaling members and there was a significant association between Wnt signaling and embryo implantation. Seminal vesicle secretion affects Wnt signaling in mice and consequently also affects murine embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Latifi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aliye Ghasemzadeh
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Pouran Karimi
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Roshangar
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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